The Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU) was in need of a process that would allow it to expand its efforts and reach within Allegheny County. They were in search of a solution that easily blended all organizations involved. The sections below provide a glimpse into the story and development of the solution.
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Situation
AIU started the Trauma Education and Response Program to help children who are victims of domestic violence and related traumas. The program involves the child, family, police departments and school districts. A strategy was needed to aid in following up with the child and work with schools to ensure the child was receiving what they needed.
Originally, this was a joint program between AIU, New Kensington Police and the Highland School District.
This piloted program was very successful, and they soon saw its vitality. The desire to expand and do more with the program grew strong. It became apparent that a more refined system was required.
Goal
There were three main goals AIU was trying to accomplish. It was important for Data Warehouse Consultants (DWC) to create a solution that made reaching these goals possible. AIU wanted:
- An improved, simplified communication process between the child/family, police and schools.
- To standardize how communications occurred.
- A solution that was built for expansion and scalability.
Results
The online form created by DWC answered the desires AIU had for this program. Since implementation, AIU has been able to expand to 10+ school districts and police departments. They were able to achieve this without the need for additional staff. A uniform, intuitive process and system made this possible.
Overall, AIU has had a huge success and are constantly thinking about how to grow the program.
Strategy
A three-page online form was created to allow police departments and agencies to make referrals. The form is easy to follow along with pages for referral information, school information and family center resources. Information can be selected and entered in several ways.
There are text fields, dropdowns, Yes/Nos and multi-select lists. The referring agency will be asked to include information such as: date of incident; child name; parent or guardian name; school district; the child’s school; the child’s grade; requested resources; and more. There is a text field for additional comments as well.
Watch how to use the form here:
The power of this strategy is that it enforces a defined data flow for schools and those who use the application. There is a separate site that acts as the back end for schools. This second site allows schools to process information to get what they need.
Watch how schools use the form here: