When can an instructor legally release confidential student information under FERPA?

An instructor can legally release confidential student information under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) when there is a subpoena for legal reasons. This act protects the privacy of student education records and grants students certain rights regarding their information. However, if a legal entity, such as a court, issues a subpoena, the instructor is required to comply with that legal demand, allowing for the release of information that may otherwise be protected under FERPA.

The act does not permit sharing confidential student information freely or casually among friends, during classroom discussions, or for social events, as these situations do not meet the legal circumstances outlined by FERPA for disclosure of such sensitive information. Understanding the legal framework surrounding confidentiality in education reinforces the importance of safeguarding student privacy while also recognizing the exceptions that exist under lawful conditions.