Parental Rights Under FERPA

  1. Right to Inspect and Review Records
    You have the right to inspect and review your child’s education records within 45 days of your request. To do so, please submit a written request to the school principal identifying the record(s) you wish to inspect.

  2. Right to Request an Amendment
    If you believe that information in your child’s education record is inaccurate or misleading, you may request an amendment by submitting a written statement to the school principal.

  3. Right to Consent to Disclosures
    FERPA generally requires your written consent before releasing personally identifiable information from your child’s records. However, certain exceptions allow disclosure without consent, such as:

    • School officials with legitimate educational interest

    • Other schools where your child is transferring

    • Specified government officials for audit or evaluation

    • In connection with financial aid

    • Accrediting organizations

    • Judicial orders or subpoenas

    • Health and safety emergencies

  4. Directory Information
    FERPA allows schools to disclose “directory information” without prior consent, unless you opt out. Directory information may include:

    • Student’s name

    • Address

    • Telephone number

    • Date/place of birth

    • Honors and awards

    • Participation in school activities and sports

    • Height and weight of athletic team members

    • Dates of attendance, grade level, and enrollment status

    You have the right to opt out of directory information disclosures. If you wish to do so, please notify us in writing by [insert deadline, e.g., October 1st].

  5. Rights Transfer at Age 18
    When a student turns 18 or enters a post-secondary institution, the rights under FERPA transfer from the parents to the student.