On January 8 and 9, 2018 representatives from the Milwaukee County Division of Youth and Family Services and the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families participated in a site visit to Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. Jefferson Parish was one of the first jurisdictions to participate in the Probation System Review process back in 2009. Milwaukee County’s probation system review concluded in October 2017 and they are embarking on an 18-month process to implement the improvements recommended in the review.
Drawing from the insights and lessons learned from Jefferson Parish, Milwaukee County is better prepared to address critical improvements in their screening and intake process, benchmark best practices and performance measures, and make improvements in matching youth to the programs that best meet their needs. Milwaukee County appreciates the kindness and hospitality shown by the people of Jefferson Parish Department of Juvenile Services that made the trip so pleasant, memorable and productive.
This learning opportunity was spearheaded by members of the RFK National Resource Center Practice Networks. We applaud Mark Mertens (Administrator, Division of Youth and Family Services, Milwaukee County Health and Human Services Department & DSY Practice Network Member) and Dr. John Ryals (Evaluation/Treatment Supervisor, Jefferson Parish Department of Juvenile Services & PSR Practice Network Member) for their innovative leadership and ongoing commitment to juvenile justice reform!