What is one consequence of violating FERPA?

Violating FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) can lead to significant consequences for educational institutions, including the loss of federal funding. FERPA is designed to protect the privacy of student education records, and adherence to its regulations is a requirement for receiving federal financial assistance. If an institution is found to be in violation of FERPA, the Secretary of Education has the authority to terminate federal funding to that institution. This consequence emphasizes the importance of safeguarding student information and complying with privacy regulations, as financial repercussions can have substantial impacts on the resources available for both the operations of the educational institution and its students. Maintaining compliance not only protects student information but also ensures continued access to essential federal funding.