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Can a school resource officer share confidential information with school officials?

Can a school resource officer share confidential information with school officials?

Full question:

Can a resource officer at a school tell information to a school's assistant principle if the information was promised not to be told to anyone by a county police officer? Then, that information was told to several teachers and was even mentioned in one teachers class that my son was busted last night, although no drugs were found. Now the school is telling him that he is not allowed to play baseball his junior year. Does he have any rights as a minor? Do we have any legal rights for your son?

Category: Schools
Date: 04/07/2025
State: National

Answer:

Arrest records are public records and can include details about the arrest and the individual involved. While these records may be sealed if their release could jeopardize an investigation or public safety, there is no inherent right to privacy for public records. Individuals who promise confidentiality may have a moral obligation to keep information private, but this is not a legal requirement when it comes to public records.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Which scenarios are a violation of FERPA?

FERPA violations occur when a school discloses a student's educational records without consent, except in specific exceptions. Examples include sharing grades, disciplinary records, or personal information with unauthorized individuals. If a school resource officer shares confidential information about a student’s disciplinary issues with teachers or other school staff without consent, it may violate FERPA. Schools must ensure that student information is protected and only shared in accordance with FERPA regulations.

How effective are school resource officers?

School resource officers (SROs) can be effective in enhancing school safety and fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and students. They help prevent crime, respond to incidents, and provide guidance on legal matters. However, their effectiveness can depend on training, community relations, and the policies governing their roles. Clear communication and collaboration with school officials are crucial for SROs to function effectively.

What would be considered a FERPA violation?

A FERPA violation occurs when a school improperly discloses a student's personally identifiable information without consent. This can include sharing grades, disciplinary actions, or health records with unauthorized individuals. For instance, if a school resource officer shares a student's arrest details with teachers without the student's consent, it may constitute a FERPA violation. Schools must protect student privacy in compliance with FERPA regulations.

Is a school resource officer an actual police officer?

Yes, a school resource officer (SRO) is typically a sworn law enforcement officer assigned to a school. They are trained to handle law enforcement duties while also focusing on building relationships with students and staff. SROs often provide safety education and support to the school community while maintaining a law enforcement presence.

What is the school official exception to FERPA?

The school official exception under FERPA allows schools to disclose student information without consent to certain individuals who have a legitimate educational interest. This includes school officials, teachers, and staff who need access to student records to perform their job duties. However, this exception does not permit sharing information with individuals who do not have a legitimate educational purpose.