What aspect of student behavior is covered under the provision allowing parents to be notified without student consent?

The provision allowing parents to be notified without student consent primarily concerns violations of alcohol and controlled substances. Under FERPA, schools are permitted to disclose certain information to parents or guardians when their child is found to be in violation of laws or policies concerning the use or possession of alcohol or controlled substances. This is particularly relevant for students who are under the legal drinking age or who are enrolled in institutions that may have specific policies about substance use.

The rationale for this provision is rooted in the safety and well-being of students. Institutions recognize that substance misuse can lead to serious health risks and potential legal issues, so it's important for parents to be involved when it comes to these matters, especially if the behavior poses a significant risk to the student or others. This approach aligns with broader public health and safety interests rather than solely focusing on academic performance, conflicts, or emotional issues, which generally fall under different confidentiality standards and do not automatically trigger parental notification without consent.