June 1994 — Features

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CARAS: A School-Based, Case Management System for At-Risk Students

This assessment, which can do both school- and districtwide screening, incorporates 12 risk variables. The variables are derived from a needs assessment tool known as the "Ten-Minute Wonder." This instrument, developed by C-STARS personnel, lists school-based factors frequently associated with students identified as at-risk. It is completed for all students in a school, usually during a single faculty meeting, and the data is entered into NAMS. (Inputting this data electronically via scanning is being planned.) A school or district can add up to five optional risk variables if so desired, or other types of variables such as standardized test scores. In addition, three school-specific risk variables, pertaining to grades, attendance and conduct, are integrated. Figure 1 displays this component's primary computer screen, along with the main menu screen used to select and weigh risk factors. One also has the option of assigning different levels of "at-riskness" to variables. Users are cautioned to apply this as a service decision-making tool and not as a categorizing tool. Case Management The case management component is assisted by Case Manager Software (CMS). CMS is a detailed management information system that helps facilitate the case management process, including developing service plans and generating reports.
The primary screen in this component is the Student Information Screen, which contains background and demographic information. From here, a user accesses other screens pertaining to a student's case history and service program. These include screens on: 1) Student Referral and Response, 2) Student Assessment, 3) Family Demographics, Composition, and Resources and Needs, 4) Agency Referrals, 5) Student and Family Service Plans, 6) Student and Family Progress Reports and Updates, and 7) Individual Service Planning. Examples of some of the intake and process screens can be seen in Figure 2.