10 Ferpa Violation For Teachers

Ferpa Violation For Teachers.FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) is a federal law in the United States that protects the privacy of student education records. Violating FERPA can result in serious consequences, including loss of federal funding for educational institutions. Here are 10 examples of FERPA violations that teachers should avoid:

Ferpa Violation For Teachers.

1. Unauthorized Disclosure of Student Grades: Sharing student grades or academic performance with unauthorized individuals, such as other students or parents not designated as eligible recipients under FERPA.
2. Insecure Communication: Sending sensitive student information, such as grades or disciplinary records, through unsecured channels like email or public discussion boards where unauthorized parties can access the information.
3. Displaying Student Records: Leaving student papers, exams, or other materials with personally identifiable information (PII) exposed in a public area where others can see them.
4. Discussing Student Information in Public: Talking about a student’s educational records or personal information in a public setting where unauthorized individuals can overhear the conversation.
5. Allowing Access to Computers: Leaving a computer or digital device with student information accessible without proper security measures, allowing unauthorized users to access the information.
6. Using Personal Social Media: Sharing student records or posting identifiable student information on personal social media accounts without the necessary permissions.
7. Releasing Information to Parents of Adult Students: Sharing a student’s educational records with parents of adult students (those who are 18 years or older) without the student’s explicit consent.
8. Photographing or Recording Student Information: Taking photos, screenshots, or recordings of student records or discussions without proper safeguards in place to protect the information.
9. Releasing Information to Third Parties: Providing student information to third-party organizations or businesses without obtaining written consent from eligible students or their parents, if applicable.
10. Not Following School Policies: Disregarding school or district policies related to FERPA compliance, such as not seeking proper authorization before sharing student information or not undergoing required FERPA training.

It’s important for educators to be well-informed about FERPA regulations and to follow best practices to protect student privacy and avoid FERPA violations. When in doubt, teachers should consult with their school’s administration or legal experts to ensure they are in compliance with the law.