Who can access a student's records without consent under the exception rules of FERPA?

Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), certain individuals and entities can access a student's educational records without the student's consent when they have a legitimate educational interest. This provision is crucial for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the educational environment.

School officials—such as teachers, administrators, and support staff—are typically considered to have legitimate educational interests if they need to review an educational record in the context of their roles in the institution. This access enables them to perform their jobs effectively, such as advising students, evaluating academic progress, or providing necessary services.

In contrast, employers offering internships generally require explicit consent from students to access their records, while the public does not have a right to access such records without permission. Furthermore, while a student’s family may have some rights to information under certain circumstances, they do not automatically have access to a student's records without the student’s consent unless specific conditions are met. Thus, the ability of school officials to access records without consent underscores the necessity of allowing personnel within the educational institution to function efficiently while still safeguarding students' privacy rights.