How does FERPA define legitimate educational interests?

FERPA defines legitimate educational interests as those interests that involve the necessary functions of a school official’s job duties. This means that when a school official has a legitimate educational interest in a student’s educational record, it is typically because they need to access that information to fulfill their responsibilities related to the educational process. This can include activities such as advising students, evaluating student performance, or ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.

In essence, legitimate educational interests are concerned with the official's role within the institution and how access to the information is relevant to fulfilling that role effectively. This aspect is crucial for maintaining the privacy of students' records while allowing necessary access for educational purposes.