What is the definition of "personally identifiable information" under FERPA?

The correct choice provides a comprehensive definition of "personally identifiable information" (PII) under FERPA, which emphasizes that this category of data includes specific identifiers such as a student's name, social security number (SSN), or other details that can be used to identify an individual student. This is significant because FERPA's protections are designed to prevent unauthorized access to or disclosure of such identifiable information, ensuring students' privacy concerning their educational records.

The focus on specific identifiers aligns with FERPA’s intent to safeguard against potential misuse of information that could lead to breaches of confidentiality or privacy for students. Understanding the nuances of PII is crucial for compliance with FERPA regulations, as it delineates what information educators and institutions must protect.

In contrast, options reflecting information that is publicly accessible or solely related to academic performance do not encapsulate the full scope of PII as defined by FERPA. Additionally, while a numerical identifier assigned by a school may be considered a part of the broader category of data governed by FERPA, it alone does not represent the full concept of PII, which encompasses more specific and identifiable features.