I retired as a special ed teacher a few months ago, and I’m curious about giving input on a former student’s class placement. Is that allowed under FERPA? I’ve been talking with the school coordinator about this student’s needs, but IDK if I’m technically able to give official advice anymore.
As far as I know, once you retire, FERPA restricts access to student records. Only current staff with an educational interest can really have input on placements.
Eli said:
As far as I know, once you retire, FERPA restricts access to student records. Only current staff with an educational interest can really have input on placements.
That makes sense… so it’s more like I can suggest informally but nothing official?
Eli said:
As far as I know, once you retire, FERPA restricts access to student records. Only current staff with an educational interest can really have input on placements.
Exactly! I think if you have a good relationship with the staff, they might value your insights even if they can’t officially count it.
I retired last year, and they let me talk about general student needs but not specifics related to placements. I just had casual chats with teachers I knew.
Landry said:
I retired last year, and they let me talk about general student needs but not specifics related to placements. I just had casual chats with teachers I knew.
Oh, that’s a good approach. I might just keep things casual and share what I know, like you did.
Under FERPA, you’re probably out of the loop officially. But you can still chat informally, and sometimes they’re open to hearing past teachers’ thoughts.
Graydon said:
Under FERPA, you’re probably out of the loop officially. But you can still chat informally, and sometimes they’re open to hearing past teachers’ thoughts.
Yeah, it’s more about respecting student privacy rules, but informal tips are fair game.
If you have concerns that aren’t being addressed, maybe just drop a note with your recommendations to someone who’s legally able to act?
Grier said:
If you have concerns that aren’t being addressed, maybe just drop a note with your recommendations to someone who’s legally able to act?
Good idea… I might do that so they at least have it if they want it.
FYI, FERPA is strict on record access, so just make sure anything you share is more like a personal observation than an official recommendation.
Amar said:
FYI, FERPA is strict on record access, so just make sure anything you share is more like a personal observation than an official recommendation.
Right! Like, it’s fine if you’re just saying something casually, not as part of the student’s file or anything.