Independent Reviewer

2026-11-03

Specifications include , but are not limited to : A . Independent Reviewer ’ s Role and Authority 1 . Conduct a robust , independent and comprehensive program evaluation , including process and outcome components , to assess the State ' s compliance with its obligations under the Settlement Agreement ( Agreement ) and the impact of implementation on the State ’ s provision of Community - Based Services to Children covered by the Agreement . a . In collaboration with the Parties , gather , analyze , and report on information and data related to the State ’ s progress in complying with all sections of the Agreement . b . Present all information and findings in a manner which clearly states the actionable steps the State could take to align with and uphold expectations of the Agreement . c . Outline the Independent Reviewer ’ s role in assisting the State in monitoring and upholding elements of the implementation , Agreement , and timeline . 2 . Utilize a problem - solving approach to resolve amicably any disagreements that arise , including but not limited to those between the Parties , so the Parties can focus on the State ’ s compliance with the Agreement . a . Ensure an engaged , partnered approach with the Parties , including the Children ’ s Behavioral Health Services Integration Coordinator , that coordinates the State ’ s efforts to comply with its obligations under the Agreement and clearly communicates actionable steps the State could take in Agreement related activities . 3 . Communicate ex parte with a Party , counsel , agents or staff of the Parties , or anyone else the Independent Reviewer deems necessary for completing their responsibilities . a . The State reserves the right to require the Independent Reviewer to copy the State ’ s counsel on any written communications with any responsible State employees or staff . 4 . Testify in any case between the Parties regarding any matter relating to the implementation , enforcement , or dissolution of the Agreement , including but not limited to : a . The Independent Reviewer ’ s observations , findings , and recommendations in matters relevant to the Agreement . B . Assessment Methodology Plan 1 . Consult with the Parties and submit a written plan on methodologies ( Assessment Methodology Plan ) that the Independent Reviewer will use to assess compliance with and implementation of the Agreement , and that : a . Identifies data elements that the Independent Reviewer will request from the State and their intended methodology for analysis . b . Meets the requirements for data collection , analysis , and reporting as required by the Agreement . c . Is provided to the Parties within forty - five ( 45 ) calendar days of the start date of the contract and is updated biennially if needed to adjust to the State ’ s Implementation Plan changes and as needed and / or requested by the Parties . 2 . Ensure the assessment methodology plan includes multi - dimensional information collection and analysis through a variety of methods , as indicated in the Agreement , including : a . On - site inspection of Children ’ s residences and programs . b . Detailed review of relevant documents , records and data ( including Individualized Service Plans ( ISPs )) collected by the State and behavioral health service providers . c . Performance Indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies in the State ’ s Implementation Plan . d . Additional assessment methods may include : i . Interviews with Families , Children , school administrators , providers , Natural Supports , Care Coordinators , Stakeholders and relevant State staff ; ii . Individual case reviews , including the quality and sufficiency of ISPs , by regularly reviewing sufficient samples of Children , including through first - person interviews ; iii . Surveys and / or focus groups , as appropriate ; and iv . Other methodologies as agreed to by the Parties . 3 . Work with the State for data pulling to ensure proper data , information , and record access consistent with the Settlement Agreement when information is requested from the State . 4 . Ensure the Department and / or State counsel is afforded the opportunity to be present when the Independent Reviewer interviews State employees or staff .

Maine

2026-05-01