FAQ's

Requesting Access Logs to Your Child’s Educational Records or Chats

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.

1. What are “access logs”?

• Access logs are system records that show who accessed your child’s information, when it was accessed, and for what purpose. These may include:

• School documents and grades

• Learning management system activity

• Email or chat systems (including messages with peers or AI tools like ChatGPT)

• Search history in school-provided accounts

2. Why would I request access logs?

Parents may want to confirm:

• Whether a technology staff member or educator viewed their child’s private messages or records.

• Whether the school is complying with student privacy laws such as FERPA.

• Who had access to sensitive data and why.

3. Do I have the right to see this information?

• Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), parents (or eligible students over 18) have the right to request and review education records. Many schools’ technology systems fall under this definition if they track identifiable student information.

4. How do I make a request?

You can usually start by sending a written request (email or letter) to your school’s:

• Principal

• District technology director

• FERPA compliance officer / records custodian

5. What should I say in my request?

You don’t have to cite laws, but being specific helps. Example wording:

• I am requesting access logs for my child, [Student’s Full Name], regarding who has accessed their educational records and communications. Please include the following information:

• Who accessed my child’s documents, chats, or search history

• When each access occurred

• Why the access was made (purpose or justification)

• This request includes activity by technology staff, teachers, administrators, or other employees.

6. How long will it take to receive a response?

• Schools must comply with FERPA by providing access to education records within 45 days of the request. Some districts may respond sooner under their own policies.

7. What if the school refuses or delays?

• Ask for the policy or regulation they are relying on.

• Document all correspondence.

• You may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) if you believe your rights under FERPA have been violated.

8. Will I see the content of chats or just the logs?

• Logs usually show who accessed data and the time of access, not always the full content.

• If you want copies of actual messages or documents, specify this in your request.

9. Can technology staff read private chats with classmates or AI tools?

• They should not access student communications without a legitimate educational purpose. Requesting logs helps ensure oversight and accountability.

10. Who can help me if I have questions?

• Your school or district’s FERPA officer or records custodian.

• Parent advocacy groups in your state.

• An attorney, if you need formal legal advice.