How are SPP targets determined?
In proposing targets for the next six years, the Division of Special Education gathered data on the indicators which require targets and looked at three to five years of historical data for students with disabilities and compared that to data for all students where applicable. Logarithmic trends were then applied to the historical data. A logarithmic trend line is a best-fit curve that is used when the rate of change in the data increases or decreases quickly and then levels out as is the case with many types of performance data. Along with the historical and projected trend data, DESE considered other pertinent information, including compliance requirements and evidence-based practices that have already been implemented at the state or local levels. Finally, DESE held public hearings and obtained input from stakeholders before deciding on targets.
