What is FERPA, and why does it matter for school communication systems?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. It matters for school communication systems because these platforms often handle personal data such as names, contact numbers, and student identifiers. Any system that stores or sends this data must comply with FERPA to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure.

What kind of student data is protected under FERPA?

This federal law protects personally identifiable information (PII), which includes a student’s name, address, contact information, ID number, grades, health records, and other data that can be used to identify the student. Even seemingly harmless combinations of details, such as a class roster with first names and homerooms, can qualify as protected information.

Can schools send emergency alerts to parents under FERPA?

Yes. FERPA allows schools to share limited student information during emergencies to protect health or safety. The disclosure must relate directly to the emergency, and schools must keep the data secure. Using a FERPA-compliant communication platform ensures those alerts reach families quickly without violating privacy rules.

What happens if a school uses a non-FERPA-compliant notification system?

Schools that use non-compliant tools risk violating federal law. Consequences can include loss of federal funding, formal investigations by the U.S. Department of Education, and serious reputational damage. Parents and community members may also lose trust in the district’s ability to safeguard student data.

Can teachers use personal phones or apps to message students or parents?

Teachers should avoid using personal phones, social media apps, or messaging platforms for school-related communication. Those tools may lack necessary security features and can expose student data. Instead, schools should direct all communication to approved, FERPA-compliant systems with proper access controls, record-keeping, and privacy protections.

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