At DISC, our primary focus is to help states modernize their data systems to support evidence-based policymaking. We really seek to serve as thought partners helping triage the root of the problem.
— Sean Cottrell
Director of Operations for the Data Integration Support Center (DISC) at WestEd
States are working to build and modernize integrated data systems to help public agencies better understand and respond to the needs of students, families, and communities, which is critical in the post COVID–19 era. To integrate data from across sectors effectively, states need to consider many legal and technical challenges, as well as data privacy concerns and system security.
In this episode, host Danny Torres talks with Baron Rodriguez, Executive Director for WestEd’s Data Integration Support Center (DISC), and Sean Cottrell, Director of Operations of DISC, about the Center’s comprehensive services and why integrating data from across sectors—including education, workforce, social services, and criminal justice—can help state leaders and policymakers address the needs of the whole child, the whole person, and the whole community.
Their conversation covers the following topics:
- how DISC services can support public agencies, often at no cost
- why integrated data systems are important in the post-COVID era
- DISC’s five areas of support: planning and user-centered design, legislative analysis, external legal supports, privacy, and system security
Learn more about the WestEd Data Integration Support Center.
Additional Resources
Featured Guests
Baron Rodriguez
