Hello,
I actually have two questions that I am having trouble answering. The first request I received is well-intentioned, but I am unsure if it is allowed under FERPA. Our Native American Center wants to host a graduation celebration and has requested contact information for all graduating students who identify as Native American. Would I be violating FERPA If I supply such a list?
My second question has to do with parental access to records. A student has granted a FERPA release to their parent. The parent has contacted the instructor about the student. The faculty member wants to know if he is obligated to talk to the parent, or is it up to his discretion?
Thanks,
Saul Goode
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Hello Saul,
In regards to your first question, race, gender, and ethnicity are not items that can be designated as ‘directory information’ under FERPA. Thus, your institution would not be able to provide the information requested linked to specific students. However, the college could provide the information to the students and let them know to follow up with the center if they have the interest and inclination to.
As to your second question, a signed consent from the student permits the college to release information to the named party, but there is no requirement that the institution provide the requested information. Also, any direction on how, or whether, faculty interact with parents is up to the institution.
I hope this is helpful in answering your questions,
The FERPA Professor
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