Calling All FERPA Fanatics

August 4, 2023
  • AACRAO C&U
  • FERPA
  • FERPATop
Photograph of an open book with the words FERPA on it and a gavel in the background.

College & University Calls for Author Contributions to Celebrate 50 Years of FERPA: A Journey through Privacy and Student Rights

In 1974, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) was enacted, marking a significant milestone in the protection of student rights and the confidentiality of educational records. As 2024 approaches, AACRAO is preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this crucial legislation and is inviting authors to contribute to a series of articles that delve into the various aspects of FERPA's impact on education and student privacy.

The Call for Proposals:

College & University is reaching out to experts, scholars, and practitioners in the field of education to submit proposals for articles that shed light on different facets of FERPA. This occasion calls for insightful reflections, in-depth analyses, and historical perspectives, all aimed at enhancing the understanding of FERPA's importance and its continued relevance in the digital age.

Potential Article Topics:

  1. FERPA Best Practices: Authors are encouraged to share their expertise on implementing FERPA compliance audits, staff training, and addressing the challenges presented by remote work and virtual learning. By exploring the best practices for upholding student privacy, these articles will serve as valuable resources for institutions seeking to maintain FERPA compliance in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

  2. Interviews with FERPA Experts: In-depth interviews with FERPA experts will provide unique insights into the legislation's historical context, its evolution over the past five decades, and its implications for future education policies. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the rationale behind FERPA's inception and how it has adapted to meet the needs of modern educational environments.

  3. Historical Pieces: Articles focusing on historical milestones related to FERPA will offer an intriguing glimpse into the past. Topics might include notable FERPA breaches, how campuses responded to emergencies while safeguarding student privacy, and compelling case studies that highlight the impact of FERPA on student welfare and institutional practices.

  4. Reflections on Archived FERPA Articles: Writers are invited to revisit and reflect on previously published articles on FERPA. These reflections will assess how far we have come since the early days of the legislation and identify areas where further progress is needed. Authors may also discuss emerging challenges that warrant renewed attention in the context of FERPA's anniversary.

The Submission Process:

Prospective authors are requested to express their interest in contributing to this series by submitting proposals no later than August 15. Submissions should outline the article's intended focus, key points, and approach. Accepted authors will be notified by September 15 and invited to develop their full articles.

The article length should fall within the range of 2,000 to 4,000 words, allowing authors the flexibility to explore their chosen topics comprehensively. The final deadline for submitting the complete articles is November 15.

For further inquiries and proposal submissions, authors may reach out to Managing Editor Heather Zimar, whose expertise and guidance ensure that the series captures FERPA's legacy and its continued significance in shaping educational practices.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to be a part of the commemoration of FERPA's legacy and its relevance in modern academia. Submit your proposal today and join us in celebrating a half-century of student privacy protection and educational excellence.

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