The inquiry examines FERPA compliance in voting-related research.
The U.S. Department of Education’s (the Department’s) Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) opened investigations into Tufts University (Tufts) and the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) to assess whether student data sharing connected to a national civic engagement study complies with federal privacy law. Officials are reviewing how student information is collected, shared, and disclosed, and whether proper consent procedures were followed under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
“American colleges and universities should be focused on teaching, learning, and research – not influencing elections,” said Education Secretary Linda McMahon. “Our Student Privacy Policy Office will thoroughly investigate this matter to protect students’ private data and ensure that our campuses are fully aware of and comply with their responsibilities under FERPA.”
Alongside the investigations, the department issued updated guidance to postsecondary institutions outlining their responsibilities for protecting student data. The guidance rescinds prior policies that encouraged participation in the study and warns institutions that use the data without appropriate safeguards may face enforcement actions.
FERPA violations can result in consequences, including the potential loss of federal funding.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary McMahon as she heads the effort to ensure FERPA compliance.
- For Assistant Secretary Murray Bessette as he oversees the SPPO and its efforts to protect students’ privacy.
- For U.S. education officials as they engage university personnel on federal regulations and requirements.
Sources: Department of Education
