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Selection of a cohort, or Transformation Zone, for SSIP implementation is a principle consideration in developing an action plan. The presentation addresses variables that states should considered in making those decisions and provides information on methods to determine readiness and eliciting involvement of an LEA/EIS.

Do you ever wonder what other states are doing to ensure high-quality data? Participants of this session learned about the work that the Kentucky Department of Education is undertaking to create data process protocols, build capacity of data stewards, and institute a culture of high-quality data. This work is being accomplished using the new IDC Data Processes Toolkit. Presenters provided an overview of the toolkit, and participants had an opportunity to experience “preparing for this work.”

The IDEA Part B Data Manager Competencies tool outlines foundational knowledge and skills necessary for typical data manager roles and responsibilities. The competencies reflect principles for effective management, support, and use of high-quality IDEA Part B data and fall under one of three overarching categories: content knowledge and skills, technical knowledge and skills, and interpersonal skills. 

This workshop provided a brief overview of the new IDC IDEA Part B 616 Data Processes Toolkit. Several states that have piloted the toolkit shared their experiences with creating data processes for the SPP/APR indicators, building capacity of data stewards, and instilling a culture of high-quality data. Presenters facilitated discussion that helped participants understand the value of data processes documentation and afforded them an opportunity to experience preparing for and beginning this work.

There is a continuous need for state education agencies (SEAs) and local education agencies (LEAs) to collect and report comprehensive, high-quality data and ensure they report data accurately and in a timely fashion. The customizable IDC LEA Data Processes Toolkit is a new instrument that can improve decisionmaking about children and youth with disabilities by ensuring data are of high quality and processes are clearly defined and documented, while also providing data staff a map for documenting data processes within local districts.

Using the Part C IDEA Data Processes Toolkit to document data processes for all 616 and 618 data collections will establish a well-managed process for data collection, validation, and submission. In collaboration with IDC State Liaisons, states can use the toolkit to create and maintain a culture of high-quality data and establish and support consistent practices that produce valid and reliable data, while building the capacity of state staff. The toolkit contains an overview of the toolkit, Data Collection Protocols, SPP/APR Indicator Protocols, a State Landscape Protocol, a Local EI Program Determinations Protocol, a Data Collections Calendar, and additional resources that provide a structure for documenting data processes. The Data Collection Protocols are in Word, and states can tailor them meet their states' specific documentation needs.

This presentation provides guidance on the evaluation of SSIP by differentiating between evaluating implementation and impact and reviews possible measures of progress toward achieving the SIMR. Participants discussed and provided input into development of an IDC white paper on the topic. Currently, the white paper is in draft form and undergoing revisions based on input from the field. The published paper will be posted to the IDC Resource Library and affiliated as a related resource to the handout already posted for this session.