Outcomes 101: ECO Q&A

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Q. Why are states measuring outcomes for programs serving young children with disabilities?

A. In this age of accountability, policymakers are asking questions about the outcomes achieved through participation in programs supported by public funds. Judging the effectiveness of any program requires looking at results, not simply at the process of providing services. The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) in the U.S. Department of Education now requires states to report outcomes data for children and families served through Part C and Part B Preschool of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as part of their Annual Performance Report (APR). Many states have begun to use data on child and family outcomes in many different ways to improve their programs.