23.3 Criteria for Selection of APPLA as a Permanency Option
Prior to selecting this permanency option, the worker shall consider the following criteria to determine if this is the most appropriate option for the child(ren). The criteria are as follows:
- The Family Support Team has determined that reunification, adoption, guardianship, and/or placement with a fit and willing relative are not in the best interests of the youth.
- The child objects to TPR, and the juvenile court and/or Division believes it is in the best interest of the child not to pursue termination;
- There is an identified appropriate planned permanent living arrangement in which the child wishes to continue living;
- The out-of-home placement provider is in agreement with the plan and is able/willing, with the assistance of the Division, to meet the safety, permanency, and well-being needs of the youth.
- The youth has strong emotional/familial ties with the placement provider.
- The youth is able to understand the APPLA plan and all possible additional services are explored with the child and/or the placement provider to ensure the APPLA is safe, stable, and of the highest quality.
- Parent is actively involved in youth's life, but unable to resume full care, i.e., chronic and pervasive emotional/physical health problems, etc.
- The out-of-home care provider will make a formal Planned Permanency Agreement with the Division for this purpose.
- The parent(s) agrees with the plan.
- Compelling reasons for selecting an APPLA are clearly documented for the court.
NOTE: A disabled youth may not be able to fully participate in this decision, but every effort shall be made to involve them to their ability.
NOTE: The birth parent should have been involved throughout the treatment process and should be aware of the plan. However, some parents may elect not to remain involved in their child(ren)'s life and will not participate in the APPLA plan.