The Disability Services Team will not share students’ private information without their consent.
Confidentiality of Student Records
The Disability Services Office maintains confidential records for each student, which include:
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Identifying information
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Documentation of the disability
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Records of approved accommodations and support services
All records are maintained in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Under FERPA, disability-related documentation may only be released with the student’s prior written consent, except in certain situations outlined by law.
Exceptions Permitted Under FERPA
FERPA allows for limited exceptions where information may be shared without prior consent, including:
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Legitimate Educational Interest: Disability Services may share relevant information with school officials (such as faculty, advisors, or administrators) who have a legitimate need to know in order to support the student’s educational experience.
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Health and Safety Emergencies: In situations involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of the student or others in the Occidental community, confidential information may be disclosed to appropriate school officials or emergency personnel.
In all cases, the Disability Services Office takes care to balance the student's right to privacy with the need to share information for educational or safety purposes.
Last updated: August, 2025