New Appendix to Access and IA Standards Coming Soon This August, watch for a new appendix to the Child Protective Services (CPS) Access and Initial Assessment Standards! Appendix 13: CPS Agencies’ Responsibility to Engage with Tribal Nations provides guidance on best practices for staff, supervisors and local CPS agency leaders to engage tribal nations in a way that is meaningful, respectful and meets the statutory requirements established by the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and Wisconsin Indian Child Welfare Act (WICWA) to protect Indian children and preserve Indian families. The appendix includes guidance on: Understanding each agency’s responsibilities in supporting Indian children and their families. Practicing cultural responsibility. Building a strong partnership with tribal child welfare professionals and leaders. Implementing shared decision-making and collaboration strategies to support compliance with active efforts, placement preferences and other ICWA and WICWA requirements. Following its release, the Division of Safety and Permanence (DSP) will host two support sessions to introduce the appendix, review key concepts and provide a space for questions and discussion. More details will be shared soon!
