Top 10 FERPA Tips: K-12 School Compliance

managed it security services provider

Okay, lets talk about FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. It sounds intimidating, but really, its all about protecting student privacy. For K-12 schools, navigating FERPA compliance can feel like walking a tightrope.

Top 10 FERPA Tips: K-12 School Compliance - managed it security services provider

    So, lets break down some top tips to help you stay on the right side of the law and, more importantly, do right by your students and their families.


    First, (and this is huge), understand what "education records" actually are. Think broadly. Its not just grades and transcripts. Its pretty much anything the school keeps that directly relates to a student, from attendance records to disciplinary files, even special education evaluations. If its got a students name on it and the school maintains it, FERPA probably applies.


    Second, know who has rights. Generally, its the parents who have rights until the student turns 18, or attends a post-secondary institution, even if they are under 18. Then, the rights transfer to the student themselves. Keep that in mind when youre sharing information.


    Third, (a common pitfall), be careful about directory information. Schools can designate certain information as "directory information" (like name, address, phone number, etc.) and release it without consent. But, you must notify parents annually about what you consider directory information and give them a chance to opt-out. Dont assume everyone wants their kids info shared.


    Fourth, get consent. If you want to share a students education records with someone besides the parent or eligible student (think doctors, therapists, or even another school), you generally need written consent. The consent should specify what records youre releasing, to whom, and for what purpose.


    Fifth, (this ones crucial), train your staff. Everyone from teachers and administrators to support staff needs to understand FERPAs basics. A single slip-up by one person can cause a major headache for the entire school.

    Top 10 FERPA Tips: K-12 School Compliance - managed services new york city

    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    • managed services new york city
    Regular training is key.


    Sixth, have a clear policy. Your school should have a written FERPA policy thats easily accessible to parents and students.

    Top 10 FERPA Tips: K-12 School Compliance - managed it security services provider

    • managed service new york
    • check
    • managed it security services provider
    • managed service new york
    • check
    • managed it security services provider
    • managed service new york
    • check
    • managed it security services provider
    managed it security services provider This policy should outline their rights, how they can access their records, and how to request corrections. Transparency is important!


    Seventh, maintain records securely. Protect education records from unauthorized access or disclosure. This means physical security (locked cabinets, secure computer systems) and digital security (strong passwords, encryption). Data breaches are a nightmare you want to avoid.


    Eighth, (a tricky one), understand the exceptions. FERPA has some exceptions. For example, schools can disclose education records to school officials with legitimate educational interests. But, "legitimate educational interest" needs to be clearly defined in your schools policy. Dont just assume someone has a right to see a record.


    Ninth, document everything. Keep a record of who accessed what records and when. This helps you track potential breaches and demonstrate compliance.


    Tenth, (and perhaps most importantly), when in doubt, err on the side of caution. If youre unsure whether a disclosure is permissible under FERPA, consult with your schools administration or legal counsel. managed service new york Its always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting student privacy. FERPA might seem like a lot, but by focusing on these key areas, you can help ensure your school is protecting student rights and staying in compliance.

    FERPA Violations: School Penalties a Prevention

    Top 10 FERPA Tips: K-12 School Compliance