The system was designed to be used on laptop computers. The state, however, is not mandating which specific hardware must be purchased. The time to enter data for one student ranged from 1 to 8 hours for teachers at the pilot sites. The amount of time to enter data depended on a number of variables including the amount of narrative information that was included with ratings, the amount of supporting documentation, and the proficiency of the teachers with regard to operating the computer and peripheral hardware. Therapists can collaborate with teachers who can input data and documentation into the system.
Nurses can provide medical information to the teachers or enter it directly.
The state is working with Directors of Special Education to ensure that there will be someone in each district who has been trained on the system. Suggestions have been made at training sessions throughout the pilot year and are still coming in. The system continues to evolve. Data must be collected and turned into the state by July 1, 2000. The system will begin to be implemented statewide in the fall of 1999.