The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) was designed to transfer parental “rights” to their “adult” children when they enroll in college and, therein, protect the privacy of education records and provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal and formal hearings. Questions about FERPA should be referred to the Office of Registrar. The College intends to uphold both the letter and spirit of FERPA, while at the same time upholding Biblical relationships and responsibilities of the family.

As general practice, the College does not inform parents and other students of disciplinary action taken toward students. However, the College encourages students to communicate openly and honestly with their parents about disciplinary matters. Even though students are legally and morally responsible for their conduct, the College also recognizes the concern of parents for the welfare of their children. Thus, the College reserves the right to notify parents under the following conditions:

• Medical treatment or psychiatric examination required to meet emergencies or to maintain one’s status as a student.
• Misconduct that is of such a nature that the student is in danger of suspension or expulsion.
• Extended absence or withdrawal from the College.

Providence designates the following categories of student information as public or “directory information.” The College reserves the right to disclose such information at its discretion, unless requested not to in writing by the student. Requests are to be filed with the Registrar’s Office prior to September 15 each year, or February 1 for students entering the College in the spring semester.

• Name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, dates of attendance, class, photograph.
• Previous institution(s) attended, major field of study, awards, scholarships, honors, degrees conferred (including dates).
• Past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities, physical factors (height and weight of athletes), date and place of birth.
• Home and local/student church membership, including church denomination.