DYS & GOVERNMENT HISTORY
On what exact date was the Division of Youth Services (DYS) established?
JULY 28, 1981
True or False: CPS only becomes involved after a child is removed from the home.
FALSE
Name one type of child maltreatment recognized by CPS.
Physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect
True or False: CPS operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
True
What major global event heavily impacted Saipan and Tinian in the 1940s?
World War II
DYS operates under which CNMI Department?
Department of Community and Cultural Affairs
What is the first action CPS takes when a report is received?
Check on the child's safety.
True or False: Physical abuse is the most common reason CPS gets called.
False — neglect and substance-related concerns are reported more often.
Who is allowed to make a CPS report?
Anyone
Which two CNMI islands were major World War II battle sites?
Saipan and Tinian
Name one program under the Division of Youth Services
Office of Administration, Child Protective Services, Juvenile Probation, Emergency Shelter, Family & Youth Enhancement Program, DYS Tinian, DYS Rota
What is one goal of CPS besides child safety?
Early intervention, prevention, family engagement, or connecting families to services.
Which type of abuse involves hitting, punching, kicking, burning, or causing physical injury to a child?
Physical abuse
What should someone do if they have an emergency child safety concern after hours?
Call the CPS on-call number or emergency services
Why is Tinian historically significant in World War II history?
It was the launch site for the atomic bomb missions
True or False: DYS was created to focus only on youth who break the law.
FALSE.
Why does CPS look into reports that seem “small” instead of waiting until things get serious?
Because small concerns can grow, and early support can prevent bigger safety issues later.
What substance is most commonly linked to CPS reports and family safety concerns in the CNMI?
Methamphetamine (meth)
Why does CPS try to make contact with families as quickly as possible after a report?
Because safety concerns can change quickly and early contact helps prevent harm.
Why is understanding CNMI history important when serving families today?
Cultural awareness, trauma-informed practice, and community respect
What is the overall mission of DYS?
Strengthening families to promote the wellbeing of youth, families, and communities as a whole.
When CPS says a case is “open,” does that automatically mean a child is being removed?
No. It means CPS is monitoring safety, supporting the family, and helping prevent removal whenever possible.
Can exposure to domestic violence be considered child maltreatment?
Yes
CPS works alone during responses and does not need coordination with other agencies.
False
True or False: The CNMI has its own local laws in addition to U.S. federal law.
True