The Core Data Collection System of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is an automated collection system with interactive edits that runs on IBM-compatible microcomputers. The data collected include information about school districts, schools, school programs, and student characteristics and achievement. This manual describes system installation and use. Included in the system are 25 integrated screens that are used to update or enter new information. Each screen is described in detail. Data items are entered only once and collected at the lowest level to maximize their usefulness in compliance with various state and federal reporting requirements. School districts report data five times during the school year: August, October, December, February, and June. The manual describes procedures for updating school district, school, and student information throughout the year, error checking, data transfer, print reports, and backup or restoration procedures. The manual also includes a section of frequently asked questions and answers. (Contains 25 exhibits.) (SLD)