I learned that the rules are very clear. Should you come across a situation that concerns the release of a students records to anybody besides the student, you should take a moment to ensure compliance with the regulations is maintained. A legitimate complaint could be costly to you and your institution, especially in the price of the student body trust.
In the "FERPA Compliance" module, I learned some topics such as directory and non-directory identified records, who could access the student record, some information that could be disclosed without student permissions, etc
Do not share student's information without the consent of the student.
Understanding and following FERPA rules and regulations are here to protect the student's information. Unfortunately, in the past students have been harmed due to others gaining access to the student information.
Basically to make sure before releasing any information, that you have the student's permission, unless they have a parent listed as their guardian, then you can release to the parent without their permission. It's best just to keep everything under "lock and key" so to speak.
It is important to know what your institution defines as "directory" and "non-directory."
This is great to know that the law specifies what info can be released and what not, in what frequencies etc. I found the details quite important to be revisited as soon as we see any confusion regarding such procedures.
Exceptions to FERPA and how to document release of records.
Being aware of who is allowed access to a student education record is key. Each disclosure of a students record must be appropriately documented within the record. For post-secondary education, there are rules for if a parent has access to the education record.
Understanding FERPA rules and laws is very helpful to all at the college because if one of us doesn't comply it can affect the entire college as a whole.
Smatt
As detailed as these requirements are, it would help to print reference pages to keep hand to assist in protecting the students rights.
I have learned what is considered Directory information like student's name, address, phone number, etc... What is not Directory information such as race, gender, social security number, etc.... Personally identifiable information may include Directory and Non-Directory information. Parents of students may obtain copies of records if the student is a dependent, under 21 years of age, in a health related or emergency situation or with student consent.
I did not know that a student could approve release of grades and attendance for only one course.
I learned the importance of students receiving information on FERPA, from this section. I also learned that even if a student signed not to have information disclosed certain circumstances, such as legal issues, information will be shared.
I learned what can and can not be released with and without prior authorization from students. I also learned who has authority to see information, under certain circumstances.
It is important to understand the policies of FERPA, and/or know where to review information before releasing any student information. These compliance rules protect the student's information/privacy as well as the institution that maintains such information/records.
In this section I have learned that there are anyways you can protect the students information from institution, parents and faculty. Always double checking the FERPA procedures
Again, as a nurse who is used to HIPAA, FERPA is very similar. Protected information is PROTECTED!
Understanding, practicing, and emplamenting are all important and beneficial steps that need to be taken.
