Which of the following entities is primarily responsible for enforcing FERPA?

The Department of Education is primarily responsible for enforcing the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This federal agency oversees the implementation of FERPA regulations, ensuring that educational institutions comply with the law regarding the privacy and rights of students in relation to their educational records. The Department of Education has the authority to investigate complaints and enforce appropriate actions if a violation of FERPA occurs.

Other entities mentioned, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Student Loan Office, do not have a direct role in the oversight or enforcement of educational privacy laws like FERPA. Local Education Authorities may operate within guidelines set by federal laws, but they are not the primary enforcers of FERPA on a federal level. Therefore, the Department of Education's position as the enforcer of FERPA is crucial for maintaining the integrity and privacy of student educational records.