Reviewing SPP/APRs is a bit like reading a state’s autobiography told through the lens of IDEA data. Our reviews allow us to reflect with states on how to tell their story in a compelling (and, yes, compliant) way, and as we do, our relationships deepen.
Supporting states as they finalize their annual SPP/APR drafts is an important and valued TA opportunity that the IDC team engages in every year. With the 2025 submission date come and gone, let’s take some time to reflect on the process, our lessons learned, and vital next steps.
Overview: How SPP/APR Draft Reviews Works
The SPP/APR draft review process begins in mid-November when IDC State Liaisons invite states to submit their SPP/APRs for review. During this process, IDC uses a uniform protocol to offer feedback to each state within 10 business days. Our TA providers also meet with states, as needed, to clarify any comments. The process is iterative, tailored to each state’s needs.
SPP/APR Review Season Recap
This review season was our busiest ever: We reviewed SPP/APRs from 42 states! The elements states most frequently submitted for review were the Introduction and Indicators 4, 9, 10, and 18. Specifically:
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We offered feedback as states addressed the new Introduction items.
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We provided lots of feedback on the descriptions of methodologies for Indicators 4, 9, and 10, particularly regarding alignment of the methodologies for all three indicators. For Indicator 4, this included verifying that states completed the new required components related to the description of minimum cell and n-sizes and methodology.
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With compliance indicators, we assisted states in reporting on systemic noncompliance versus instances of individual noncompliance.
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For Indicators 8 and 14, we provided support in clarifying the difference between representativeness and non-response bias.
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IDC TA providers also noticed that states were using Indicator 18 to create a more coherent, collaborative approach to programmatic monitoring, fiscal monitoring, dispute resolution, and SPP/APR reporting.
Life After SPP/APR Submission to OSEP
Following the submission of the SPP/APR to OSEP, states can continue to plan for coordinating the SPP/APR with ongoing improvement efforts. For example, states can focus on using their data for improvement efforts, implementing evidence-based strategies, and providing technical assistance to local education agencies to improve their data quality.
Remember, the 2025 SPP/APR OSEP clarification period, which will take place from April 10–24, 2025, is not far away. States can contact their State Liaison for further support regarding any on-going improvement planning and clarification efforts for their submission.
Stay Connected Year-Round Through the SPP/APR Data Quality Peer Group (DQPG)
In addition to support during submission preparation season, IDC’s SPP/APR DQPG brings state staff together throughout the year to expand their capacity to work with IDEA data through sharing celebrations, challenges, co-created solutions, and state-developed resources. Both veterans and those brand-new to the SPP/APR adventure benefit from this DQPG, a space where members can bring all-things-SPP/APR to the table and trust others will listen and reflect generously.
Reach out to laurenholahan@westat.com to request the calendar invitation or be added to our mailing list.