The Right to Inspect Records
Parents have the right to review their child's education records. Schools must comply within 45 days of request—though best practice is much faster. Parents can review records in person or request copies (schools may charge reasonable copying fees).
What's Included
Education records include any records directly related to the student maintained by the school: grades and transcripts, attendance records, discipline records, special education records, and health records maintained by the school.
Exceptions to Access
Some records are not subject to parental access: personal notes kept by teachers for their own use (sole possession records), law enforcement unit records, employment records (for students employed by the school), and records of students 18+ (rights transfer to student).
FERPA Compliance
Ensure your data practices meet FERPA requirements and protect student privacy.
Right to Request Amendment
Parents can request amendment of records they believe are inaccurate or misleading. Schools must respond within reasonable time. If the school denies the request, parents have the right to a hearing. If still denied, parents can place a statement in the record.
Note: This applies to factual accuracy, not to grades or educational judgments. Schools are not required to change grades because parents disagree with them.
Best Practices for Handling Requests
- • Establish clear procedures for record requests
- • Respond promptly (don't wait the full 45 days)
- • Verify identity and parental rights before disclosure
- • Document all requests and responses
- • Train staff on proper procedures
Custody and Divorce Situations
Both parents generally have equal FERPA rights, regardless of custody. Schools must provide records to either parent unless there's a court order specifically revoking FERPA rights. Divorce decrees limiting custody don't automatically revoke FERPA rights—specific language is required.
Resources & Guides
Access implementation guides, best practices, and training materials for your team.
Key Takeaways
- Parents can inspect records within 45 days; respond faster when possible.
- Amendment requests address factual accuracy, not grades or professional judgments.
- Both parents typically have equal rights; specific court orders required to revoke.
Dr. Emily Rodriguez
Director of Student Support Services
Expert in student intervention strategies with a focus on early warning systems and MTSS implementation.
