Reasons for Sharing Information

Schools and service agencies must recognize why they need personal and private information about children and families and ultimately determine their reasons for sharing this information with other partners. Greenberg and Levy (1992) state, "Agreeing on the specific reasons that guide a particular collaborative effort is an important foundation for subsequent deliberations" (p. 8).

Often the reason for sharing information is to communicate specific information about a particular child or family. Greenberg and Levy (1992, p. 4) note that information sharing for this purpose may be needed to:

• "Ensure that people are getting the help they need."

• "Ensure continuity of services."

• "Avoid duplication of services and achieve efficiency."

• "Move toward family-focused services."

• "Enforce mandates."

In other instances, specific information about a child or family is not necessary. What is needed instead is aggregate data, in which individual identities are not known. Greenberg and Levy (1992, pp. 3-4) note that information sharing for this purpose may be needed to:

• "Assess community needs."

• "Identify overlapping populations and restructure service delivery arrangements to create an integrated system of supports."

• "Determine the short- or long-term effectiveness of a program."

• "Enhance cross-system accountability."

Laney (1996) points out the negative effects of failing to share information in situations involving juvenile offenders: