Can a school disclose a student's educational records without consent?

The correct answer is that a school can disclose a student's educational records without consent under specific exceptions outlined by FERPA. FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, provides certain conditions where educational records may be shared without prior consent from the student. These exceptions include circumstances such as when information is needed for school officials with legitimate educational interests, during health or safety emergencies, or in response to a subpoena or court order.

Understanding these exceptions is crucial because it acknowledges that while the protection of student privacy is paramount, there are situations where sharing information is necessary for the well-being of students or for legal compliance. Therefore, knowing the specific contexts where disclosures can occur helps educational institutions and students navigate the balance between privacy rights and the need for information sharing in specific scenarios.