Hello everyone,
As educators, we all know how often we discuss students-whether it's with colleagues, parents, or even family members. But did you know that these conversations can sometimes cross into areas of legal concern? Specifically, when it comes to sharing student information, it's essential to be aware of FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and how it protects students' educational records.
A recent blog post on atpenews.org reminds us how important it is to understand FERPA, the law that protects students' educational records such as grades, attendance, and behavior. Basically, FERPA keeps student info private and only lets those with a legitimate educational interest-teachers, administrators, etc.-access it. It's important to be careful with how we share student info, whether it's in person, by email, or online. Some simple tips to stay compliant include locking your computer, double-checking email recipients, avoiding posting student work online, using initials instead of full names, and keeping student discussions private.
What are some ways you've ensured FERPA compliance in your own practices? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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David George
Managing Editor
Association of Texas Professional Educators
atpe.org | atpenews.org
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