Examining Part C Exiting Data Variation. White Paper. Version 1.0

This white paper explores the variation among Part C exiting categories as reported by the 50 states and Washington, D.C., using 2012-13 exiting data. Examining factors that may contribute to variation can lead to improved Part C exiting data quality within and across states. Examination of the Part C exiting data shows that 8 of the 10 categories (categories 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10) had relatively wider variation among states. The paper investigates state characteristics that may influence exiting data variation, as well as possible strategies for improving data quality. This white paper includes four sections. Part 1 summarizes Part C exiting definitions. Part 2 reviews broad, general trends in exiting data variation. Part 3 examines potential reasons for variation, with possible strategies to improve exiting data quality. Finally, Part 4 summarizes the findings of examination of exiting data variation and highlights key findings for state data personnel. [The IDEA Data Center is one of the centers in the Technical Assistance and Dissemination Network (TA&D Network), funded by the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).]