ferpa facts
What is FERPA anyway? FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student's educational records. It applies to schools receiving funds through a U.S. Department of Education program.

Once a student turns 18 years of age, information from her student record can't be shared with others — including parents — unless she gives written permission. The law does allow an institution to disclose records without consent, however, in some cases. These include health and safety emergencies.

So what does this really mean?

Unless it's a health and safety emergency, your student is expected to take responsibility for her life. There are many people on campus who will help her out, but ultimately college is a time for learning many "life lessons." We expect students to take responsibility for:

• their behavioral choices
• respecting rules and policies
• personal integrity and care
• developing healthy study, eating and sleep habits
• seeking assistance when needed
• being a positive member of the campus community

Help your student out. Instead of jumping in to "fix" things when they happen, talk your student through the process of solving the problem herself. Encourage her to use the resources at her disposal and seek assistance from campus professionals when needed. She'll learn a great deal that will help her function as a young professional down the road!