Iowa SMART on Juvenile Justice Planning Initiative

This program will support the selected State Planning Grantee's efforts to develop a data-driven, statewide, juvenile justice reform strategic plan. The plan will include recommendations to improve both public safety and outcomes for youth, their families, and the communities in which they live. In addition, the plan will detail how the state will reinvest the savings they realize through reduced use of out-of home placement and increased use of effective alternatives, including early intervention, diversion, and evidence-based programs, to ensure sustainability of reform efforts.

The Iowa Department of Human Resources will develop a statewide plan to enhance communication and collaboration across the juvenile justice system and increase service quality for youth, resulting in better outcomes for youth, families, and communities. Iowa’s stakeholder group, SMARTeam, will include diverse and dynamic membership with representation from three government branches, public and private service providers, Achieving Max Potential, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and individuals currently involved in promising juvenile justice initiatives. The plan will be developed around four core principles: (1) base supervision, service, and resource allocation decisions on the results of validated risk and need assessments; (2) adopt and effectively implement evidence-based programs and services demonstrated to reduce recidivism and improve other youth outcomes, including the use of data to evaluate results and direct system improvements; (3) employ a coordinated approach across service systems to address youth’s needs; and (4) tailor system policies, programs, and supervision to reflect the distinct developmental needs of adolescents.

CA/NCF