Illinois’ troubled child welfare system is turning around

Posted on July 22, 2020
Acting Department of Children and Family Services director Marc Smith was optimistic and talked about apps that caseworkers and children can use.
(Photo courtesy Illinois.gov)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – The governor’s choice to lead DCFS is painting a mostly positive picture.

“We are a piece of the puzzle when it comes to protecting children, but we do own our leadership capacity in saying to people who engage with us that there are ways that you can work with us and that we can work together to make as many kids as safe as possible,” acting Department of Children and Family Services director Marc Smith told the Legislative Audit Commission Tuesday.

While a series of child deaths has plagued the agency, Smith – who says the audit’s findings predate his arrival – was optimistic and talked about apps that caseworkers and children can use.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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