Introduction to Data Analysis Handbook - AED Center for Early Care ...

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Excerpts: Information Memorandum
ACYF-IM-HS-00-03 (1/31/2000)
Subject:
initial Guidance on new Legislative Provisions on Performance Standards, Performance
Measures, Program Self Self-Assessment and Program Monitoring
The purpose of this Memorandum is to inform grantees about the legislative changes
on program outcomes, accountability and program improvement in the 1998 Head
Start Reauthorization. These requirements, applicable to all Head Start grantees serving
three to five year old children, build on and expand our current efforts to improve and
document program quality and effectiveness.
Program Self-Assessment
Legislative Provision: Section 641A(b)(2)(B) requires that results-based performance
measures “be adaptable for use in self assessment, peer review, and program evaluation of
individual Head Start agencies and programs..”
This new legislative mandate calls for Head Start grantees and delegate agencies to
augment their current self-assessment efforts by creating a system to track patterns
and program outcomes and to use this information to inform program planning and
improvement efforts.
Program Monitoring
The new legislative provisions will require that program monitoring incorporates
examination of how grantees are tracking and making use of data on child and program
outcomes, as well as patterns of those outcomes.
© AED/TAC-12 Spring 2006.