What type of information is NOT protected under FERPA?

Directory information is a category of student information that is not protected under FERPA in the same way that other educational records are. This type of information can include details such as a student’s name, address, phone number, email, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. FERPA allows educational institutions to disclose directory information without the need for explicit consent from the student unless the student has opted out of such disclosures.

In contrast, social security numbers, health records, and academic performance records are considered protected under FERPA. Social security numbers are sensitive personal identifiers that fall under the definitions of education records. Health records also contain personal health information and are protected for privacy. Academic performance records, such as grades and transcripts, are a core type of information covered by FERPA and require consent for disclosure. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for maintaining compliance with FERPA regulations and ensuring student privacy.