What is considered an "educational record" under FERPA?

Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), an "educational record" is defined as any record that is directly related to a student and is maintained by an educational agency or institution. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of documents including but not limited to grades, test scores, transcripts, disciplinary records, and other information that schools may maintain about a student.

This comprehensive viewpoint recognizes that educational records are not limited to just grades or transcripts; rather, they encompass all types of information that can relate to a student's academic performance and personal information held by the institution. Thus, the correct answer aligns perfectly with the legal framework set out by FERPA, which seeks to protect student privacy while also ensuring that students have access to their own educational information.