Data Magic Episode #5: APIs, Privacy, and Special Education: Jeff Carlson on Clever’s Role in Interoperability

In this episode of Data Magic, we sit down with Dr. Jeff Carlson, Head of National Education Partnerships at Clever, to explore how APIs, data minimization, and identity management are advancing interoperability in K-12 education. Jeff explains how Clever’s platform helps schools share only the data they intend—eliminating risky practices like emailing spreadsheets—and gives districts fine-grained control over what information vendors receive. He discusses the evolving cybersecurity landscape, where student data is valued far more than adult data on the black market, and why protecting student identities has never been more critical. The conversation covers how Clever supports seamless access to digital learning tools, reduces integration challenges for both schools and vendors, and is expanding into new areas like special education data management and real-time assessment feedback. Jeff also shares his personal journey from special education teacher to edtech leader, and how Clever’s collaboration with Project Unicorn is helping military-connected students and those with IEPs access the services they need without delay. Tune in to hear how Clever is working to build a safer, smarter, and more connected educational ecosystem—where every student can access the tools they need, when they need them.