CASA of Bell and Coryell Counties
Pre-Service Training Agenda: Traditional Classroom Curriculum
Contact Melissa Ward to Sign Up!
Email: melissa.ward@casabellcoryell.org
Fill out the application here: https://casabellcoryell.org/volunteer/
Please note: this curriculum requires a minimum of 24 hours of face-to-face training as well as completion of 8 modules of pre-work (approx. 1 hour each). This sample agenda is based on a four-week training cycle. Pre-service training includes (A) the background and needs of children served by the local volunteer advocate program; (B) the operation of the court and the child welfare system; and (C) the nature and effects of child abuse and neglect.
Week one
Trainees need to complete the Session 1 pre-work prior to attending Session 1.
Session 1: Orientation Night – The Well-Being of the Child (in person session)
After attending Session 1, trainees will complete prework for Session 2 prior to attending Session 2.
(1 Hour)
Session 2: : The CASA/GAL Volunteer Role (in person session)
After attending Session 2, trainees will complete prework for Session 3 prior to attending Session 3.
(1 Hour)
Week two
Session 3: Cultural Competence, Diversity, Disproportionality, Bias, & Domestic Violence (in person session)
After attending Session 3, trainees will complete prework for Session 4 prior to attending Session 4.
(1 Hour)
Session 4: Trauma, Resilience, Communication Skills & Child Interviews (in person session)
After attending Session 4, trainees will complete prework for Session 5 prior to attending Session 5.
(1 Hour)
Week three
Session 5: Mental Health, Poverty, Confidentiality & Substance Abuse (in person session)
After attending Session 5, trainees will complete prework for Session 6 prior to attending Session 6.
(1 Hour)
Session 6: Sexual Abuse, Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Educational Advocacy, Older Youth , LGBTQ (in person session)
After attending Session 6, trainees will complete prework for Session 7 prior to attending Session 7.
(1 Hour)
Week four
Session 7: Courtroom Etiquette & Court Reporting (in person session)
Trainees need to complete the Session 8 pre-work prior to attending Session 8. (1 Hour)
CPS COURTROOM OBSERVATIONS – Separate from the 30-hour Preservice Training
Session 8: Moving Forward as an Advocate Panel Q & A (in person session)
Week five
Swear-In Ceremony for the New Advocates. Family and Friends are welcome!