The primary purpose of the "directory information" exception to FERPA is to allow Harnett County Schools to include this type of information in certain school publications. In addition, it allows for the publicity of student accomplishments or specific educational programs to the electronic (digital, television) and print (newspaper) media.  Examples include but are not limited to:

• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production
• The annual yearbook
• Honor roll or other recognition lists
• Graduation programs
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.

 

HCS has designated and historically released the following directory information:

• Student's name
• Address
• Telephone listing
• Electronic mail address
• Photograph
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Dates of attendance
• Grade level
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• The most recent educational agency or institution attendance

If you do not want Harnett County Schools to disclose directory information from your child's education records without your prior written consent, you must fill out the FERPA online opt-out form. This form must be filed annually in September for the following school year.  Please note: Parents and guardians who opt a student out of FERPA may provide written confirmation to a building principal for a student to be included in a specific place where directory information is used.  It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to make this request.