Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

Under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, the information in student files may only be released under specific conditions. Current or former students of Otero Junior College have complete access to their records and may view them upon request at the Student Services Center. If records contain errors, appeals in writing must be submitted to the Vice President of Student Services.

The following are considered public information and may appear in college directories, publications and new releases, or be disclosed to anyone inquiring:

• name, address
  
• phone number
  
• date/place of birth
  
• major field of study
  
• participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  
• weight and height of athletic team members
  
• dates of attendance
  
• degrees and awards received

Students may withhold disclosure of public information by filing a written request with the Student Services Center. All other information in student records is considered private and not open to the public without written student consent. Only the following individuals, because of their official function, have access to this information: Otero Junior College officials; state or federal authorities; officials evaluating application for financial aid; state and local officials requesting reporting data; organizations conducting studies for educational institutions or agencies; accrediting organizations; parent of dependent students(proof of dependency required); and Veterans Administration staff. In case of judicial orders or emergencies in which information is needed to protect student safety, heatlh or welfare or that of others, OJC may also release information without consent.  Print this handy FERPA brochure