The Idaho Education Technology Association (IETA) Conference once again proved to be a powerhouse of insights, collaboration, and forward-thinking discussions. As a Gold Sponsor, InfoVia was privileged to support this event and engage with education leaders from across the state who are tackling some of the most pressing technology and data challenges in their schools and districts.
One of the most common themes we heard? A love-hate relationship with Student Information Systems (SIS). With only a handful of viable options on the market, no single solution does everything well. Schools and districts are often left to piece together workarounds, leading to inefficiencies, data silos, and frustrating manual processes—which is a compelling argument for a data warehouse that enables custom analytics.
The Growing Demand for Data Aggregation & Automation
Education leaders recognize the need to aggregate data more effectively and reduce the manual effort required to maintain records and complete regulatory reporting. However, many smaller districts lack the resources to invest in cutting-edge solutions. They are eager to modernize their data infrastructure but are constrained by limited budgets and expertise.
One promising approach? A shared data warehouse model that allows districts to benefit from sophisticated analytics—similar to what larger districts enjoy—while keeping costs proportional to their budgets. By pooling resources and leveraging scalable technology, smaller institutions can gain access to robust insights that drive better decision-making without overextending their financial limits.
AI: The Conference Headliner
If a session had “AI” in the title, you could count on a full room. The enthusiasm for artificial intelligence was evident, with educators and IT leaders eager to understand how AI can enhance learning outcomes, streamline administrative tasks, and improve overall efficiency. However, the challenge remains: how can schools integrate AI responsibly and affordably while ensuring data privacy and compliance with regulations?
InfoVia’s Thought Leadership at IETA
InfoVia was proud to contribute to these discussions through multiple presentations:
- Mike Kalousek, Chief Operating Officer, co-presented with Idaho Digital Learning Alliance on planning and executing a holistic data maturity project. The key takeaway? Large-scale data initiatives don’t have to be overwhelming—breaking them into small, measurable components makes success achievable.
- Mike Magalsky, Founder & Principal Architect, led two impactful sessions. The first focused on strengthening data governance through effective stewardship, and the second emphasized treating data as an asset: one that should be shared widely for educational benefit while being fiercely protected against misuse.
Building a Future-Ready Data Strategy
The conference underscored a critical reality—data is both an opportunity and a challenge for educational institutions. Schools must navigate complex ecosystems of student records, regulatory requirements, and evolving technology, all while striving to improve learning experiences. The path forward lies in collaborative solutions, strategic investments in data infrastructure, and a commitment to ongoing education on best practices.
For those who couldn’t attend IETA this year, we highly recommend adding it to your calendar for next year. The connections, insights, and practical strategies shared at this event are invaluable. At InfoVia, we’re excited to continue working alongside education leaders to unlock the power of data and drive meaningful change.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
If your school or district is facing data challenges and looking for a strategic partner to help navigate them, let’s connect. We’re here to help you turn data into a powerful asset that empowers educators and improves student outcomes.
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