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September 9, 202511 min read

FERPA Compliance Audits: Assessing and Improving Privacy Practices

Regular compliance audits identify gaps before they become violations. Proactive assessment ensures continuous improvement in student privacy protection.

FERPA Compliance Audits: Assessing and Improving Privacy Practices

Audit Components

Policy Review

Do written policies address all FERPA requirements? Are they current? Are they accessible to staff and families?

Procedure Assessment

Are procedures actually followed? Review record access logs, consent forms, and disclosure documentation.

Training Verification

Have all relevant staff received FERPA training? Is training documented? Is it current?

Technology Review

Do systems adequately protect data? Are access controls appropriate? Are vendor agreements compliant?

FERPA Compliance

Ensure your data practices meet FERPA requirements and protect student privacy.

View Compliance Guide

Conducting Audits

  • • Use checklists aligned to FERPA requirements
  • • Interview staff about actual practices
  • • Review sample records and processes
  • • Document findings and recommendations
  • • Create improvement action plans

Audit Frequency

Conduct comprehensive audits annually. Perform targeted reviews after incidents, policy changes, or new technology implementations.

Resources & Guides

Access implementation guides, best practices, and training materials for your team.

Browse Resources

Key Takeaways

  • Audit components: policies, procedures, training, and technology.
  • Use checklists, interviews, and sample reviews; document findings.
  • Conduct annual comprehensive audits plus targeted reviews as needed.

Dr. Sarah Chen

Chief Education Officer

Former school principal with 20 years of experience in K-12 education. Dr. Chen leads AcumenEd's educational research and curriculum alignment initiatives.

FERPA ComplianceFERPAComplianceAuditsAssessing

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