Understanding Personally Identifiable Information [Education]: Key Legal Insights

Definition & Meaning

Personally identifiable information (PII) refers to any data that can be used to identify an individual student. This includes direct identifiers, like a student's name or social security number, as well as indirect identifiers, such as a date of birth or place of birth. PII is crucial in the education sector because it helps protect students' privacy and ensures that their educational records are handled appropriately.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A school district collects students' names, addresses, and social security numbers to maintain accurate records and comply with federal regulations.

Example 2: A parent requests access to their child's educational records, which include personally identifiable information such as the child's grades and attendance records.

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
California Additional protections under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
Texas Specific state regulations on the handling of student records.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe your personally identifiable information is being mishandled, you should first contact the educational institution to address your concerns. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates to help you manage your educational records and privacy rights. If the situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal assistance.

Quick facts

  • PII includes names, addresses, and social security numbers.
  • Protected under FERPA.
  • Relevant in education and privacy law.
  • Misuse can lead to legal consequences for educational institutions.

Key takeaways