http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/18/us/mississippi-fights-to-keep-control-of-itsbeleaguered-child-welfare-system.html?_r=0
This article explains the pressing concerns that Mississippi is facing. And while this articles primarily focuses on Mississippi, it briefly identifies other states who's Child Welfare systems are being evaluated, this is a "wake-up call" to all states and their child welfare. I think sometimes people can be too intimidated by change to even begin this process. But what we are continuing to see is that these vulnerable children need advocates and improvements to the system. I appreciated what David Chandler had to say in the article. David Chandler, a former State Supreme Court justice who was brought in last month to head the child welfare system. “We have to start one bite at a time. I think the first step is putting together a plan to attract more certified, educated, credentialed social workers.”
As continue to learn in our classes, best practices and quality research are so important not just for abstract reasoning but to improve systems and policies. These stories are devastating. But what I appreciate that this article addresses is the low salaries of those who work in this field. "Salaries are so low — some family workers can earn as little as $23,643 a year — that they qualify for public assistance." If we want quality individuals, we have to take a serious look at salaries and their ability to provide for their families. We should not be surprised that over worked and underpaid child welfare workers are struggling to keep up with the demands of the system.
But we can not afford to not address this issues and take a long, hard look at how to improve. While this article was mentioned before, it has really resonated with my in this season. What are your thoughts on next steps or ways to improve our child welfare systems?
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