FERPA for Parents

Grades, Progress Reports, and Exam Information

Such things as progress in a course, deficiencies in a subject area, scores and grades on papers and exams, etc. are examples of personally identifiable information that make up part of the student's education record. This information is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and parents may not have access unless the student has provided written authorization that specifically identifies what information may be released to the parent(s).

Access to Student Records

At the post-secondary level, parents have no inherent rights to access or inspect their son’s or daughter's educational records. This right is limited solely to the student. At NYIT, records may be released to parents only if they have signed a written release forthe student or if necessary to comply with a subpoena.

Crisis Situations and Emergencies

If non-directory information is needed to resolve a crisis or emergency situation, an educational institution may release that information if the institution determines itis "necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals." Factors considered in making this assessment are: the severity of the threat to the health or safety of those involved; the need for the information; the time required to deal with the emergency; and the ability of the parties to whom the information is to be given to deal with the emergency.

Contact

Questions may be directed to the Office of the General Counsel or the Office of Campus Life, as appropriate.