For child welfare agencies, creating a practice model is an opportunity to define their values, expectations, and approach to serving children and families. But creating the model is only the first step. The ability to continuously improve is defined by taking that larger framework and turning it into consistent steps that can be implemented in day-to-day practice.
Stacey is joined by Matt Claps, Executive Director of the Child Welfare Policy and Practice Group, and Will Hornsby, Senior Vice President of Delivery at Public Knowledge®, in this episode of the Igniting Impact Podcast. Drawing on decades of child welfare experience, they discuss the roles of qualitative case reviews, leadership, training, coaching, supervision, and organizational support. More importantly, they discuss the distinct connection between an agency’s practice model and the direct experiences of the children and family it serves.
Turning Practice Models Into Everyday Practice
Public Knowledge® helps agencies assess and strengthen their practice models. We examine current practice, inform implementation strategies, and identify the support needed for lasting improvement.
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Meet Our Guests
MATT CLAPS, MSW
Executive Director, Child Welfare Policy and Practice Group
Matt brings more than 25 years of experience improving human services for children, youth, and families across government, nonprofit, and philanthropic organizations. His expertise includes practice model implementation, continuous quality improvement, program evaluation, workforce development, and Quality Service Reviews. Claps previously served as Senior Director of Practice at Casey Family Programs and has provided consulting and technical assistance to more than 25 states, counties, and tribes. He earned his MSW from Florida State University and received the university’s Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Work Practice in 2025.
WILL HORNSBY, MSW
Senior Vice President of Delivery, Public Knowledge®
Will brings more than 30 years of experience in public-sector child welfare and human services. His work spans the local, state, and federal levels. His expertise includes practice model implementation, continuous quality improvement, organizational change, and program evaluation. While serving with the federal Children’s Bureau, Will managed Child and Family Services Reviews nationwide. His work included all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Will earned his MSW with a concentration in planning and management from the University of Alabama.
STACEY MOSS, JD, CWLS, PMP
Host, Igniting Impact Podcast | CEO, Public Knowledge®
Stacey has spent more than 25 years helping government, nonprofit, and education organizations improve performance through leadership development, program improvement, and training. She is recognized for her expertise in leadership coaching, organizational change management, child welfare, procurement, and program management. Stacey earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Wyoming.
About the Podcast
Launched in 2023, the Igniting Impact Podcast highlights the important work of our clients and partners. Each episode shares ideas and experiences that encourage connection and progress across the field.
Impact is a core value at Public Knowledge®. The podcast reflects that commitment and our approach to every project. For us, impact means focusing on the right goals, outcomes, and strategies. It also means taking responsibility for making a positive difference in the communities we serve.