In this section the most important point was about the information that may not be deemed Directory Information: race, gender, soc. sec.,grades GPA, county of citizenship, religion.
I learned more about what can/cannot be released and when.
I learned what kind of information regarding the student can be released and when written consent from the student is required. I also learned if unsure whether I can release the information it's best practice to get written consent from the student.
It is important to understand the rules and regulations pertaining to students.
Being part of an educational organization comes with lots of responsibility. As an instructor knowing the importance of requesting student information and not violating their rights is extremely important. Understanding FERPA is part of being a good representative over all.
Understanding FERPA and why it is important. FERPA is the equivilant to what HIPPA is in the medical field.
It is important to understand the rules and regulations pertaining to student records. It is understable that some of the rules may be confusing, which means that anyone that has access to the records, should be aware of the FERPA rules and how to follow them.
If student request education records, I would refer them to our Registrar, as she is the keeper of our records. But will be able to provide them information regarding the time alloted for our Registrar to respond. And if in doubt about the policy, inform our student about the privacy disclosure and process.
In this section, the importance of following proper protocal regarding the release of student confidential information. It is advisable to err on the side of caution and verify with the student before any information is disclosed to any party that is not a school official doing their duties or the student themselves.
I learned there are very specific situations when student information can & cannot be shared . I will refer to these guidelines if needed.
FERPA policies and procedures can be complicated and confusing, it would be helpful to have in-house meetings per campus to discuss regulations and policies.
Just about any information released about the student should be recorded.
I learned if a student chooses to opt out of releasing Directory Information. They are not allowed to have their name published in the Commencement Program or Honor's List. Also you should be careful with online board discussions if the student has signed the same form. You are not allowed to reference their name in online discussion. I would think this would be hard to obtain participation points at times!
student info is protected
I learned that the institution during an audit must note for each record that is provided the agency name and date that the information was shared, and if it was electronic or physically provided.
Having an annual disclosure signed by the student's is important. This reminds them of who can and cannot see their records.
FERPA policies need to be known to both students and administration. Best practices / policies that are set in place can be set by the university as long as the students are aware. Written documentation of student release is also crucial.
- I learned about the 5 W's
- Who
- What
- Where
- When
- Why
I have learned that in order to comply with the regulations given by FERPA, it is mandatory to follow each instruction exactly as it is given. Understanding that this leads us to provide the best service for our educational community.
It is so important to know FERPA compliance. It not only protects the institution and its' employees, but the students as well. In addtion, certain procedues and policies must be in place for protection of the students' privacy.
