What is the main purpose of FERPA?

The main purpose of FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) is to protect the privacy of student education records. This federal law grants students certain rights regarding their educational records, including the right to access those records, the right to request the correction of inaccurate records, and the right to control disclosures of personal information contained in those records.

FERPA's emphasis on privacy means that educational institutions are required to safeguard student information, ensuring that it cannot be disclosed without the student's consent, except in specific circumstances outlined by the law. This legal framework aims to give students more control over their personal information, thereby fostering both trust and security in the educational process. The protection of student records is critical not only for individual privacy but also for maintaining a respectful and confidential educational environment.