CALPADS Flash #280 addressed two important data-quality topics: the SENR0654E3 validation for English learners and the correct grade code for Transitional Kindergarten students.
The Flash applied to the 2023–24 reporting year. However, its core lesson still matters. LEAs need to review student records early and use the current CALPADS specifications before certifying data.
EL Enrollment-Date Validation Update
SENR0654E3 checks whether a student’s Initial US School Enrollment Date is valid.
Before Flash #280, the validation triggered for all students. As a result, LEAs received errors for students who were not English learners.
CDE updated the rule. For the 2023–24 cycle, SENR0654E3 triggered only for English learners. It also checked the most recent overlapping Student Information, or SINF, record.
This change reduced unnecessary errors. At the same time, LEAs still needed to correct records that triggered the validation.
How to Review an SENR0654E3 Error
When the validation appeared, LEAs needed to review the student’s SINF record.
First, confirm that Field 2.36, Student Initial US School Enrollment Date K–12, contains the correct date. That date cannot be later than the student’s earliest TK–12 enrollment in CALPADS.
Next, review Field 2.04, Effective Start Date. For a SINF record created by your LEA, the Effective Start Date should match the student’s Enrollment Start Date.
For a SINF record from another LEA, submit a new SINF record. Then, use the student’s Enrollment Start Date as the new record’s Effective Start Date.
These steps help maintain a reliable student history. They also support accurate English learner reporting.
Use the TK Grade Code
Flash #280 also reminded LEAs to report Transitional Kindergarten students with the grade level code TK.
Do not report a TK student with the kindergarten code, KN.
This distinction affects more than enrollment counts. It also affects assessment records. Assembly Bill 2268 exempted TK students from the Initial ELPAC, Alternate ELPAC, Summative ELPAC, and Alternate ELPAC.
If an LEA reported a TK student as kindergarten, the Testing Operations Management System could identify that student as needing an assessment.
What LEAs Should Do
Review Certification Report 1.21, Cumulative Enrollment – Count, to confirm that your LEA reports all TK students with the TK grade code.
Then, correct any student record that shows KN when the student attended Transitional Kindergarten. Finally, update your enrollment process so staff use the correct code for future students.
Apply the Lesson to Current Reporting
The specific 2023–24 validation rules in Flash #280 are historical. Therefore, LEAs should use the current CALPADS system documentation when resolving a live error.
Still, the broader practice remains the same: review student information, enrollment, and assessment data as one connected process. Early review helps your team prevent errors before certification.
For the original notice, review CALPADS Update Flash #280.
MeasureED provides CALPADS consulting and support services for LEAs that need help reviewing student data, resolving validations, and strengthening reporting processes. Learn more about MeasureED’s CALPADS support or contact our team.
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