Identify trends in your state’s IDEA fiscal data with this online resource. Part C and Part B state staff can use these data questions to better understand their state systems, refine policies and practices, and initiate conversations about how to support programs for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities.
Maintenance of State Financial Support (MFS)
How to Use the Timeline Development Tool (TDT)
This video explains how to manage the collection of Maintenance of State Financial Support (MFS) data.
How to Use the Funding Flow Ideograph Tool (FFIT)
This video shows how to use flowchart visuals in a PowerPoint slide deck to explain Maintenance of State Financial Support (MFS) to interested parties, such as state legislators.
Overview of the MFS Toolkit
This video introduction to the Maintenance of State Financial Support (MFS) Toolkit provides an overview of the Quick Reference Guide on MFS, the Funding Flow Ideograph Tool (FFIT), the Timeline Development Tool (TDT), and the Data Collection and Reporting Tool (DCRT).
Introducing the Updated and Expanded DCRT 2.0
An overview of the Data Collection and Reporting Tool (2.0), which now accommodates up to 12 years of MFS data. Reviews relevant resources in CIFR’s MFS Toolkit and improvements to the user experience.
Maintenance of State Financial Support Data Collection and Reporting Tool (DCRT) 2.0
Version 2.0 of the Maintenance of State Financial Support (MFS) DCRT displays detailed MFS results for up to 12 years as well as total and per capita amounts over time. Visit CIFR’s MFS Toolkit for related resources such as a completed sample DCRT, a data collection form to provide to other state agencies, and a training video.
Version 2.0 replaces Version 1.0. We recommend updating the original resource in your records with the new version.
MFS Timeline Development Tool
With CIFR’s Timeline Development Tool (TDT), users can document the process for collecting and reporting MFS data, identifying key activities and dates as a Gantt or linear chart. The tool includes a sample timeline with suggested activities to assist with development.
Please see CIFR’s MFS Toolkit for a training video and for additional MFS resources.
MFS Funding Flow Ideograph Tool
Developed by CIFR, the Funding Flow Ideograph Tool (FFIT) helps users create a graphic description of their state’s fiscal support system for Part B. This customizable tool is useful for identifying sources of state funding for MFS reporting and for explaining the flow of funding for special education to stakeholders.
Please see CIFR’s MFS Toolkit for a training video and for additional MFS resources.
Resources for Grantees Website – Grants
This U.S. Department of Education web page contains resources pertaining to the three OSEP-administered IDEA formula grants that are awarded annually to provide services to 1) infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families, 2) preschool children ages 3-5, and 3) special education for children and youth with disabilities.
The site includes Part B and Part C grant award letters, annual grant application templates, application instructions and procedures, public participation topic briefs, and checklists.
Letter to Koch
This letter responds to questions from the Illinois State Board of Education regarding whether proposed language for Illinois education appropriations is consistent with the provisions related to maintenance of state financial support (MFS) in IDEA. Given the appropriations language, the state asks if they would be penalized for not meeting MFS requirements if a local education agency (including a state-authorized charter school) fails to expend the amount allocated by the state for special education and related services. The letter explains the history and purpose of the MFS requirement and responds to the state’s question.
