Section 3: Response B

The father does not have a legitimate educational interest in Sam's record since the request is not related to his professional responsibilities as a faculty member. His request is related more to his role as a father.

All university employees should have a legitimate educational interest for requesting student information. Releasing the information would be in violation of FERPA. The adviser needs to get written permission from Sam or document Sam’s dependent status to his father through Records and Advisement before releasing the requested information.

Keep in mind that this individual is a customer of the university. You can always refer the individual to your supervisor or to the Director of Records and Advisement when in doubt or unsure of how to provide further assistance.

Return to FERPA Training

Response "A"—Releasing this information to his father is not a recommended response. The father does not have a legitimate educational interest in Sam’s record since the request is not related to his professional responsibilities as a faculty member. His request is related more to his role as a father. Releasing the information would be in violation of FERPA.

Response "C"—Releasing the information would be in violation of FERPA.