Parents of high school graduates often experience a mix of emotions as they watch their children transition from high school to the next phase of their lives.  Parents feel immense pride in their child's achievements, celebrating the hard work and dedication that led to graduation and excitement about the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead for their child.

A freshman year in college is often marked by significant transitions and adjustments as students adapt to a new academic environment, independence, and social life. This transition comes with a host of new rights and responsibilities, and seeking legal advice can help them and you navigate these changes effectively.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) imposes certain restrictions on parents' access to their children's educational records once the student turns 18 or attends a postsecondary institution. This means parents no longer have automatic access to the student's educational records. Parents cannot access grades, transcripts, class schedules, disciplinary records, or other educational information without the student's written consent. The lack of access can present real problems.

Restricting access can lead to parents being unaware of academic performance, disciplinary actions, or other issues unless the student voluntarily shares this information. Without being privy to the necessary information, parents may find it challenging to support their child effectively, especially if the student is struggling academically or is facing other issues.  It is common for students to need support from mental health services to help students cope with stress, anxiety, and personal issues.

Parents might face challenges in addressing financial aid issues, scholarships, or legal matters without access to pertinent records. In emergencies, if parents do not have access to educational records, it may hinder their ability to respond quickly and effectively to support their children. For students with disabilities or special needs, lack of access to records can make it harder for parents to coordinate necessary care or accommodations.

Finally, some job applications or graduate programs may require references or recommendations that need access to educational records. If a student does not waive FERPA rights, it may complicate the process of obtaining these references.

In summary, while FERPA provides essential privacy protections for students, not waiving FERPA rights can create barriers to effective parental support, emergency response, financial aid processing, and other forms of assistance. Students should consider these factors when deciding whether to waive their FERPA rights. Seeking advice from legal professionals at this pivotal age can prevent unnecessary hardships for everyone.  Call our office today for a preliminary consultation 248-873-3244.