Overview
Sara Kock is a Senior Manager for Client Facing Data Initiatives at WestEd. As a subject matter expert in data systems, user-centered design, and data visualizations, Kock supports public agencies in developing and implementing technology solutions that transform data into actionable insights, including the Migrant Student Information Network (MSIN) and DataVista. She also provides technical assistance to public agencies on their data workflow and systems efforts, drawing on her extensive experience with statewide longitudinal data systems (SLDS) and integrated data systems. Since joining WestEd, Kock has led technology and data assessments for agencies and organizations across the country, including the Colorado Department of Education, National Association of School Nurses, and LA County Office of Education.
Prior to joining WestEd, Kock spent 12 years with the South Dakota Department of Education, where she led the creation, maintenance, and support of the state’s PK–12 statewide longitudinal data system (SLDS). In this role, she oversaw the development of a CEDS-compliant data warehouse, coordinated departmentwide initiatives in data governance and public reporting, and managed system support for district and state users. She also supported federal reporting (e.g., EDFacts), including the ESSA required accountability report card.
Kock’s data experience also spans human services. She evaluated the quality of child welfare services in Milwaukee County in her work with Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. This included tracking metrics such as reunification rates, re-entry rates, and foster care placements, and communicating findings to leadership, partners, and the public. This cross-sector foundation in both education and human services data continues to inform Kock’s work today.
Kock’s career began in education, where she taught elementary students on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota and managed a 21st Century Community Learning Center after-school programs in an elementary school in Madison, Wisconsin. This classroom-to-state-agency experience provides her with unique insight into how data systems can be designed to meet the practical needs of educators and administrators at all levels.
Education
- Graduate certificate, State Government Leadership Excellence, University of South Dakota
- MA in public affairs, University of Wisconsin-Madison
- BA in sociology and psychology, Augustana University
Select Publications
Collins, R. & Kock, S. (2026). Colorado Department of Education: Value Assessment of a Statewide Student Information Solution—Level of Effort Analysis. WestEd.
Kock, S., Willis, J., & Collins, R. (2026). Colorado Department of Education: Value Assessment of a Statewide Student Information Solution—Recommendation. WestEd.
Holden, K., & Kock, S. (2012). Increasing Wisconsin Deferred Compensation contributions by working women: What WDC eligible workers say about participation and contribution decisions (Center for Financial Security Working Paper).
Durkin, C., Hartung, A., Kock, S., Russ, J., & Waldhart, P. (2011). Options for allocating state child welfare dollars to Wisconsin counties. La Follette School Workshop Reports.
Fredericks, S., Kock, S., Ley, E., Little, O., Olson, N., Waldhart, P. (2011). Efficiently Reducing Corrections Costs in Wisconsin: Applying the Washington State Model. La Follette Working Papers.
Honors, Awards, and Affiliations
SD teaching certification, K–8 elementary education and K–12 special education endorsement
Spirit of United Way Individual Award from the Capital Area United Way (2014)