Why Parents in Arizona May Need to Request School Records
Parents may need to request their child’s school records for several reasons, including:
1. Transferring Schools: When moving to a new school, whether within Arizona or out of state, records may be needed for enrollment.
2. Special Education Services: Records help ensure necessary supports and accommodations continue at a new school or are being provided at the current school.
3. Assessments & Evaluations: School records provide useful background information for psychological or educational evaluations.
4. Legal Matters: In cases like custody disputes or disagreements over educational services, records may be required. If legal action is involved, consulting an attorney is recommended.
?? How to Request Student Records ??
1. Email To: Principal of the school
2. CC (Carbon Copy):
- Assistant Principal
- School Counselor (if applicable)
- Secretary or Administrative Assistant (for tracking purposes)
3. Email Attachment: Attach the completed FERPA Request for Student Records letter as a PDF
4. Body of Email:
Hello Ms. Berry, Please see the attached letter for my son, Casa Nova.
Sincerely,
Parent’s Name
5. Email Subject Line: Request for Student Records [Student Name]
Sample Letter
Date
Parent Name
Street Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Email Address
Principal's Name
School Name
Street Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Student: Name
DOB:
Grade:
Re: FERPA Request For All Student Educational Records
Dear [Principal's Name],
I am submitting a Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) request for a copy of ALL student educational records for [Student Name] since they have been enrolled at [School Name]. 34 C.F.R. Part 99, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA 2004), and its regulations, 34 C.F.R. Sections 300.501 and 300.610-627.
These records should include, but are not limited to, the following:
⬜️ Cumulative file
⬜️ Confidential file
⬜️ Compliance file
⬜️ Reports written as a result of school observations and evaluations
⬜️ Reports of independent evaluations
⬜️ Medical records
⬜️ Nurse’s records
⬜️ Summary reports of evaluation team and eligibility committee meetings
⬜️ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
⬜️ School team committee meeting notes
⬜️ Any correspondence written between school personnel regarding STUDENT NAME, mentioned by name, initials, or by code, including emails
⬜️ Any correspondence written between parents and school personnel, including emails
⬜️ Any and all records maintained by teachers and any member of the IEP team
⬜️ Notes or letters written in connection with any planning or discussions, or any other matters in connection with the student
⬜️ Any and all personally identifiable information, in print, email, video, or audio recording that exists.
To reduce the cost of photocopying, I am requesting that the files be uploaded and sent via email. If some files are too large, I am willing to access a secure platform to view all of STUDENT NAME educational records. Due to my full-time work schedule and not being available after school or during the day to view the records in person, I prefer to receive the files via email.
I understand that educational agencies or institutions are required to provide access to records within a reasonable period of time, but no later than 45 days after receiving the request. Considering this, I appreciate your timely assistance with my request for STUDENT NAME educational files. I appreciate your help and quick response.
Sincerely,
[PARENT NAME]
Template Created by:
Le Ann Fuller - Non-Attorney Special Education Advocate
Fuller Education Advocacy, LLC
Special Education Advocacy & Consulting