FERPA: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

STUDENT PRIVACY AND DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 protects the privacy of a student's educational records- as print or electronic documents- by placing limits on who may have access to the records, what information may be shared or disclosed, and how that information may be used. Santa Monica College complies with FERPA and has strict policies and procedures in place governing student records.

In general, the College does not permit access to a student's records or disclose information in them to anyone (including a student's parents) without the student's written consent, aside from exceptions that FERPA authorizes. Exceptions include access to selected records by official agencies, groups, or individuals specifically mentioned in FERPA and the sharing of "directory information."

SMC's policy on sharing directory information limits the types of student information that may be disclosed to the following, unless written permission to share additional information is provided: names of students who participate in activities and sports officially recognized by SMC; height and weight of members of SMC athletic teams; previous dates of attendance and previously attended colleges or universities for purposes of determining athletic eligibility; and degrees and awards received. Students who do not wish to have their directory information disclosed may select that a CONFIDENTIALITY HOLD be placed on their records. Students may do this themselves at any time by going to the Student Self-Service system (on the Admissions webpage) and then responding to confidentiality related questions found on their Student Profile link.

Under FERPA, students have the right to inspect and review their own student records. All requests must be made in writing and filed with the Admissions office.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: "Why can't you tell me information about my son/daughter?"
A: The College is bound by FERPA to protect student information unless we are given written consent in person, by the student to do otherwise. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause and we encourage you to have your student contact us to obtain the information directly themselves.

Q: "What if my son/daughter cannot give me written permission to speak with the college?"
A: Unless the College has something submitted in writing, in person from the student, we will not be able to help you. Please know that a wealth of information can be obtained by the student through the Student Self-service system. This information can be accessed online through the use of the SMC Student ID number and password.