IL SB1889

Establishes the Child Protection Training Academy within the Department of Children and Family Services, developed in collaboration with the University of Illinois at Springfield in 2015.

Requires training efforts to include simulation-based learning for child protection investigators, supervisors, intact and permanency workers, and mandated reporters using mock facilities such as houses, courtrooms, and forensic interview rooms.

Mandates development of cultural competency training for investigative staff to ensure responsive and effective engagement with families and children of color.

Requires the Department to adopt procedures by July 1, 2020 establishing statewide competence, assessment, and training standards for child welfare service providers, including minimum competence standards prior to Child Welfare Employee Licensure certification.

Directs the Department to arrange for independent evaluation of the Child Protection Training Academy through June 2021 and permits contracting with entities other than the University of Illinois at Springfield to provide training.