FY24 A.I. Are You Doing All That You Can to Protect Your Student Information?

Ramah Hawley is a dedicated professional with a passion for safeguarding student data privacy in the ever-evolving digital landscape. As the Director of The Education Cooperative's (TEC) Student Data Privacy Alliance (SDPA), she plays a crucial role in securing student data privacy agreements for school districts across five states: Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. TEC SDPA has flourished into a prominent force in the education community, earning a reputation for its commitment to upholding the confidentiality and security of student information, and ensuring that school districts have access to the resources and support needed to comply with data privacy laws effectively. TEC, an approved 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was established in 1968 and continues to fulfill its mission of developing and coordinating educational and organizational programs that empower member communities, their students and educators, while reducing districts' operating costs.

Cynthia Tougas, The Education Cooperative’s SDPA Support Coordinator, is an EdTech Consultant and a former MA Professional Development Director, Technology Director, Technology Integration Specialist, and classroom teacher who has worked for urban and suburban school districts. Highlights of her K12 career were championing STEM education, student data privacy, and information literacy. This included leading the development of a K-12 Computer Science program and forging a path toward safeguarding student data. Working for The Education Cooperative’s SDPA, she provides ongoing training and support to Alliance members as they embark on their own data privacy initiatives. She has presented on the national, state, and local levels.

Susan Bottan returned to Wayland Public Schools in July, 2023 to begin her 8th year as the Director of Finance and Operations for the Wayland Public Schools following a 2-year engagement as Director of Finance and Operations for the Reading Public Schools. Susan began her School Business Official career in 1998 following 16 years working in the roles of manufacturing analyst and marketing and development director for private and public corporations. Susan began her career as a public school official in 1998 for Lexington Public Schools. Over the years, Susan has been privileged to also serve within the Lincoln and Marlborough Public Schools. Susan is the current Vice President of MASBO. Susan has earned undergraduate degrees in education and early childhood development from Lesley University, MS in child development and child care studies from Boston University (Wheelock College), and MBA from Simmons University.