Ongoing data collection helps track the impact of interventions to create racial equity in child welfare systems over time. Capturing data by race and ethnicity in each of the decision-making stages will help target efforts. Indicators are basic tools to measure by percentage, disproportionality rates, rate per thousand, and disparity ratio, and are most effective when used at key decision-making stages in the child welfare system. Collecting data by decision-making helps to target areas where the greatest degree of racial and ethnic disproportionality and disparities exist.

It’s important to track changes in racial disporportionality and disparity over time. As you begin to drill down, the data elements presented on this web-site can be tracked simultaneously to assure both positive and negative changes in outcomes for children of color are captured. Most data should be collected and reviewed for progress at least annually, but twice annually offers time to adjust strategies and interventions. Earlier cautions if there are significant challenges in any of the indicators.

Questions to Consider:

• Were youth, parents, alumni of foster care, and community members included when selecting key results, indicators and strategies?
• Are the results sought for children and families of color measureable?
• Are you able to identify the policies, programs and interventions that work towards “turning the curve” and improving outcomes for children of color?
• Is there a process to track progress for all racial and ethnic groups?
• Do you check performance on a regular basis? Has enough time passed for a true assessment?
• Was the strategy implemented as designed? Does the timeline need to be altered or changed?