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Delaware’s Program Improvement Plan 2007 Child and Family Services Review

Table of Contents

Section I: General Information Pages 1 - 4 Section II: Introduction and Overview Pages 1 - 5 Section III: Agreement Form Section IV: PIP Matrix Part A: Strategic Measurement Plan Pages 1 - 20 Part B: National Standards Page 21 Part C: Quantitative Measurement Plan Pages 22 - 33

2007 Delaware PIP 1 Section I: General Information

Section I: General Information Delaware

2007 Child and Family Services Reviews Program Improvement Plan

CB Region: I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X State:

Telephone Number: 1-215-861-4030

Lead Children’s Bureau Regional Office Contact Person: Lisa Pearson

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Address: 1825 Faulkand Road Wilmington DE 19805

State Agency Name: Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families

Telephone Number: 302-633-2650


Lead State Agency Contact Person for the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR): Keith Zirkle



Lead State Agency PIP Contact Person : Keith Zirkle



Lead State Agency Data Contact Person: Mike Peyser

E-mail Address: [email protected] State PIP Team Members* (name, title, organization, workgroup) 1. Margaret Anderson, Assistant Regional Administrator, DFS, Safety, Service Array 2. Lynn Arnold, Training Administrator I, DFS, PDU, Safety 3. Vickie Artis, Family Services Treatment Program Administrator, OPEI, Service Array 4. Karen Bailey, Treatment Supervisor, DFS , Service Array 5. Erin Bates, Program Coordinator, Children’s Choice, Service Array 6. John Bates, Family Services Foster Care Program Mgr, DFS, Permanency Planning, Service Array




State PIP Team Members* (name, title, organization, workgroup) 7. Andrea Beideman, Family Crisis Therapist, DFS, Service Array 8. Carla Benson-Green, SOC Services County Operations Manager I, DFS, Service Array, Safety 9. Donna Blakey, Training/Education Administrator I, DFS, PDU, Preserving Connections 10. Truman Bolden, Independent Living Family Services Program Manager, DFS, Service Array 11. Laura Boxwill, SOC Services County Operations Manager I, DFS, Permanency Planning, Service Array 12. JoAnn Bruch, Family Services Treatment Program Manager, DFS, Service Array 13. Debbie Colligan, SOC Services Assistant County Operations Manager, DFS, Service Array 14. Karen DeReasmo, Executive Director, Delawareans United to Prevent Child Abuse/Prevent Child Abuse Delaware, Service Array 15. Dave Desmond, SOC Services Assistant County Operations Manager, DFS, Safety 16. Lisa DiStefano, Chief of Community Services, DFS, Service Array 17. Mary Lou Edgar, Program Administrator, Upper Bay Adoption and Counseling Services, Permanency Planning 18. Monica Farrell, Family Court Liaison, Office of Case Management, Preserving Connections 19. Diana Fraker, SOC Services Assistant County Operations Manager, DFS, Permanency Planning, Service Array 20. Carlyse Giddins, Division of Family Services Director 21. Kathy Goldsmith, Education Associate, DFS, Service Array, Preserving Connections 22. Larry Haas, Executive Vice President Assistant, Child Inc. , Service Array 23. Maria Harmer, Senior Medical Social Worker, DHSS, Service Array 24. Patricia Hearn, CIP Coordinator, Family Court, Permanency Planning, Service Array 25. Kim Huhn, Grant Coordinator/Social Service Administrator, DFS, Service Array 26. Michelle Jewell, Elite Services Group, LLC, Service Array 27. Lydia L. Jones, Family Services Specialist, DFS, Safety 28. Lisa Jumps, Permanency Coordinator, DFS, Permanency Planning, Service Array 29. Ruby Kepley, Georgetown Police Department , Service Array 30. Mike Kersteter, Executive Director, People’s Place, Service Array 31. Cindy Knapp, Program Director, Children’s Choice , Service Array 32. Mike Kopp, Program Director, Elizabeth W. Murphy School , Service Array 33. Laurie Lane, Interpreter, Service Provider , Service Array 34. Cha-Tanya Lankford, Pressley Ridge , Service Array




State PIP Team Members* (name, title, organization, workgroup) 35. Darlene Lantz, Parent Program Agency Coordinator, Courts, Service Array 36. Christine Lemanski, Treatment Supervisor, DFS , Service Array 37. Valerie McAllister, Program Manager, Children and Families First, Service Array 38. Allison McDowell, Program Administrator, Office of Child Advocate, Permanency Planning, Service Array 39. Meta McGhee, Nurse Supervisor, DHSS, Service Array 40. Laura Miles, Deputy Director, DFS 41. Carl Nelson, Senior Fiscal Management Analyst, DFS, Preserving Connections 42. Leslie Newman, Executive Director, Children and Families First , Service Array 43. Trenee Parker, Family Crisis Therapist Supervisor, DFS, Service Array 44. Julia Pearce, Executive Director, Child Board Placement and Review, Permanency Planning and Service Array 45. Ann Pedrick, Executive Director, Child Death/Near Death. Stillborn Commission, Safety 46. Alexandra Perella, MSW, Latin American Community, Service Array 47. Frank Perfinski, Adoptions Family Services Program Manager, DFS, Permanency Planning, Service Array, 48. Gela Petrucelli, Program Manager, Abriendo Puertas, Service Array 49. Mike Peyser, Family Services Program Support Supervisor, DFS , Safety 50. Maria Picazo, Program Manager, Abriendo Puertas, Service Array 51. Mary Polk, Program Manager, OPEI, Service Array 52. Patti Quinn, Office of Child Care Licensing Administrator, Office of Child Care Licensing , Service Array 53. Jose Quinones, Program Manager, DRM Inc. , Service Array 54. Sue Radecki, SOC Services Administrator, DFS, Service Array, Safety 55. Kim Ritter, Social Services Administrator, DHSS, Service Array 56. Carmen Rivera, LCSW, Westside Health , Service Array 57. Shirley Roberts, Social Services County Operations Manager, DFS, Preserving Connections 58. Kyla Ryde, Family Crisis Therapist, DFS , Permanency Planning, Service Array 59. Joe Santone, Clinical Services Administrator, CMH, Preserving Connections 60. Jamie Sayler, La Casita Outreach Center, Service Array 61. Andrea Shaffer, Director of Special Court Services, Courts, Permanency Planning, Service Array 62. Linda Shannon, Intake and Investigation Family Services Program Manager, DFS , Service Array, Safety




State PIP Team Members* (name, title, organization, workgroup) 63. Peggy Spiegel, Child Psychologist, DFS, Service Array 64. Cindy Stevenson, FCT Supervisor, DFS , Service Array, Safety 65. Susan Taylor-Walls, SOC Services County Operations Manger I, DFS, Service Array 66. Deon Toon, Treatment FCT, DFS, Safety 67. Karen Triolo, Family Services Program Support Supervisor, DFS, Service Array 68. Ione Truesdale, SOC Services County Operations Manager I, DFS , Service Array, Preserving Connections 69. Barbara Westfall, FCT Supervisor, DFS, Service Array, Preserving Connections 70. Karen Wilson, Family Crisis Therapist Supervisor, DFS, Service Array, Permanency Planning 71. Mary Jo Wolfe, Executive Director, AFIS, Permanency Planning, Service Array 72. Gail Womble, Professional Development Administrator, DFS, Service Array 73. Shelly Yingling, Family Crisis Therapist, DFS, Permanency Planning 74. Megan Youtz, Case Manager, New Behavioral Network, Service Array 75. Keith Zirkle, CFSR-PIP Coordinator, DFS

Delaware’s Program Improvement Plan 2007 Child and Family Services Review

Section II: Introduction and Overview

I. Introduction

The “First State” is committed to improvements in child welfare. During the late 1990’s, a series of critical incidents drove the need for system reform. The current administration made child safety its first priority for the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families. The Department’s vision of “Think of the Child First” is the guiding principle for implementing strategies for child safety and well-being. Through community, administrative and legislative support, major improvements have been made to the infrastructure, thus improving direct services provided by the Children’s Department. Advocacy by community partners reinforces improvements to Delaware’s child welfare system. Reform efforts include Child Protection Registry revisions, new front line case manager positions, millions of dollars for foster care resources, mental health screenings for children entering foster care and restructuring of family support services. Administration efforts to stabilize the child protection case manager workforce have been hugely successful, providing a cornerstone for the strong infrastructure necessary for implementing child welfare reforms. Delaware’s Child Protection Accountability Commission (CPAC) is the primary child welfare system advocacy authority providing improvement recommendations and advocacy for the Department, complimenting the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) quality assurance strategies and goals. Delaware recognizes the accomplishments made thus far as part of a continuing quality improvement process; much remains to be done.

II. CFSR Activities Delaware began preparing for the CFSR approximately a year ahead of the on-site review with the appointment of a CFSR coordinator and outlining the necessary processes and activities. The formation of a CFSR Steering Committee consisting of internal and community partners was new for this second round of Review. This committee was instrumental in providing high level oversight and guidance of all Review phases. In particular, the committee was most valuable framing complicated and detailed messages for distribution to staff and the public. A CFSR Leadership Team was formed to coordinate and implement the many activities associated with the Review. This team consisted of Division of Family Services, Office of Children’s Services state office and operational staff. Regional and national staff of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) provided early and continuing guidance and support for all state activities. Delaware began the Statewide Assessment phase August 2006 and submitted the findings December 2006. Program improvement planning began with findings indicating needed improvements in engaging families and youth, permanency planning and service array. Preparation for the On-Site Review phase began December 2006 and continued until the week of March 5, 2007. The larger case sample, revised review instrument with higher

2008 Delaware PIP 1 Section II: Introduction and Overview

standards, case reviewer time management and composite national standards presented new challenges compared to the 2001 Review. Local and national ACF support helped maneuver through barriers to complete all required activities. Program Improvement Planning (PIP) began by transforming the CFSR Leadership Team into the PIP Leadership Team, concentrating on organizing a mountain of information in preparation for collaborative corrective action planning. Technical assistance from the National Resource Center on Organizational Improvement was helpful in preparing a PIP Kick-Off event April 23, 2007 with internal and external stakeholders. This event formed stakeholder workgroups charged with analyzing findings and making recommendations for improving performance. Inclusion of key stakeholders such as the Office of Child Advocate, Family Court, Child Placement Review Board, service providers and Department staff provided a broad collaborative approach to improvement planning. The Resource Center continues to support Delaware’s PIP development.

III. Primary Strategies

A summary of the 2001 PIP and other related activities is helpful to understand the continuous improvement perspective. A description of prior accomplishments is included in the following summary of the 2007 areas needing improvement and strategies for improvement. In general, major reform strategies build upon infrastructure strengths, family court collaboration, National Resource Center technical assistance, IV-E Review corrective actions and alignment with CPAC and System of Care initiatives. The broad primary strategies to improve performance are: (A) prioritize safety across all case management functions; (B) reform permanency planning processes, especially for older youth; (C) implement practice standards to establish and maintain connections between foster children, family and community; (D) improve access to community-based services statewide; and (E) enhance the information system structure and quality documentation of case management activities. Action plans strengthen practice through policy revision, training, improved case review processes, program alignment with needs, key decision making guides and strengthening documentation requirements. Safety Outcome 1: Children are first and foremost protected from abuse and neglect. Key finding is that timeliness of investigation (Item 1) is an area needing improvement. Delaware met the national standard for absence of maltreatment recurrence and absence of maltreatment in foster care. In 2001, this item was rated a strength. Strategies to improve performance are to clarify policy and strengthen practice to increase compliance with investigation initial contact requirements. The projected outcome is safety for children across all agency functions. Safety Outcome 2: Children are safely maintained in their homes when possible and appropriate. Key finding is that risk of harm (Item 4) is an area needing improvement. It was noted that the agency is inconsistently providing services to address the issues identified through risk assessments. This item was addressed in 2001 due to premature closure of cases, not addressing domestic violence concerns, and not providing services to reduce risk. 2001 action planning improved risk management tools, modified safety assessment protocols, replaced Family Service Plans, added domestic violence


liaisons and implemented Directed Case Conferencing. For 2007, the key strategy for addressing this issue is to build upon prior activity by improving safety assessment during investigation, treatment and out-of-home care. The agency is collaborating with the Child Protection Accountability Commission to implement an automated historical chronology for enhanced risk assessment. Another strategy is to assess the safety of children in out-of-home care at least once per month, in conjunction with the federal requirement for monthly contacts with foster children with the majority of visits in the child’s residence. The projected outcome is reduced risk of harm for intact families and foster children.

Permanency Outcome 1: Children have permanency and stability in their living situations. Key findings are that these items need improvement: stability of foster care placements (Item 6), permanency goal for child (Item 7), reunification, guardianship and placement with relatives (Item 8), adoption (Item 9), and other planned living arrangement Item 10). Delaware met the national standards for timeliness and permanency of reunification, permanency for children in foster care for long periods of time and placement stability. Delaware did not meet the national standard for timeliness of adoption for the period under review (FFY05). Since Delaware met the adoption standard in FFY06, PIP requirement regarding national standards have been satisfied. Of particular concern are delays in establishing permanency goals, achieving permanency goals, the selection of Alternative Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA) for youth under age 16, lack of permanency for APPLA youth, and lack of independent living services. In 2001, timeliness of permanency goal selection and timeliness of adoption were areas needing improvement. Prior improvements were to change Delaware Code to shorten the length of pre-adoption supervision, reform the permanency planning process, implement fost/adopt training, and establish permanency planning processes for juvenile justice youth. Current strategies to improve performance are to implement IV-E Review actions to ensure timely permanency planning hearings, reform the decision-making processes for APPLA goal selection and review, and strengthen concurrent planning with assistance from the American Bar Association Center for Children and the Law. Other strategies are to improve supports for foster parents, establish and preserve connections for foster children, and improve practice and services to meet the needs of youth transitioning to adulthood. Collaborative efforts with Family Court and Child Placement Review Board will improve permanency planning timeliness and APPLA youth case reviews. Establishing timely permanency, preserving connections and improving placement stability for foster children are the projected outcomes.

Permanency Outcome 2: The continuity of family relationships and connections is preserved. Key findings are that these items need improvement: placement with siblings (Item 12), visiting with parents and siblings in foster care (Item 13), preserving connections (Item 14), relative placement (Item 15), and relationship of child in care with parents (Item 16). There is inconsistency in ensuring sufficient visitation between foster children and their parents and siblings. There is inconsistency in supporting the bond between parents and foster children. There is inconsistency in seeking relative placements and maintaining connections with relatives and community. In 2001, Delaware addressed Item 13, visiting with parents and siblings in foster care by


modifying the Directed Case Conference to specifically discuss sibling visitation. Quality assurance case review tools were modified to measure visitation. 2007 PIP strategies are to strengthen connections with siblings, parents and extended family by proposing changes to court processes, modifying case planning protocols, strengthening policy, training and restructuring family support contractual services. The projected outcomes are reduced lengths of stay in foster care and stronger connections to family and community.

Well-Being Outcome 1: Families have enhanced capacity to provide for their children’s needs. Key findings were that these items need improvement: Needs/services of child, parents and foster parents (Item 17), child/family involvement in case planning (Item 18) and worker visits with parents (Item 19). There is inconsistent effectiveness in assessing and meeting service needs of parents and foster parents. There is inconsistent effort to engage parents and children in case planning and to conduct visits with parents to attain goals. In 2001, Delaware addressed Item 17, needs/services of child, parents and foster parents by implementing Directed Case Conferencing, Family Assessment Form and Family Service Plan process. A uniform intake screening tool was implemented across the Department. For 2007, strategies are to improve access to community-based services, strengthen practice for case planning and visitation for foster care, engage youth and parents in the case planning process and meet the needs of parents and foster parents through policy revision, training, and implementing field guides for front line workers. The agency continues to implement system of care training and protocols for staff. Projected outcomes are fully engaged youth and parents in the planning process and providing services appropriate to the needs of parents and foster parents. Well-Being Outcome 2: Children receive appropriate services to meet their educational needs. Key finding is that Item 21, educational needs of child is an area needing improvement. While this item scored high at 90.5%, it did not meet the 95% substantial conformity standard. There were a few cases where the child’s needs were not met, suggesting room for improvement. In 2001, this item was addressed by adding a Department uniform intake and assessment process. For 2007, the agency will strengthen educational assessment and services by training staff on the Department of Education/Children’s Department Memorandum of Understanding. Projected outcome is to fully meet the educational needs of children at home and in foster care. Well-Being Outcome 3: Children receive adequate services to meet their physical and mental health needs. Key findings are that these items need improvement: physical health of child (Item 22), and mental health of child (Item 23). Areas of concern are that dental needs are not met for children and that mental health needs were not accessible or provided when indicated. This outcome was in substantial conformity in 2001. Current strategy is to enhance worker knowledge of dental and mental health resources statewide. The projected outcome is to fully meet the medical and mental health needs of children.


Case Review System. Key findings are that these items need improvement: provides a process that ensures that each child has a written case plan to be developed jointly with the child’s parents that includes the required provisions (Item 25), and provides a process that ensures that each child in foster care under the supervision of the State has a permanency hearing in a qualified court or administrative body no later than 12 months from the date the child entered foster care and no less frequently than every 12 months thereafter (Item 27). Key concerns are that there is inconsistent effort to involve parents and children (age appropriate) in the case planning process. Also noted is the lack of timely permanency hearings. This systemic factor was in substantial conformity in 2001. To address case planning, the agency continues training and practice protocols for system of care principles stressing family and youth involvement. Another strategy is to work collaboratively with Family Court implementing actions to improve permanency hearing timeliness. Title IV-E Review PIP actions and the Court Improvement Project strategic planning are coordinated to address this issue. Collaborative efforts with Family Court and Child Placement Review Board will address timely case reviews for APPLA youth. Expected outcomes are to fully engage youth and parents in the case planning process and timely permanency outcomes for foster children. Service Array. Key findings are that these items need improvement: the state has in place an array of services that assess the strengths and needs of children and families and determine other service needs, address the needs of families in addition to individual children in order to create a safe home environment, enable children to remain safety with their parents when reasonable, and help children in foster and adoptive placements achieve permanency (Item 35), and the services in item 35 are accessible to families and children in all political jurisdictions covered in the State’s CFSP. Key concerns are that the array of services is not sufficient and accessibility is inconsistent statewide. A particular concern is insufficient independent living services and the inconsistent accessibility of independent living services statewide. This system factor was in substantial conformity in 2001. For 2007, the agency will restructure contracted services, enhance worker knowledge of service providers (including Hispanic services), increase fost/adopt resources, and enhance independent living services. Strategies also include strengthening supports for foster children and foster parents, and to increase the availability of post adoption services. The projected outcome is to fully meet services needs of families and children. Foster and adoptive parent licensing, recruitment and retention. Key finding is that Item 44, the state has in place a process for ensuring the diligent recruitment of potential foster and adoptive families that reflect the ethnic and racial diversity of children in the State for whom adoptive homes are needed, is in need of improvement. The key concern is that there are insufficient resources to keep pace with increased placement needs. This systemic factor was in substantial conformity in 2001. Current PIP strategies are to increase recruitment activities for fost/adopt homes, target recruitment for specific populations and enhance supports for foster parents and adoptive parents. The desired outcome is placement stability and timely permanency.

IV. Policy Development


There are many policy and training items in this PIP; this section serves as a general reference to understanding how policies and procedures are identified, developed, approved and implemented into practice. Policy and procedures within DFS are developed from several sources:

• Problems brought forth from the field • Federal statute/mandate • State statute/mandate • National best practice trends

Prior to the development of policy and procedures, the issues are thoroughly discussed in program work groups chaired by Program Managers (investigation, treatment, permanency and foster care) and by Senior Leadership Team members (state level program managers and administrators, regional administrators and assistant regional administrators). DFS has a prescribed process for reviewing proposed policies and procedures before finalizing. Draft policy and procedures are distributed to Central Office administrative staff and to Regional Administrators (RA). The RAs then distribute the policy and procedures to specific supervisors and workers for review and comment. Training about new policy and procedure has always been and will be conducted by the appropriate Program Manager. Training material is discussed in the Program Managers’ respective workgroups prior to and after the training to reinforce implementation. Training is conducted in all four regional offices with workers and supervisors. The Professional Development Unit incorporates changes in policy/ procedures to update the core curriculum and refresher training sessions. In addition, in regions where there are coaching units and/or staff are assigned to a senior staff for shadowing/ mentoring, key policy and procedural requirements are incorporated into the activities. Performance plans for all supervisors include requirements for conducting practice based on current policy and procedure manuals, and management directives.

V. Implementing the System of Care Practice Model Delaware’s System of Care practice model has been active for several years and implemented in phases for all levels of personnel within the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF). This practice model is based on seven core principles:

• Practice is individualized • Services are appropriate in type and duration • Child centered and family focused intervention • Community-based care • Cultural competency • Seamless care, within and across systems • Team planning and management



System of Care (SOC) reference guides and competencies were developed to operationalize the principles by putting them in behavioral terms. Both are designed to be incorporated into supervision, coaching opportunities and employee performance planning. These tools are being distributed and trained on with both DSCYF staff and our providers. These tools are on both the DSCYF intranet and internet under SOC in ‘Action Reference Guide’. The Office of Case Management is conducting Quality Assurance SOC reviews which will provide feedback to the case manager and supervisor regarding areas of strength and areas for improvement. Supervisors will build on the strengths identified in the review through employee coaching, mentoring and shadowing. Other communication efforts are occurring statewide - SOC posters, a family brochure soon to be printed in both English and Spanish - and were developed by DSCYF case managers, supervisors and administrators.

2008 Delaware PIP Section IV PIP Matrix Part A

Primary Strategy A: Safety

1

Section IV: PIP Matrix Part A: Strategy Measurement Plan and Quarterly Status Report

Primary Strategy A: SAFETY Strengthening and reinforcing safety practices.

Applicable CFSR Outcomes or Systemic Factors: Safety 1, Safety 2, Well-Being 1

Goal: Child safety will be the priority of all DFS/OCS job functions at all levels and during each contact.

Applicable CFSR Items: 1, 4, 17,18,19

Action Plans and Steps

Person Responsible

Evidence of Completion

Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A1. Increase initial contact compliance in investigation.

A1.1.1 Clarify Investigation procedures regarding what constitutes an initial contact. A Safety PIP workgroup consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators, and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this action.

Linda Shannon Issue revised policy

1st Qtr

A1.2.1 A Safety PIP workgroup consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators and stakeholders will review policy and procedures and implement diligent efforts (reasonable expectations) criteria for initial contact compliance.

Linda Shannon Issue revised policy

1st Qtr

2008 Delaware PIP 2 Section IV PIP Matrix Part A



Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A1.2.3 Develop an Investigation procedure requiring documentation regarding why an initial contact was not made on time. • A Safety PIP workgroup

consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators, and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this action step.

Linda Shannon Procedure developed

1st Qtr

A1.2.4 Review data reports (initial contacts) regarding performance outcomes at Investigation Workgroup on a quarterly basis and discuss performance outcomes. Also discuss supervisory responsibility in approving diligent efforts.

Linda Shannon Workgroup meeting minutes

3rd Qtr

A1.3.1 Develop and implement procedures re: when staff should request that the Special Investigators locate families and children. • A Safety PIP workgroup

consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators, and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this action step.

Linda Shannon

Issue revised policy

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A1.3.2 Review initial contact and special investigation policy and procedure implementation and performance at Investigation workgroup.

Linda Shannon

Workgroup meeting minutes

3rd Qtr

A1.4.1 Clarify agency response times and documentation expectations for additional reports during an open investigation. A Safety PIP workgroup consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators, and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this action step.

Linda Shannon

Issue revised policy and procedures

2nd Qtr

A1.4.2 Periodically review performance expectations at Investigation Workgroup.

Linda Shannon


3rd Qtr

A1.4.3 Develop performance outcome measure for Item 1.4.1. A Safety PIP workgroup consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this step. Ongoing feedback provided to the investigative workgroup.

Mike Peyser

Implement recommended performance tracking tool

3rd Qtr

A1.5.1 Train available statewide caseworkers, supervisors and administrators regarding new and modified investigation policies and procedures.

Linda Shannon

Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training modifications

3rd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A1.5.2 The Investigation Program Manager will collaborate with the Professional Development Unit (PDU) to identify investigation items to be incorporated into core and refresher training.

Linda Shannon and Gail Womble

Summary of added training items

4th Qtr

A1.5.3 Revised policy and procedure will be discussed in Investigation Workgroup which is comprised of statewide Investigation supervisors and Regional Administrators.

Linda Shannon


5th Qtr and ongoing

A2. Improve safety assessment during investigation, treatment, and out-of-home care.

A2.1.1 Review Safety Assessment policy to clarify the frequency and utilization of safety assessments during Treatment.

Linda Shannon, JoAnn Bruch

Recommendations document

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A2.1.2. In order to connect safety assessments to services, review requirements for safety reviews at various points in the case.

JoAnn Bruch Meeting minutes 3rd Qtr

A2.1.3 Add safety assessment link to the contact template.

JoAnn Bruch Modified FACTS screen

4th Qtr

A2.1.4 Policy will be revised to require criminal history checks as part of the safety assessment.

JoAnn Bruch Copy of revised policy

5th Qtr

A2.1.5 Modify FACTS to evaluate Foster Care Candidacy for children in intact families, requiring workers and supervisors to review all assessments before developing the service plan with the family.

JoAnn Bruch Modified FACTS screen

2nd Qtr

A2.1.6 Develop refresher training for caseworkers and supervisors regarding the completion of Safety Assessments, and include timeframes for completing the Safety Assessments.

Linda Shannon, JoAnn Bruch, Professional Development Unit

Sign-in sheets (name,position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/ curriculum

4th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

A2.2.1 Review, expand and clarify policies and procedures regarding the role of multiple program areas concurrently involved in assessing safety of all children. A Safety PIP workgroup consisting of caseworkers, supervisors, regional administrators, and stakeholders will review and discuss policies and procedures related to this action step.

Linda Shannon

Copy of revised policy

2ndQtr

A2.2.2 Review Investigation Quality Assurance items regarding Safety Assessments in Investigation and Treatment. Periodically discuss in Investigation and Treatment Workgroups.

Linda Shannon, JoAnn Bruch


3rd Qtr and ongoing

A2.3.1 Train available statewide caseworkers, supervisors and administrators on new and revised safety assessment policy.

Linda Shannon


3rd Qtr

A2.4.1 Issue revised monthly foster care contact policy to include requirements that the child be seen privately at least once per month. During that monthly contact, the worker will discuss elements of the case plan and Plan for Child in Care as well as make an assessment of the child’s safety in their current placement. The policy will specify that the majority of the foster care contacts with children in care must be made in the child’s residence.

JoAnn Bruch Issue revised policy 1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

A2.4.2 Provide statewide training to available staff (caseworkers, supervisors, and administrators) regarding the monthly foster care contact policy.

JoAnn Bruch Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/ curriculum

2nd Qtr

A2.4.3 Develop monthly contact schedule for FACTS information system.

Mike Peyser Copy of FACTS task order

4th Qtr

A2.4.4 Develop automated report for monthly foster care contact compliance rates.

Mike Peyser Automated report; schedule to be determined

6th Qtr

A2.4.5 Implement monthly face-to-face in-home contact between contracted agency social worker and children in care beginning July 1, 2007. The quality of visitation will be incorporated in a worker template to ensure quality documentation and consistent implementation of contacts. Contacts will include current safety assessment, progress towards meeting permanency plan; plan for child in care progress, educational needs, mental health needs, social and recreational activities. Issues and concerns of child and how they are being addressed will also be discussed privately with the youth and then with the foster care provider as well.

John Bates Examples of SFY08 contracts

1st Qtr

A2.5.1 Revise Family Assessment and Family Service Plan policy to include IV-E Candidacy assessment when assessing risk and selecting appropriate services for intact families.


2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

A2.5.2 Provide training to available staff statewide regarding assessing risk and selecting appropriate services for staff statewide.

JoAnn Bruch Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/curriculum

3rd Qtr

A2.6.1 Treatment workgroup will review policy regarding working with resistant clients and case closure procedures.


A2.6.2 Treatment workgroup will develop revised policy recommendations regarding case closure procedures for resistant clients.

JoAnn Bruch Policy recommendations document

3rd Qtr

A2.6.3 Present policy recommendations to Senior Leadership Team for approval.


A2.6.4 Develop revised policy for resistant clients’ case closure


4th Qtr

A2.6.5 Provide training to available staff statewide regarding case closure procedures for resistant clients.

JoAnn Bruch Sign-in Sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/curriculum

5th Qtr


Primary Strategy B: Permanency Planning

9

Primary Strategy B: Permanency Planning Collaborate with community partners to strengthen permanency planning practices.

Applicable CFSR Outcomes or Systemic Factors: Permanency Outcome 1, Well-Being 1, Service Array, Case Review System

Goal: Appropriate selection of permanency planning goals and provision of services to achieve goal

Applicable CFSR Items: 7, 8, 9, 10, 17, 27, 35, 36

Action Plans and Steps Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update:

B1. Make appropriate APPLA goal selection, utilizing technical assistance from the National Resource Center on Family Practice Permanency Planning

B1.1.1 Obtain technical assistance from the National Resource Center on Family-Centered Practice and Permanency Planning to support B1 activities.

Frank Perfinski Summary of consultation and recommendations

2nd Qtr

B1.1.2 Establish new, compelling reasons for selecting a goal of APPLA for youth. Incorporate reasons into policy.

Frank Perfinski, APPLA Workgroup including community stakeholders; DFS supervisors and caseworkers from all regions; at least one youth; group care providers; and foster care providers

APPLA goal selection criteria; develop APPLA policy in conjunction with community stakeholders

3rd Qtr



Action Plans and Steps Person

Responsible Evidence of Completion

Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update:

B 1.2.1 Develop policy that will articulate diligent efforts that are required in order to justify child’s goal, including periodic reviews of family status and connections to extended family. The workgroup will include community stakeholders, DFS supervisors and caseworkers from all regions, at least one youth, group care providers, and foster care providers.

Frank Perfinski, APPLA

Workgroup

Issue policy

3rd Qtr

B1.2.2 With the goal of decreasing the large number of children with APPLA as their case plan, train available treatment, permanency and adoption staff statewide utilizing different approaches when discussing permanency options with children.

Frank Perfinski/ John Bates

Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training curriculum

4th Qtr

B1.3.1 APPLA workgroup (including community stakeholders; DFS supervisors and caseworkers from all regions; at least one youth; group care providers; and foster care providers) will develop new process to initially review all children with a current goal of APPLA and conduct ongoing, regularly scheduled reviews. The child and foster/group care providers will be an integral part of this review process with a redetermination of the child’s current wishes related to a permanency goal, as well as crucial feedback from the child’s foster/group care provider.


Workgroup

New APPLA Review Protocol

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

B1.3.2 Identify all children with a current goal of APPLA.

Mike Peyser Distribution of standardized management report

1st Qtr

B1.3.3 Use new APPLA Review Protocol to review all children with a goal of APPLA to determine if compelling reasons exist for APPLA goal selection. This review process will become an on-going review process to ensure that all children have the appropriate goal.

Assigned workers and supervisors

100% of APPLA Management Report cases reviewed; summary of outcome data

4th Qtr

B1.3.4 If the review results in APPLA being found not to be in the best interest of a child the worker and supervisor will present the case to the regional Permanency Planning Committee (PPC) for a goal change. Current policy/procedures guide case management and legal activities when goals are changed at PPC.

Assigned workers and supervisors

Summary of case review findings statewide

5th Qtr

B1.4.1 Review all current APPLA policies and procedures to ensure that new procedures are included.

Frank Perfinski Copy of recommended changes as noted in meeting minutes or draft policy

4th Qtr

B1.4.2 Review and approve identified new policy and procedures.

Frank Perfinski Copy of the revised policy

5th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

B1.4.3 Develop a process for monitoring compliance with new APPLA policies and procedures through the APPLA workgroup.

Frank Perfinski

APPLA Workgroup meeting minutes addressing monitoring process

6th Qtr

B1.5.1 New policy training material discussed in the permanency and foster care workgroups prior to and after the training to reinforce implementation.

Frank Perfinski, John Bates

Meeting minutes 6th Qtr and

ongoing

B1.5.2 Train available statewide treatment, permanency and adoption staff (including caseworkers, supervisors and administrators) on new policy.



7th Qtr

B1.5.3 New policy training provided to the foster parent associations and the youth council.

John Bates, Truman Bolden


7th Qtr

B1.5.4 New policy training provided to foster care and adoption contractors.



7th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

B1.6.1 Educate community partners regarding new APPLA policies and procedures. See B1.5.4 above regarding training of foster care and adoption contractors. Community partners serving on the APPLA workgroup will be invited to share the new policies and procedures within their respective organizations.

Frank Perfinski, including community stakeholders; DFS supervisors and caseworkers from all regions; at least one youth; group care providers; and foster care providers

Correspondence to community partners. APPLA workgroup meeting minutes

5th Qtr

B1.6.2 Policy and procedure changes will be discussed in the Foster Care Provider Meetings. These meetings include all foster care contacted providers.

John Bates Provider Meeting Minutes

5th Qtr

B2. Implement concurrent planning practice.

B2.1.1 Receive technical assistance from the American Bar Association (ABA) Center for Children and the Law.

JoAnn Bruch, Frank Perfinski

Technical Assistance approved

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

B2.1.2 Based on information obtained from the ABA Center for Children and the Law, develop a multidisciplinary workgroup of treatment, permanency and adoption workers and supervisors to discuss policy implications. This workgroup will make recommendations for policy and procedure changes.


Draft of policy 3rd Qtr

B2.1.3 Present workgroup and TA recommendations to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) for approval.


Meeting minutes

3rd Qtr

B2.1.4 Issue modified concurrent planning policy.



4th Qtr

B2.1.5 Develop training plan for supervisors and workers in treatment, permanency and adoption functions, as well as all foster care providers regarding policy changes made as a result of the TA and the recommendations of the multidisciplinary workgroup. Training will focus on staff helping children understand and work through any confusion regarding concurrent planning. Training for supervisors supports their role in implementation and reinforcement of practice.

JoAnn Bruch, Frank Perfinski,

John Bates

Copy of training plan

5th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

B2.1.6 Training material is discussed in the treatment and permanency workgroups prior to and after the training to reinforce implementation.


Meeting minutes 4th Qtr and

ongoing

B2.1.7 Training is conducted in all four regional offices with available workers and supervisors.

Training sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/ curriculum

6th Qtr

B2.2.1 Modify case review system tool to monitor implementation of concurrent planning practice.

JoAnn Bruch, Frank Perfinski,

Mike Peyser

New QA question 4th Qtr

B2.2.2 Implement process in which case-specific feedback from Quality Assurance Reviews is provided to frontline supervisors. Feedback will go from the QA unit to the OCS Administrator, then to the Regional Administrator, and finally, to the applicable supervisor. The supervisor will then use this feedback during the Directed Case Conference with the worker.

JoAnn Bruch, Shirley Roberts,

Mike Peyser

Written QA distribution protocol

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

B3. Youth are better prepared for successful transitions to adulthood.

B3.1.1 Analyze needs assessment survey administered to youth, caregivers and case managers; Family Court Judges/staff, private foster care agencies, community organizations and IL providers; survey period May 1, 2006 – May 19, 2006.

Truman Bolden Copy of survey results summary on file

1st Qtr

B3.1.2 Use Delaware’s Shared Youth Vision Team Survey (Fall 2007) to help identify gaps and availability of services for appropriate youth statewide.

Truman Bolden Copy of survey results

1st Qtr

B3.1.3 Based on the analysis of the needs assessment, convene a multidisciplinary workgroup, composed of case managers, supervisors, youth, caregivers, providers & community partners to identify strategies to address identified needs statewide.

Truman Bolden Summary document of workgroup recommend-ations

2nd Qtr

B3.1.4 Partner with other state agencies, i.e, Delaware State Housing Authority, Dept of Labor, local colleges, universities & businesses to develop resources. Specific goals to be determined by participating agencies.

Truman Bolden Copy of meeting minutes and list of participants

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

B3.2.1 Revise the Independent Living policy to include more concise independent living requirements for youth, workers, and caregivers statewide.

Truman Bolden Draft policy 2nd Qtr

B3.2.2 Distribute draft policy to supervisors, caseworkers, caregivers, providers and youth statewide for review and comments.

Truman Bolden Copy of distribution list and comments

2nd Qtr

B3.2.3 Issue policy and train caseworkers, supervisors and contracted agencies regarding the revised Independent Living policy.

Truman Bolden Issue policy; sign-insheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/ curriculum

3rd Qtr

B3.2.4 Modify foster parent training to incorporate IL policies and checklist as noted in B3.3.3.

John Bates, Truman Bolden

Copy of training curriculum

4th Qtr

B3.2.5 Youth and caregivers will be apprised of the changes and available services via Foster Parent Cluster Newsletters, Foster Parents’ Training Newsletters, Youth Advisory Council Newsletters.

Truman Bolden Copies of various newsletters

4th Qtr

B3.3.1 Develop age appropriate independent living Benchmark Guide for youth in care. The Benchmark Guide will be developed, reviewed annually and revised as needed based on input from agency and provider caseworkers, supervisors, caregivers and youth.

Truman Bolden Copy of Independent Living Benchmark Guide

2nd Qtr



18


Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

B3.3.2 Distribute copies of the Independent Living Benchmark Guide to agency and contracted caregivers.

Truman Bolden Description of distribution method and recipients

3rd Qtr

B3.3.3 Train available case managers and contracted providers on the use of the Independent Living Benchmark Guide.

Truman Bolden Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/ curriculum

3rd Qtr

B3.3.4 Modify requirements of foster care contracted services to strengthen independent living skills development as identified by the APPLA workgroup and IL’s Benchmark Guide.

John Bates Sampling of contracts requiring IL skill development

5th Qtr

B3.3.5 Provider caseworker will monitor progress during monthly scheduled contacts and reported to DFS through established communication protocols.

John Bates Sample of case record contact notes.

4th Qtr

B3.4.1 Develop independent living questions for the Quality Assurance tool to ensure that the independent living needs of older youth are being met.

Truman Bolden, Mike Peyser

Revised Quality Assurance tool

4th Qtr

B4. Improve timeliness of court processes to improve permanency outcomes.

B4.1.1 The Family Court will research data collection options for court processes.

Trish Hearn, CIP

Coordinator, Frank Perfinski

Summary of research options

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

B4.1.2 The Family Court will develop a data collection method to track timeliness of all hearings.

Trish Hearn, CIP Coordinator,

Frank Perfinski

Copy of data collection tool

2nd Qtr

B4.1.3 Court to review data internally to identify areas for improvement.


Frank Perfinski

Minutes from quarterly meetings between DFS and Family Court

6th Qtr

B4.1.4 Court will review the seven cases from CFSR site review to identify opportunities for improvement.



1st Qtr

B4.1.5 Court to employ training/technical assistance as appropriate based on data and case reviews to improve compliance for timeliness of permanency hearings.



4th Qtr

B4.1.6 Court will continue to employ existing quarterly CIP meetings with Family Court judges, administrators and DFS to address identified areas for improvement.

Trish Hearn CIP Coordinator

Summary of meeting minutes

1st Qtr and on-going


Primary Strategy C: Preserving Connections

20

Primary Strategy C: Preserving Connections Preserving connections by strengthening policy, practice and programming

Applicable CFSR Outcomes or Systemic Factors: Permanency Outcome 1, Permanency Outcome 2, Well-Being Outcome 1

Goal: Promote strong connections between siblings, parents and extended family throughout the life of a case by ensuring that children have permanency and stability in their living situations.

Applicable CFSR Items: 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 25


Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

C1 Policies and procedures will be enhanced to emphasize the value in planning with the youth and both parents when possible, encouraging frequent, meaningful visitation, and improving skills needed to engage families.

C1.1.1 Review and make applicable policy changes related to the continued engagement of parents, children, and extended family members regarding planning and visitation.

JoAnn Bruch

Issue revised policy

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

C1.1.2 Continuing engagement would be monitored through supervisory conferences, quality assurance and permanency committee reviews. In addition, workers will be required to present information at the permanency planning committee meetings regarding the parent’s continued involvement as well as the caseworker’s efforts to locate and engage other relatives.

JoAnn Bruch Sample of permanency planning committee review forms and supervisory conference notes

4th Qtr

C1.1.3 Review and revise case planning policy to require continued planning and visitation with parents, siblings and extended family.

JoAnn Bruch Issue revised policy

2nd Qtr

C1.1.4 The quality of visitation will be incorporated in a worker template to ensure quality documentation and consistent implementation of contacts.

JoAnn Bruch Copy of worker contact template

2nd Qtr

C1.1.5 Revise curriculum to increase emphasis in staff and foster parent training on preserving connections to include sibling visitation (including visits between children in care and siblings at home) and life-long connections (community contacts).

John Bates Gail Womble

Training outlines; revised foster parent and staff training curriculum

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

C1.2.1 Revise Family Assessment and Family Service Planning policy to include clear, concise direction regarding the importance of planning with both parents.


1st Qtr

C1.2.2 Discuss the policy revisions with supervisors at the Treatment Workgroup.

JoAnn Bruch Workgroup minutes

2nd Qtr

C1.3.1 Create statewide workgroup consisting of supervisors and workers from various functions to review current case closure protocol for clients that refuse services.

JoAnn Bruch Workgroup minutes

2nd Qtr

C1.3.2 Develop new policy addressing case closure protocol for non-receptive clients.


3rd Qtr

C1.4.1 Obtain Departmental approval for revision of the checklist to Department Policy # 209. Policy # 209 is the Departmental policy that assigns case management responsibility to DFS for children in juvenile justice and child mental health services who become dependent. Current department policy does not provide safeguards that family resources be fully explored to prevent dependency. Proposed change would revise the checklist used to compel workers in other divisions to do so.

Shirley Roberts DSCYF Policy 209 checklist

1st Qtr

C1.4.2 Disseminate and implement revised checklist to Policy # 209.

Shirley Roberts

Revised Policy # 209 checklist

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

C1.5.1 Incorporate new procedures for identifying maternal and paternal relative resources during court proceedings. Review with Family Court, CASA, GAL and parent attorneys procedures for using this additional information.

Shirley Roberts

Develop agreement to incorporate this requirement in court procedures and propose to Family Court

1st Qtr

C1.5.2 Develop policy to specify the following: Once relative names are obtained, the DFS worker should be prepared to provide the Court with a status update on efforts to contact relatives resources. The caseworker will then follow-up by phone or in-person contact with relatives and non-relatives. If these resources are not willing to provide any type of support or assistance at initial contact, DFS should follow up by sending them a letter providing contact information for the DFS worker. DFS will consider developing a form letter for this and the letter should include various ways the relative/non-relative can support the child, including visits, phone calls, weekend visits, holiday visits, and placement. After 6 months, DFS should check in with relatives by phone or home visit to see if the relatives' position has changed regarding supporting the child.

JoAnn Bruch Policy revision; copy of form letter

4th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

C1.5.3 Provide mandatory training to regional staff (including caseworkers, supervisors and administrators) to cover policy changes requiring caseworkers to obtain maternal and paternal relative resources.

JoAnn Bruch, John Bates

Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of agenda/ curriculum

3rd Qtr

C1.5.4 Discuss policy changes in Treatment Workgroup.

JoAnn Bruch Workgroup meeting minutes

4th Qtr

C1.6.1 Available staff will participate in the System of Care “Family Engagement” training.

Karen Triolo, JoAnn Bruch

Sign-in sheets (position and affiliation not available for this training); copy of agenda/ curriculum

1st Qtr

C1.7.1 Make arrangements with People Search to locate absent parents and extended family members.

John Bates Completed agreement with People Search

1st Qtr

C1.7.2 Establish procedures for how staff should utilize People Search.

John Bates Issue procedure statement

2nd Qtr

C1.8.1 Review family support contracts to insure statewide reunification services.

JoAnn Bruch Summary of review findings and actions taken

1st Qtr

C1.8.2 Performance-based incentives will be provided to select family support contractors that successfully help families achieve and maintain reunification.

JoAnn Bruch Family support contracts

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

C2 Develop sound selection and review criteria when APPLA is selected as a goal for youth.

C2.1.1 A work group comprised of front-line workers, supervisors and managers will develop new criteria/standards for a goal change to APPLA to ensure that adequate and sufficient planning has been done with a family prior to a goal change of APPLA. All levels of staff will review proposed changes.

Frank Perfinski

Copy of criteria document;

2nd Qtr

C2.1.2 The new standards will be incorporated into training for all available staff (caseworkers, supervisors and administrators).

Frank Perfinski

Training curriculum

3rd Qtr

C2.1.3 APPLA Workgroup will develop new criteria/standards to periodically review the cases of all children with a goal of APPLA to ensure that APPLA continues to be the most appropriate goal for the child.

Shirley Roberts

Standards will be incorporated into policy

4th Qtr

C2.1.4 Seek Family Court agreement with the new criteria/standards for a goal change to APPLA. The Family Court will work with the agency and the Child Placement Review Board to ensure cases with APPLA designation are reviewed with appropriate frequency.

Shirley Roberts, Trish Hearn

Family Court’s agreement with the new criteria/ standards for a goal change to APPLA; issue revised policy

3rd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

C2.1.5 If a worker is recommending a goal change to APPLA, the recommendation is brought before the DFS Permanency Committee. The Permanency Committee will review for the most appropriate permanency option and insure that the revised criteria/standards for a goal change to APPLA are being utilized appropriately.

Frank Perfinski

Copy of new criteria/ standards for a goal change to APPLA

5th Qtr

C2.1.6 Provide statewide training to available staff and foster care contractors regarding new policy.

JoAnn Bruch, Frank Perfinski, John Bates

Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/curricu-lum

5th Qtr

C2.2.1 The APPLA Work Group (comprised of caseworkers, supervisors, youth, GAL’s Independent Living providers, foster care contractors, and Family Court) will review current procedures for on-going goal review and make recommendations for an internal DFS goal review process.


Workgroup

APPLA Goal Assessment Criteria

5th Qtr

C2.2.2 DFS will collaborate with Family Court, Child Placement Review Board and other stakeholders to develop a six-month court review schedule for youth after the APPLA goal change.


Workgroup

Summary of meeting notes and example of court review schedule

6th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

C2.2.3 APPLA Workgroup (which consists of supervisors, workers, community partners, Family Court, Guardian Ad Litems, and youth) will make recommendations regarding policy changes to require continued visitation/involvement between youth and parents after a goal change to APPLA. These changes will be based on the work that the APPLA Workgroup has completed thus far as well as incorporating SOC principles into any recommended policy changes.

JoAnn Bruch, APPLA

Workgroup

Workgroup meeting minutes noting recommendations

3rd Qtr

C2.3.1 Change policy to require continued visitation/involvement between youth and parents to maintain or establish life-long connections after a goal change to APPLA.


4th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

C2.3.2 Revise policy to require efforts to continue to involve parents and obtain parent signatures on Plan for Child in Care (PCIC) after a goal change to APPLA.

JoAnn Bruch


4th Qtr

C2.3.3 Provide available statewide staff, providers and other stakeholders with training regarding new policy concerning efforts to include parents and youth in the development of the Plan for Child in Care (PCIC) and requiring parent signatures on the PCIC after a goal change to APPLA.

JoAnn Bruch

Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation); copy of training agenda/curriculum

4th Qtr

C2.3.4 Continuing engagement in APPLA case planning activities would be monitored through supervisory conferences, quality assurance and permanency committee reviews.

JoAnn Bruch Sample of supervisory conference notes

4th Qtr


Primary Strategy D: Service Array

29

Primary Strategy D: SERVICE ARRAY Provide services that are individualized, appropriate in type and duration, child-centered and family-focused, community-based, culturally competent, and seamless within and across systems

Applicable CFSR Outcomes or Systemic Factors: Permanency Outcome 1, Permanency Outcome 2, Well-Being 1, Well-Being 2, Service Array, Foster and Adoptive Parent Licensing, Recruitment and Retention

Goal: Provide an array of services that will assess the strengths and needs of children and families, create a home environment enabling children to remain safely with their parents when reasonable, and help children in foster and adoptive placements achieve permanency.

Applicable CFSR Items: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 17, 21, 22, 23, 35, 36, 44


Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

D1. Increase scope of services for contracted substance abuse liaisons, thereby meeting the needs of more DFS clients.

D1.1.1 Review current job description of substance abuse liaisons.

JoAnn Bruch, AOD

Workgroup

Meeting minutes

1st Qtr

D1.1.2 Assess current need for substance abuse services for DFS clients. Workgroup includes statewide representatives of supervisors and contract staff.

JoAnn Bruch, AOD

Workgroup

Meeting minutes

1st Qtr

D1.1.3 Modify substance abuse liaison job description to best meet the needs of DFS staff and clients.

JoAnn Bruch, AOD

Workgroup

Revised job description

1st Qtr

D1.1.4 Include new job responsibilities of the substance abuse liaisons in SFY09 contract.

JoAnn Bruch SFY09 contract

1st Qtr

D2. The Division will enhance the array of Hispanic services to our Spanish speaking clients.

D2.1.1 Obtain and distribute copies of the Hispanic yellow pages to all regional offices and contracted home-based providers.

JoAnn Bruch Confirmation of receipt

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D2.2.1 Create Spanish service array workgroup comprised of Hispanic service providers (foster parents and Hispanic youth will be invited to attend subsequent workgroup meetings) throughout the state. This workgroup will be committed to meeting at least quarterly. The purpose of the on-going meetings is to keep abreast of new resources, changes in existing resources, and to explore the possibility of developing new resources if the need arises.

JoAnn Bruch Meeting minutes with attendees

1st Qtr

D2.2.2 Based on the work of the Spanish service array workgroup, develop comprehensive matrix of services for Spanish-speaking clients. The matrix of services will provide a compilation of services available throughout the state.

JoAnn Bruch Matrix of Services

1st Qtr

D2.2.3 Disseminate Hispanic Matrix of Services to all DFS staff as well as contracted home-based providers.

JoAnn Bruch E-mail confirmation

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D3. DFS staff will have access to a greater number of medical, mental health, dental and housing providers throughout the state.

D3.1.1 Contact Delaware Physicians Care Inc, Diamond State Partners and Unison to obtain copies of the Provider Directories. Distribute these directories to each unit within the Division of Family Services as released annually. These directories provide comprehensive lists of Primary Care Providers, Specialists, Vision programs, and Behavioral Health services throughout the state.

JoAnn Bruch Confirmation of directories in regional offices

1st Qtr

D3.1.2 Schedule times for Delaware Physicians Care, Inc and Unison to present their new programs designed for children in foster and adoptive homes to available statewide staff.

JoAnn Bruch Regional meeting, agendas; presentation materials

4th Qtr

D3.1.3 Partner with representatives from CMH, Delaware Physicians Care, Inc, Unison, and Medicaid to draft a staff survey to identify gaps in service as well as barriers preventing youth from service access.

JoAnn Bruch Meeting Minutes (1-2 sessions)

4th Qtr

D3.1.4 Partner with representatives from CMH, Delaware Physicians Care, Inc, Unison, and Medicaid to review survey results and identify action steps to reduce gaps in service as well as barriers preventing youth from service access.

JoAnn Bruch Meeting Minutes (1-3 sessions)

5th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D3.2.1 DFS social workers and administrators will participate on and support the Child Protection Accountability Commission’s Mental and Behavioral Health Services to Children in Foster Care and Adoption Subcommittee.

Laura Miles Ongoing meeting minutes; proposed recommenda-tions

1st Qtr and ongoing

D3.3.1 Meet with Child Mental Health staff to develop matrix of mental health services available to youth throughout the state.

JoAnn Bruch, Nancy Widdoes

E-mail confirmation; copy of matrix

1st Qtr

D3.3.2 Support development of the Behavioral Health Consultant initiative developed by Child Mental Health.

Laura Miles Copy of initiative description and outcome

6th Qtr

D3.4.1 Provide staff with comprehensive statewide listing of dental providers throughout the state that accept Medicaid.

JoAnn Bruch E-mail confirmation; copy of provider list

1st Qtr

D3.5.1 Provide staff with statewide list of emergency and subsidized housing resources.

JoAnn Bruch E-mail confirmation; copy of housing resources

1st Qtr

D3.6.1 Provide statewide training for available staff (including supervisors and caseworkers) regarding revisions to the Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Education. This MOU details how the educational needs of youth will be met by both the schools and the Division of Family Services.

Linda Shannon Sign-in sheets (name, position, affiliation), copy of MOU; copy of training agenda/curricu-lum

2nd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D4. Add to and increase the availability of post placement supports and post adoption services.

D4.1.1 Review adoptive parent survey results with adoptive contract providers, current adoptive families, and Adoptive Families with Information and Support (AFIS). Adoption Program Manager will coordinate interagency review team.

Frank Perfinski List of fost/adopt needs; list of reviewers (name, agency)

1st Qtr

D4.1.2 Review of existing contractual services and resources for possible enhancement or realignment.

Frank Perfinski Copies of revised contracts as applicable

5th Qtr

D4.1.3 Utilizing existing meetings, Adoption Program Manager to ensure resources, gaps and needs remain current, in order to ensure adoptive families are receiving the services they need to maintain their adoptive placement.

Frank Perfinski Quarterly meeting minutes from contractor meetings, permanency workgroup

6th Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

D4.1.4 Partner with AFIS to utilize their newsletter to inform adoptive parents of resources, trainings and support groups.

Frank Perfinski Newsletter Beginning2nd Qtr

and ongoing

D4.2.1 Enhance recruitment activities and strategies for TPR’d children in need of a permanent family via media, adoption month activities such as, The Heart Gallery. Child-specific recruitment will continue, and adoption contract providers will continue their regularly scheduled, recruitment events.

Frank Perfinski Schedule of activities and events; copy of summary of recruitment activities for TPR’d children

3rd Qtr

D5. Increase the number of foster care and adoption resources to reflect the diversity of children in care.

D5.1.1 Continue faith based initiative to increase foster and adoptive family resources, i.e. personally visiting churches throughout Delaware.

John Bates, Marketing and Recruitment

Team

Documented number of faith based organizations contacted by Marketing and Recruitment Team. Documented number of families who inquire, apply, and are licensed due to this initiative.

3rd Qtr and ongoing




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D5.1.2. Continue One Church, One Child adoption services contract to assist with recruitment.

Frank Perfinski

Document number of families who inquire, apply, and are licensed

3rd Qtr

D5.2.1 Utilizing the technical assistance through AdoptUSKids website, email, telephone calls, and/or written materials, research national promising practices for possible next steps related to foster care recruitment strategies.

John Bates, Foster Care

Team

Summary of research results highlighting promising practices

1st Qtr

D5.2.2 Submit budget for new recruitment activities for implementation at the state level.


Team

List of marketing and recruitment activities

6th Qtr

D5.2.3 Obtain clearance for state employees to foster and adopt children.

John Bates SFY08 Budget Epilogue language

1st Qtr

D5.2.4 Expand recruitment to Hispanic community to increase the number of Spanish speaking foster families; add Spanish speaking member to marketing and recruitment team.


Team

Copies of Spanish recruitment materials

4th Qtr and on-going

D5.2.5 Encourage youth and foster parents through newsletters (youth and foster parent) and foster parent cluster meetings to help create and distribute materials to schools, churches and community centers. Create materials that target foster homes for teens, siblings, minorities and special needs children.

John Bates Copies of recruitment materials

1st Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D6. Strengthen supports for foster children and foster parents to stabilize placements and achieve timely permanency.

D6.1.1 Increase number and expand topics of in-service training based upon those identified by foster parent survey conducted in 2007.

John Bates List of new topics; training schedule

3rd Qtr

D6.2.1 Implement teen girl support group in New Castle County to help girls develop social skills, develop positive relationships, and address personal care issue.

John Bates Teen sign-in sheets (name encrypted); copy of group’s agenda

2nd Qtr and

ongoing

D6.3.1 Expand respite service to include specific recruitment and training of respite only providers. Monitor utilization and effectiveness of respite service.

John Bates Issue list of respite providers; copy of utilization report.

3rd Qtr




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D6.4.1 Promote discounted YMCA memberships via foster parent association meetings, newsletters and DFS mailings.

John Bates Track number of vouchers issued

2nd Qtr

D7. Improve the amount and quality of independent living services to youth transitioning to adulthood statewide.

D7.1.1 Increase independent living contract budget for SFY08-SFY09.

Truman Bolden Budget documents

1st Qtr

D7.2.1 Identify and enhance life skills and employment resources for youth transitioning to adulthood thru community collaboration with the Youth Vision Team and other community partners (Department of Labor, Department of Education and DSCYF, small businesses, collegiate educational organizations, housing agencies).

Truman Bolden, Youth Vision

Team, APPLA Workgroup

Demonstrate collaboration through Youth Advisory Council Newsletter, youth conference agendas, Youth Vision Team meeting minutes

4th Qtr and

ongoing

D7.2.2 Identify youth to participate in the Delaware Youth Vision Team to identify critical needs for youth transitioning to adulthood.

Truman Bolden Meeting minute notes

1st Qtr

D7.2.3 The APPLA workgroup will continue to explore various resources within the community available to youth.

Truman Bolden, APPLA

workgroup

Every other month meeting minutes

1st Qtr and

ongoing




Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

D7.2.4 Youth aging out of the foster care system will complete an exit survey indicating how helpful the independent living program has been in preparing them for their independence as well as identifying any additional needs they may have such as connecting them to counseling, assistance with housing, etc.

Truman Bolden Survey results 6th Qtr

D7.2.5 Recruit former foster care youth to serve on the Youth Advisory Council.

Truman Bolden; YAC

members

Meeting minutes; membership list

5th Qtr

D7.3.1 Partner with the Delaware State Housing Authority to implement rental assistance pilot program entitled “Step-Up” to provide housing assistance to youth exiting the foster care system.

Truman Bolden, Delaware State

Housing Authority

Step Up transitional housing slots utilized (10 total available)

2nd Qtr

D7.4.1 Revise Independent Living Contract monitoring tool to ensure contract deliverables and quality services are provided.

Truman Bolden Revised contract monitoring tool, Summary of contract monitoring findings

2nd Qtr

5th Qtr


Primary Strategy E: Quality Documentation

39

Primary Strategy E: Quality Documentation Enhance the information system structure and documentation requirements for case management activities.

Applicable CFSR Outcomes or Systemic Factors: Permanency Outcome 1, Permanency Outcome 2, Well-Being Outcome 1, Case Review System

Goal: Improve documentation to facilitate safety, permanency, and well-being outcomes.

Applicable CFSR Items: 8, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 25


Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update

E1. Information system restructuring and additional documentation requirements.

E1.1.1 Revise Plan for Child in Care (PCIC) III to document efforts to locate permanent home.

JoAnn Bruch Revised PCIC III

3rd Qtr

E1.2.1 Revise the Directed Case Conference (DCC) to include: (1) planning with parents; (2) maintaining family connections to include sibling visitation; and (3) next steps to include case direction in planning for upcoming visits.

JoAnn Bruch Revised DCC FACTS screen

4th Qtr

E1.3.1 Revise the Family Service Plan Review in FACTS to include assessment of absent parents and efforts to engage relatives and parents in planning.

JoAnn Bruch Revised Family Service Plan Review FACTS screen

4th Qtr


Primary Strategy E: Quality Documentation


Person Responsible


Quarter Due

Quarter Completed

Quarterly Update*

E1.4.1 Develop and implement a template for worker contacts to include: (1) who was seen during the visit; (2) location of visit; (3) what was discussed – including elements and development of the Family Service Plan and PCIC; and (4) safety issues identified and how they will be addressed.

JoAnn Bruch and Linda Shannon

Worker Contact Template

1st Qtr

E1.5.1 Revise policy with the requirement for signatures on the PCIC of children 12 and older.


3rd Qtr

E1.5.2 Revise PCIC in FACTS to include a reminder of child (12 and older) signature requirement.

JoAnn Bruch PCIC FACTS screen with the reminder note

6th Qtr

E1.6.1 Document efforts to engage parents, children and relatives in the permanency planning process.

JoAnn Bruch Issue revised policy/ procedure

3rd Qtr

E1.7.1 Develop FACTS function proposal that will systematically capture service history for all individuals active within DSCYF.

JoAnn Bruch, Chronological/

History Workgroup

FACTS Function

5th Qtr

Part B: National Standards Measurement Plan and Quarterly Status Report

2007 Delaware PIP Section IV PIP Matrix Part B

National Standards

Permanency Outcome 2: Timeliness of Adoptions National Standard 106.4 Status of Data Indicator in Final Report/Source Data Period

Final Report Score - 100.7 Source – FFY05ab Federal Profile, November 2, 2006

Baseline Status/Source Data Period

Baseline - 123.6 Source - FFY06ab Federal Profile, March 29, 2007

Negotiated Improvement Goal Delaware has met the improvement goal Renegotiated Improvement Goal

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Q7 Q8 Q9 Q10 Q11 Q12 Status (Enter the current status into the white box below the appropriate quarter.)

41

2007 Delaware PIP 42 Section IV PIP Matrix Part C

Measurements

Part C: Item-Specific and Quantitative Measurement Plan and Quarterly Status Report

Safety Outcome 1 -Item 1: Timeliness of Investigation Status of Item in Final Report 69% Baseline Status/Source Data Period

Baseline is from the monthly management report ‘Investigation Contact Report’. Baseline score is 75% “without diligent efforts” for SFY2007.

Negotiated Improvement Goal 78% Method of Measuring Improvement

Measurement is the percent of investigations, without diligent efforts, that meet the assigned response time as reported in the Investigation Contact Report. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.

Renegotiated Improvement Goal


Safety Outcome 2 -Item 4: Risk of harm Status of Item in Final Report 83% Baseline Status/Source Data Period

Quality Assurance Case Review results baseline is 91%. Source data period is SFY2007.

Negotiated Improvement Goal The proposed improvement goal is 93%. The goals of improvement are tentative and may be subject to revision during the tenure of the PIP. It is understood that the methodology to establish the goals of improvement must be approved by the Children’s Bureau data team.

Method of Measuring Improvement

Measurement will be computed as a composite of focused safety assessment questions in the QA Case Review treatment tool. The percent of case reviews agreeing with safety assessment determinations made by staff in the reviewed cases will be reported. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.



Permanency Outcome 1 - Item 6: Stability of foster care placements

Status of Item in Final Report 69%


Measurements

Baseline Status/Source Data Period

Quality Assurance Case Review results baseline is 60%. Source data period is SFY2007.



Measurement is computed as a composite of questions in the QA Case Review tool for placement cases. The percent of case reviews agreeing with placement stability efforts made by staff in the reviewed cases will be reported. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.



Permanency Outcome 1 - Item 7: Permanency goal for child

Status of Item in Final Report 64% Baseline Status/Source Data Period

As the state’s QA instrument is being revised to collect data which is comparable to the CFSR, baselines may be established and/or re-negotiated at a later time. This will occur subsequent to the finalization of the instrument and collection of data for an agreed upon period of time for the establishment of baselines.

Negotiated Improvement Goal The goals of improvement will be negotiated once baselines are established. Goals are tentative and may be subject to revision during the tenure of the PIP. It is understood that the methodology to establish the goals of improvement must be approved by the Children’s Bureau data team.


Pending Quality Assurance item




Measurements

Permanency Outcome 1 - Item 9: Adoption


From the quarterly internal management report ‘Adoption Within 24 Months From Last Removal From Home’, the baseline is 28.4%. The source date period is SFY06.

Negotiated Improvement Goal 31.4% Method of Measuring Improvement

Measurement is the percentage of children adopted within 24 months of the latest removal from home. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.



Permanency Outcome 1 - Item 10: Other planned living arrangement





Measurement is the response to a composite of 3 QA Case Review questions regarding permanency goal appropriateness for children with the goal of APPLA and, referral to and appropriateness of Independent Living (IL) Services. Reported as a percentage of case reviews agreeing with the APPLA goal and IL service selection. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.




Measurements

Well Being Outcome 1 – Item 17: Needs/services of child, parents, and foster parents

Permanency Outcome – Item 13: Visiting with parents and siblings in foster care





Measurement is the response to a composite of 3 revised QA questions addressing visitation between the child in foster care and siblings in foster care, the mother of the child being reviewed and, the father of the child being reviewed. Reported as a percentage of case reviews agreeing that visits have consistency occurred when appropriate.





Negotiated Improvement Goal The goals of improvement will be negotiated once baselines are established. Goals are tentative and may be subject torevision during the tenure of the PIP. It is understood that the methodology to establish the goals of improvement must be approved by the Children’s Bureau data team.


Measurement is a composite of 12 questions from QA Case Review tools for treatment and placement cases. The percent of case reviews agreeing with efforts made by staff to assess needs and provide services for children, families and foster parents will be reported. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.




Measurements

Well Being Outcome 1 – Item 19: Worker visits with child Status of Item in Final Report 86% Baseline Status/Source Data Period

As the state’s QA instrument is being revised to collect data which is comparable to the CFSR, baselines may be established and/or re-negotiated at a later time. This will occur subsequent to the finalization of the instrument and collection of data for an agreed upon period of time for the establishment of baselines. While the composite questions and methodology for reporting this item from the QA system remains the same, the directions to reviewers require changes in order to remain consistent with the CFSR on-site review instrument.



Measurement is a composite of 2 questions from QA Case Review tools for treatment and placement cases. The percentage of case reviews agreeing that contacts with children appropriately addressed issues of case planning, service delivery and goal attainment will be reported. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.

Renegotiated Improvement Goal Status (Enter the current status into the white box below the appropriate quarter.)

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Q7 Q8 Q9 Q10 Q11 Q12

Well Being Outcome 1 – Item 18: Child/family involvement in case planning Status of Item in Final Report 52% Baseline Status/Source Data Period


Negotiated Improvement Goal The goals of improvement will be negotiated once baselines are established. Goals are tentative and may be subject torevision during the tenure of the PIP. It is understood that the methodology to establish the goals of improvement must be approved by the Children’s Bureau data team.


Measurement is based on a composite of 6 revised QA questions addressing a child, mother and, father’s participation in the case planning process. Reported as a percentage of case reviews agreeing that engagement in the case planning process has consistently occurred.

Renegotiated Improvement Goal Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Q7 Q8 Q9 Q10 Q11 Q12 Status (Enter the current status

into the white box below the appropriate quarter.)


Measurements

Well Being Outcome 1 – Item 20: Worker visits with parents Status of Item in Final Report 50% Baseline Status/Source Data Period


Negotiated Improvement Goal The goals of improvement are tentative and may be subject to revision during the tenure of the PIP. It is understood that the methodology to establish the goals of improvement must be approved by the Children’s Bureau data team.


Measurement is a composite of 4 questions from the QA Case Review tool for treatment cases. The percentage of case reviews agreeing that contacts with parents appropriately addressed issues of case planning, service delivery and goal attainment will be reported. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.



Well Being Outcome 3 – Item 23: Mental health of child Status of Item in Final Report 89% Baseline Status/Source Data Period

Quality Assurance Case Review results baseline is 93%. The period of source data is SFY2007.



Measurement is a composite of 4 questions from the QA Case Review tools for treatment and placement cases. The percent of case reviews agreeing with efforts made by staff to assess the mental health needs of children and to address those needs when identified. Data will be compiled quarterly per PIP reporting periods.




Measurements

Case Review Item 25: Provides a process that ensures that each child has a written case plan to be developed jointly with the child’s parents that includes required provisions. (See Part A, C1.1, C1.2, C1.6 and C2.1.1, C2.1.2, C2.2.3, C2.3 for action steps related to this item ) Status of Item in Final Report Area Needing Improvement: State is inconsistent in regards to efforts to involve parents and children (when age

appropriate) in the initial development of the case plan and any ongoing revisions. Baseline Status/Source Data Period

N/A

Negotiated Improvement Goal Achievement of Part A C1.1, C1.2, C1.6 and C2.1.1, C2.1.2, C2.2.3, C2.3 action steps. Method of Measuring Improvement

Completion of Part A C1.1, C1.2, C1.6 and C2.1.1, C2.1.2, C2.2.3, C2.3 will reinforce consistent practice that each child has a written plan developed jointly with child and parents.



Case Review Item 27: Provides a process that ensures that each child in foster care under the supervision of the States has a permanency hearing in a qualified court or administrative body no later than 12 months from the date the child entered foster care and no less frequently than every 12 months thereafter. (See Part A, B4 for related actions steps) Status of Item in Final Report Area Needing Improvement: Permanency hearings are not routinely held in a timely manner due to difficulties with

court scheduling and the granting of continuances. Baseline Status/Source Data Period

N/A

Negotiated Improvement Goal Achievement of Part A, B4action steps. Method of Measuring Improvement

Completion of Part A, B4 will reinforce consistent practice that each child in foster care will have a permanency hearing no later than 12 months from the date child entered foster care and every 12 months thereafter.




Measurements

Service Array Item 35: The State has in place an array of services that assess the strengths and needs of children and families and determine other service needs, address the needs of families in addition to individual children in order to create a safe home environment, enable children to remain safely with their parents when reasonable, and help children in foster and adoptive placement achieve permanency. (See Part A, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7 for related action steps) Status of Item in Final Report Area Needing Improvement: The array of services is not sufficient to meet the needs of children and families. A

particular concern identified pertained to a scarcity of independent living services for youth. Baseline Status/Source Data Period

N/A

Negotiated Improvement Goal Achievement of Part A, D1 to D7 action steps. Method of Measuring Improvement

Completion of Part A, D1 through D7 will reinforce consistent practice that the State has an array of services in place to support child safety, permanency and well-being within the intact family system or, when necessary, achieving permanency in the foster and adoptive placements.




Measurements

Service Array – Item 36: The services in item 35 are accessible to families and children in all political jurisdictions covered in the State’s CFSP. (See Part A, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7 for related action steps) Status of Item in Final Report Area Needing Improvement: The accessibility of services varies considerably across jurisdictions. Baseline Status/Source Data Period

N/A

Negotiated Improvement Goal Achievement of Part A, D1 to D7 action steps. Method of Measuring Improvement

Completion of Part A, D1 through D7 will reinforce consistent practice that the State has an array of services in place to support child safety, permanency and well-being within the intact family system or, when necessary, achieving permanency in the foster and adoptive placements.



Foster and Adoptive Parent Licensing, Recruitment, and Retention – Item 44: The State has in place a process for ensuring the diligent recruitment of potential foster and adoptive families that reflect the ethnic and racial diversity of children in the State for whom adoptive parents are needed. (See Part A, D5 for related action steps) Status of Item in Final Report Area Needing Improvement: There is a scarcity of foster and adoptive families and efforts to recruit a sufficient

number of families to meet the needs of the children in foster care. Baseline Status/Source Data Period

N/A

Negotiated Improvement Goal Achievement of Part A, D5 action steps. Method of Measuring Improvement

Completion of Part A, D5 will enhance recruitment, approval and retention of foster and adoptive families for foster children.



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