References¶
(Updated 8/18/2025)
The following documents provide additional information regarding the operation and data submission requirements of CALPADS
CALPADS File Specifications (CFS) Effective for the 2025-26 Academic Year¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS Code Sets | Current code values referenced in the file specifications, including CALPADS course codes (formerly CBEDS). |
| CALPADS File Specifications | Overviews of file formats, submission windows, and document conventions. |
| CALPADS File Specifications (Forms) | Detailed input file requirements for batch loading data into CALPADS. |
| CALPADS Extract Specifications | Guidance for LEAs on CALPADS extract specifications. |
| CALPADS Valid Code Combinations | Lists valid code combinations allowed in CALPADS. |
CALPADS Error List¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS Error List | Descriptions of CALPADS errors generated during submissions and suggested resolutions. |
CALPADS Language Code Set and Mapping 2023-24¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS Language Code Set 2023–24 | Language code sets and mappings for the 2023–24 school year. |
CALPADS Data Guide¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS Data Guide | Guidance for LEAs on preparing and submitting CALPADS data and how the data are used. |
| CALPADS SSID and Enrollment Procedures | Business rules for assigning SSIDs and submitting enrollment and exit data. |
Reporting Data for Students with Disabilities¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Reporting Data for Students with Disabilities | Scenarios for determining LEA responsibility and accountability for SWD data reporting. |
| Special Education File Submission Scenarios | specific special education data scenarios and information about which of the special education files Students with Disabilities Status (SWDS), Special Education Meetings (MEET), Special Education Plans (PLAN) and Special Education Services (SERV) would be required in each of these scenarios. |
PSTS Survey¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| PSTS CTE Data Survey (Template) | Survey template for collecting postsecondary status data from CTE completers. |
| PSTS SPED Data Survey (Template) | Survey template for collecting postsecondary outcomes for students with disabilities (SPPI 14). |
Career Technical Education¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CTE Course Code Definitions User Guide 2024–25 | Course definitions aligned to instructional practices and reporting guidelines. |
External Resources¶
CDE CALPADS Portal Resources¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS CDE Home Page | Official CALPADS landing page from the California Department of Education. |
| CALPADS Flash Communications | System updates, newsletters, and CALPADS communications. |
| NPS & NPA Certification Data Worksheet | Certification information for Nonpublic Schools and Agencies. |
| Student Discipline NPS Reporting Webinar (2021–22) | Webinar covering NPS student discipline reporting requirements. |
Frequently Asked Questions¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CALPADS FAQ | Frequently asked questions related to CALPADS. |
| CDE CALPADS FAQ | Additional CALPADS FAQs from CDE. |
| Race and Ethnicity FAQ | Federal standards for collecting and reporting race and ethnicity. |
| LCFF FAQ | Frequently asked questions about the Local Control Funding Formula. |
| Transitional Kindergarten FAQ | FAQs on California transitional kindergarten requirements. |
ELPAC¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| ELPAC Website | Portal for administering the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California. |
| Initial ELPAC Student Data File Layout (2021–22) | File layout and data definitions for Initial ELPAC submissions. |
| Classification Correction Process – ELPAC | Guidance on correcting ELPAC ELAS status. |
Additional Statewide Systems¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| CAASPP Website | California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress portal. |
| Consolidated Application and Reporting System (CARS) | System for categorical program funding applications and reporting. |
| CDE School Directory | Directory of California public and private schools and LEAs. |
| CDS Changes | Instructions for submitting CDS information changes. |
Independent Study Resources (AB 130)¶
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | Overview of Independent Study reporting. |
| Quick Guide to Independent Study | Summary of program types, requirements, and funding. |
| Independent Study FAQ | Frequently asked questions about Independent Study. |
| Independent Study Listserv | Subscription list for Independent Study updates and guidance. |
| Legal Requirements for Independent Study | Comprehensive list of compliance requirements. |
| AB 130 – Independent Study Office Hours (PDF) | Presentation covering CALPADS reporting requirements under AB 130. |
| CALPADS November Quarterly Meeting PPT | Quarterly update presentation including Independent Study reporting topics. |