What is FERPA?

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

Quick Answer

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. It gives parents certain rights regarding their children's education records and establishes guidelines for schools on how to handle these records.

Overview

FERPA is a law that applies to all schools that receive federal funding. It ensures that students and their parents have the right to access education records, request corrections, and control the disclosure of their information. For example, if a school wants to share a student's grades with a third party, they must obtain consent from the student or their parents first. The law also mandates that schools must inform parents and eligible students about their rights under FERPA. This includes the right to inspect records and the right to request amendments if they believe the information is inaccurate. By protecting student records, FERPA helps maintain confidentiality and trust within the educational system. In the context of Privacy & Data Law, FERPA is significant because it sets a standard for how sensitive information about students is handled. It highlights the importance of safeguarding personal data and ensures that educational institutions are accountable for protecting student privacy. This law is a critical part of the broader conversation about data privacy and security in various sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of records are protected under FERPA?

FERPA protects education records that contain information directly related to a student, such as grades, transcripts, and disciplinary records. However, it does not cover records kept by school personnel for their own use or law enforcement records.

Who has the right to access a student's educational records?

Initially, parents have the right to access their child's educational records. Once a student turns 18 or attends a postsecondary institution, those rights transfer to the student, who then has control over their own records.

What happens if a school violates FERPA?

If a school violates FERPA, it may lose federal funding and face other consequences. Students and parents can file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education, which investigates the claims and can take action against the institution.