In this episode of DaSy Talks, Jenna Nguyen and Howard Morrison sit down with Tracy Benson of the Waters Center and Luke Kusumoto from Hawaii’s Department of Health to explore how systems thinking can transform data use in early childhood programs. They share insights from a multi-state cohort focused on strengthening IDEA Part C and Part B 619 programs through collaboration, shared data practices, and the “habits of a systems thinker.”

Luke describes how Hawaii’s interagency team surfaced hidden assumptions, aligned their data systems, and built trust to improve access to services for young children with disabilities. Tracy offers practical guidance for navigating complexity, embracing discomfort, and creating lasting systems change.

Related Resources:

• Blog: Creating Positive Change Through a Culture of Data Use and Systems Thinking, https://dasycenter.org/creating-positive-change-through-a-culture-of-data-use-and-systems-thinking/

• Create Positive Change Through Data Culture and Systems Thinking, https://dasycenter.org/create-positive-change-through-data-culture-and-systems-thinking/

We’re thrilled to launch the very first episode of DaSy Talks, a new podcast from the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy Center)! Hosted by Howard Morrison and Jenna Nguyen, DaSy Talks brings you real talk for states, by states—exploring how data can drive meaningful improvement for young children with disabilities and their families.

In this inaugural episode, Howard and Jenna are joined by Dr. Kathy Hebbeler, senior principal education researcher at SRI and one of the developers of the DaSy Data System Framework. Together, they unpack how the framework serves as a “key” that helps states unlock their data superpowers—building stronger, higher-quality data systems that empower programs, support decision-making, and improve outcomes.

Listeners will learn what’s inside the DaSy Framework, how states can use it to assess and strengthen their IDEA Part C and Part B 619 data systems, and why starting small can lead to big improvements. Kathy also shares practical advice on using the self-assessment tool, sustaining progress over time, and how DaSy can support states along the way. It’s an inspiring start to the DaSy Talks series—celebrating the power of good data, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Related Resources:

DaSy Data System Framework

DaSy Framework Self-Assessment Tool