State Part C and Part B 619 programs will encounter the need for changes in their data system(s). Many changes to an existing data system can affect work conducted at the state, local/district, and/or provider levels.

An important part of each state’s Part C and Part B 619 accountability system is the regular reporting of data related to the implementation of IDEA. Part C and Part B 619 state staff or representatives analyze and publicly report data for a variety of reasons.

Given the continuing increase in the use of electronic communications (e.g., texting, email, instant messaging, video chatting, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter), it is not surprising that families and Part C and Part B 619 providers use these technologies to communicate and share program information.

State agencies for Part C and Part B 619 regularly receive requests for data from internal and external parties. While protection of personally identifiable information (PII) is paramount, appropriately sharing data can lead to innovations in research, policies, and practices – innovations that benefit children, families, and practitioners/teachers.

It is critical that Part C and Part B 619 governance policies address record retention and data destruction. In developing their own policies and procedures, it is essential to review relevant federal and state agency regulations regarding data retention and destruction.