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Equity is a large topic in education – one that requires not only dialogue, but also data upon which to base that dialogue. Regarding one particular area of equity, over- and under-classification rates, the Institute has covered a great deal of research and data on contributing factors in our Crossing the Line report series. The fourth issue of The Line is also dedicated to the conversation on Equity and Opportunity.

In an unprecedented maneuver, ESSA brought data to the forefront of its equity-focused mission. Specific reporting rules require education agencies at every level to collect and use more data ― data that will likely expose education inequities in funding as well as access to rigorous curriculum and effective teachers. ESSA outlines clear requirements targeting statewide accountability systems that address progress gaps for groups of low-performing students.

In our report series Crossing the Line, we explored special education classification rates – in particular, the diversity across states and local school districts and implications on equity. We explored the perceived impact of policy and resources, district support and services, and even professional development on special education classification rates. As we process through those findings, inevitably we have to ask the question, “What now?” How do we translate data into action?

By 2014-15 the number of children served under IDEA was 6.6 million or 13% of total public school enrollment.  When looking at this data, districts, schools and educators must consider equity in education and the appropriateness of the classification of special needs students in and across states.