Expanded the training program for new caseworkers from four weeks to ten months. Introduced the first ever agency-wide supervisory training program in July 1998. Increased salaries for caseworkers and supervisors, and instituted merit-based raises to reward professionalism and educational achievement. Child Protection Reduced by half the case responsibility of child protective managers from 8 units with over 1,000 cases to 4 units with fewer than 500 cases. Developed a shared computer database with the NYC Board of Education to track children's truancy in February 1997.
Truancy is often an indicator of problems within the home.
Created Instant Response Teams with the NYPD and the five district attorneys to provide instant, coordinated response to all cases of severe child abuse and child fatalities. Teams comprised of ACS caseworkers, police officers, assistant district attorneys, and child advocacy center staff began June 1998. Implemented 72-Hour Child Safety Conferences throughout the City. Within 72 hours of a child coming into foster care, families and members of their support networks meet with ACS caseworkers in a non-adversarial proceeding to discuss the case. Together, participants devise a service plan for the child and family.