Resources

In 2019, the California Legislature authorized an 18-month planning process for the state’s Cradle-to-Career Data System. The legislation created a framework for an unprecedented design approach that was both comprehensive and inclusive. More than 200 people provided insights and expertise, drawn from state agencies and the intended users of the data system. This website documents the planning process for the data system.

California’s Cradle-to-Career Data System fosters evidence-based decision-making to help Californians build more equitable futures and empower individuals to reach their full potential. It offers a suite of user-friendly resources focused on early learning through K–12 and higher education, financial aid, and social services. Teachers, advisors, parents, and students can identify opportunities that help more students learn, stay in school, prepare for college, graduate, and secure a job. The resources also help agencies plan for and improve educational, workforce, and social services programs, and they support research on improving policies from birth through career.

The planning website provides detailed background information for how 15 state agencies reached consensus on the scope and structure for the data system, including:

• Materials and notes for the 100 public meetings held during the design process
• Background papers and other resources that informed the planning process
• Final recommendations including detailed descriptions of the legal and technical infrastructure, tools and processes for accessing data, governance and staffing models, privacy and security protections, and community engagement strategies

Learn More

Would you like to lead a similar planning process in your state? See the Designing Modern P20W Data Systems website to access resources for managers, agency leads, and policymakers to plan a customized roadmap to a modern longitudinal data system.