ICE Encounters

What is FERPA?

FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. As faculty and staff, it is crucial to understand and adhere to FERPA guidelines to ensure that sensitive student information is not disclosed without proper authorization. The college FERPA policy can be found https://www.raritanval.edu/general-information/policies-and-consumer-information/ferpa

Key FERPA Guidelines:

• Directory Information: Certain types of student information, such as name, email, and enrollment status, may be considered "directory information." However, students have the right to request that this information be withheld. Please do not assume directory information is sharable until verified with Enrollment Services
• Confidentiality of Student Records: Any personally identifiable information from a student’s education record should not be shared with unauthorized individuals, including parents, unless the student provides written consent verified by Enrollment Services.
• Student Access to Records: Students have the right to inspect and review their education records, and they may request corrections if they believe their records are inaccurate.
• Sharing Information: Please avoid discussing student information in public spaces, such as hallways or over the phone, unless you have confirmation of appropriate authorization.

FERPA and ICE: It is important to be aware of recent concerns involving ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and the potential impact on students. Under FERPA, student records are protected from unauthorized disclosure, including from federal agencies such as ICE, unless certain conditions are met (e.g., a subpoena or court order). This means that we cannot release any student’s education records to ICE without the student’s written consent or unless required by law.

RVCC is committed to protecting our students’ privacy rights, regardless of their immigration status. If ICE or any other federal agency requests access to student records, please contact the Office of the President and then Campus Safety – 908-231-8800, ground floor level of Somerset Hall, room S-010. Red phones are located within campus building hallways, which dial directly to the Campus Safety Office.

What Should You Do?

• Ensure that any academic records, grades, and student information are stored securely.
• Avoid disclosing any personal information about students.  
• If you receive any requests from ICE or other agencies for student records, please refer them to Campus Safety immediately.
• If you have any questions about FERPA, ICE-related issues, or how these topics apply to your work, please reach out to registrar@raritanval.edu for clarification.
• By adhering to FERPA guidelines, we are not only following federal law but also fostering an environment of trust and respect for our students.

Should you have any questions, contact Rodney Altemose, Associate VP for Strategic Enrollment Management, Rodney.Altemose@raritanval.edu; or John Wheeler, College Registrar, john.wheeler@raritanval.edu.