The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects against the disclosure of a student’s educational record absent the written consent of the student. However, FERPA permits disclosure without consent when disclosure is determined to be necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or others. FERPA also gives the University discretion to disclose to any parent or legal guardian of a student under the age of 21 information about a violation of any policy of the University governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance.

Alcohol and Drug Incidents

Tulane University has decided to notify the parents or guardians of students under the age of 21 years of age found in violation of such policies as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct. Parents or guardians will receive a letter from the Office of Judicial Affairs notifying you of such a policy violation and the sanctions levied against the student. As part of the disciplinary sanction, students may be enrolled in an alcohol education program presented by staff in the Office of Alcohol Education Initiatives and/or the Student Health Center. Serious or repeated violations related to the alcohol or drug policies may result in an assessment and intervention by a licensed clinician in the Student Health Center, referral for counseling and treatment by an agency external to the University, or involuntary withdrawal from the University. Suspension from the University is also a possible sanction for repeated violations.

The University understands that parents or guardians want to know when their student is facing difficulties. More frustrating than learning that your student has performed poorly academically or learning that he or she has been suspended from the University for disciplinary reasons, is finding out that alcohol abuse or illegal drug use led to such circumstances. At the same time, Tulane University understands that students want to be treated as adults. The college years are often a time of trial and error for many students. They need opportunities to reflect upon their actions, accept responsibility, and learn from their mistakes. As parents and guardians, we hope you will take the opportunity to discuss the improper use of alcohol and other drugs with your student. In some situations like this, students are encouraged to make the phone call but if they are unwilling or unable, a University staff member will initiate the call. This policy does not apply to married students.

Incidents that Endanger the Health and Safety of Students

In addition to alcohol and drug violations of the Code of Student Conduct, parents and guardians will be informed when there is a serious incident that jeopardizes the health and/or safety of their student. Each situation is evaluated on a case-by-case basis yet parents or guardians will be informed based on situations that appear to endanger the health, safety or life of the student. Examples include suicide attempt, life-threatening illness and serious injury such as car accident or student death. Parents will be notified via telephone by an appropriate staff member based on the nature of the situation.

8/31/06