(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Step-down aftercare” means:
(i) a network of programs that provide education and rehabilitation; and
(ii) services and treatment to ease the transition of children from the custody of the Department to their homes and communities.
(3) “Step-down aftercare plan” means an individualized plan for each child in step-down aftercare that proposes specific assistance, guidance, treatment, services, and supervision that:
(i) prepares the child for reentry into the specific community to which the child will return;
(ii) ensures the delivery of prescribed services to the child in the community; and
(iii) monitors conduct in the community to ensure public safety.
(b) (1) A child discharged from a committed residential placement shall receive step-down aftercare for the period that the Department determines.
(2) A child in step-down aftercare shall receive:
(i) a step-down aftercare plan;
(ii) supervision by step-down aftercare staff in accordance with the step-down aftercare plan;
(iii) educational services; and
(iv) any other services necessary to implement the step-down aftercare plan.
(c) The step-down aftercare staff shall:
(1) prepare a step-down aftercare plan for each child assigned to the step-down aftercare program and file the plan with the Department;
(2) keep regular records concerning the progress of each child;
(3) file with the Department a monthly progress report on each child; and
(4) file with the Department an annual report on the outcome of step-down aftercare plans for the children in the step-down aftercare program, that includes to the extent possible:
(i) information on the number of children who:
1. are rearrested;
2. are rearrested and charged with serious or violent offenses;
3. are rearrested and waived to the adult system;
4. are re-referred to the Department;
5. are readjudicated and recommitted;
6. graduate from high school or successfully complete a high school equivalency examination; and
7. are employed; and
(ii) other relevant information.