FERPA question

[ThisIsNuts]

Pennsylvania here

 

i submitted a FERPA request. They’ve contacted me to set up a time to access and view the records I requested. I understand I can request copies for a fee. 
 

but what I can’t find anywhere is can I take photos of the documents with my phone, rather than pay for copies? 
 

does the law specify this anywhere? If so, I’d love to know where.

[Jenna]

Not a lawyer, but I suspect the reason they sometimes want to charge a fee is to cover the cost of paper and ink. Ask the school if you can just take pics on your phone. 

[JSD24]

Most districts will allow a parent to scan or take photos of the documents you look at via a FERPA request.  I'd give them the courtesy of asking if it's OK to take photos.  Might be good to ask via email so you have a papertrail of the fact that you asked & are allowed.  The cost of copies adds up when your child has a thick file.