Having been a part of the Interstate Commission for Juveniles for eight years and the Executive Committee for six years, I’ve been blessed to have a bird’s-eye view of our growth, challenges and accomplishments. It has been an honor to serve as the Commission’s Chair this year. Working with Commissioners, Designees and ICJ Compact Staff from across the country has deepened my commitment to the Commission’s vision of promoting public safety, victims’ rights and juvenile accountability.

Through the work, passion, and commitment of many, we have produced and sustained uncommon results. The Commission and its members worked diligently to provide training throughout the country, presenting at a record number of conferences and doubling the numbers trained using web-based opportunities. To support the implementation of 18 ICJ Rules amendments that took effect March 1, 2018, the Commission conducted an extensive review of published resources. Both printed and web-based materials were updated to reflect recently revised ICJ Rules and several new resources were developed, including two new Bench Cards; ICJ Rule Proposal Guide; and Toolkit on State Councils for Interstate Juvenile Supervision.

In the area of technology, the Commission made significant progress on several fronts. JIDS, the web-based system used by ICJ offices throughout the nation, was improved by two significant enhancement bundles. To ensure continued progress, the Commission partnered with SEARCH (The National Consortium for Justice Information and Statistics) to explore major technological upgrades, which may include a new data system.

To fulfill its duty to monitor compliance, the Commission completed its second major performance measurement assessment (PMA) and adopted a Sanctions Guidelines Policy. The Commission also worked to refine its PMA Policies and Standards, and adopted three overarching compliance priorities: safe and successful supervision; effective returns; and compact office operations.

Unfortunately, human trafficking frequently impacts juveniles who are subject to the Compact. To support state ICJ offices in responding to these complex cases, the Commission formed an Ad Hoc Human Trafficking Committee charged with promoting promising practices. An extensive survey was conducted to gather information about current practices and a “human trafficking victim" field was added to JIDS to allow for better identification and tracking.

Throughout the year, the constant guiding force for the ICJ has been promoting the best interest of the juveniles we serve, balanced with the safety of the communities in which they reside. Our accomplishments and continued success are direct results of the dedication and hard work of ICJ professionals across the country. I offer my sincere thanks to each of you for being a part of the magic that is the ICJ.

Sincerely,

/s/ Anne Connor, Chair