Student Privacy & FERPA

At Copper Mountain College (CMC), your success and your privacy go hand in hand.
We take your confidentiality seriously and follow the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) – a federal law that protects your student records.

FERPA gives you control over who can see your information, when it can be shared, and how to request access or changes.

Directory Information: What Can Be Shared Publicly

FERPA allows colleges to release limited directory information – deatails that are not considered harmful or invasive if shared. At CMC, directory information may include:

• Name
• Email address
• Photos
• Major or field of study
• Awards and degrees received (including President’s List recognition)
• Degree(s) received or conferred (with dates)
• Participation in college activities

This information may be released unless you request otherwise. A comprehensive list of directory information can be found in CMC’s Academic Catalog.

Don’t Want Your Directory Information Shared?

You can request full suppression of your directory information by submitting a Full Suppression Form to Admissions & Records.

When suppression is in place:

• CMC cannot confirm you attend the college or release any information publicly.
• You must complete college transactions in person, such as registration, billing, or transcript requests.
• The suppression stays active until you complete a new form to lift it.

When Information May Be Shared Without Consent

Your information may be shared without your written consent only when allowed by FERPA, including:

• With college officials who have a legitimate educational need
• With officials of other schools where you intend to enroll
• With federal or state education authorities for audits or evaluations
• With organizations conducting research for the college
• With accrediting agencies
• In emergencies to protect health or safety
• Under a court order or subpoena

Information for Parents, Families, and Supporters

We know families and supporters play a vital role in student success.
Here’s what to expect under FERPA once your student begins attending CMC:

• Students own their records – even if they are under 18.
  This means grades, schedules, and financial aid details cannot be shared without the student’s written permission.
• Students can give permission.
  If your student wants you (or another support person) to have access, they must complete a Release of Information Form.
  This form lets them specify what information can be shared and with whom (for example, financial aid, grades, or enrollment status). The Release of Information Form may be requested from Admissions & Records.
• Without a signed release, we can only provide general college information – such as deadlines, policies, or procedures – but not student-specific details.

We’re Committed to Student Success and Privacy

We aim to make privacy transparent, access simple, and your voice central in decisions about your records.

If you have questions about your privacy or your FERPA rights, contact:

Admissions & Records Office
Admissions&Records@cmccd.edu

Director of Financial Aid
BBlakeley@cmccd.edu

Note: This information is only a summary of FERPA. For more information, use the following links/resources: 

• Board Policy 5040 – Student Records, Directory Information, and Privacy
• U.S. Department of Education FERPA Information
• Academic Catalog