Understanding FERPA: What Directory Information Can Be Disclosed Without Consent?

Understanding FERPA: What Directory Information Can Be Disclosed Without Consent?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that safeguards the privacy of student education records. As a parent, student, or education institution staff member, you have the right to review and request a correction to your education records. Additionally, FERPA limits the disclosure of personally identifiable information from education records without explicit consent.

However, there are exceptions for disclosing “directory information.” Understanding which pieces of information classify as directory information is crucial for parents, students, and educational institutions.

Defining Directory Information

Directory information includes information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released. The following are examples of directory information:

– Name
– Address
– Date and place of birth
– Telephone number
– Email address
– Photograph
– Major field of study
– Dates of attendance
– Enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
– Degrees, honors or awards received
– Participating in official school activities and sports

It is important to note that each institution can define directory information differently. Therefore, it is essential to ask your educational institution for their specific definition and to review their policies regarding access to education records and directory information.

Disclosure Without Consent

Under FERPA, educational institutions may disclose directory information without obtaining consent from a parent or eligible student if they have given public notice of:

1. The types of information which the institution has designated as directory information
2. The right of a parent or eligible student to refuse the disclosure of directory information
3. The period of time within which a parent or eligible student must notify the institution in writing that he or she does not want any or all of the designated information disclosed.

If the educational institution has provided public notice of directory information and a refusal process, they have fulfilled their obligation under FERPA before disclosing the information.

Protecting Directory Information

While directory information can be released without consent, schools must still safeguard it. Pertinent safeguards include:

– Limiting the number of people who have access to the information
– Providing notice to students and parents about the disclosure of directory information
– Allowing parents or eligible students to request that a school not disclose directory information

Conclusion:

In summary, understanding directory information is vital to ensure that your educational institution handles your information appropriately. It is essential to understand which pieces of information are classified as directory information and ensure that your school adequately safeguards them. Remember, educational institutions must provide public notice and a refusal process for directory information disclosure, so make sure to review their policies.