School Record Retention Policies

Summary

In California, schools typically retain records like opt-out forms for a minimum of five years post-graduation, but policies can vary. Directory information can be shared without consent unless opted out. If facing discrimination, such as denial of bathroom rights or isolation, consider consulting a lawyer. Schools must handle negligence claims seriously, and if unresponsive, you can escalate by filing a formal complaint or seeking legal advice. For discrimination issues, especially those impacting mental health and personal development, connecting with a local attorney can provide guidance on potential legal actions.

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i live in pasadena california and i graduated 10 years ago from high school but am still a student. I wanted to know whether opt out forms would be destroyed by now from my high school if i filed any since the retention policies in place
Hey Jo! In California, school records, including opt-out forms, are typically retained for a specific period according to the school's policy. It's common for high schools to keep records for a minimum of five years after a student graduates. You may want to contact your high school directly to find out their specific retention policy.
well i checked and they did not have many forms other than grades and health records
Hey Jo! It's possible that opt-out forms might not be retained as long as other records like grades and health files. Schools often prioritize the retention of essential records. If you need confirmation, contacting the school district office might provide more insight into their specific policies.
well im just wondering if that would be something they would still be required to hold on to since people can be in school still and schools can still share your info after you graduarte
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In California, even after graduation, schools might retain certain information. This can include student records and some opt-out forms, depending on the nature of the information. However, sharing information typically requires consent under privacy regulations. You might want to inquire further with your school district regarding the specific policies on sharing information.
Is there anything else you would like to know?
so what are you saying i dont understand
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Hey Jo! In short, schools may keep some information even after you graduate, but sharing it usually requires your consent. Since you're still a student, it might be worth checking with your school district about their specific policies on information retention and sharing. Do you have any other questions about this?
no im talking about directory information
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Hey Jo! Directory information in schools typically includes items like your name, address, and phone number, which can be shared without consent unless you've opted out. Since you're still a student, check with your school district about their policy on directory information. Anything else you'd like to ask?
well if i opt out of sharing it would they have to keep that form
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Hey Jo! If you opt out of sharing directory information, schools usually keep the opt-out form as part of your student records. However, retention policies vary, so it’s best to check with your school district regarding their specific practices. Anything else you'd like to know?
yeah if a school does not respond to a negligence claim what is my next step
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Hey Jo! If a school doesn't respond to a negligence claim, consider taking the following steps:
- Send a formal written complaint to the school district.
- Consult with a lawyer for guidance.
- File a complaint with the California Department of Education.
Would you like more information on any of these steps?
i said a negligence claim not a uniform complaint
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Hey Jo! It sounds like you're dealing with a negligence claim related to the school's handling of directory information. Can you clarify what specific issue or harm resulted from the school's actions or inaction regarding your information?
its not specifically for directory information its for discrimination during my time as a dtudent the school told me to remove my coming out post which asserted my right to use the mens restroom and then on the pretense of safety segregated me into a separate locker and bathroom space. they didnt support me in sports which led to records unbenownst to me becoming publicly available all these things i just discovered last year
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Hey Jo! Based on your situation involving discrimination and privacy issues, it might be a high-value case. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
yes
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Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case? Could you please provide a bit more information on the discrimination you faced, particularly how it impacted your education or personal life?
I believe school disrupted a critical part of development. Instead of growing in a safe, supportive environment, I spent hs fighting for rights I was made to feel unworthy of. I dissociated, experienced derealization, anxiety, and depression. The denial of bathroom rights created long-term psychological harm. I was told others were not okay with who I am, and might hurt me so was isolated instead. How could I focus on school if I was struggling to stay alive. Poetry from then reflects deep pain, suicidal ideation. After transitioning and years of therapy, I struggle with my identity + self-sabotaging. I repressed it when I graduated, but I now see how deep the trauma runs.
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Jo, it sounds like you have experienced significant harm due to the school's actions, which may make this a high-value case. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case? If so, could you please provide your phone number?
*
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Jo, thank you for providing more information on your situation. Since you have expressed interest in connecting with local lawyers, could you please provide your zipcode? This will help in finding suitable assistance for your case.
about how long will it take for them to call and do you know from what number they will call from? i tend to get a lot of scam
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Hey Jo! Typically, the lawyer should reach out within a few business days. Unfortunately, I don't have the specific number they'll call from. If you're concerned about scams, you could ask them to verify their identity or provide a specific detail from your initial inquiry.
true okay, thank you
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Jo, it sounds like you're dealing with a significant issue, and connecting with a lawyer is a good step. Since the lawyer should contact you soon, make sure to verify their identity when they call. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
okay thanks again
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Hey Jo! It seems like you've taken the right steps by connecting with a lawyer. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out anytime. Good luck with everything!