University of Minnesota Policies
Student privacy and rights regarding academic records are protected by the Regents Policy on Student Education Records. This policy is based in part on the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the State of Minnesota Data Privacy Act. Faculty must understand and follow the University of Minnesota's policies in regard to grades and other student records. A student's educational record and student-related data are confidential. The student may view their own record. Access to other persons is restricted.
Federal Education and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA essentially says that a student has access to most data in his or her University record, and that others are restricted from seeing that data except in defined situations. The best practice is to keep all student data private, including e-mail addresses, grades, coursework, and communications. Keep e-mail addresses secure when sending a message to multiple students by inserting them all into the bcc line. Return graded papers to students individually, or use an online course companion site. You may discuss a student with your faculty director, MELP staff, or academic adviser for specific educational purposes. Learn more about how to comply with this regulation by reading the FERPA: What faculty and staff need to know handout or by viewing the FERPA tutorial.
MELP Records Retention Policy
MELP complies with university-wide policies and guidelines for managing university records and information, including grade records and graded student work. Please refer to the MELP Records Retention Schedule in the CCAPS MELP Info Shared Drive (Faculty Information folder) for recommended retention and storage guidelines for student grades and course work.