What happens to education records if a student transfers schools?

When a student transfers schools, their education records can indeed be transferred to the new institution, provided there is appropriate consent. This process is governed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which allows for the transfer of records to another school in which the student intends to enroll. The original educational institution has an obligation to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of those records while also facilitating their transfer under the correct privacy guidelines.

Consent is a crucial component; if the student or their parents provide written consent, this allows for the necessary information sharing between institutions. In practice, schools often have established protocols to ensure that records are shared in a compliant manner, enabling the new school to build upon the previous educational experiences of the student. This efficient transfer supports continuity in education and helps schools provide appropriate support tailored to the student’s history.

While other options suggest scenarios that don't align with FERPA regulations—such as immediate destruction of records or indefinite withholding—those do not reflect the legal requirements regarding the transfer of education records between institutions.