FERPA

At Sumo Apps, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of data privacy and security for all our users. This commitment extends to ensuring that we comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a United States federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. FERPA gives parents and eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records and places obligations on educational institutions and service providers, like Sumo Apps, that handle these records.

What is FERPA?

FERPA, also known as the Buckley Amendment, is designed to protect the privacy of students' educational records. It grants students and their parents the following rights:

1. Right to Access: Parents and eligible students have the right to access their education records within a reasonable time after a request.

2. Right to Request Amendments: If a student believes that information in their education records is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their privacy rights, they have the right to request amendments to those records.

3. Consent for Disclosure: Educational institutions must obtain written consent from students or their parents before disclosing personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records.

4. Directory Information: FERPA permits the disclosure of specific information (directory information) without consent unless the student or parent requests otherwise. Directory information typically includes a student's name, address, phone number, and other similar data.

5. Right to File a Complaint: Students and parents have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe that an educational institution or service provider is not complying with FERPA.

FERPA Compliance at Sumo Apps

Sumo Apps complies with FERPA regulations to ensure that students' and parents' rights are protected. Here's how we achieve FERPA compliance:

Data Encryption and Security

We employ robust security measures to protect student data and educational records. These measures include data encryption, access controls, and regular security audits. Our data is stored securely, and we monitor for any potential breaches.

Consent for Data Sharing

Before disclosing any student data, Sumo Apps seeks written consent from parents or eligible students. This consent ensures that data is shared only with authorized individuals or entities.

Access to Educational Records

Sumo Apps provides students and parents with the ability to access and review education records as required by FERPA. Students or parents can request access to these records and seek corrections if necessary.

Directory Information

We respect the privacy of students and parents who choose to opt-out of directory information sharing. Sumo Apps maintains a record of these preferences and ensures that directory information is not disclosed without consent.

Compliance Monitoring

Sumo Apps regularly reviews and updates its FERPA compliance procedures to adhere to the latest regulations and guidance from the U.S. Department of Education.

Conclusion

FERPA compliance is of paramount importance to Sumo Apps. We recognize the sensitive nature of student data and are dedicated to upholding the rights and privacy of students and their parents. Our commitment to data security and FERPA compliance is unwavering, and we are continuously working to enhance our practices to meet and exceed regulatory standards.