Governor Patrick Morrisey and the West Virginia Department of Human Services are working to better coordinate education, child welfare, and community support across the state.
The administration says the goal is to intervene earlier in the child welfare system, stabilize families sooner, and reduce unnecessary involvement. Last month, Morrisey announced plans for a Home Base Initiative Fund to renovate existing state buildings and reduce the need for out-of-state child placements.
Officials are also expanding prevention programs, including Star Academies, which support high school students in foster care. Pilot programs have shown fewer behavioral incidents and higher attendance.
The state is considering using unspent TANF funds to expand Star Academies and serve thousands more children statewide.