Child and Family Services Review: Program Improvement Planning

Child and Family Services Reviews (CFSRs) are a joint federal-state initiative led by the Children’s Bureau to assess and improve state child welfare systems. These reviews evaluate how well states ensure safety, permanency, and well-being for children, as well as how effectively systems function. They align with broader planning efforts, such as the Child and Family Services Plan and continuous quality improvement systems.

Following a review, states must create a Program Improvement Plan (PIP) to address identified challenges and achieve lasting, systemic change. This involves analyzing data and root causes, particularly disparities and inequities, and selecting evidence-based strategies to improve outcomes. SD Child Protection Services collaborates with stakeholders who provide insights and help evaluate the child welfare system’s strengths and weaknesses. Their input is essential to developing a successful and inclusive improvement plan.

Trainer: Ashley Asmus

Ashley serves as the Administrator of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and Outcomes for the South Dakota Division of Child Protection Services. She brings over 17 years of experience in child welfare, with a background that includes both direct service to children and families and broader systems-level work. Ashley has extensive experience in federal and state strategic planning, with a focus on identifying strengths and areas for improvement to ensure families receive the services needed to support positive outcomes. She is well-versed in interpreting and implementing federal laws and regulations into child welfare policy and practice.