The DaSy Center partners with Family Data Leaders (FDLs) to strengthen family engagement in data use and systems improvement efforts. FDLs play a vital role in shaping programs and policies that support infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities and their families. By combining their unique experience with training in IDEA, data use, and systems-building, FDLs become skilled data users who help ensure that state and local programs truly reflect the needs of their communities. Through the Look! Think! Act! framework, participants learn how to use data to drive systems change, improve Part C and Part B 619 programs, and strengthen family engagement in decision-making. Supported by DaSy and CPIR, the Family Data Leader initiative builds family capacity to engage meaningfully in data discussions that inform State Performance Plans (SPPs) and Annual Performance Reports (APRs).
What is a Family Data Leader?
Family Data Leaders (FDLs) bring their unique perspective to inform systems change efforts. They become skilled data users by:
- Understanding IDEA, data use, and systems-building activities.
- Applying data knowledge to improve Part C and Part B 619 programs.
Why It Matters
FDLs help shape programs and policies that impact infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities and their families. Engaging with families is essential in data discussions at local, state, and national levels.
Participants Will Learn To:
- Recognize the role of FDLs and the power of family engagement.
- Understand how data drives systems change and program improvements.
- Apply data analysis and decision-making skills using the Look! Think! Act! framework.
Why States Need Family Data Leaders
FDLs bring valuable family involvement to data discussions, ensuring IDEA programs reflect the needs of the communities they serve. Their input is critical for setting meaningful targets in State Performance Plans (SPPs) and Annual Performance Reports (APRs).
DaSy and CPIR are partnering to support and sustain Family Data Leaders building family capacity to engage in important data conversations.