Fiscal Tools

Special Education Efficiency Tool

Local educational agencies (LEAs) throughout the state face an ongoing challenge in funding the costs of serving students in special education. FCMAT has developed the Special Education Efficiency Tool as a resource for LEAs to analyze various areas within special education. The intent is for fiscal and special education staff to work together to complete the tool, and for this process to help guide a conversation about how to provide the best services for students in the most efficient manner and least restrictive environment.

The tool has 22 questions, some of which are tied to worksheets in the tool. Responses are limited to “yes,” “no,” and “not met,” which allows LEAs to identify areas that may need additional attention.

Districts should complete the tool annually and discuss the items in the Special Education Efficiency Tool regularly.

FAQs

Click an FAQ to open the container and view the answer.

Is there a user guide for the Special Education Efficiency Tool?

No. Instructions are maintained in a separate tab within the Special Education Efficiency Tool.

What documents do I need to prepare before using the Special Education Efficiency Tool?

The documents and information necessary to use the tool are outlined on the ‘Instructions’ tab.

Can I have the password to unlock the tool?

No. The Special Education Efficiency Tool is password-protected to secure the underlying formulas and to protect the integrity of the analysis performed. FCMAT is unable to disperse the password for support reasons. If you would like to suggest a change, please create a help desk ticket and attach a copy of the file demonstrating your request.

Download Special Education Efficiency Tool

Submit a Help Desk Request

Additional Resources

Using the FCMAT Special Education Efficiency Tool

Presentation handout from CASBO Sacramento Section Spring Conference in March 2020 by FCMAT Intervention Specialist, Tami Ethier.

CALPADS

Students with Disabilities - Education Plan by Primary Disability, CALPADS report 16.2, is used to calculate the identification rates for the SELPA average item in the tool. A sample report is included in the training presentation. Note, login credentials are required to access CALPADS.

DataQuest

DataQuest provides meaningful data and statistics about California's K-12 public educational system that supports a wide variety of informational, research, and policy needs. Summary and detailed data reports are available for multiple subject areas at the school, district, county, and state levels.

Dataquest's statewide enrollment by subgroup for charter and non-charter schools is referenced in the tool.

CalEdFacts

CalEdFacts is a compilation of statistics and information on a variety of issues concerning education in California. CalEdFacts' psychologist and nurse caseload information is referenced in the tool.