Reference
Data Sources & Methodology
Official sources, methodology details, and update history for all education data presented on this site. We compile data from state and federal agencies with full transparency about what's measured vs. estimated.
Data Methodology & Estimates
Not all data on this platform is measured directly. Below we explain the methodology for each dataset, noting which figures are sourced from official reports and which are estimated or modeled.
Daycare Supply vs. Demand
Demand is estimated by applying age-group fractions (17% for ages 0–2, 17% for ages 3–5, 33% for ages 6–11) to Census ACS child population counts per county. These are approximations, not actual enrollment demand figures.
K-12 Performance Data
Assessment proficiency rates, graduation rates, and enrollment figures sourced directly from ISBE report cards and federal NCES tables. 2020 data reflects the statewide testing hiatus. 2025 figures use ISBE 'right-sized' standards (not comparable to prior years).
State Education Comparison
Enrollment, graduation rates, and per-pupil spending for all 50 states + D.C. sourced from NCES and U.S. Census Bureau School System Finances. Data is refreshed weekly via automated pull from federal sources.
County Demographics
Population, income, education attainment, and race/ethnicity data from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.
Daycare Provider Directory
Licensed childcare provider data including capacity, licensing, and compliance sourced directly from the DCFS Sunshine database. Contact information and facility details are public record.
Private Schools
School directory, enrollment, and recognition status from ISBE's recognized nonpublic schools list.
Data Update History
A log of when datasets were last refreshed and what changed. Automated pulls run weekly (Sundays at 6 AM UTC).
Official Data Sources
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Data Usage & Updates
All data on this site is compiled from official government sources. Automated weekly pulls keep datasets current. Data may be subject to revision based on final reporting from source agencies.
Estimated data is clearly labeled throughout the platform. Supply vs. demand calculations use modeled approximations. If you believe data is inaccurate, please contact us.