Interagency Collaboration
Interagency Collaboration is a mutually beneficial and well-defined relationship entered into by two or more
individuals or organizations to achieve common goals, such as between families and school and between schools and outside services. This relationship includes a commitment to a definition of mutual relationships and goals; a jointly developed structure and shared responsibility; mutual authority and accountability for success; and sharing of resources and rewards. Simply put- it is multiple agencies working together to improve the life of the student.
Collaboration is important because services are generally administered by dozens of rigid and distinct separate agencies and programs, which usually have their own individual funding, guidelines, requirements, and rules governing expenditure of funds. Agencies that are not collaborating seldom see each other as allies, which will not benefit the student. Most importantly, there is no legal mandate for students after they graduate to receive services. Sufficient funds are not available to provide necessary prevention, support, & treatment services to make lasting difference for young people who must overcome multiple problems and years of neglect. It is crucial to begin this process early to receive the best possible assistance with transitioning.
Links
This document by the Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI), discusses how to develop a good agreement, the purpose of collaboration, ownership of the agreement, allies, and whether the agreement will lead to action.
A poster developed to illustrate Kentucky’s role in assisting students transition to post-high school settings.
An informative PowerPoint presentation created by Beth M. Harrison discussing Interagency Collaboration, including guidelines and strategies for students transition out of high school.