🎯 Who We Are
The Better Choices Education platform provides a secure, user-friendly environment for students, educators, and administrators. Students access assigned learning modules through unique, time-limited links—no login required—allowing them to complete restorative lessons independently during detention, ISS, or OSS.
Educators and administrators can monitor student progress in real time, view completed responses, and receive notifications upon completion. The platform is fully web-based and accessible on any device, requiring no installation or technical setup.
Most importantly, it is designed in full compliance with Connecticut student data privacy laws (CT General Statutes §§10-234aa–10-234dd), ensuring responsible handling of student information.
💡 Our Mission & Values
Our mission is to provide a platform that helps schools and districts effectively manage student behavior while ensuring the privacy and security of student data.
We are committed to delivering a secure and user-friendly experience that meets the needs of educators, students, and parents alike.
Our team consists of experienced educators, software developers, and data privacy experts who are dedicated to improving student outcomes through innovative technology solutions.
We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed—and we are here to help make that happen.
👥 Meet Our Team
Tug Drysdale
President, Better Choices Education LLC
Tug Drysdale is a seasoned educator and administrator with a deep commitment to student development and educational innovation. Holding degrees from Southern Connecticut State University, the University of New England, and the University of Bridgeport, Tug combines a strong academic foundation with over a decade of hands-on experience in K–12 education.
Throughout his career, he has served in multiple impactful roles, including Teacher, Discipline Dean, and Dean of Students. His leadership is characterized by a student-centered approach and a focus on proactive behavior management.
His collaboration with Yale University's Department of Psychology further enhanced his expertise in adolescent development and behavioral science, enriching his contributions to school culture and climate.
Tug is a co-creator of a pioneering behavior intervention program for middle and high schools, aimed at improving student engagement and reducing disciplinary incidents through evidence-informed strategies.
He is recognized for his dedication to fostering inclusive, safe, and motivating learning environments. Tug continues to lead with integrity, innovation, and a passion for helping all students succeed.
Victor Rivera
Vice President, Better Choices Education LLC
Victor M. Rivera brings over two decades of dedication and leadership to the field of education. With 16 years of classroom experience and 4 years in high school administration, Victor has developed a well-rounded and impactful approach to student success.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, a Master's in Educational Technology, and a Sixth-Year Certification in Educational Administration (092).
His expertise bridges instructional best practices, digital learning integration, and school leadership—making him a versatile and forward-thinking professional.
As Vice President, Victor is committed to empowering educators and students through practical strategies, inclusive practices, and technology-enhanced instruction.
Gina Marie West, M.Ed
Director of Educational Programming, Better Choices Education LLC
Gina Marie West is a dedicated educator with over 30 years of experience inspiring and guiding students from diverse backgrounds. She holds a bachelor’s degree in teaching (PreK–12), a Master’s in Reading, and certification as a K–12 Library Media Specialist.
Her impactful work spans urban and suburban schools, where she has served as a Middle School Math and Reading teacher, Language Arts instructor, High School Library Media Specialist, and Elementary Reading and Math Interventionist.
Gina is a co-founder of Better Choices Education LLC, designed to help students build positive behaviors and essential life skills.
Her philosophy is simple: Every child can make educated choices when given the right tools and support.
She remains a trusted mentor and innovator in the field of education.
Sean Callahan
Project Manager, Better Choices Education LLC
Sean S. Callahan is an experienced educational leader and Project Manager at Better Choices Education LLC. With a strong commitment to supporting student growth and school-wide success, Sean leads initiatives that promote student well-being and instructional excellence.
He specializes in designing and delivering comprehensive wellness and physical education programming for grades 5–8. His teaching style is collaborative, innovative, and student-centered.
Sean brings a proven track record in driving school initiatives that support whole-child education and community engagement.
David Pineau
Chief Technology Officer, Better Choices Education LLC
David Pineau serves as the Chief Technology Officer at Better Choices Education LLC, where he leads the development and implementation of a web-based restorative discipline system that transforms student behavior through technology-enhanced education.
With over 30 years of IT experience, David combines deep technical skills with educational leadership.
He is a full-stack web developer and database administrator proficient in JavaScript, Node.js, PHP, Express, MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and CSS.
David holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Public Fire Administration. He has designed and administered training programs and curriculum development for fire departments in the state.
His leadership is fueled by a passion for meaningful, data-driven solutions that support students, schools, and communities.