Ask the FERPA Professor

August 4, 2023
  • FERPA
  • FERPA Professor
cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Dear FERPA Professor, 

At my college, the student email address includes a portion of the student ID number.  Since we do not have a student ID number as directory information, it does not seem appropriate for us to include a portion of the student ID number in the student's Oakton email address.  The closest Dear Colleague letter that I have found that addresses this is on page 195 of the FERPA Guide.  

Am I correct that this is an issue (of including a portion of the student ID number in the student's Oakton email address)?

Is there any other Dear Colleague letter that would address this issue?

Sincerely,

Mr. Sprig


Dear Mr. Sprig,

You should include the student ID as a directory information item if it, or a portion of it, is going to be publicly available.  Also, you might want to check out the letter on page 212 of the 2012 AACRAO FERPA Guide. which discusses the limited circumstances under which institutions can designate the SID as a directory information item.

The FERPA Professor

Want the Professor to come to your campus? Visit our FERPA compliance training page.

AACRAO members, send your questions to the FERPA Professor at communications@aacrao.org.

Subscribe

AACRAO's bi-weekly professional development e-newsletter is open to members and non-members alike.