What can result from a school’s violation of FERPA?

When a school violates the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), one significant consequence is the potential loss of federal funding. FERPA establishes the rights of students regarding their education records, and schools that fail to comply with these regulations may face serious repercussions.

If an institution is found to be in violation of FERPA, the U.S. Department of Education can withhold federal funds, which may include grants and loans. This measure is a way to ensure that schools adhere to the privacy standards set forth by FERPA and protect the rights of students. It demonstrates the importance of compliance and the serious nature of maintaining students' confidentiality regarding their educational records.

Other potential consequences, like fines or increased tuition, are not direct results of FERPA violations. Mandatory training, while beneficial, is more of a corrective measure that might be taken by the institution but does not represent a formal consequence imposed by the Department of Education in response to a FERPA violation. Thus, loss of federal funding is the most significant and direct repercussion associated with a breach of FERPA regulations.