Jamie Bernstein of the Children’s Commission and Texas CASA CEO Vicki Spriggs discuss youth with “dual status” (or “cross over” youth) – starting first with the need for a clear, uniform definition in Texas. Bernstein touches on what the Children’s Commission has learned so far and the goals for their year-long task force to address the specific needs and negative outcomes these youth face. The task force currently is working to develop new ways organizations like CASA can better partner together as well as identify gaps in services and trainings.
Note: Recorded pre-quarantine.
Bernstein joined the Supreme Court of Texas Permanent Judicial Commission for Children, Youth and Families in May 2014 and became the Executive Director in June 2020. She began her legal career in New York where she represented children in child protection and delinquency proceedings. She has expertise in the areas of education, human trafficking, and the intersection of child welfare and juvenile justice.
Conversations with CASA is an online series from Texas CASA that explores current issues and trends affecting child welfare, children and families in foster care and the CASA network. Catch up on other episodes of Conversations with CASA.