School records, which may include medical, legal, criminal, or mental health information, aren′t public records. This means that only certain people have access to them. If you′re under eighteen, you may be able to review your records. States and school districts set their own rules regarding access to students′ records and transcripts. Once you′re eighteen, federal law guarantees you access.
Your parents may view your records upon request.With their permission, usually written, others may be able to see them as well, such as your counselor, psychologist, the police, or a lawyer. Otherwise, the school is required to maintain confidentiality. A subpoena, or court order, may also result in disclosure.
When you′re a junior or senior in high school and start applying to college or a trade or technical school, you′ll take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), the American College Test (ACT), or similar tests. Your scores will be sent to the schools of your choice and, in turn, those schools will request your high school transcript. You and your parents will need to sign a consent authorizing the release of your records. If you′re eighteen, your parents′ signature isn′t needed.
If, in looking at your high school records, you see something negative or false, you have a remedy. Due process gives you the right to ask the school to remove or correct the statement. If your request is denied, you may appeal that decision and ask for a hearing. The appeal process usually starts with the school principal. If you′re unsatisfied with his or her decision, you may pursue it further—to the school board, the superintendent, and ultimately to the courts.
If you go to a private school, your rights may be different. Due process under the U.S. Constitution only protects students in public schools. However, most states have laws that provide these protections to private school students as well. Check with your school if you′re unsure of your rights. You should be able to obtain a written copy of the school′s policies.
