Foster Care Training

This course provides comprehensive training on mandated reporting laws for child protective services (CPS) and adult protective services (APS) in California, focusing on the unique challenges faced by professionals working with children, youth, and families involved in the foster care and juvenile justice systems. It supports caregivers, social workers, and other professionals by enhancing their understanding of both federal and state reporting laws, with an emphasis on developing cultural competence and recognizing implicit bias. The course focuses on balancing the legal obligations of mandated reporting with the ethical responsibility to reduce harm to families. Special attention is given to how systemic inequities such as poverty and housing instability can influence reporting, often disproportionately affecting court-dependent families. The course aims to empower professionals to navigate these complexities, ensuring that reporting is accurate, just, and culturally sensitive. The materials will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussion, and participant workbook (handout).