Collecting and analyzing data to measure and verify the effectiveness of services helps organizations make informed policy and practice decisions toward improving outcomes for children and families. The following resources help agencies understand how to work with data to strengthen Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) outcomes.
Can AFCARS Be Rescued? Fixing the Statistical Yardstick That Measures State Child Welfare Performance (PDF - 432 KB)
Children and Family Research Center, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2008)
Reviews data collection from the Federal Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) and reporting issues related to the CFSRs and States' ability to meet national standards.
CFSR Data Indicators and Composites [Teleconference]
National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement & National Resource Center for Child Welfare Data and Technology (2007)
Explores data indicators used in the second round of the CFSRs as well as resources and tools to help agencies understand and work with the new data composites.
The Child and Family Services Review Composite Scores: Accountability Off the Track
Schuerman & Needell (2009)
Discusses the disparities of the CFSR process among States and how it impacts the quality and use of data in determining national standards. Suggestions for improvement are also included in this report. (PDF - 1,388 KB)
Definitional Field Guide for AFCARS Elements Used in the CFSR Permanency Measures (PDF - 404 KB)
Tromble (2007)
Compiles a set of definitions to improve the consistency of permanency measures used in the States and to help improve the process of translating data from a State's information system to meet the Federal requirements for data reported to AFCARS.
Using Data in the CFSR and Beyond [Teleconference]
National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement & National Resource Center for Child Welfare Data and Technology (2007)
Describes how to use State data profiles effectively throughout the CFSR process and outlines how agencies can promote program improvements using critical performance data.