FERPA Confidential Information

Is all student information confidential? 

Generally speaking, all information about students is confidential and should be treated as such.  However under FERPA, certain information about students may be disclosed if the student has not elected "privacy".
 
So what are the basic rules?
  • Confidential Information may NOT be released without the written consent of the student
  • Directory Information is any information contained in the student record that is considered "public" information and can be released without the student's written permission
  • However, the student may opt to consider directory information "confidential" as well by electing privacy.  
  • When the student elects privacy, NO INFORMATION about the student MAY BE RELEASED TO ANYONE!