The privacy and confidentiality of a student's public school records are protected by both federal and state laws, although many states simply defer to federal law. These records may include not only academic information, but also disciplinary records, notes from counselors and administrators, and even health care information. Federal academic record privacy law applies to any school that receives federal funding -- virtually all public schools -- protecting student and parent rights to inspect and review a student's records, and to make any necessary corrections.
Some states have additional statutory guidelines for handling students' information. If left unprotected, a student's confidential information could be used for identity theft, blackmail, or other types of fraud.
New Hampshire Laws Concerning the Privacy of School Records
New Hampshire statute provides very little guidance on how to handle school records aside from being exempted from laws guaranteeing public access to government records. Federal laws on this matter are discussed in greater detail below. See FindLaw's School Privacy section to learn more.
| Code Section | 91-A:5 |
| Who Has Access to School Records? | Exempted from public access. |
| Penalty for Violation of School Record Privacy Laws | - |
| Federal Agency to Contact with Complaints | To file a complaint about school record privacy violations, contact the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy Compliance Office (FPCO) at 1-8000-872-5327 or: FPCO Department of Education 400 Maryland Ave SW Washington, DC 20202-5920 |
Note: State laws are always subject to change or be overturned at any time through the decisions of higher courts and the enactment of newly signed legislation. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these pages, you may also want to contact a New Hampshire education law attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Federal Protection of School Records
FERPA prohibits schools from disclosing personally identifiable educational records without the parent's written permission, including files, documents, health records, or other materials pertaining to a student and maintained by the school. PPRA places certain restrictions on the participation by students in surveys, evaluations, or other potential disclosure of sensitive information.
Research the Law
New Hampshire Privacy of School Records Laws: Related Resources
