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ECLDS December updates

• ECLDS changes are coming soon
• Join us for regional data convenings across Minnesota
• Attendance reports updated to reflect MDE standards
• Part C federal reporting listening and information session: We want to hear from you
• New year of data available to explore
• Farewell 2025

December 17, 2025

ECLDS changes are coming soon

Since 2016, the Early Childhood Longitudinal Data System (ECLDS) has been providing public reports and data tools to support educators, administrators, and partners across Minnesota. As we approach the 10-year milestone, we took time to reflect, listen, and look ahead. A 2024 external evaluation helped identify areas for growth and we are excited to share what’s next.

Over the coming years, ECLDS will be updated with:

• Refreshed, more dynamic Tableau-based reports on eclds.mn.gov
• Updated data governance structures
• More dedicated data support for state agency partners

These improvements will make ECLDS easier to use and more responsive to data partner needs. If you have questions, please reach out to the ECLDS Lead. We look forward to bringing you more accessible, useful data tools in the years ahead.

Join us for regional data convenings across Minnesota

The Education Partnerships Coalition is partnering with DCYF to host regional data convenings across Minnesota. These gatherings will bring together data staff and partners from schools, counties, child care, Head Start, Tribal Nations, and community organizations. Participants will explore how to use public data from DCYF programs, including economic assistance, child safety and permanency, early care and education, and youth justice, to support continuous improvement. The convenings will highlight what is already working well and identify new opportunities to use data more effectively. Learn more and register: St. Cloud: Jan. 7, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | St. Cloud Registration Rochester: Jan. 21, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | Rochester Registration Duluth: Jan. 23, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | Duluth Registration Northwest/Erskine: Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | NW Registration

Attendance reports updated to reflect MDE standards

To provide clearer and more accurate information, ECLDS has updated its attendance
reports to match the Minnesota Department of Education’s (MDE) attendance definitions.

Under MDE’s standard, students who attend more than 90% of school days are considered
consistently attending. Attendance categories in ECLDS have been adjusted to reflect this
statewide approach. The photo below shows ECLDS Kindergarten Attendance report reflecting MDE attendance levels. Accessed from eclds.mn.gov, 12/16/2025.

ECLDS Kindergarten Attendance report showing refreshed MDE attendance levels. Accessed from eclds.mn.gov, 12/16/2025.

Part C federal reporting listening and information session: We want to hear from you

Join the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) this January for a Part C federal reporting listening and information session.  Participants will learn: What Part C federal reporting is Why Minnesota collects this information How community input shapes early intervention services for babies and toddlers with disabilities and their families across Minnesota and Tribal Nations

New year of data available to explore

A new year of data is now available in ECLDS public reports, giving you access to 11 years of longitudinal data from 2013 to 2024.

You can view data for preschoolers, kindergartners, and third graders, including:

• Demographics
• Program participation
• Economic supports
• Language use
• Disability categories

This information can help you better understand the children and families in your district, county, or region and support your planning and decision-making.

Farewell 2025

From all of us at ECLDS, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyful holiday season. Thank you for your continued partnership and your work to support Minnesota’s children and families. Here’s to a bright and meaningful 2026!