The approval of your foster home is usually granted for one year, but may be terminated earlier if you or the agency find it necessary. As the end of the approval period draws near, a Case Manager who is specifically designated to reassess the status of your home will schedule a home visit with you and your family to initiate the joint re-evaluation of your home. A re-evaluation of your home can occur before the end of the one-year period if there is reasonable cause. The need to re-evaluate your home prior to the scheduled annual renewal of approval may occur for either or a combination of the following reasons:

• A discipline or foster care policy violation. 

• The relocation to a new residence. 

• Chronic, inappropriate care and maintenance of children placed. 

• Marriage, divorce or other major life event. 

• Any major change in the household (i.e., other family members having to move in, etc.)

The re-evaluation of your foster home is a joint process that involves you and the assigned Case Manager reviewing the successful outcomes and challenges of the previous year. The maintenance of minimum standards and quality of care provided by you are among the areas reviewed by the agency. You will have an opportunity to provide verbal as well as written input regarding your experiences during the previous year and the supports needed to strengthen your role as foster parent. The foster parent completes section 2 of the Foster Home Re-evaluation report. 

An annual physical exam is required for foster parents sixty-five (65) years and older. A physician’s statement is required annually for foster parents who have significant medical problems. Otherwise, a medical report is due every five years and will be requested at the time of the re-evaluation. Criminal record checks (finger printing) are required at least every five (5) years at the time of re-evaluation. All other household members, 18 years and older, are required to have an initial criminal records check, and a re-check every five (5) years thereafter. New household members are required to meet the same medical and/or criminal history checks as required for initial approval of the home. 

Following the Case Manager’s re-evaluation of your home, a decision will be made as to its status. If the mutual decision is to continue your home in active status, your home will be approved for another year.

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