Freedom of discussion, inquiry, and expression is protected and nurtured in the classroom as the safeguard of the freedom to learn in a manner consistent with the maintenance of good order. Responsibility for good order in the classroom is vested in the instructor, and responsibility for maintaining order elsewhere is set forth in the Spelman Student Handbook . Spelman College s responsibility for creating and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to these freedoms. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 requires educational institutions to adopt guidelines allowing students to have access to their own educational records and prohibiting release of educational records to persons who are not entitled to access. All offices and staff members responsible for student records must take steps to ensure the confidentiality of a student's educational records.
Students also have the right to a hearing if they wish to correct or amend their records.
Records may be inspected only at the office responsible for maintaining the particular record in question. Each office has established its own access procedures, which may include a written request from the student. Confidential letters or statements of recommendations written prior to January 1, 1975. Personal medical and psychiatric treatment records prepared and used solely in connection with the treatment of students. Such records will be made available to other physicians upon the student s request.