Candidate Guide for Child Welfare Provisional (CWP) and Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC)

Transcription

1 Child Welfare Candidate Guide for Child Welfare Provisional (CWP) and Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) This booklet includes: 1. Easy to follow instructions. 2. Your personal application form. 3. Mandatory forms to collect training documents and recommendations. Define Yourself as a Professional through Certification.

2 About Us Preface The Florida Certification Board (FCB) is a nationally recognized, non-profit professional credentialing organization that has been operating in Florida for over 30 years. It currently credentials over 15,000 individuals working in the related fields of addictions, prevention, criminal justice, mental health, child welfare and behavioral health. The FCB adheres to the highest industry psychometric standards for developing, implementing and administering certification programs and examination instruments. Once certified, each professional is required to strictly observe a Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct, complete continuing education requirements, and renew the credential on or before its expiration date. Mission The FCB serves the public interest by developing, administering and maintaining certification programs that reflect current standards of competent practice for health and human service professionals. Our mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Florida by regulating our certified professionals through experience, education, and compliance with professional and ethical standards. Property of the Board Materials submitted to the FCB as part of the certification process are considered property of the Florida Certification Board. Materials include but are not limited to applications, evaluations, transcripts, and certificates. Applicants are encouraged to keep copies of all materials and paperwork submitted for certification. Certification wall certificates and wallet cards are the property of the FCB and must be surrendered upon Board request. Board Policy and Procedures All FCB requirements, policies and procedures are maintained on our website at Applicants and certified professionals are individually responsible for ensuring they are following current FCB policy and procedures. Discrepancies between published documents and documents posted on the FCB website will be resolved by following the document(s) posted on the website. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH FCB POLICIES. If you have any questions regarding FCB policies, please do not hesitate to contact us directly for guidance. 1

3 Contents About Us...1 Preface...1 Mission...1 Property of the Board...1 Board Policy and Procedures...1 Introduction...3 Application Methods...3 Online System Registration...5 Overview of the Certification Process, Policy and Requirements...6 Credential Definitions...6 Certification Process...7 Certification Standards and Requirements Certification Maintenance and Renewal Standards Child Welfare Provisional Certification (CWP) Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Formal Education and Level 2 Background Screening Requirement and Form Child Welfare Specific Training Requirement/Training Verification Form Testing and Certification Fee Payment Certification Exam Registration and Testing Process Provisional Certification Award Failure to Complete the CWP Period Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) Application for Child Welfare Certification Direct Supervision Requirement and Form On-the-Job Experience Requirement and Form Credential Maintenance and Renewal Continuing Education Credential Renewal FCB s Appeal Process Attachment A: Electronic Provisional Certification Application Process Attachment B: Test Registration Candidate Tasks Attachment C: Electronic Full Certification Application Process Provisional and Full Certification Application Forms

4 Introduction Earning child welfare certification is a multi-step process. Although the employer plays a large role in assisting the certification applicant, the ultimate responsibility for submitting required forms and fees in a timely manner rests with the applicant. Failure to complete the certification process according to published policy will result in a delay in credential award and/or reapplication. The following pages provide official policy and detailed instruction on how to: Earn Child Welfare Provisional Certification Earn Child Welfare Certification Maintain and Renew Child Welfare Certification Application Methods We offer two ways to apply for your certification: Online or Hard-copy. Online Certification Applications Our preference is that you apply online using the FCB Application Portal. Online applications offer the quickest processing time and are most cost effective. You can access the FCB Portal on the home page of the FCB website at Click on the bar that says Ready to Apply to access the online application system. If you are using the system for the first time, you will be required to complete a brief registration process prior to completing the certification application online. This Candidate Guide for Application contains copies of FCB required forms, which should be used as worksheets prior to completing the online application fields of information. The Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification and the Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification are built into the online system, but all other forms have to be 1. downloaded, 2. filled-out, 3. saved as an electronic file OR printed, and 4. submitted via or mail by the person responsible for completing the form. The applicant is responsible for completing and submitting the Certification Application (online) The forms that are completed by others, such as the Human Resources Director or designee, the Training Director or designee, and qualified supervisors are uploaded and attached to your online application by an FCB Certification Specialist once they are received. 3

5 Hard-copy Application (AKA: Download, Print and Mail) If you choose to submit your application in hard-copy format, the application forms are available as editable PDF documents. Visit the FCB website to download the forms. Here are the steps: 1) Locate and save the appropriate form(s) to your desktop; 2) Open the file and fill in the information using the fields provided; 3) Print and verify application is complete before mailing. All applicant forms must be typed. Handwritten forms will not be processed by the FCB. There is an additional $25 processing fee for all hard-copy submissions. Applicants applying via hard-copy application are still required to register on the FCB s on-line portal as a user. The on-line portal is the FCB s official database and it is the applicant/certified professional s responsibility to maintain a current account with accurate contact information. Please see the Online System Registration section of this manual for more information and direction. 4

6 Online System Registration ALL certification applicants are required to register in the FCB s on-line certification database. This step is required in order to allow applicants to access the on-line application section of the database. This step is required BEFORE the FCB will begin to process hard-copy applications. The registration process is not immediate. New registrations take up to 48 business hours to activate after the applicant submits a registration request. Detailed, screen-by-screen directions on the registration process follow this brief description of the registration process. 1. Applicant logs onto the FCB s website at 2. Applicant selects MY ACCOUNT from the top menu bar to access the on-line portal. 3. Applicant selects Register from the on-line portal. 4. Applicant completes all fields of information and clicks the submit button. 5. The FCB receives the registration request. 6. The FCB creates a contact in the database, attaches the registration request, and approves the registration. 7. The system sends an to the applicant stating their account has been approved and providing a unique log-in and password. A tutorial on System Registration is maintained on the FCB website at 5

7 Overview of the Certification Process, Policy and Requirements This section of the manual provides a high level overview of the certification process for individuals who are currently employed in a position requiring child welfare certification as a condition of employment. Please review the detailed policy requirements contained in this manual for further instruction. Topics in this section include: 1. Definitions of child welfare credentials. 2. An overview of the a. Certification process, from provisional to full certification. b. Certification standards and requirements for provisional and full certification. c. Certification maintenance and renewal standards. Credential Definitions Child Welfare Provisional Certification (CWP): Child Welfare Provisional (CWP) certification is a mark of initial competency and demonstrates the provisionally certified individual: is currently employed in a position that requires child welfare certification, has completed formal education, training and testing requirements, has agreed to the terms and conditions of certification, and is working under, actively seeking, and responding to direct supervision. The CWP designation does not grant practice rights, including caseload carrying rights. All job/casework assignments are made by the employer and should be reflective of the provisionally certified person s education, training, and experience. The CWP designation is valid for a maximum of 12-months, during which time the applicant is expected to purposefully complete specified on-the-job experience and direct supervision requirements. The start date is the date the applicant earns a passing score on the competency exam. The CWP designation is discipline neutral, meaning that it does not differentiate between individuals working in protective investigations, case management or licensing capacities. Certified Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI): The CWPI credential is awarded to persons who have passed the CWPI competency exam and have completed work experience and direct supervision requirements while performing duties expected of a child welfare protective investigator. A child welfare protective investigator is an authorized agent of the Department of Children and Families who investigates reports of child abuse, abandonment or neglect. The investigator gathers information and applies sophisticated critical thinking to assess present and impending danger and family functioning. This information helps the investigator to determine if the child is safe or unsafe, or at risk of future harm. Certified Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM): The CWCM credential is awarded to persons who have passed the CWCM competency exam and have completed work experience and direct supervision requirements while performing duties expected of a child welfare case manager. A child welfare case manager engages families, in the context of their community, culture and networks, to strengthen their capacity to ensure children are safe and thrive. The case manager works with families to identify solutions, develop goals, and link with services. In the event that children cannot safely live with their parents, the case manager works to find a permanent home and permanent relationships for the children. 6

8 Certified Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC): The CWLC credential is awarded to persons who have passed the CWCM competency exam and have completed work experience and direct supervision requirements while performing duties expected of a child welfare licensing counselor. A child welfare licensing counselor assesses prospective parsons or agencies to receive, care for and provide homes for children who cannot safely live with their families. Licensing counselors monitor foster homes and relicense current foster parents. In addition, they provide supportive services or linkages with services to foster parents. Certification Process Individuals employed in a position requiring Child Welfare certification are eligible to earn certification through a two-phase process. Phase 1: Provisional Certification Phase 2: Full Certification Phase 1: Child Welfare Provisional Certification Child Welfare Provisional Certification (CWP) is designed to allow applicants up to 12-months to complete certification requirements on-the-job, while under intensive supervision of their employer. The credential is discipline neutral: the specific discipline is designated with full certification award. To earn provisional certification, the following requirements must be met. Requirement Responsible Party Comment(s) Applicant Complete and submit the FCB s Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Complete and submit the FCB s Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form Complete and submit the FCB s Training Verification Form Human Resources Director or designee Training Director or designee This step CAN NOT be completed until the applicant has registered and been approved in the FCB certification system. No one but the applicant may complete the application as it includes attestations that can only be made by the certification applicant. Submission of an on-line application is free. Submission of a hard copy application requires a $25 fee. Complete this step within a week of completing the system registration process. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. This form allows the employer to verify that formal education requirements have been met and the applicant has passed a Level 2 Background Screening as part of the hiring process. This form may ONLY be completed and submitted by the Human Resources Director or designee. This form must be submitted/approved before the applicant will be pre-registered for the written exam. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the form is completed/submitted in a timely manner. This form allows the employer to verify that training requirements have been met as part of the organizations 7

9 Requirement Responsible Party Comment(s) hiring and training process. This form may ONLY be completed and submitted by the Training Director or designee. Submit $100 certification fee and the $50 exam fee (per attempt) Pass the Child Welfare Protective Investigator OR the Child Welfare Case Manager exam. Applicant Applicant This form must be submitted/approved according to one of the following: Candidates taking preservice must have the form onfile with the FCB within 5 days after the written test administration date. Candidates not taking preservice must have the form on file before the applicant will be pre-registered for the written exam. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the form is completed/submitted in a timely manner. Ultimately, applicants are responsible for ensuring that all fees are paid, even if the employer is paying fees. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring fees are paid or billed in a timely manner. The exam is scheduled and administered by the employer after fees are paid and the applicant is approved to test by the FCB. 8

10 Phase 2: Child Welfare Full Certification Child Welfare Full Certification is awarded after the provisionally certified professional has completed specified on-the-job experience and direct supervision requirements. Full certification results in the award of one of the following credentials: Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) To earn full certification, the following requirements must be met. Please review the detailed policy requirements contained in this manual for further instruction. Requirement Responsible Party Comment(s) Complete and submit the FCB s Work Experience Verification Form. Complete and submit the FCB s Direct Supervision Verification Form(s). Complete and submit the FCB s Application for Child Welfare Certification Human Resources Director or designee. Qualified supervisor(s) Applicant This form allows the employer to verify that work experience requirements have been met. This form may ONLY be completed and submitted to the FCB by the Human Resources Director or designee. This form must be submitted/approved at least one week before the provisional certification expiration date. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. This form allows qualified supervisor(s) to verify that direct supervision requirements have been met. This form may ONLY be completed and submitted to the FCB by the qualified supervisor completing the form. This/these form(s) must be submitted/approved at least one week before the provisional certification expiration date. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. No one but the applicant may complete the application as it includes attestations that can only be made by the certification applicant. There is NO FEE for this application. Complete this step within the first 6-months of the provisional certification period. This application must be on file before the FCB can accept Direct Supervision Verification and/or Work Verification forms. Forms that cannot be attached to an application will be returned. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. 9

11 Certification Standards and Requirements The following certification requirements reflect the minimum experiences that must be documented in order to earn both provisional and full certification, regardless of discipline unless otherwise specified. The FCB has developed mandatory, standardized application materials and forms that are used to document certification requirements. Please review the detailed policy requirements contained in this manual for further instruction. Category Formal Education Child Welfare Specific Training CWP Fees and Forms Written Exam Phase 1: Child Welfare Provisional Certification Standards Requirement All child welfare certification applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor s degree from an approved accredited college or university as follows: Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) credential do not have to hold a degree in a specified field. Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) or the Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) credential must hold a degree in a related field. Related degrees include Human Services, Education, Human Sciences, Law, Behavioral Sciences, Human Development, Psychology, Social Policy, Sociology, Public Administration, Education, Community Development, Health Science, Political Science, and Criminal Justice/Criminology. Educational waivers granted by the Department of Children and Families are accepted by the FCB to meet the formal education requirement. If a certification applicant is awaiting an education waiver ruling by DCF, the FCB will treat the request as approved until such time as a formal ruling is made by DCF. If the waiver is approved, no additional action is necessary. If the waiver is denied, the individual is no longer eligible for certification and the FCB will revoke the provisional credential and/or not approve the applicant for full certification. Child Welfare Specific Training can be met in two ways. Regardless of how requirements are satisfied, the employer must maintain documentation of compliance with training requirements. Option 1: Completion of the full employer provided pre-service training program that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. Option 2: Completion of either: a. Pre-employment training that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers, OR b. A combination of pre-employment training and employer-provided training that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. The following forms and fees must be on file before the FCB will pre-register candidates to take the written exam: $100 provisional certification fee; $50 written exam fee (per attempt) Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form Training Verification Form (due to FCB within 5 days of the test date) Must pass either the CWPI or the CWCM 100-item, multiple choice written exam. 10

12 The Child Welfare Provisional Certification designation is awarded after the applicant has passed the written exam and the Training Verification form has been received/approved by the FCB. The CWP effective date is the date the passing score was earned and it expires 12-months later. The FCB issues a wallet card when provisional certification is awarded. Individuals are expected to complete the Child Welfare Full Certification requirements and apply for full certification within the 12-month provisional period. Individuals eligible for a provisional certification extension may apply a minimum of 3-weeks prior to the CWP s expiration date. Individuals not eligible for an extension who allow the CWP to expire must reapply for provisional certification, including paying fees and passing the current written test. Please review the detailed policy requirements contained in this manual for further instruction. Phase 2: Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM or CWLC) Standards Category Requirement Credential The FCB awards the correct discipline depending on: Discipline Which exam was passed (CWPI or CWCM) The environment in which on-the-job experience was earned and direct supervision was provided (PI, CM, or Licensing) On-the-Job Experience 1,040 hours of experience in a child welfare protective investigations, case management, or licensing capacity. Direct Supervision Type of Supervision Minimum Requirement Guidelines Field Supervision 6 observations with followup case consultation. CWP Fees and Forms Individual Supervision Group Supervision Additional Supervision A maximum of 2 of the 6 observations may be in professional, office-based settings. 20 hours of individual supervision. 10 hours of group supervision. 10 hours of individual and/or group supervision. There is no fee for full certification. The following forms must be on file before the CWP expiration date. Application for Child Welfare Certification Work Experience Verification Form. Direct Supervision Verification Form The observation and case consultation should take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to complete at minimum. One-on-one supervision in minimum increments of 15- minutes. Supervision provided to two or more staff at one time. Staff refers to certified or uncertified persons. See guidelines for individual and group supervision, above. The CWPI, CWCM or the CWLC designation is awarded after all forms have been submitted and approved by an FCB Certification Specialist. The credential will be awarded for a maximum of 24 months, depending on the quarter in which the credential was granted. Regardless of award date, the credential will always renew on October 31 st of the renewal year. 11

13 The FCB issues a wall certificate and a wallet card when the credential is issued. The wall certificate is a onetime document that does not expire. The wallet card is reissued with each renewal. Certification Maintenance and Renewal Standards The following certification maintenance and renewal requirements reflect the minimum standards of professional conduct and professional development necessary to maintain and renew child welfare certification(s). Please review the detailed policy requirements contained in this manual for further instruction. Category Code of Ethics Continuing Education Renewal Fee(s) CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Maintenance and Renewal Standards Requirement Certified professionals are expected to follow the FCB s Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct at all times. Individuals found in violation of the Code are subject to disciplinary action. Certified professionals are required to complete a total of 40 hours of continuing education as follows: The first time the credential is renewed, the certified professional must complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education dated between the date of the credential award and the credential expiration date. For each subsequent renewal, the certified professional must complete a minimum of 40 hours allocated as follows: 20 hours earned between November 1 st and October 31 st of the first year. 20 hours earned between November 1 st and October 31 st of the following year. Individuals renewing only one credential are charged a $200 renewal fee. Individuals renewing more than one credential are charged a $200 renewal fee for one credential and a $50 fee for each additional credential renewed. Fees must be paid on or before October 31 st of the renewal year. Fees received between November 1 st and November 31 st of the renewal year will have an additional $30 late fee. Unpaid fees by December 1 st will result in the credential being placed on inactive status. The reinstatement process must be followed to reinstate an inactive credential. Each certified professional is expected to complete continuing education requirements, and payment of renewal fees carries an attestation that the continuing education requirement has been met and that documentation exists in case of audit. The FCB will randomly select a percentage of certified professionals for mandatory audit. Audited individuals will be renewed when continuing education documentation is verified and fees have been paid. All child welfare credentials renew for a 2-year period, with an effective date of November 1 st of the renewal year and an expiration date of October 31 st, two years later. The FCB issues a new wallet card with each successful renewal. 12

14 Child Welfare Provisional Certification (CWP) Child Welfare Provisional certification (CWP) requires you to submit an official application, ensure additional forms are completed and submitted by specified individuals and ensure all fees are paid. Applicants will not be allowed to register for the written exam until all forms have been received and approved by the FCB and fees have been paid. The following graphic provides a summary of the provisional certification application and award process. The following pages provide detailed instruction and policy for completing each step of the process. Application Applicant submits Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification HR submits Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form Applicant completes Child Welfare Specific Training Fee Payment Certification fee paid ($100) Exam fee paid ($50 per attempt) Exam Employer submits Child Welfare Exam Pre-registration Form FCB pre-registers applicants with (1) application on file & (2) fees paid Provisional Cert Award FCB verifies passing score on exam Training Director/designee submits Training Verification Form FCB awards provisional certification for 12-month period DO NOT START THIS STEP UNTIL THE SYSTEM REGISTRATION STEP IS COMPLETE!!! 13

15 Application Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Formal Education and Level 2 Background Screening Requirement/Form Child Welfare Specific Training Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Requirement: The Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification collects mandatory data for the FCB. All sections must be complete. Application Section Demographics Billing Information Education Employer Background History Code of Ethics Assurance and Release Policy Statement Hardcopy Application: Fill out all required fields of information. Electronic Application: The e-application only asks for your social security number, date of birth, and the name of the credential you are pursuing. All other contact information has been entered as part of the system registration process. There is a $100 certification fee. Applicants must indicate who is responsible for paying the fee to the FCB: the applicant, the applicant s employer, or the DCF contract (DCF and Sheriff CWPI applicants only). Identify your highest level degree that satisfies the Formal Education requirement. Please note: this section does not satisfy the Formal Education requirement. The requirement is satisfied when your employer submits the Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form. Provide your work history for the last 5 years. Please note: this section does not satisfy the On-the-Job Experience requirement. The requirement is satisfied when your employer submits the Work Verification Form. You are required to disclose your criminal background history and authorize the FCB to conduct random criminal background checks to ensure compliance with the FCB Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct. Please note: this section does not satisfy the Criminal History requirement. The requirement is satisfied when your employer submits the Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form. You are required to acknowledge certain ethical and professional standards and your responsibility to uphold such standards. Before completing this section, you must have the most recent copy of the FCB Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct, which is maintained on the FCB website at You are required to provide specified assurances and releases to the FCB as part of the certification application process. 14

16 How to Document: Hard copy submission: The applicant downloads the Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification from the FCB website and enters all required fields of data. The form is in an editable PDF format, allowing the applicant to download the file, key in the data, save the file to their computer, print the file and sign a hard copy prior to mailing it to the FCB. All forms must be typed. Hand written forms will not be accepted by the FCB. Electronic submission: The applicant logs into the FCB on-line portal. Please see Electronic Provisional Certification Application Process for step-by-step instruction on how to access and complete the electronic Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification. Timeline: Complete this step within a week of completing the system registration process. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification will be approved if all sections are complete and the application is submitted in a timely manner. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the application. All issues must be resolved before provisional certification will be awarded. Formal Education and Level 2 Background Screening Requirement and Form Requirement: Provisional certification applicants must meet the formal education requirement and the criminal background requirement as follows: Formal Education Requirement: All child welfare certification applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor s degree from an accredited college or university as follows: Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) credential do not have to hold a degree in a specified field. Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) or the Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) credential must hold a degree in a related field. Related degrees include Human Services, Education, Human Sciences, Law, Behavioral Sciences, Human Development, Psychology, Social Policy, Sociology, Public Administration, Education, Community Development, Health Science, Political Science, and Criminal Justice/Criminology. Educational waivers granted by the Department of Children and Families are accepted by the FCB to meet the formal education requirement. If a certification applicant is awaiting an education waiver ruling by DCF, the FCB will treat the request as approved until such time as a formal ruling is made by DCF. If the waiver is approved, no additional action is necessary. If the waiver is denied, the individual is no longer eligible for certification and the FCB will revoke the provisional credential and/or not approve the applicant for full certification. Level 2 Background Screening Requirement: All child welfare certification applicants are required to pass a criminal background check. As a Level 2 Background Screening is required for employment, the FCB allows the employer to attest to an approved Level 2 Background Screening on behalf of their employees. 15

17 An applicant granted a waiver from disqualification is deemed to have passed the background screening requirement. How to Document: In lieu of requesting an official transcript to (1) document the formal education requirement and (2) submitting to a criminal history check, the FCB accepts documentation from the employer that verifies the educational requirement has been met and a Level 2 Background Screening has been completed as a condition of employment. The applicant s Human Resources Director or designee must complete the Degree and Level 2 Background Verification form and submit it to the FCB via or US Mail. Applicant Responsible Party Requirement 1. Download the Formal Education and Level 2 Background Screening form from the FCB website. 2. Complete Section Provide the form to the Human Resources Director or designee for completion. Human Resources Director or Designee 1. Verify the applicant s formal education and approved Level 2 Background Screening results by accessing employer-based documentation. 2. Complete Section 2 of the Formal Education and Level 2 Background Screening form. 3. Submit the completed form to the FCB via mail or (see below). Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: CW Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL admin_assist@flcertificationboard.org Subject Line: Degree & L2 Verification (applicant name) Timeline: This form must be submitted/approved before the applicant will be pre-registered for the written exam. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the form is completed/submitted in a timely manner. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The Degree and Level 2 Background Verification form will be approved if: 1. All sections are complete. 2. The form was sent by the Human Resources Director or designee. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the form. All issues must be resolved before provisional certification will be awarded. 16

18 Child Welfare Specific Training Requirement/Training Verification Form Requirement: Provisional certification applicants must meet the child welfare specific training requirement in one of two ways. Regardless of how requirements are satisfied, the employer must maintain documentation of compliance with training requirements. Option 1: Completion of the full employer provided pre-service training program that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. Option 2: Completion of either: a. Pre-employment training that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers, OR b. A combination of pre-employment training and employer-provided training that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. How to Document: Documentation submission requirements differ, based on the way the applicant met training requirements. Option 1: Pre-service Training. The Training Director or designee completes the FCB s Training Verification form for each applicant who completed pre-service training. The form must be submitted to the FCB within 5 business days of the applicant s test date. Option 2: Completion of pre-employment Training: The Training Director or designee completes the FCB s Training Verification form for each applicant who is eligible to waive part of all of pre-service based on his or her pre-employment training. The form must be submitted to the FCB prior to requesting test pre-registration. Regardless of training option, the applicant s Training Director or designee must complete the Training Verification form and submit it to the FCB via or US Mail. The FCB has created each form as an editable PDF. We strongly recommend that you complete all forms electronically and submit them to the FCB via . However, forms can be printed out, completed by hand, and submitted in hard copy or scan/ . Each applicant and employer must establish a protocol for completing and submitting required forms to the FCB. Applicant Responsible Party Human Resources Director or Designee Requirement 1. Download the Training Verification form from the FCB website. 2. Complete Section Provide the form to the Training Director or designee for completion. 1. Verify the applicant s completion of training requirements by accessing employer-based documentation. 2. Complete Section 2 of the Training Verification form. 3. Submit the completed form to the FCB via mail or (see below). 17

19 Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: CW Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Subject Line: Training Verification (applicant name) Timeline: This form must be submitted/approved according to one of the following: Candidates taking preservice must have the form on-file with the FCB within 5 days after the written test administration date. Candidates not taking preservice must have the form on file before the applicant will be pre-registered for the written exam. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the form is completed/submitted in a timely manner. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The Training Verification form will be approved if: 1. All sections are complete. 2. The form was sent by the Training Director or designee. 3. The form was received in a timely manner. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the form. All issues must be resolved before provisional certification will be awarded. 18

20 Fees Certification Fee ($100) Exam Fee ($50/attempt) Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable Testing and Certification Fee Payment The FCB will not pre-register anyone for the written exam until the $100 certification fee and the $50 exam fee are paid. Billing is addressed during the application and testing phases of the provisional certification process: 1. On the hard-copy Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification, applicants are asked to select one of the following options: I am responsible for the certification fee. Bill me directly. My employer is paying my certification fee. Please bill my employer. I work for DCF or a Sheriff Office. Bill the contract for my provisional certification fee. 2. On-line applicants will receive an from an FCB certification specialist asking them to verify the billing information. 3. On the Child Welfare Exam Pre-registration form, the Training Director or designee is asked to indicate who is responsible for paying the exam fee: the applicant, the employer, or the DCF contract. Certification and/or testing fees are paid for according to the following parameters. All other arrangements must be made on an individual basis. Please note: Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable Billing Method Individual applicant. Employer Eligibility The FCB will invoice the applicant directly for all fees not paid by the DCF contract or the applicant s employer. Applicant s whose employer is reimbursing them for fees may provide a copy of the invoice to the employer. The FCB will not invoice employers for fee reimbursement arrangements. The FCB accepts checks, money orders, VISA, MasterCard, AMEX and Discover. The FCB will invoice employers for specified certification and/or testing fees. Employers must establish a billing protocol with the FCB. DCF Contract DCF has entered into a contract with the FCB to pay the certification fee and up to 2 test attempts for individual s seeking the Child Welfare Provisional credential who is employed by the Department or a Sheriff Office performing Protective Investigations. The contract pays to renew one child welfare protective investigator credential during the renewal year. The contract does not pay for dual certification application or renewal fees, reinstatement fees, late fees, or any fees associated with the CWCM or CWLC credentials. 19

21 Exam Employer submits Child Welfare Exam Pre-registration Form FCB pre-registers applicants with (1) Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification on file, (2) the Degree/Level 2 Background Verification form on file, and (3) fees paid Certification Exam Registration and Testing Process Requirement: Provisional certification applicants must pass either the Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) or the Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) written exam. Credential Sought Required Exam Passing Score Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) Exam 78% Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) Exam 78% Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) Exam 78% The exams are given at employer-based, FCB-approved testing sites, which are administered through the FCB s contracted testing vendor, Schroder Measurement Technologies/IsoQualityTesting (SMT/IQT). Examination Overview: Exam development is based on a clear and concise definition of the performance domains, job tasks, knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for competent job performance. This means that the exam is based on what a Behavioral Health Technician does in practice. The exam is based on statistically valid Role Delineation Studies, which identified performance domains and job tasks expected of behavioral health professional. The CWPI and the CWCM exams both consist of 100 multiple choice questions and each question is directly tied to a job task in the respective published Role Delineation Study Report. Applicants have 2 hours to take each exam. Unofficial exam results are provided immediately at the testing site. Official exam results are provided to the FCB with 72 hours of the test administration: the CWP credential will be issued within 5 business days of FCB receiving official notice of passing score. Note: the credential award date is the date that the exam is passed, regardless of paperwork processing date. Individuals who do not pass the exam may re-test after a 48 hour waiting period from the date of taking the failed exam. Applicants will not automatically be re-registered to test; they must work with their employer and the FCB to initiate pre-registration activities. 20

22 Special Accommodations: Individuals with disabilities and/or religious obligations that require modifications in examination administration must submit a written request for specific procedural changes to the FCB no fewer than 60-days prior to the desired exam administration date. Official documentation of the disability or religious issue must be provided with the written request. Contact the FCB for directions on what constitutes official documentation and how to submit a Special Accommodation Request. How to Register: Test registration is a multi-step process that requires the following steps: 1. The Training Director or designee schedules the test date on the FCB s on-line test administration system as soon as the date is known. 2. The Training Director or designee sends FCB the Child Welfare Test Pre-Registration Form at least 48 hours before the desired test date. 3. FCB enters all approved test candidates into the SMT/IQT system. 4. The SMT/IQT system sends each pre-registered test candidate an to complete the test registration process. 5. The test candidate logs into the SMT/IQT system to complete the registration process. 6. SMT/IQT sends the test candidate an approval with their userid and passcode. 7. The test candidate brings a printout of the with them on the appointed test date. Please see Attachment B: Test Registration Candidate Tasks for step-by-step instruction on how complete the test registration process. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The applicant will be pre-registered for the exam if: The Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification is on file. The Degree and Level 2 Background Verification form is on file. The Training Verification form is on file (for waiver test applicants, only pre-service applicants must have a Training Verification form on file before Provisional Certification will be awarded). All fees are paid by the applicant or applicant s employer OR have been billed to the DCF contract. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a delay in pre-registration. All issues must be resolved before the applicant will be pre-registered for the written exam. Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy Candidates are required to arrive on time for their exam. Candidates who arrive late will not be permitted to test and will be charged a $50 cancellation/rescheduling fee. Candidates who cancel or reschedule their exam less than five days prior to their scheduled date will be charged a $50 cancellation/rescheduling fee. Candidates who cancel or reschedule their exam more than five days prior to their scheduled date will be charged a $25 cancellation/rescheduling fee. Test scores are valid for a three-year period. Individuals who allow their credential(s) to become inactive and have a test score older than three-years will be required to retest as part of the reinstatement process. 21

23 Provisional Cert Award FCB verifies passing score on exam Training Director/designee submits Training Verification Form FCB awards provisional certification for 12-month period Provisional Certification Award Requirement: Child Welfare Provisional certification (CWP) is awarded when the FCB has (1) verified a passing score on the written exam and (2) received/approved the Training Verification form. Passing Score: The passing score for the CWPI and the CWCM exams are both 78%. The testing software provides an immediate, unofficial score to the proctor, who provides the score report to the test candidate. The official score is submitted to the FCB within 48 hours of the posting of the unofficial score. Test scores rarely change from the unofficial score; however, when the score does change, most often the score increases rather than decreases. Regardless, test scores are not official until the FCB has received the official score report from its testing vendor, SMT/IQT. Training Verification form: The Training Verification form must be submitted to the FCB before Provisional Certification will be awarded. Individuals who complete pre-service to satisfy the training requirement must have the form submitted within no more than 5 days of earning a passing score on the written test. Individuals who satisfy training requirements through pre-employment/non-preservice training routes must have the form submitted before they will be pre-registered to test. Please see the Child Welfare Specific Training Requirement/Training Verification Form section of this document for detailed information/instructions regarding this requirement. Credential Award Process: The applicant does not need to contact the FCB to request provisional certification award. The FCB will issue certification within 10 business days of the day the official score report of a passing test score is received from SMT/IQT and the Training Verification form has been approved. Regardless of the date paperwork was processed, the provisional certification date is the day the passing score was earned on the exam and expires 12-months from the issue date. The FCB issues a wallet-size certification card when the Child Welfare Provisional credential is awarded and the individual s status will be updated from Child Welfare Provisional In Process to Child Welfare Provisional Certified in the FCB s on-line database. The card and information regarding how to complete the certification process are sent to the individual s home/mailing address. During the ensuing 12-month period, the provisionally certified professional must: Work under and seek supervision. Complete a minimum of 6 observed field visits with follow-up case consultation. Complete 20 hours of individual supervision. Complete 10 hours of group supervision. Complete 10 hours of any combination of group and/or individual supervision. 22

24 Document 1,040 hours of direct work experience in Protective Investigations, Case Management or Licensing related activities. The provisionally certified professional has a maximum of 12-months to complete the supervision and experience requirements; however, documents may be submitted for full certification anytime during the 12- month period and full certification will be awarded as soon as all requirements are documented and approved. Please see Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) for information and directions to complete the certification process. Failure to Complete the CWP Period Unless the individual is eligible for a Provisional Extension, all direct supervision and experience requirements must be met within the 12-month provisional certification period. The FCB does allow a 10-business day grace window between the CWP expiration date and the move to inactive status to allow for paperwork submission and processing. Failure to submit all required documents to allow for processing within 10 days of expiration will result in the CWP credential being placed on inactive status. An inactive CWP credential cannot be reinstated. The individual must apply for the CWP credential from the beginning, including passing the current written test and paying all associated fees. Documents from the original CWP application will not be transferred to the new application: all new documents must be submitted. Provisional Certification Extension Policy: 1. Provisional certification extensions may be granted to individuals who were not able to earn full certification within required timeframes for the following reasons: a. Extended absence from work for maternity/paternity leave, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), or other extended illness. The extension will be equal to the amount of time the employee was on approved leave. b. Part-time staff. The extension will be granted for 6 months. c. Discipline transfer mid-certification. The extension will be granted for 6 months. d. Other circumstance. The applicant must submit a written Extension Request Memo (see last page of this document) packet for review and action by the Child Welfare Advisory Board (CWAB). The length of the extension will vary based on circumstances, not to exceed 6 months. 2. Eligible individuals may apply for a one-time provisional certification extension by meeting the following conditions: a. Must submit a Child Welfare Provisional Certification Extension Application, including supporting documentation, a minimum of three (3) weeks prior to the provisional certification expiration date. Individuals are NOT eligible to apply for an extension after the provisional certification has expired. The Provisional Certification Application is only provided by the FCB directly to the Training Director or designee for completion. b. Must agree to complete requirements and apply for full certification at least two (2) weeks before the extension period ends. c. Must pay a $75 fee. 3. When granted, the extension start date begins on the Provisional Certification expiration date. 23

25 Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) Full certification as a Protective Investigator (CWPI), Case Manager (CWCM), or Licensing Counselor (CLWC) requires you to submit an official application and ensure additional forms are completed and submitted by specified individuals before your provisional certification expires. The FCB does allow a 10-business day grace window between the CWP expiration date and the move to retired or inactive status to allow for paperwork submission and processing. Full Certification Standards and Requirements Credential The FCB awards the correct discipline depending on: Discipline Which exam was passed (CWPI or CWCM) The environment in which on-the-job experience was earned and direct supervision was provided (PI, CM, or Licensing) On-the-Job Experience Direct Supervision CWP Fees and Forms 1,040 hours of on-the-job work experience in a child welfare protective investigations, case management, or licensing capacity. Type of Supervision Minimum Requirement Guidelines Field Supervision Individual Supervision Group Supervision Additional Supervision 6 observations with followup case consultation. A maximum of 2 of the 6 observations may be in professional, office-based settings. 20 hours of individual supervision. 10 hours of group supervision. 10 hours of individual and/or group supervision. There is no fee for full certification. The following forms must be on file before the CWP expiration date. Application for Child Welfare Certification Work Experience Verification Form. Direct Supervision Verification Form The observation and case consultation should take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to complete at minimum. One-on-one supervision in minimum increments of 15- minutes. Supervision provided to two or more staff at one time. Staff refers to certified or uncertified persons. See guidelines for individual and group supervision, above. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: A provisional (CWP) credential does not become a full credential (CWPI, CWCM or CWLC) when required standards are met. The CWP credential is retired and a full credential is issued. For this reason, the applicant must APPLY for the full credential in the FCB s online database. 24

26 The following graphic provides a summary of the full certification application, award and credential maintenance policy and process. The following pages provide detailed instruction and policy for completing each step of the process. Full Cert Application Applicant submits Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) Application Qulified supervisor(s) submit Direct Supervision Verification Form(s) HR Director/designee submits Work Verification Form Certification Award FCB verifies Direct Supervision and On-the-Job Experience requirements are met and documented. FCB issues the credential for a maximum of 24 months. Maintenance & Renewal Work according to the Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct Complete CEUs Pay renewal fee (every 2 years) 25

27 Full Cert Application Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) Application Direct Supervision Requirements/Direct Supervision Form On-the-Job Experience Requirements/Work Verification Form Application for Child Welfare Certification Requirement: The Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, CWLC) Application collects mandatory data for the FCB. All sections must be complete. Application Section Applicant Information Employer Attestations Policy Statement Hardcopy Application: Fill out all required fields of information. Electronic Application: The e-application only asks for your social security number, CWP number, and if your name has changed since the CWP award. All other contact information has been entered as part of the system registration process. Indicate if your employer has changed since the CWP award. If yes, update the employer information. You are required to provide specified attestations as to your understanding of the scope of the credential, CEU and renewal requirements. How to Document: Hard copy submission: The applicant downloads the Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification from the FCB website and enters all required fields of data. The form is in an editable PDF format, allowing the applicant to download the file, key in the data, save the file to their computer, print the file and sign a hard copy prior to mailing it to the FCB. All forms must be typed. Hand written forms will not be accepted by the FCB. Electronic submission: The applicant logs into the FCB on-line portal. Please see Attachment C: Electronic Application Process Full Certification for step-by-step instruction on how to access and complete the electronic Application for Child Welfare Certification. Timeline: Complete this step within the first 6-months of the provisional certification period. This application must be on file before the FCB can accept Direct Supervision Verification and/or Work Verification forms. Forms that cannot be attached to an application will be returned. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. 26

28 FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification will be approved if all sections are complete and the application is submitted in a timely manner. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the application. All issues must be resolved before provisional certification will be awarded. Direct Supervision Requirement and Form Requirement: Direct supervision refers to the relationship and interaction between a qualified supervisor and a certification applicant/provisionally certified professional that promotes and develops the responsibility, skills, knowledge, attitudes and adherence to ethical, legal and regulatory standards in the practice of child welfare. Supervision is face-to-face contact between a qualified supervisor and a certification applicant/provisionally certified professional during which the applicant apprises the supervisor of the status of a case, the case is discussed, the supervisor provides the applicant with oversight and guidance in working the case, and evaluates the applicant s performance. Individual and/or group supervision must occur in minimum of 15-minute increments. Field observations and follow-up case consultation should last approximately 2 hours. Full certification applicants must meet the following direct supervision requirements during the provisional period. All supervision must be documented in the discipline in which the applicant is seeking full certification. Type of Supervision Minimum Requirement Guidelines Field Supervision 6 observations with follow-up case consultation. Individual Supervision A maximum of 2 of the 6 observations may be in professional, office-based settings. The observation and case consultation should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at minimum. 20 hours of individual supervision. One-on-one supervision in minimum increments of 15-minutes. Group Supervision 10 hours of group supervision. Supervision provided to two or more staff at one time. Staff refers to certified or uncertified persons. Additional Supervision 10 hours of individual and/or group supervision. See guidelines for individual and group supervision, above. Qualified Supervisors: For certification purposes, a qualified supervisor is the applicant s immediate supervisor or any other agency supervisor, trainer, mentor, quality assurance staff or other agency management/leadership staff assigned by the employer to provide supervision to employees seeking certification. How to Document: There are two components to documenting Direct Supervision requirements: Employer-based Documentation: National accreditation standards and best practice guidelines for child welfare supervision require supervisors to provide and document on-going supervision. Qualified supervisors must 27

29 document supervision according to agency protocol. These supervision records are maintained by the employer and are not submitted to the FCB with the Direct Supervision Verification form(s). Employers are required to maintain supervision records that support the information documented in the FCB s Direct Supervision Verification form(s) in case of audit. FCB-based Documentation: Each qualified supervisor who provides supervision for certification purposes must complete a Direct Supervision Verification form. Collectively, the Direct Supervision Verification forms must document completion of all field, group and individual direct supervision requirements. Each qualified supervisor providing direct supervision to the applicant for certification purposes must complete a separate Direct Supervision Verification form to document the field, individual and/or group supervision provided to the applicant and submit it to the FCB via or US Mail. Applicant Responsible Party Qualified Supervisor Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: CW Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Requirement 1. Download the Direct Supervision Verification form. 2. Complete Section Provide the form to the qualified supervisor who provided you with direct supervision for certification purposes for completion. 1. Provide and document field, individual and/or group supervision provided to the applicant. 2. Complete Section 2 of the Direct Supervision Verification form. 3. Submit the completed form to the FCB via mail or (see below). admin_assist@flcertificationboard.org Subject Line: Direct Supervision (applicant name) Timeline: This/these form(s) must be submitted/approved at least one week before the provisional certification expiration date. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The a Direct Supervision Verification form will be approved if: 1. All sections are complete. 2. The form was sent by the qualified supervisor. 3. All direct supervision requirements are documented (on one form or multiple forms). 4. Each form includes an attestation by the qualified supervisor stating there are no concerns with the applicant s observed competency. 5. The form was received in a timely manner. The Direct Supervision requirement will be met and approved if all of the direct supervision requirements are documented on a single a Direct Supervision Verification or multiple Direct Supervision Verification form(s). Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the form and/or the Direct Supervision requirement. All issues must be resolved before full certification will be awarded. 28

30 On-the-Job Experience Requirement and Form Requirement: Full certification applicants must document a minimum of 1,040 hours of direct, supervised work experience in the discipline in which they are seeking certification. Work experience must be earned during the provisional certification period. How to Document: On-the-Job Experience is documented on the Work Verification form. The applicant s Human Resources Director or designee must complete the Work Verification form and submit it to the FCB via or US Mail. Applicant Responsible Party Human Resources Director or Designee Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: CW Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Requirement 1. Download the Work Verification form. 2. Complete Section Provide the form to the Human Resources Director or designee for completion. 1. Verify the applicant s completion of on-the-job experience requirements by accessing employer-based documentation. 2. Complete Section 2 of the Work Verification form. 3. Submit the completed form to the FCB via mail or (see below). admin_assist@flcertificationboard.org Subject Line: Work Verification (applicant name) Timeline: This/these form(s) must be submitted/approved at least one week before the provisional certification expiration date. Employers must establish an internal protocol for ensuring the application is completed/submitted in a timely manner. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: The Work Verification form will be approved if: 1. All sections are complete. 2. A minimum of 1,040 hours of on-the-job experience in the correct discipline is documented. 3. The form was sent by the Human Resources Director or designee. 4. The form was received in a timely manner. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a denial of the form. All issues must be resolved before full certification will be awarded. 29

31 Certification Award FCB verifies Direct Supervision and On-the-Job Experience requirements are met and documented. FCB issues the credential for a maximum of 24 months. The applicant does not need to contact the FCB to request full certification award. The FCB will issue the CWPI, CWCM or CWLC credential within 5 business days of the FCB s receipt and approval of the applicant s: Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification. Direct Supervision Verification form(s). Work Verification form. The credential issue date is the day the last required form was received and approved by the FCB. The CWPI, CWCM and CWLC credentials are each issued for a maximum of 24 months, depending on the issue date, and will always renew on October 31 st of the biennial renewal calendar year. Depending on the initial certification award date, first time credential holders may be certified for slightly more or less than a standard 24-month period. The full 24-month renewal cycle will start after the credential is renewed for the first time. Initial Certification Award Date Initial Renewal Date On-going Renewal Date August 2013 October 2013 October 31, 2015 October 31, 2017 November 2013 July 2014 October 31, 2015 October 31, 2017 August 2014 October 2014 October 31, 2016 October 31, 2018 November 2014 July 2015 October 31, 2016 October 31, 2018 August 2015 October 2015 October 31, 2017 October 31, 2019 November 2015 July 2016 October 31, 2017 October 31, 2019 August 2016 October 2016 October 31, 2018 October 31, 2020 November 2016 July 2017 October 31, 2018 October 31, 2020 The FCB issues a wall certificate and a wallet-size certification card when the CWPI, CWCM or CWLC credential is awarded and the individual s status will be updated from In Process to <Credential Name> Certified in the FCB s on-line database. The certificate, wallet card and information regarding maintenance and renewal requirements are sent to the individual s home/mailing address. During the certification period, the certified professional must: Work under and seek supervision. Complete continuing education requirements. Practice according to the FCB Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct. Submit CEU documentation and renewal fees in a timely manner, on or before October 31 st of the biennial renewal year. 30

32 Maintenance & Renewal Work according to the Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct Complete CEUs Pay renewal fee (every 2 years) Credential Maintenance and Renewal Maintaining a credential in good standing is very important. To further our mission of public safety, the FCB maintains a public-access database allowing verification of an individual s certification status and ethical history. To remain in good standing, certified professionals must: Actively participate in annual continuing education to maintain a current knowledge and skill base. Follow the FCB Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct. Complete the renewal process in a timely manner, on or before October 31 st of the biennial renewal year. Please carefully read this section to ensure you understand maintenance and renewal requirements. Continuing Education Requirement: CWPI, CWCM and CWLC certified professionals must complete a specified number of CEUs as follows: First renewal period: The first time the CWPI, CWCM or CWLC credential is renewed; the certified professional must complete a total of 40 hours of continuing education units (CEUs) that are dated between the credential issue date and the credential expiration date. On-going renewal periods: Each additional time a CWPI, CWCM or CWLC credential is renewed, the certified professional must complete a total of 20 CEUs dated during the first 12-month period and an additional 20 CEUs dated during the second 12-month period. Eligible Training Providers and Content: Training content must be related to at least one of the credential s performance domains and CEU hours must be non-repetitive (i.e., the same course cannot be claimed more than one time during each credentialed period, even if the course was taken annually.) Continuing education units must be earned from a FCB recognized or approved CEU training provider: some training providers hold approval from other entities that is recognized by the FCB, other training providers apply for and hold FCB Training Provider Status. 31

33 FCB Recognized Education and Training Providers: The FCB will honor CEUs issued by any of the following providers: 1. FCB approved education and training providers 2. College or university coursework offered by institutions holding Federal Department of Education and/or Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognized accreditation. 3. Training providers approved to offer CEUs by other state or national professional licensing or certification boards. FCB Approved Education and Training Providers: The FCB will award FCB Education and Training Provider status and a number to approved applicants. A list of approved FCB Education and Training Providers is maintained on our webpage at How to Document Compliance with CEU Requirements: The certified professional is responsible for maintaining CEU documentation for a minimum of 3 years, in case of audit. Valid documentation includes certificates of completion, official employer training transcripts, or college/university transcripts. CEU documentation must provide the following information: Applicant s Name Title of course/training/educational event* Event sponsor/provider Delivery date(s) Number of Contact Hours *If the event title does not clearly identify the instructional content, please attach an official description of the event, such as an agenda or syllabus. In the absence of complete documentation, contact the training provider and request they provide you with the additional information on their official letterhead: you may submit these letters as supporting documentation of successful completion of training requirements. CEU Audit: Approximately 3 months prior to the credential s expiration date, the FCB will randomly select 20% of the certified population for a CEU audit to ensure compliance with the CEU requirement. Audited individuals will be notified of such approximately 2 months prior to the credential s expiration date. Audited individuals must submit CEU documentation to the FCB for review and approval PRIOR to the credential expiration date. Please note: payment of renewal fees and non-submission or denial of submitted CEUs may result in the credential being placed on inactive status. Although only audited individuals are required to submit CEU documentation to the FCB as part of the renewal process, all certified professionals must maintain documentation of compliance with CEU requirements for 3 years, in case of future audit. How to Calculate CEU Hours: One CEU is equal to 50 minutes of instruction. 32

34 College coursework is credited at the rate of 45-clock hours per 3 semester hour course. If the entire course is not related to the core competencies of a Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT), partial credit may be calculated for related topics covered in the overall course. Partial-day, Full-day and Multi-day training events are credited for instructional time only. Breaks are deducted from the total hours claimed. If the total credit hours are not listed on the certificate, attach a copy of the training agenda. Conferences are credited for break-out session and plenary sessions only. Breaks are deducted from the total hours claimed. Please attach a copy of the conference program to your application. FCB Accept/Deny Criteria: CEU documentation will be approved if the documentation includes all required information; the training was completed between the certification award and expiration dates, and there is a clear link between the training event and the credential s scope of service. Failure to meet these requirements may result in disciplinary or ethical action. Credentials will not be renewed until CEU requirements are satisfied. Credential Renewal Requirement: CWPI, CWCM and CWLC credentials must be renewed biennially, no later than October 31 st of the biennial renewal year. Renewal Notice Process: The FCB will send out renewal notices in August and September of the renewal year. Renewal fees must be paid and, if audited, CEU documentation must be approved no later than October 31 st of the renewal year. Individuals who DO NOT meet renewal requirements by October 31 st may pay the renewal fee, a $50 late fee per credential and must submit CEU (regardless of audit status) no later than November 30 th of the renewal year. Individuals who DO NOT meet renewal requirements by December 1 st of the renewal year will be automatically placed in inactive status and must complete the FCB Reinstatement Process to recertify. 33

35 FCB s Appeal Process When an applicant is denied certification, questions the results of the application review process, questions examination results, or is subject to an action by the FCB or its agents that he or she deems unjustified, the applicant has the right to an inquiry and/or an appeal. An inquiry is when an applicant requests a written summary from the FCB that explains the reason for the action in question. A letter requesting an inquiry must be made to the FCB s Director of Certification, in writing, within 30 calendar days of notification of FCB decision and/or action. An applicant shall be considered notified within 3 days of the date of the FCB s notification. If the applicant does not agree with the decision and/or rationale of the FCB, he or she may request an appeal. An appeal may be made to the FCB s Director of Certification, in writing, within 30 calendar days of notification of FCB decision and/or action on the applicant s inquiry. An applicant shall be considered notified within 3 days of the date of the FCB s notification. The written appeal will be provided to the appropriate committee of the FCB s Child Welfare Advisory Council for review and action. The applicant will be notified in writing within 5-business days of the committee s decision. The committee s decision is final and not subject to further appeal. Please carefully review the FCB Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct for a thorough discussion of the Appeal Hearing process. 34

36 Attachment A: Electronic Provisional Certification Application Process Step 1: Log-on to the FCB s on-line portal. Step 2: Select Certification from the top menu bar. Select create from the dropdown list. 35

37 Step 3: Select Child Welfare from the Type dropdown list. Select Provisional (CWP) from the Certification dropdown list. Step 4: The screen will populate with six (6) tabs of information. Simply continue to scroll down the screen as you fill out all required information. 36

38 Step 5: When you reach the end of the application, click on the Next button. Step 6: The next button takes you to the Professional License Application Confirmation screen, which allows you to view and confirm the accuracy of the information that you entered into the data fields on the previous screen. 37

39 Step 7: When you have completed your review, you have 2 options: 1. If you need to correct any information, click on the Back button. This will take you back to the original form so you can make changes. 2. If the information is correct, click on the Confirm and Submit button. Step 8: When you click on the Confirm and Submit button, you will see the following screen of information that shows your Certification Number, Certification Type, Classification, Status, and Applied Date. When you are done reviewing the information, click the Log off link. You do not need to print this screen for your records. 38

40 After you have logged off the system, you can access your application at any time by following these steps: 1. Go to the Portal. 2. Log on to your account. 3. Click on the hyperlink under the Certification Number column (screen shot 1, below). 4. View your credential status (screen shot 2, below). 39

41 Attachment B: Test Registration Candidate Tasks Pre-registration is conducted by the employer and the FCB. The certification candidate does not have a role until the pre-registration process is complete. However, pre-registration is completed by the FCB when: The test site has ed a pre-registration form to the FCB. The FCB has verified: All Provisional Certification Application Materials have been submitted (Provisional Certification Application & Degree/Level 2 Background Check forms) All provisional certification and testing fees have been paid. The pre-registration form identifies: The test candidate name and address. The test version for each candidate. The payment method for each candidate (self pay, employer pay, contract pay). As soon as the candidate is pre-registered, the candidate will immediately receive an from: Registrations@isoqualitytesting.com with the subject line: Online Candidate Registration Exam: Child Welfare Protective Investigator Client Proctored 40

42 Logon to Select Exam Registration Enter the UserID and Password provided in the Registration and click on the Login button. 41

43 The pre-registration form limits the options available to you. The Organization drop down menu should have your test site showing. The Exam drop down menu should have the correct exam showing. IF NOT, contact FCB for help. DO NOT CLICK ON THE Show All Organizations button. The NEXT button opens this screen and WARNING pop-up to remind you of the test window. Click OK. 42

44 Verify the information is correct and click the Next button. Please note: Information in white text boxes can be changed by the candidate. Information in grey text boxes must be corrected by FCB before proceeding. You will receive an that serves as the candidates admission letter to the test. You MUST print out the admission letter and bring it to the test site on the testing date. 43

45 Attachment C: Electronic Full Certification Application Process Step 1: Log-on to the FCB s on-line portal. Step 2: Select Certification from the top menu bar. Select create from the dropdown list. 44

46 Step 3: Select Child Welfare from the Type dropdown list. Select Case Manager (CWCM) or Licensing Counselor (CWLC) or Protective Investigator (CWPI) from the Certification dropdown list. Step 4: Enter all requested information in under the Applicant Information, Employer and all other tabs. 45

47 Step 5: When you reach the end of the application, click on the Next button. Step 6: The next button takes you to the Professional License Application Confirmation screen, which allows you to view and confirm the accuracy of the information that you entered into the data fields on the previous screen. 46

48 Provisional and Full Certification Application Forms Please use this section to preview directions and required forms for provisional and full certification application. Each form is posted on the FCB website in an editable format. Please download, complete the and use the editable forms for all hard-copy submission and to complete Part I of each form that you must provide to another person to complete and submit to the FCB in support of your provisional and/or full certification application. Form/Requirement Individual to complete form/submit to FCB System Registration Applicant. Must be completed via the on-line portal BEFORE ANY other certification activities can begin. Child Welfare Provisional Application Applicant for Certification May be submitted via the on-line application portal or hard-copy mail. Degree and Level 2 Background Human Resources Director or designee Verification Form May be submitted via or hard-copy mail. Training Verification Form Training Director or designee May be submitted via or hard-copy mail. $100 certification fee Applicant* May be submitted via the on-line application portal or hard-copy mail. Credit card payments may be made over the phone $50 exam fee (per exam attempt) Applicant* May be submitted via the on-line application portal or hard-copy mail. Credit card payments may be made over the phone Competency Exam Pre-Registration Training Director or designee Form May be submitted via or hard-copy mail. Application for Full Certification Applicant May be submitted via the on-line application portal or hard-copy mail. Direct Supervision Form The qualified supervisor who provided the direct supervision to the applicant. May be submitted via or hard-copy mail. Work Verification Form Human Resources Director or designee May be submitted via or hard-copy mail. *Employers may elect to pay the certification and/or exam fees on behalf of the employee. However, that is an agreement between the employer and the certification applicant. The FCB will accept payment from employers, but the applicant will have to resolve any non-payment to the FCB by the employer. 47

49 This form is to be completed in its entirety by the applicant. Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Partial, incomplete or illegible applications will be returned to the applicant. All statements provided on this application are subject to verification. False statements, omissions, alterations to the application, failure to supply requested information and/or failure to agree to follow Florida Certification Board (FCB) policies and procedures may be grounds to disqualify an applicant from certification. Section 1: Contact and Demographic Information. Please provide all requested information. Enter None or N/A as appropriate. Last Name First Name Middle/Maiden Name Date of Birth Social Security Number Primary Address Home Phone Cell Phone Home Address Line 1 Home Address Line 2 City State Zip code County Current Employer Current Position Title Employer s Webpage Address Business Phone Work Address Line 1 Work Address Line 2 City State Zip code County Although the following information is not mandatory, it is requested to assist the FCB in its commitment to equal certification opportunity and affirmative action. It is unlawful for an organization to fail to certify or refuse certification to any individual because of race, color, religion, national origin, marital status or handicap. I prefer NOT to provide the FCB with my voluntary demographic information. Race: Black White Native American/Alaskan Native Asian/Pacific Islander Multi-racial Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino Non-Hispanic/Latino Gender: Female Male Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for Child Welfare Provisional Certification

50 Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Section 2: Billing Information. Please indicate who is responsible for the $100 certification fee. You will not be allowed to register for the certification exam until this fee is paid. I am responsible for the certification fee. Bill me directly. My employer is paying my certification fee. Bill my employer. I work for DCF or a Sheriff Office. Bill the contract for my provisional certification fee. Section 3: Credential Type. Please indicate the credential that you are pursuing. Certified Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) Certified Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) Certified Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) Section 4: Education Background. List the highest level degree that satisfies the certification requirement. Degree Type: AA/AS BA/BS MA/MS/MEd PhD MD/OD JD Other CWCM and CWLC applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor s degree in a related field. Related degrees include Human Services, Education, Human Sciences, Law, Behavioral Sciences, Human Development, Psychology, Social Policy, Sociology, Public Administration, Education, Community Development, Health Science, Political Science, and Criminal Justice/Criminology. My degree is a Related Degree In which field is your degree? Date Degree Earned (Month/Year) College/University Name: College/University Location: City Non-related Degree. Is the name on your transcript the same as on your application for certification? If no provide your name as it is listed on your transcript: State Yes No Section 5: Work History. Please list your employment history for the last five (5) years. Report employment dates in the following format: May 2009 Aug Add additional pages if necessary. Employer: Position Title: Employment Dates: Immediate Supervisor: Describe Duties: Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for Child Welfare Provisional Certification

51 Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Section 5 Continued: Work History. Please list your employment history for the last five (5) years. Report employment dates in the following format: May 2009 Aug Add additional pages if necessary. Employer: Position Title: Employment Dates: Immediate Supervisor: Describe Duties: Employer: Position Title: Employment Dates: Immediate Supervisor: Describe Duties: Section 6: Background History I understand that, once certified, the FCB may conduct a criminal background check on me to ensure continued compliance with the FCB Code of Ethics regarding criminal activity. Yes No By checking the affirmative box below, I authorize the FCB and/or any other company authorized by the FCB to access such information as may be necessary to conduct a criminal background check. Yes No Have you been arrested for or convicted of a felony or first degree misdemeanor since your last Level 2 Background Screen conducted by the state? Yes No I release from liability all persons and entities supplying such information. I indemnify the Florida Certification Board and/or any other company authorized by the FCB against any liability which may result from making such requests. Yes No Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for Child Welfare Provisional Certification

52 Child Welfare Provisional Application for Certification Section 7: Ethical and Professional Conduct. You are required to acknowledge certain standards and your professional responsibility in this section. The most recent copy of the FCB Code of Ethics is posted on the FCB website. By checking the acknowledgement box below, I acknowledge that I understand that I am required to follow the professional standards of conduct detailed in the FCB Code of Ethics. I also affirm that I understand that the FCB Code of Ethics applies to both certification applicants and certified individuals. I acknowledge. I do not acknowledge. By checking the acknowledgement box below, I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the FCB Code of Ethics and will be responsible for obtaining all future amendments and modifications thereto. I acknowledge. I do not acknowledge. By checking the acknowledgement box below, I further acknowledge that I have read and understand all of my obligations, duties, and responsibilities under each principle and provision of the FCB Code of Ethics. I will read and understand all future amendments and modifications to the FCB Code of Ethics. I acknowledge. I do not acknowledge. Signature Date Section 8: Assurance and Release. All information related to the certification process is held confidential by the FCB and is only available to the applicant, FCB officers, staff, and members of the Board of Directors and its Advisory Boards, Councils and review committees, and the Department of Children and Families (DCF) as necessary to meet state and federal reporting requirements. Additionally, certification applicants and certified professionals employed by DCF, CBC Lead Agencies, CBC Contracted Agencies, or Sheriff Offices in a position requiring child welfare certification as a condition of employment must allow the FCB to report certification information to the employer to ensure continued compliance with certification requirements. The FCB will only release information to employers when the certification applicant/certified professional is actively employed in a position requiring child welfare certification as a condition of employment. Upon request, certification applicants/certified professionals will be notified of all information requested and released to the employer. Release of certification information to other parties requires the certification applicant/certified professional to complete a release of information form (maintained on the FCB website). I give my permission to the Florida Certification Board (FCB) and its staff to investigate my background as it relates to statements contained in this application. I understand that intentionally false or misleading statements or intentional omission shall result in the denial or revocation of certification. I consent to the release of information contained in my application, certification record, or other pertinent data submitted to or collected by the FCB to officers, staff, and members of the Board of Directors and it s Advisory Boards, Councils and review committees. I further agree to hold the FCB, its board members, employees and examiners free from any civil liability for damages for complaints by reason for any action that is within the scope of the performance of their duties which they may take in connection with this application and subsequent examinations and/or failure of the FCB to issue certification. I also understand that the Child Welfare Provisional (CWP) certification is a mark of initial competency and demonstrates that I have the knowledge base necessary to earn a passing score on the child welfare competency exam. Child Welfare Provisional certification does not grant practice rights, including caseload carrying rights. All job/casework assignments are made by my employer and should be reflective of my education, training, and experience. I further understand that the CWP designation is valid for a maximum of 12-months, during which time I am expected to work under and actively seek/respond to supervision while I gain the experiences necessary to fulfill full certification requirements. I hereby affirm that the information provided for this application is correct and that I believe that I am qualified for the level of certification for which I am applying. I acknowledge. I do not acknowledge. Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for Child Welfare Provisional Certification

53 Child Welfare Provisional Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form Directions Thank you for taking the time to verify the formal education requirement and the Level 2 Background Screening requirement for provisional certification. Documentation of these requirements is maintained by the employer and attested to by the Human Resources Director or designee. Such documentation must be made available to the FCB in case of audit. Please carefully read the Formal Education Requirement and Level 2 Background Screen Requirement before completing the verification form. If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact our offices at The Child Welfare Provisional Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form must be completed by the Human Resources Director or designee only. Please submit the form directly to the FCB at the mail or address below. DO NOT return the completed form to the applicant: the FCB will not accept the form from anyone other than the Human Resources Director or designee. Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL admin_assist@flcertificationboard.org Subject Line: Degree and L2 Verification (applicant name) Formal Education Requirement: All child welfare certification applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor s degree from an accredited college or university as follows: 1. Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Protective Investigator (CWPI) credential do not have to hold a degree in a specified field. 2. Individuals seeking the Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) or the Child Welfare Licensing Counselor (CWLC) credential must hold a degree in a related field. Related degrees include Human Services, Education, Human Sciences, Law, Behavioral Sciences, Human Development, Psychology, Social Policy, Sociology, Public Administration, Education, Community Development, Health Science, Political Science, and Criminal Justice/Criminology. Educational waivers granted by the Department of Children and Families are accepted by the FCB to meet the formal education requirement. If a certification applicant is awaiting an education waiver ruling by DCF, the FCB will treat the request as approved until such time as a formal ruling is made by DCF. If the waiver is approved, no additional action is necessary. If the waiver is denied, the individual is no longer eligible for certification and the FCB will revoke the provisional credential and/or not approve the applicant for full certification. Level 2 Background Screening Requirement: All child welfare certification applicants are required to pass a criminal background check. As a Level 2 Background Screening is required for employment, the FCB allows the employer to attest to an approved Level 2 Background Screening on behalf of their employees. An applicant granted a waiver from disqualification is deemed to have passed the background screening requirement. Florida Certification Board (FCB) Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form

54 Child Welfare Provisional Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form Part 1: To be completed by the applicant before providing to Human Resources for completion. Applicant Information. Please list your identifying information and the position you hold for which you are requesting documentation of the formal education and Level 2 Background Screening requirements. Name: Employer: Credential Sought: Child Welfare Protective Investigator Child Welfare Case Manager Child Welfare Licensing Counselor Position Title: Immediate Supervisor: Part 2: To be completed by the Human Resources Director or designee only. Section A: Verifier s Contact Information Last Name First Name Title Employer Address Section B: Formal Education/Degree Attestation Business Phone I have read and understand the formal education requirements for provisional certification. During the employment/hiring process, the applicant s degree was verified and documentation of such is maintained according to agency protocol. I consent to an audit of such records if requested. Yes No Yes No The applicant holds a Related degree Non-related degree* *If a non-related degree, is the applicant in a Protective investigator or Case management/licensing role?** **If a case management/licensing role, has an educational waiver request been submitted to DCF? Yes No*** If yes, provisional certification will be granted; however full certification will not be awarded until the waiver is approved. ***If no, the candidate is not eligible for provisional certification. Section C: Level 2 Background Screening Attestation I have read and understand the Level 2 Background Screening requirement for provisional certification. During the employment/hiring process, the applicant passed a Level 2 Background Screening or was granted a waiver from disqualification. I consent to an audit of such records if requested. Yes No Yes No Section D: Attestation By my signature, I attest that the above material is true to the best of my knowledge. Verifier s Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Degree and Level 2 Background Verification Form

55 Child Welfare Provisional Training Verification Form Directions Thank you for taking the time to verify the child welfare specific training requirement for provisional certification. Documentation of this requirement is maintained by the employer and attested to by the Training Director or designee. Such documentation must be made available to the FCB in case of audit. Please carefully read the Training Requirement before completing the verification form. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact our offices at The Training Verification Form must be completed by the Training Director or designee only. Please submit the complete form directly to the FCB at the mail or address below. DO NOT return the completed form to the applicant: the FCB will not accept the form from anyone other than the Training Director or designee. Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Subject Line: Training Verification (applicant name) Training Requirement: Child Welfare Specific Training can be met in two ways. Regardless of how requirements are satisfied, the employer must maintain documentation of compliance with training requirements. 1. Option 1: Completion of the full employer provided pre-service training program that meets or exceeds FCBestablished core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. 2. Option 2: Completion of either: a. Pre-employment training that meets or exceeds FCB-established core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers, OR b. A combination of pre-employment training and employer-provided training that meets or exceeds FCBestablished core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. How/When to Submit Documentation: Documentation submission requirements differ, based on the way the applicant met training requirements. Option 1: Pre-service Training. The Training Director or designee completes the FCB s Training Verification form for each applicant who completed pre-service training. The form must be submitted to the FCB within 5 business days of the applicant s test date. Option 2: Completion of pre-employment Training: The Training Director or designee completes the FCB s Training Verification form for each applicant who is eligible to waive part of all of pre-service based on his or her pre-employment training. The form must be submitted to the FCB prior to requesting test pre-registration. Florida Certification Board (FCB) Training Verification Form

56 Child Welfare Provisional Training Verification Form Part 1: To be completed by the applicant before providing to the Training Director or designee for completion. Applicant Information. Please list your identifying information and the position you hold for which you are requesting documentation of the child welfare specific training requirement. Name: Employer: Credential Sought: Child Welfare Protective Investigator Child Welfare Case Manager Child Welfare Licensing Counselor Position Title: Immediate Supervisor: Part 2: To be completed by the Training Director or designee only. Section A: Verifier s Contact Information Last Name Title Address Section B: Training Attestation First Name Employer Business Phone I have read and understand the child welfare specific training requirement for provisional certification. Yes No Option 1: The applicant completed the full employer provided pre-service training program that meets or exceeds FCBestablished core competencies for protective investigators OR case managers. Please indicate the pre-service curriculum/content the applicant completed: PI, only CM, only Both PI and CM Option 2: The applicant completed training prior to employment and is granted a waiver from pre-service. Please indicate how the training requirement was met: 100% pre-employment training. Combination of pre-employment training and employer mandated training. Section C: Attestation By my signature, I attest that the above material is true to the best of my knowledge and I consent to an audit of agency records to support my attestation. Verifier s Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Training Verification Form

57 This form is to be completed in its entirety by the applicant. Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification Partial, incomplete or illegible applications will be returned to the applicant. All statements provided on this application are subject to verification. False statements, omissions, alterations to the application, failure to supply requested information and/or failure to agree to follow Florida Certification Board (FCB) policies and procedures may be grounds to disqualify an applicant from certification. Section 1: Contact and Demographic Information. Please provide all requested information. Enter None or N/A as appropriate. Last Name First Name Middle/Maiden Name Date of Birth Social Security Number Primary Address Home Phone Cell Phone Home Address Line 1 Home Address Line 2 City State Zip code County Section 2: Employment Information. Has your place of employment and/or other employment information changed since you applied for provisional certification? No (skip to next section) Yes (Update information below) Current Employer Current Position Title Type of Employer: DCF Sheriff CBC Lead Agency Case Management Organization (CMO) Other Employer s Webpage Address Business Phone Work Address Line 1 Work Address Line 2 City State Zip code County Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC Certification

58 Section 3: Assurance and Release. By my signature below, Child Welfare Certification Application for CWPI, CWCM or CWLC Certification I attest that I have completed all requirements for child welfare certification. I understand that it is my responsibility to ensure that the FCB has received my Direct Supervision Verification Form(s) and Work Verification Form(s) and that my full Child Welfare Certification will not be issued until all documents are received and approved. I also understand that the Child Welfare Certification is a mark of competency and demonstrates completion of all certification standards and compliance with Chapter 401, Florida Statutes. Child Welfare Certification does not grant practice rights, including caseload carrying rights. All job/casework assignments are made by my employer and should be reflective of my certification and additional education, training and experience. Although certified, I am expected to work under and actively seek/respond to standard agency supervision protocols. I further understand that this Child Welfare Certification is valid for a maximum of 2 years, during which time I am expected to complete a minimum of 20 continuing education units (CEUs) each 12-month period in topics associated with the core competencies of the credential I am seeking to hold. I understand that a total of 40 CEU s are due with renewal payments, which are due on or before October 31 of the biennial renewal calendar year. I hereby affirm that the information provided for this application is correct and that I believe that I am qualified for the level of certification for which I am applying. I acknowledge. I do not acknowledge. Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Application for CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC Certification

59 Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC) Direct Supervision Verification Form Directions Thank you for taking the time to document the direct supervision you provided to the applicant for full child welfare certification (CWPI, CWCM or CWLC). Documentation of direct supervision is maintained by the employer and attested to by the individual who provided the direct supervision. Such documentation must be made available to the FCB in case of audit. Please carefully read the Direct Supervision requirements before completing the Direct Supervision Verification form. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact our offices at The Direct Supervision Verification Form must be completed by the individual who provided the direct supervision only. Please submit the form directly to the FCB at the mail or address below. DO NOT return the completed form to the applicant: the FCB will not accept the form from anyone other than the individual who provided the direct supervision. Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Subject Line: Direct Supervision Verification (applicant name) Direct Supervision Requirement: Full certification applicants must complete and submit documentation of the following direct supervision in the discipline in which they are seeking certification. Direct supervision must be completed during the provisional certification period. Supervision is face-to-face contact between a qualified supervisor and a certification applicant/provisionally certified professional during which the applicant apprises the supervisor of the status of a case, the case is discussed, the supervisor provides the applicant with oversight and guidance in working the case, and evaluates the applicant s performance. Individual and/or group supervision must occur in minimum of 15-minute increments. Field observations and follow-up case consultation should last approximately 2 hours. Type of Supervision Minimum Requirement Guidelines Field Supervision 6 observations with follow-up case consultation. Individual Supervision A maximum of 2 of the 6 observations may be in professional, office-based settings. The observation and case consultation should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at minimum. 20 hours of individual supervision. One-on-one supervision in minimum increments of 15-minutes. Group Supervision 10 hours of group supervision. Supervision provided to two or more staff at one time. Staff refers to certified or uncertified persons. Additional Supervision 10 hours of individual and/or group supervision. See guidelines for individual and group supervision, above. Qualified Supervisors: For certification purposes, a qualified supervisor is the applicant s immediate supervisor or any other agency supervisor, trainer, mentor, quality assurance staff or other agency management/leadership staff assigned by the employer to provide supervision to employees seeking certification. Florida Certification Board (FCB) Direct Supervision Verification Form

60 Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC) Direct Supervision Verification Form Part 1: To be completed by the applicant before providing to the qualified supervisor for completion. Applicant Information. Please list your identifying information and the position you hold for which you are requesting documentation of some, or the entire, direct supervision requirement. Name: Employer: Credential Sought: Child Welfare Protective Investigator Child Welfare Case Manager Child Welfare Licensing Counselor Position Title: Immediate Supervisor: Part 2: To be completed by the Qualified Supervisor only. Section A: Direct Supervisor s Contact Information Last Name Title First Name Employer Address Business Phone Section B: Direct Supervision Attestation I have read and understand the child welfare direct supervision requirements for certification. I OBSERVED the applicant in the field and conducted a follow-up CASE CONSULTATION with the applicant. Yes No Yes* No * If yes, indicate the number of field observations/case consultations completed: I provided INDIVIDUAL supervision to the applicant. Yes* No * If yes, indicate the number of hours of individual supervision provided (min. of 15 minute increments): I provided GROUP supervision to the applicant. Yes* No * If yes, indicate the number of hours of group supervision provided (min. of 15 minute increments): As a qualified supervisor, do you have any concerns about the applicant s ability to competently perform child welfare services under standard supervision? Yes* No * If yes, the applicant will NOT be able to use the direct supervision documented on this form for certification purposes until a new form is submitted indicating all competency concerns are resolved. Section C: Attestation By my signature, I attest that the above material is true to the best of my knowledge and I consent to an audit of agency records to support my attestation. Verifier s Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Direct Supervision Verification Form

61 Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC) Work Verification Form Directions Thank you for taking the time to verify the on-the-job experience requirement for full child welfare certification (CWPI, CWCM or CWLC). Documentation of on-the-job experience is maintained by the employer and attested to by the Human Resources Director or designee. Such documentation must be made available to the FCB in case of audit. Please carefully read the On-the-Job Requirement before completing the Work Verification form. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact our offices at The Work Verification Form must be completed by the Human Resources Director or designee only. Please submit the form directly to the FCB at the mail or address below. DO NOT return the completed form to the applicant: the FCB will not accept the form from anyone other than the Human Resources Director or designee. Mail: Florida Certification Board Attn: Certification Operations 1715 South Gadsden Street Tallahassee, FL Subject Line: Work Verification (applicant name) On-the-Job Experience Requirement: Full certification applicants must document a minimum of 1,040 hours of direct, supervised work experience in the discipline in which they are seeking certification. Work experience must be earned during the provisional certification period. Florida Certification Board (FCB) Work Verification Form

62 Child Welfare Full Certification (CWPI, CWCM, or CWLC) Work Verification Form Part 1: To be completed by the applicant before providing to the Human Resources Director or designee for completion. Applicant Information. Please list your identifying information and the position you hold for which you are requesting documentation of the on-the-job work experience requirement. Name: Employer: Credential Sought: Child Welfare Protective Investigator Child Welfare Case Manager Child Welfare Licensing Counselor Position Title: Immediate Supervisor: Part 2: To be completed by the Human Resources Director or designee only. Section A: Verifier s Contact Information Last Name Title Address Section B: On-the-Job Work Experience Attestation First Name Employer Business Phone I have read and understand the child welfare on-the-job work experience requirement for certification. Yes No Applicant s Position Title: Dates of Employment: Start Date: End Date: Employment Status: Full-time Part-time* *If part-time, average # of hours per week providing CW services: Applicant s Position Description Attached? Narrative of Applicant s Position Attached? yes no** (**if no, must attach a narrative of the position duties) yes no Section C: Attestation By my signature, I attest that the above material is true to the best of my knowledge and I consent to an audit of agency records to support my attestation. Verifier s Signature Date Florida Certification Board (FCB) Work Verification Form

63 Child Welfare Copyright, FCB, Inc. All rights reserved.