What's Protected
Special education records include: IEPs and IEP meeting documentation, evaluation reports, eligibility determinations, progress monitoring data, related services records, and any documentation of disability.
IDEA's Additional Requirements
Beyond FERPA, IDEA adds requirements: parents must be notified before records are shared outside the school, confidentiality training for all personnel, one official responsible for confidentiality, and list of employees with access maintained.
FERPA Compliance
Ensure your data practices meet FERPA requirements and protect student privacy.
Who Can Access
Access should be limited to those with educational need: special education teachers, general education teachers serving the student, administrators, related service providers, and others on a need-to-know basis.
Record Destruction
Special education records have specific destruction requirements. Parents must be notified before destruction of records no longer needed (after student exits). Some summary information must be maintained permanently.
Resources & Guides
Access implementation guides, best practices, and training materials for your team.
Key Takeaways
- Special ed records have enhanced protections under both FERPA and IDEA.
- IDEA adds requirements: notification before sharing, confidentiality training, designated official.
- Notify parents before destroying records; maintain summary information permanently.
Dr. Emily Rodriguez
Director of Student Support Services
Expert in student intervention strategies with a focus on early warning systems and MTSS implementation.
