What must institutions do to define "directory information" under FERPA?

Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), institutions are required to issue a public notice to inform students and parents about what constitutes "directory information." This notice is essential because it provides transparency regarding which types of student information may be disclosed without consent. Directory information can include a student’s name, address, phone number, email address, date of birth, and other similar information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

By issuing a public notice, the institution allows students and parents the opportunity to understand what information may be shared and the right they have to restrict this information. This proactive measure fulfills FERPA's requirement for schools to inform students and the public about their directory information policies and enables students to make informed decisions about their privacy rights.