Author: Ginger Elliott-Teague

Part C Data Managers have been focused on adjusting state reporting processes in response to new 618 data submission requirements in EDPass. Exiting data were due in March, and child count and settings were due in July. States successfully managed the new submission processes for these two datasets, and the DaSy Center was glad to assist. We are also on hand to support the Dispute Resolution 618 data submission due November 19.

As fall approaches, it is critical for Part C Data Managers to focus on the dispute resolution submission, but it is one piece of a larger set of data management tasks that need attention. As highlighted in the Part C IDEA Data Collection Calendar, at this time of year states should focus on managing all data collected during the prior fiscal year for the upcoming year’s reporting. This includes cleaning and validating the data and updating missing data points. It should involve contacting local EI programs to address anomalies or data quality issues.

✅ In September and October:

• Manage the dispute resolution data (complaints, due process hearings, resolution sessions, and mediations) for the previous year (July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025) in preparation for submitting by November 19.
• Conclude the exiting data collection for the previous year (July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025). The due date for this data submission is in February.
• Conclude the collection of data for reporting all non-618 data indicators in the SPP/APR (compliance and results, including child outcomes and parent involvement). Begin analyzing data in comparison to annual targets to monitor for slippage.
• Work with the monitoring team to ensure that findings of noncompliance and programs’ correction of noncompliance are well documented to support APR reporting for compliance indicators and C12 (including findings for related requirements) for the most recent and prior reporting years.

✅ Also, looking forward:

• Prepare for the single-day child count and settings data collection on the state-selected date between October 1 and December 1.
• Identify the 12-month time frame to define the cumulative child count and settings data collection and ensure that all children with IFSPs during that time frame can be counted. Depending on the time frame selected, collect the data.

System and Process Updates Tips

Make sure everyone involved in collecting and reporting data at all levels of the program is prepared to implement ongoing processes. If you are changing your state processes, we recommend using the DaSy Part C Data Processes Toolkit to update your documentation and distribute it promptly. The steps highlighted in the toolkit include:

Resources

• Check out the new IDEA Part C Dispute Resolution Data Tool for EDPass Submission.
• Register now for Dispute Resolution Office Hours in October and November.
• DaSy Part C Data Processes Toolkit
• Part C IDEA Data Collection Calendar
• EDFacts 618 File Specifications – 618 data collections are now submitted through EDPass for all IDEA programs, including Part C. Each file submitted must meet certain specifications outlined in an annual “file specification” particular to a defined data group. The EDFacts website posts updated file specifications annually. More than one file may be required for a 618 collection.
• IDEA Part C Data Notes (DaSy, 2021) – This brief describes the purpose of data notes and how they are used in OSEP’s data quality review process. It includes tips and best practices for writing and submitting data notes.
• SPP/APR Submission Guidance – This webpage includes checklists and tips, calculation guidance, and learning modules to support your whole state team with the APR submission.
• Visit the IDEA Part C APR Indicator 12 Resources webpage for guidance on report requirements for this indicator.

About the Author

Ginger Elliott-Teague, PhD, is a senior education researcher and technical assistance specialist with expertise in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) data collection, reporting, analysis, and use; IDEA data system development and management; and program evaluation. She has more than 20 years of experience in constituent engagement, research design and implementation, and program evaluation. Elliott-Teague has provided data-based technical assistance to local and state IDEA Part C early intervention and Part B preschool special education programs and staff for nearly 10 years.

Published September 23, 2025.