FERPA Compliance and AB 1955: What School Board Members Need to Know

In March, the U.S. Department of Education launched a federal investigation into California, and sent a letter to school officials warning that adherence to the concealment policies associated with AB 1955 may violate federal law. The investigation follows a complaint filed by attorney Julie Hamill, president of the California Justice Center.

Hamill explained why districts risk losing federal funding if they fail to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) — particularly when it comes to parents’ right to access student records related to gender identity.

Hamill outlined the legal risks, took live questions, and walked through best practices for compliance.

Be sure to read her detailed memo to school board trustees: Compliance with FERPA in Light of Federal Investigation.