I. Overview

Generations College is committed to protecting the privacy of student records and personal information in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and our institutional privacy standards. This policy outlines student rights regarding educational records, procedures for accessing or amending records, and our practices for safeguarding personal information.

II. Student Rights Under FERPA

Eligible students (18 years or older or attending Generations College) have the right to:

1. Access Education Records – Students may inspect and review their records by submitting a written request to the Registrar. Access will be granted immediately, if possible, or within ten (10) days.
2. Request Amendments – If a student believes their records contain inaccurate or misleading information, they may submit a written petition to the Registrar for correction. Supporting documentation may be required. Note: This right does not apply to grade disputes.
3. Control Disclosure of Information – Students may restrict the release of personally identifiable information except where FERPA permits disclosure without consent.
4. File a Complaint – Students may file a FERPA-related complaint with the U.S. Department of Education at:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

III. Disclosure of Information

We may release directory information unless a student submits a written request for non-disclosure. Choosing non-disclosure means:

• The student’s name will not appear in publications such as the dean’s list or commencement programs.
• We cannot verify attendance or degrees for third parties, such as employers.
• The student must provide photo identification for in-person record discussions.

We do not sell, rent, or trade student information. Personally identifiable information may be shared only in the following cases:

• Service Providers – Third-party vendors assisting with institutional operations, such as data storage and communication services.
• Legal Requirements – If required by law or to protect our legal rights.

IV. Data Security & Retention

Generations College is committed to safeguarding personal information through:

• Secured servers with exclusive staff authorization.
• Encryption and controlled access to sensitive records.
• Retention of student records only as long as necessary for compliance, dispute resolution, or institutional purposes. Once no longer required, records will be securely deleted or anonymized.

V. Consent for Release of Records

Educational records will not be disclosed to third parties (including parents, spouses, or employers) without written student consent, except as permitted by law. Students may complete an Authorization for Release of Student Information form to grant access to specific individuals.

VI. Procedure to Access or Amend Records

1. Access Requests – Students must submit a written request to the Registrar’s Office. Copies may be provided at standard institutional fees.
2. Amendment Requests – Requests for record corrections must include:
   
   • A written statement specifying the inaccurate information.
   • Supporting evidence, if applicable.
   • A formal appeal process if the request is denied.

VII. Use of Cookies & Tracking Technologies

When engaging with Generations College’s online services, cookies and similar technologies may be used to enhance user experience and improve website functionality. Users can control cookie settings via browser preferences.

VIII. Notification of FERPA Rights

FERPA rights are published on the college website and in the academic catalog for student reference.

IX. Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding FERPA or student privacy, contact:

Generations College
Phone: (312) 922-1884
Email: info@generations.edu

For more information about how this policy is instructed to faculty and staff please visit our employee handbook and faculty handbook.