FERPA

FERPA (Student Records)The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.

Rights and Procedures

• School officials shall have access to student records only for legitimate educational purposes and to carry out their responsibilities to each student.
• The release of student record information to others depends upon a written release from the parent/guardian, student 18 years old or over, or legally emancipated minor. Under certain circumstances and applicable laws, information may be released to other agencies, such as Child Protective Services, without parent permission.
• Parents have the right to inspect, review, and confirm the accuracy of the student’s educational record. They may seek to amend their child’s records believed to be inaccurate or misleading though approval of the Office of Student Services.
• Parents have a right to file a complaint regarding records violations with the U.S. Department of Education.
• Parents or guardians have a right to obtain a copy of the student record policy of the school division. This information is summarized annually in the APS Handbook.
• Parents have a right to request complete copies of all educational information in their child’s file. APS typically does not charge for copies requested within reasonable time frames. Repeated requests for copies of the same record may result in a charge.
• Federal law requires that the school district comply with parent requests for access to records within 45 days or less. The district would also include requests for copying records within this timeline as well. It is in rare instances that it should take this length of time.

To Make a Request or For More Information: Contact the APS Office of Student Services at ferpa@apsva.us or 703-228-6061 if you have questions about FERPA or need assistance.

Policies & Links:

• The U.S. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• APS School Board Policy: J-15.30 Privacy Rights and Regulations