What constitutes "directory information" under FERPA?

Under FERPA, "directory information" refers to specific types of student information that institutions are permitted to disclose without obtaining prior written consent from the student. This can include details such as a student’s name, address, phone number, email address, major field of study, date of birth, and attendance dates. The rationale behind allowing the disclosure of directory information is to facilitate communication and provide essential information to the public while safeguarding more sensitive personal data, such as grades, health records, or disciplinary records, which require consent for disclosure.

In contrast, grades and GPA are specifically protected under FERPA and are not classified as directory information because they are considered sensitive personal records. Similarly, health and medical records are protected by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and also fall under more stringent confidentiality requirements than those designated for directory information. Disciplinary records are likewise protected and typically require a student's consent or meet specific legal exceptions before they can be disclosed, ensuring that sensitive matters regarding student conduct are handled with appropriate confidentiality.

Thus, the correct answer highlights the nature of directory information, which allows for limited disclosure to streamline communication within educational settings while safeguarding personal privacy concerning more sensitive information.