Program Fidelity and Quality Assurance: Who’s Got Time for That? We All Should!
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SESSION INFO

Tuesday, August 20, 2019
3:45 PM - 5:15 PM
Session Type: Workshop
Considerable research has been carried out focusing on the importance of implementing policies and programs within an agency with fidelity. This workshop will explore the importance of utilizing research to achieve fidelity with programs and practices. Though agencies may have quality assurance efforts currently in place, they often fall short of truly measuring the level of program fidelity. Participants will learn how to create their own fidelity plan, get an overview of simple quality assurance practices that agencies can utilize with little to no cost, and practice the necessary skills to implement such a plan.

SESSION PRESENTERS
Valerie Meade
Deputy Director, Crime and Justice Institute


Valerie Meade has worked in criminal justice for over 20 years, with expertise in the areas of cognitive behavioral interventions, case management, model fidelity, and continuous quality improvement, and extensive experience with adult and juvenile populations on community supervision, in correctional facilities, and in substance abuse treatment. In her current role, Valerie assists states throughout the country with implementation and sustainability of Justice Reinvestment policies. Valerie is committed to improving the quality of criminal justice programs and interventions through collaboration and implementation of sustainable research-based strategies that lead to improved public safety. Valerie graduated from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice.

Ms. Ashley Jessica Melanchook
Policy Analyst II, Crime and Justice Institute


Ashley Melanchook has worked in state and federal public policy for six years. At CJI, Ashley provides project management support to the Justice Reinvestment Initiative and the Laura and John Arnold Foundation Community Supervision Policy Assessment grant. Ashley is committed to reforming the criminal justice system, reducing recidivism in communities and states across the country, and ensuring the fidelity of policy and program implementation. Ashley graduated from Suffolk University with a Bachelor of Science in Government, a Master of Public Administration, and a Master of Science in Political Science.