May the college release education records or personal identification information without student consent in public health or safety emergencies?
Yes. In response to the Virginia Tech tragedy, the Secretary of Education determined that administrators need greater flexibility in responding to threatening circumstances. Therefore, in situations involving an imminent risk to health or safety, colleges may share information to the appropriate parties (including parents) without the student’s prior written consent. Under the USA Patriot Act, the U.S. Attorney General may apply for an order to collect education records from colleges without the consent or knowledge of students or parents. This is relevant in cases of suspected acts of domestic or international terrorism. The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act contains registration and notice requirements designed specifically for colleges. State collect information about a registered offender’s enrollment or employment at a college, along with any change in that status at the college, and make this information available promptly to the campus police department or other appropriate law e
