Student Privacy & Portal Access (FERPA Reminder) Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), once a student turns 18 or attends a postsecondary institution, their educational records become private, even from parents — unless the student gives explicit written consent. What this means: - Parents cannot automatically access grades, financial aid info, or class schedules. - Students must sign a FERPA release to allow school staff to discuss records with a parent, guardian, or anyone else. - Many schools offer a way to grant portal access through the student account (e.g., setting up a “proxy” or “authorized user” login for billing or academic info).