• Disability Services
• Policy on Confidentiality

Policy on Confidentiality

The Disability Services Office maintains appropriate confidential records that include student's identifying information, nature of disability, supporting documentation that is provided by the student, support services, and accommodations information. All records are handled in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Under this Federal Act, the Disability Services Team may only release disability documentation or records with the prior written consent by the student.

There are numerous exceptions to this rule that FERPA outlines. One of the exceptions authorizes the Disability Services Team to release any confidential information to appropriate school officials who have a "legitimate educational interest." School officials may request information about the impact a student's disability has on his/her ability to learn. The Disability Services Team will carefully balance the need for confidentiality and the request for relevant information about the student.

Another exception to confidentiality delineated under FERPA is for health and safety emergencies. Confidential information will be disclosed to the appropriate school officials if the health and safety of the student or the Occidental community is threatened.

 

Last update: June 7, 2011