This week, data centers are rapidly expanding into rural parts of Appalachia, and folks say they are having trouble finding information about these projects. Also, artificial intelligence is disrupting human art, including fiber arts like crochet. And folks are pushing back, like they always have — with song.
COMET System Makes Foster Care Communication More Secure
The Communication & Operations Mobile Engagement Tool (COMET), from the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), is designed to strengthen communication and collaboration across the system.IdeaBug Inc./Adobe Stock
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Foster parents, caseworkers, attorneys, service providers, and other authorized participants in the state’s foster care system can use a new secure platform to share information and track updates.
The Communication & Operations Mobile Engagement Tool (COMET), from the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), is designed to strengthen communication and collaboration across the system.
By reducing delays and preventing miscommunication, the platform is expected to ensure that children and families receive timely, consistent support.
Phase 1 of COMET went live on September 2, just three months after the project began. This first phase established secure communication and case tracking.
Phase 2 will offer more tools, including a mobile application to further increase accessibility.
The following is the roll out schedule for Phase 1 of the program.
9/1/2025
Randolph County
9/15/2025
Monongalia County
9/29/2025
Wood, Wirt, Putnam, and Mason Counties
10/13/2025
Lincoln, Boone, Lewis, Upshur, Barbour, Preston, and Taylor Counties
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