Glossary > Privacy > Educational Privacy > Student Data Privacy

School Directory Information

School directory information refers to certain details about students that educational institutions may disclose without prior consent. This information typically includes basic data like a student's name, address, phone number, date of birth, and sometimes even email address.

Example #1

For instance, a school may include student names and addresses in a yearbook without seeking permission.

Example #2

Another example is sharing a list of students' names and contact details with a PTA group organizing a school event.

Misuse

Misuse of school directory information can lead to privacy violations and potentially compromise students' safety. For example, if unauthorized parties access student directories, they could use the information for targeted marketing or, in extreme cases, for identity theft or online exploitation. Protecting against misuse is crucial to safeguard students' personal data and prevent any harm that may arise from unauthorized access.

Benefits

One of the benefits of school directory information is promoting community engagement. By allowing schools to share basic contact information, parents, teachers, and students can easily connect with each other for school-related activities, fostering a sense of community and enhancing communication within the school environment.

Conclusion

In the realm of student data privacy, understanding the boundaries and implications of disclosing school directory information is essential. By balancing the benefits of community engagement with the risks of potential misuse, educational institutions can ensure that students' personal data is protected while still enabling necessary communication within the school community.