Understanding Leon’s Law

Leon’s Law mandates NC community colleges to share minor students' educational records with:

  • Parents/guardians (if student is a dependent of the person for taxes)
  • K-12 officials (if dually enrolled)

What Are Educational Records?

Records directly related to a student (identifies or describes them) and maintained by GTCC or its agent.

Educational Records:

  • Academic Records: Grades, transcripts, coursework, attendance
  • Disciplinary Records: Conduct and actions
  • Financial Info: Aid and loans
  • Photos/Videos: If related and maintained
  • Other records with identifiable student info

Not Considered Educational Records:

  • Personal notes not shared
  • Law enforcement records
  • Records after student leaves
  • Directory information under GTCC's FERPA compliance

Leon’s Law & FERPA Alignment

  • Leon’s Law uses FERPA exception (34 CFR §99.31(a)(8)) that gives postsecondary institutions the ability to share educational records for tax dependent students with their parent/guardian
  • Leon’s Law makes record sharing mandatory for minors in North Carolina
  • In other words, "may share" becomes "must share" if the tax-dependent student is under 18.

Forms

  1. Student Acknowledgment Form (required before class registration)
  2. Request for Educational Records of a Tax Dependent Minor Form
  3. Optional Parent/Guardian Opt-Out Form

Need help or have questions?

  • If the minor student is dual enrolled, notify the Assistant Director of Admissions & K-12 Partnerships, Wish Bailey at webailey@gtcc.edu or 336-334-4822 Ext: 50562
  • If the minor student is not dual enrolled, notify Records at records@gtcc.edu or 336-334-4822, option 4.