Data Security and Privacy

As States develop and refine their information management systems, it is critical that they ensure that student information continues to be protected and that students' personally identifiable information is disclosed only for authorized purposes and under the circumstances permitted by law.

This guide provides fundamental principles of "right and wrong" that are criticial to the appropriate management and use of education data inthe technology age. The guide contains:

  • Canons-core ethical principles
  • Vignettes--example that illustrates how an ethical canon is relevant to the real world
  • Discussion--an explanation of the canon that provides context for understanding the ethical principles being addressed
  • Recommended practices and training

Access the Forum Guide to Data Ethics >>

This Technical Brief discusses basic concepts and definitions that establish a common set of terms related to the protection of personally identifiable information, especially in education records in the Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems (SLDS). This Brief also outlines a privacy framework that is tied to Fair Information Practice Principles that have been promulgated in both the United States and international privacy work.

View Basic Concepts and Definitions for Privacy and Confidentiality in Student Education Records >>

The U.S. Department of Education established the Privacy Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) as a “one-stop” resource for education stakeholders to learn about data privacy, confidentiality, and security practices related to student-level longitudinal data systems and other uses of student data. PTAC provides timely information and updated guidance on privacy, confidentiality, and security practices through a variety of resources, including training materials and opportunities to receive direct assistance with privacy, security, and confidentiality of student data systems.

Protecting Student Privacy