What is Directory Information [Education]? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: Can I opt out of having my information shared?

Yes, students can notify their educational institution to opt out of directory information disclosures.

Q: What information is excluded from directory information?

Sensitive information such as social security numbers and student ID numbers are excluded.

Definition & Meaning

Directory information refers to specific details about a student that educational institutions can disclose without causing harm or invading privacy. This information typically includes the student's name, address, phone number, email address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, grade level, enrollment status, dates of attendance, and participation in recognized activities and sports. However, it does not include sensitive data like social security numbers or student identification numbers, unless used in a secure manner.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Directory information is primarily used in the context of educational law, particularly under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This term is relevant in various legal areas, including education law and privacy law. Institutions must balance the need to share certain information with the rights of students to protect their personal data. Users can manage related forms and processes through resources like US Legal Forms, which offers templates for compliance with FERPA regulations.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A university publishes a list of students who made the Dean's List, including their names and majors. This is considered directory information.

Example 2: A school shares information about its athletic teams, such as player names, weights, and heights, which is also directory information.

Relevant laws & statutes

The primary statute governing directory information is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), codified at 20 U.S.C. 1232g. This law outlines the rights of students and the responsibilities of educational institutions regarding the handling of student records.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a student or a parent concerned about the disclosure of directory information, you can take steps to opt out of such disclosures by notifying your educational institution. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may help you manage your rights under FERPA. If you have complex concerns, consider seeking professional legal advice.