Are student health and immunization records protected under FERPA?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only some records
• D. Not specified

Answer: (A)

FERPA applies to education records held by schools that receive federal funds. When a school keeps health information, including immunization records, in a student file or in the student health office, those records are considered part of the student’s education records. Because of that, they are protected and can only be disclosed with proper consent or under FERPA’s allowed disclosures to school officials with a legitimate educational interest or in other legally permitted situations. Rights to access and control disclosure typically belong to parents or eligible students, depending on age. In short, student health and immunization records maintained by the school are protected under FERPA.