Who is protected under FERPA?

The correct answer highlights that FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) provides protections to students who are 18 years old or older, as well as to those who are attending a post-secondary institution, regardless of their age. This means that once a student turns 18, or if they are enrolled in a college or university, they gain control over their educational records. The purpose of this law is to ensure that students have the right to access their records and control who can view them, thus maintaining their privacy and confidentiality in their educational pursuits.

Other options may refer to specific age groups or educational settings that do not encompass the full range of individuals protected by FERPA. For example, focusing solely on high school students or minors overlooks the broader protections granted to students in higher education and those who have reached adulthood. Therefore, the coverage under FERPA is more comprehensive, ensuring that all eligible students, irrespective of their age, are protected.