Bill > S50

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Education-to-Career Data Center within the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, creating a comprehensive data system designed to track and improve educational and workforce outcomes. The center will collect and manage longitudinal data from various state agencies, including early education, elementary and secondary education, higher education, and unemployment assistance, with strict privacy protections. The data center will be governed by a 15-member board representing government agencies and public appointees, who will oversee the system's strategic direction, ensure data privacy, and facilitate research-practice partnerships. The center's key functions include developing de-identification processes, maintaining a secure data enclave, producing standardized reports, and enabling research that can help address educational disparities, support student decision-making, and improve workforce development. Importantly, the bill emphasizes data privacy and individual confidentiality, requiring compliance with multiple state and federal privacy laws, and includes provisions for data providers to review and approve research products. The system aims to provide a centralized, secure platform for accessing and analyzing education and workforce data, with the ultimate goal of generating actionable insights to enhance educational and career opportunities across Massachusetts.

Business and Industry, Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S50