Glossary > Privacy > Educational Privacy > General

School Directory Information

School directory information is information about students that schools may disclose without needing consent from parents or eligible students. This information typically includes a student's name, address, phone number, email address, date and place of birth, participation in school activities, and honors/awards received.

Example #1

When a school publishes a list of students' names in the school yearbook without obtaining individual consent.

Example #2

Sharing a student's name and contact information with a local community organization for a school event.

Misuse

Misusing school directory information can lead to privacy breaches and expose students to risks such as identity theft, harassment, or unwanted marketing. For example, if a malicious third party gains access to a school directory containing students' personal details, they could use this information to impersonate a student or target them with scams or malicious activities. Protecting school directory information is crucial to safeguard students' privacy and prevent potential harm.

Benefits

School directory information, when used appropriately, can facilitate communication between schools, families, and the community. For instance, by sharing directory information with parent-teacher associations or sports teams, schools can streamline the organization of activities and events, enhancing parental involvement and fostering a sense of community within the school.

Conclusion

Ensuring the responsible and transparent handling of school directory information is essential to protect students' privacy and prevent unauthorized use of their personal data. Schools should uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and integrity when disclosing directory information, prioritizing the safety and well-being of students above all else.