What is FERPA and why is it important in SPED practice?

• A. It governs disciplinary procedures in schools
• B. It sets standards for classroom assessments
• C. It protects the privacy of student education records and governs who may access them
• D. It provides federal funding for special education

Answer: (C)

FERPA protects the privacy of student education records and determines who may access them. In special education, this means documents like evaluations, IEPs, progress notes, and related services records are safeguarded, and parents (or eligible students) have the right to inspect and request corrections. Schools may share information with other district staff who have a legitimate educational interest without separate consent, and with outside vendors or other schools only under specific conditions or when transfers occur. Directory information may be disclosed unless a parent opts out. This framework is why the statement describing FERPA as protecting privacy and governing access is the best answer. Disciplinary procedures, assessment standards, and funding are governed by other laws or policies, not FERPA.