Task force report expected to improve children services data access
The legislative task force examining county data sharing within the JFS system has nearly concluded its work and will soon issue a report that is expected to include recommendations to improve children services staff access to critical Ohio Benefits and other information that will assist in locating families, identifying kin, and discovering protection orders or other potential safety concerns. Chaired by Rep. Jim Hoops, the task force met on March 8 to review findings from subcommittees, hear from state and county members, and make a plan to issue a report.
OCWTP meets
At its monthly meeting on March 9, the Ohio Child Welfare Training Program State Steering Committee heard from PCSAO’s Fawn Gadel about Ohio START’s efforts to address racial equity in the program, explored a new evaluation of supervisor training and supports, and reviewed a new form giving directors flexibility to waive core training. The next meeting will be April 13.
Race Equity Community of Practice takes off
PCSAO’s Race Equity Community of Practice launched March 10. Throughout the year, 10 PCSAs will measure change to practice or policy intended to improve equity, focusing on issues such as racial disproportionality in foster care or staff diversity. Led by the Center for the Study of Social Policy, with generous support from Casey Family Programs, the Community of Practice offers space for county leaders to share successes and challenges while exploring solutions to persistent inequity in the system.
Crisis communications training focus of committee meeting
The Community Education Committee met March 11 to hear a presentation from Michelle and John Fishpaw on shaken baby syndrome and its impact on their family, and from Patti-Jo Burtnett of Lorain County Children Services about crisis communications. The group also heard updates about the Resource Home Recruitment Project, Family First, foster care recruitment grants, and more. Committee members are preparing for both Child Abuse Prevention Month (April) and Foster Care Month (May). After taking April off, the committee meets next on May 6 in person in Columbus.
