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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Overview

Background

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Enacted in 1974, FERPA applies to all schools receiving federal funding, including Onslow County Schools. It ensures that parents and eligible students (those 18 or older) have control over the disclosure of personal information.

Your Rights Under FERPA

Onslow County Schools complies with FERPA by granting the following rights to parents of students under 18, or eligible students:

  • Inspect and review education records maintained by the school.
  • Request amendments to correct inaccurate or misleading information in records.
  • Consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information, except to school officials with a legitimate educational interest or as required by law.

Annual notification of these rights is provided through the district website, student handbooks, and school communications.

District Compliance

Onslow County Schools safeguards student records through secure data management practices and staff training. Disclosures are limited to authorized personnel or legal requirements, such as health and safety emergencies. For questions about your records, contact the school administration.

Filing a Complaint

If you believe FERPA rights have been violated, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Family Policy Compliance Office. Visit http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html for details or call 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327).