Category A Data
Category A data includes the official administrative records containing student personal data that is necessary for operating the school system. This data is described in § 2.1 of Exhibit A of Chapter 12 of 22 Pa Code. These data should be retained for at least 100 years. Such records "should be kept under lock and key at all times, under the supervision of the designated personnel." Formal procedures should be established that allow parents or students to challenge the validity of any information contained in this category. The school does not need parental or student permission to release the student's permanent record file including Category A data to (a) other school officials and teachers within the district who have a legitimate educational interest, (b) the state superintendent and others in his office for use within the statutory powers and responsibilities of his office, and (c) officials of other school systems in which the student intends to enroll so long as the student's parents are notified of the transfer, receive a copy of the record if they desire, and are given an opportunity to challenge the content of the record in a "judicial-like procedure." The school may not divulge any information contained in school records to other parties except (a) upon the written request of the student's parents specifying what records are to be released to whom, and/or (b) in compliance with judicial orders, etc, in which case the parents and/or students should be notified of the orders and the school's compliance.
Regulations of the State Board of Education: 22 Pa Code Chapter 12, Exhibit A