Past Events Index

Let’s Talk Federal Student Aid: Reflections on recent guidance for integrated data systems

COMING SOON | VIRTUAL

Wondering how the recent guidance on Federal Student Aid impacts integrated data systems? Thinking about how student aid data can be incorporated into your IDS?

This conversation will discuss the impacts of recent guidance with national experts and IDS operators.

More information and registration links coming soon!

JAN 27-31, 2025 | VIRTUAL

Join us in recognizing Data Privacy Week, a global initiative dedicated to promoting privacy awareness, protecting data, and fostering trust among individuals and businesses. DISC is proud to participate by spotlighting tools and resources designed to strengthen privacy protections and secure data within integrated data systems.

Let’s commit to a culture of data privacy together!

JAN 29, 2025 | 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET | VIRTUAL

Watch the video now!

Join us for an illuminating conversation about building trust and fairness in artificial intelligence. WestEd’s Data Integration Support Center (DISC) presents a candid discussion that will explore the real-world challenges of implementing AI responsibly within organizations.

This conversation is presented as part of DISC’s Data Privacy Week activities, as we promote privacy awareness, data protection, and fostering trust among individuals and businesses.

Assessment expert Dr. Sarah Quesen, along with Baron Rodriguez, DISC Executive Director and VP of WestEd AI, will take you behind the scenes to share their firsthand experience in developing a framework for responsible AI use. They will discuss what it truly takes to build an organizational culture that prioritizes fairness and quality when working with AI systems.

This conversation will address practical questions that matter to organizations considering AI adoption: How do you ensure AI-generated content meets your quality standards? What resources and staff expertise do you need? What processes should be in place before implementing AI in your daily operations? Drawing from their work in educational assessment, our speakers will share valuable insights that apply across various sectors and organizations.

Whether you’re a state data leader, policymaker, privacy officer, or legal counsel, this discussion will provide clear, actionable insights into establishing responsible AI practices within your organization. Join us to learn about the challenges, successes, and essential considerations for implementing AI in a way that aligns with your organization’s values and responsibilities.

Speakers

Baron Rodriguez

Executive Director, Data Integration Support Center at WestEd

Vice President, Artificial Intelligence, Client-Facing Technology, & Compliance

Sarah Quesen

Director, Assessment Research and Innovation

OCT 28-29 | SAN ANTONIO, TX

Join DISC’s Baron Rodriguez, Sean Cottrell, and LeAnn Fong-Batkin for sessions that span AI and system modernization.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) IRL
OCT 28 | 1:30 PM CST
Baron Rodriguez

Modernization Rubric for State Data Systems
OCT 28-29
LeAnn Fong-Batkin

CCSSO 2024 Fall Education Information Management Advisory Collaborative (EIMAC) Conference

OCT 24-26| SAN ANTONIO, TX

Join DISC’s Baron Rodriguez and Sean Cottrell, as they lead two must-attend sessions designed to elevate your understanding of Artificial Intelligence and data privacy in integrated data systems.

Building a Secure AI Environment: Risks, Benefits, and Implementation for Research Use
In this pivotal session, Baron Rodriguez will take you through the intricacies of crafting a secure AI environment specifically tailored for research applications. You’ll gain insights into identifying potential risks, leveraging the benefits, and strategically implementing AI technologies to support and enhance your research endeavors. This session is crucial for anyone involved in research and development who is looking to responsibly incorporate AI into their work while maintaining a secure and ethical framework.

Enhancing Privacy and Security in Integrated Data Systems: A Comprehensive Review
Join Sean Cottrell for a comprehensive overview of the DISC’s innovative assessment to assist integrated data systems in safeguarding privacy and security. This session will delve into the latest techniques and strategies for protecting sensitive information, ensuring compliance with regulations, and establishing trust with stakeholders.

OCT 6-9 | AURORA, CO

Data Integration 101 and a Lawyer’s Role
OCT 7 | 3:00 PM MT | Crest 4

Join DISC’s Laia Tiderman with AISP’s Deja Kemp for a training specifically designed for lawyers on the essentials of data integration at this conference hosted by the IT Solutions Management for Human Services (ISM) Affinity Group and the Public Human Services Attorneys (PHSA) Affinity Group of the American Public Human Services Association.

SEP 24-26, 2024 | NEW ORLEANS, LA

Join DISC’s Executive Director Baron Rodriguez at the upcoming National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) Summit for two insightful presentations.

Perfecting Your AI Jazz Ensemble: Harmonizing Policy, Security, and Procurement Challenges
SEP 24 |11:40 AM CT

This session will explore the nuances of Artificial Intelligence, focusing on ethics, securing AI environments, and navigating procurement complexities. The panel will feature specialists from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the National Association of State Procurement Officers (NASPO), and NASWA.

Getting to Yes on Evidence Building – Legal, Cultural, and Infrastructure
SEP 26 | 3:15 PM CT

This session will debunk common misconceptions surrounding the integration of data across multiple agencies. Joining Baron are expert panelists from Wisconsin, Ohio, the Multi-State Data Collaborative and the Coleridge Initiative.

SEP 17, 2024 | WASHINGTON, DC

Laia Tiderman, will represent DISC at this invite only event with key legislators and regulators, top-level industry executives and civil society representatives to explore the pivotal role that data privacy can play in shaping a people-first digital ecosystem.

SEP 15-18 | CHICAGO, IL

DISC representatives will be attending IPDLN’s first U.S. based event to learn about data integration efforts from across the globe.

AUG 5-8 | WASHINGTON, DC

JUL 23-24, 2023 | WASHINGTON, DC

Baron Rodriguez and Sean Cottrell will be representing DISC at APDU’s 2024 Annual Conference, Unlocking the Power of Public Data.

JUL 22-23, 2024 | WASHINGTON, DC

Join Kathy Booth and LeAnn Fong-Batkin at the Jobs for the Future’s flagship event as they showcase work on equitable economic advancement for the nation’s learners and workers.

JUN 24-26 | ARLINGTON, VA

DISC Operations Director, Sean Cottrell, will be in attendance at NREC learning about work that informs policy and practice relevant to young children and their families.

JUN 5 | WASHINGTON, DC

DISC Executive Director, Baron Rodriguez, will be in attendance at this event to support thoughtful AI implementation for integrated data systems.

MAY 29–31 | WASHINGTON, DC

DISC Operations Director, Sean Cottrell, was in attendance at RECS learning about programs, policies, and services that support families on the path to economic self-sufficiency and well-being.

MAR 18-20 | ARLINGTON, VA

Coleridge Initiative’s Annual Convenings are designed to showcase the transformative potential of leveraging administrative data through state, federal, and private collaborations. In this year’s program, the Coleridge Initiative will explore how leaders in the field are pushing the boundaries of traditional governance, forging data partnerships, and reshaping the future of public policy and administration.

DISC staff will highlight collaborations with the Coleridge Initiative to build bridges and break barriers.

FEB 14-15 | WASHINTON, DC

DISC Executive Director, Baron Rodriguez, will be in attendance at the National Association of State Workforce Agencies’ (NASWA) Winter policy Forum to support workforce data integration efforts.

JAN 07-08 | ALEXANDRIA, VA

We recognize successful efforts to connect and integrate data across education, workforce, and other sectors require attention to data sharing agreements, governance standards, and privacy considerations. DISC joins SHEEO to discuss the topic on Creating Cultures of Collaboration for Improved Data Sharing. Baron will elaborate on building trust among agencies and shared understanding of legal and technical issues can help policy makers “get to yes” on data sharing.

JAN 30, 3:00-4:00 PM ET | VIRTUAL

Interested in learning about legal, ethical, and privacy considerations for utilizing AI in integrated data systems (IDS)? On January 30th, join a webinar hosted by the Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC), in partnership with the Data Integration Support Center (DISC) at WestEd. Data privacy experts Brenda Leong from Luminos. Law and Amelia Vance from PIPC will discuss key privacy and technical considerations for incorporating AI in IDS, followed by time for Q&A.

Register here to gain these valuable insights.

CCSSO 2024 Spring Education Information Management Advisory Collaborative (EIMAC) Conference

MAY 14-15 | SEATTLE, WA

DISC staff regularly attend collaborative meetings throughout the year. Catch up with us at the Spring conference.

CCSSO 2024 Winter Education Information Management Advisory Collaborative (EIMAC) Conference

JAN 24-25 | VIRTUAL

DISC staff regularly attend collaborative meetings throughout the year. Catch up with us at the January conference.

NOV 28| 11:00 AM PACIFIC | 2:00 PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

Wondering how long to retain data in an integrated data system? On November 28th, join a webinar hosted by the Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC), in partnership with the Data Integration Support Center (DISC) at WestEd. Data privacy experts Amelia Vance and Morgan Sexton will discuss key considerations for developing data retention policies, followed by time for Q&A.

NOV 20| 9:30 AM PACIFIC | 12:30PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

Interested in learning how privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) can help facilitate secure interagency data sharing? On November 20th, join a webinar hosted by the Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC), in partnership with the Data Integration Support Center (DISC) at WestEd. Data privacy experts Stephanie Straus from the Massive Data Institute and Michael Hawes from the U.S. Census Bureau will discuss the current state of PETs and insights from their related work, followed by time for Q&A.

OCT 25-26 | JACKSONVILLE, FL

OCT 24–26, 2023 | MINNEAPOLIS, MN

As DISC supports data integration across sectors, Laia Tiderman will be representing DISC along with staff from Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC) and Actionable Intelligence for Social Policy (AISP) at the Public Health Law Conference.

OCT 24 | JACKSONVILLE, FL

As states and public agencies move to modernize their integrated data systems, they are looking beyond education data to available economic data. Join us as the Data Integration Support Center hosts a workshop on last mile connections efforts to integrate education and workforce data in IDS.

Topics will include state capacity for data linkages, challenges and wins around workforce and other economic data linkages. We will also use this as an opportunity to talk about the support that you can leverage through the capacity and resources offered by DISC and the Coleridge Initiative, as well as helping identify new opportunities for support.

Please register here or contact [email protected] if you are interested in attending this workshop, space is limited.

OCT 23-24 | JACKSONVILLE, FL

Three-Part Webinar Series: Artificial Intelligence–Opportunities and Risks in Education

Join DISC experts at a workshop series hosted by the Region 2, 13, and 15 Comprehensive Centers to share knowledge and support the development of state-level policies for Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the way we learn, and it has the potential to transform education at all levels. But AI is not without its risks. It is important to understand the potential opportunities and risks of AI in education so that we can use it responsibly and ethically.

Session 1: Uncovering the Potential and Risks of AI in SEA Practices

OCT 6 | 9:00 AM PACIFIC | 12:00 PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

The first session of this three-part series will provide an overview of the potential capacity of AI in supporting SEA practices.

Session 2: Developing a Cohesive and Comprehensive SEA Approach to AI

OCT 20 | 9:00 AM PACIFIC | 12:00 PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

The second session of this three-part series will support SEAs in thinking about a technology plan that incorporates AI policy by considering their processes to manage, operate, and oversee implementation with a goal of safe, equitable, and effective AI use.

Session 3: Promising SEA Practices in AI Policy and Implementation

NOV 3 | 9:00 AM PACIFIC | 12:00 PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

The final session of this three-part series will highlight ideas in action from SEAs that are developing and implementing AI policies and procedures and engaging interest holders and educational partners with diverse perspectives toward making informed decisions about the deployment of AI.

OCT 19 | 9:00 AM PACIFIC | 12:00 PM EASTERN | VIRTUAL

Join DISC’s partners at AISP and lawyers from the Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC) for a session on dispelling myths surrounding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). FERPA is crucial for safeguarding student information, yet misconceptions about it often get in the way of sharing important information to support families and students. National experts from PIPC, Amelia Vance and Morgan Leftwich, will demystify some of FERPA’s complexities, clarify disclosure limitations, and discuss the impact of the law on data sharing and integration. Attendees will get a refresher on FERPA’s core principles and explore real-world scenarios and use cases. To view recording, use password: Rw@vfQ7b

SEP 11-14 | LOS ANGELES, CA

Join DISC staff at the National Association of State Workforce Agencies summit as they discuss workforce data integration successes and barriers.

AUG 9-11, 2023 | BETHESDA, MD

Join us at STATS-DC for more information on how DISC and WestEd’s P20W+ can support data integration and modernization efforts.

JUL 25-26, 2023 | ARLINGTON, VA

Baron Rodriguez and Sean Cottrell will be representing DISC on a panel Exploring Data Science Horizons at APDU’s 2023 Annual Conference.