Education Law in Colorado: What to Know About School Records and Confidentiality

Education law in Colorado plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of students and parents, particularly when it comes to the management of school records and confidentiality. Understanding these laws is essential for parents, educators, and administrators alike.

In Colorado, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) govern how student records are handled. FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records, granting parents and eligible students the right to access, review, and request amendments to these records. This ensures that personal information is not disclosed without consent.

Under FERPA, school districts must maintain the confidentiality of student records and may only disclose them under certain circumstances. For instance, records can be shared with school officials with legitimate educational interests, but parents and eligible students must provide written consent for most other disclosures.

In addition to FERPA, Colorado has specific state laws that enhance student privacy. The Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) outline the types of records that schools must maintain and the duration for which they must be kept. Generally, schools are required to keep a student’s educational records for at least five years after the student’s last attendance.

Parents and guardians have the right to access their child’s education records. This right includes the ability to request information regarding the child’s academic performance, disciplinary actions, and any other records that may impact educational opportunities. It’s important for parents to be aware of these rights, as well as the procedures for requesting access to records.

Confidentiality of school records extends beyond mere access. In Colorado, schools are obligated to protect sensitive information from unauthorized disclosure, which includes not only academics but also health records and disciplinary actions. Schools typically have confidentiality agreements in place for staff who handle such sensitive information.

Furthermore, with the rise of technology, schools are increasingly using electronic means to store and transfer student records. While this brings about efficiency, it also raises concerns regarding data security. Colorado law mandates that schools implement reasonable safeguards to protect student information from cyber threats and unauthorized access.

Parents should also be aware that under Colorado law, students have the right to request a hearing to challenge information they believe is inaccurate or misleading in their educational records. This is an important avenue for students to ensure that their records accurately reflect their academic journey and achievements.

In conclusion, understanding education law in Colorado, especially concerning school records and confidentiality, empowers parents and students to take an active role in their educational rights. With the proper knowledge of FERPA and state laws, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of school record-keeping and maintain the privacy and integrity of student information.