What type of records are specifically excluded from FERPA protections?

The option referencing personal notes by school officials is correct because FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) specifically excludes certain types of records from its protections. Personal notes maintained by school officials are not considered part of the education records under FERPA, as long as they are kept in the sole possession of the maker and not shared or accessible to anyone else. This means these personal notes do not require the same confidentiality and access rules that apply to educational records.

Health records are typically covered under FERPA, especially if they are maintained by a school and relate to students. Similarly, records arising from financial aid matters are also protected and must adhere to FERPA regulations. Thus, personal notes by school officials stand out as being specifically excluded, making this the correct choice.