Resource Library

Discover a comprehensive guide to effortlessly navigate the public reporting requirements under IDEA Section 618. This invaluable tool offers a clear overview of the necessary processes and requirements, complete with annotations on relevant legislation, data collections, file specifications, and user guides. Presented in a user-friendly question-and-answer format, it simplifies common procedures and critical considerations, while directing you to valuable external resources for additional support. Empower yourself to ensure compliance with this essential resource!

This updated resource contains basic information about IDEA data collections, data systems, and how to access resources for IDEA data.

Does your state have well-documented data processes in place to ensure that IDEA data are timely, accurate, valid, and reliable? If not, contact your IDC State Liaison for help! Using the SEA Data Processes Toolkit, our TA providers can work with state special education staff and others in your state to document your current 616 and 618 data processes. IDC can also assist with improving those processes to ensure consistent practices to collect, analyze and submit high quality data year after year!

The SPP/APR indicators measure child and family outcomes as well as compliance with the requirements of IDEA. This quick-reference resource from IDC includes a list and brief definition of all the Part B FFY 2020–2025 SPP/APR indicators (including the new Indicator 18!), as well as a list of file specifications associated with each of the seven IDEA 618 data collections, all in one convenient package. Print one out here or contact your IDC State Liaison for a laminated version you can carry along wherever you go.

This interactive checklist helps states meet IDEA Section 618 public reporting requirements. The checklist also has an archiving function to document the posting process for later reference.

States are allowed to use sampling for collecting data for select Part B State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report indicators. Sampling can provide an effective means for targeting resources for data collection and improving data quality. However, there are important requirements that states must consider when designing and implementing their sampling plans. States can use this interactive self-assessment tool to determine whether their state’s sampling plan addresses Office of Special Education Programs sampling requirements for best practice and to identify action steps to improve their sampling procedures.

Response rate and representativeness are important terms in survey work.  Consideration of both is necessary to ensure that collected data are valid and generalizable.  This resource briefly defines and compares the terms while also explaining how they relate to nonresponse bias.