State Part B data systems that contain high-quality early childhood special education (ECSE, IDEA Section B 619) content and functionality allow state staff to answer critical questions about their programs and the children and families they serve. The 2021 State of the States Survey data show that most ECSE programs had state data systems that include content related to the implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP), including child outcomes. The typical state ECSE data system had all child-level data from referral through preschool program completion. Other data (such as workforce specifics) were more commonly managed at the local level than the state level. Systematically reviewing the available data and how they are managed can help states make informed decisions about additional data to gather to improve program planning

Read the brief and learn more about key findings.

Check out the interactive 2021 State of the State Maps.

Intended Audience: IDEA Part C and Part B Section 619 Coordinators, IDEA Part C and B Data Managers, parent leaders, and others working to improve state capacity for evidence-based data systems.

Published September 2025.