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Improving Systems, Practices, and Outcomes

Outcomes Measurement

An outcome is as a benefit experienced as a result of services and supports received. An outcome isn't the receipt of services, and it isn't satisfaction with services recieved. Instead, it is what happens as a result of services provided to children and families. Child and family outcomes are interdependent: positive outcomes experienced by the family serve to promote the child outcomes, and child outcomes benefit their family.

See also: Outcomes Frequently Asked Questions

Federal Requirements for Outcomes Reporting

In 2014, the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) implemented its Results-Driven Accountability (RDA) program. Child and family outcomes measurement are essential components of RDA, as measured in indicators reported on in a State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report (SPP/APR).

Child Outcomes

Child outcomes are measured in Indicators C3 and B7.

States report the percentage of infants and toddlers with Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) or preschool-age children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) who demonstrate improved:

  1. Positive social-emotional skills (including social relationships);
  2. Acquisition and use of knowledge and skills (including early language/communication [and early literacy]); and
  3. Use of appropriate behaviors to meet their needs.

Family Outcomes

Family outcomes are measured differently for Part C and Part B:

Indicator C4

States report on the percentage of families participating in Part C who report that early intervention services have helped them:

  1. Know their rights;
  2. Effectively communicate their children's needs; and
  3. Help their children develop and learn.

Indicator B8

Part B doesn't report on family outcomes, but they do report the percentage of parents with children receiving special education services that agree their schools facilitated parent involvement as a means of improving services and results for their children.

See also: Talking with Families

SPP/APR Indicator Analyses

ECTA Center analyzes SPP/APR data and prepares annual reports for child and family outcomes indicators:

We also produce two annual highlights briefs of national outcomes analyses: