Protection of Pupil Rights Policy (PPRP)

The Graham Department of Education (GDE) is committed to safeguarding the privacy and rights of students and their families. This Protection of Pupil Rights Policy (PPRP) aligns with the USDE Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232h, 34 CFR Part 98) and applies to all educational institutions under GDE.

Student and Parental Rights Under PPRP

1. Right to Consent

GDE-recognized schools must obtain prior written parental consent before requiring a student to participate in any survey, analysis, or evaluation that involves:

  • Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or parent;
  • Mental or psychological conditions of the student or family;
  • Sex behaviors or attitudes;
  • Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
  • Critical evaluations of individuals with whom the student has close relationships;
  • Legally recognized privileged relationships (e.g., attorneys, clergy, or doctors);
  • Religious beliefs or practices of the student or parent;
  • Personal income information, except as required by law.
2. Right to Receive Notice and Opt-Out

Parents and eligible students have the right to receive prior notice and opt out of:

  • Any survey involving protected information not funded by GDE;
  • Non-emergency, invasive physical exams or screenings not required for immediate health and safety;
  • Collection, disclosure, or use of personal student information for marketing or commercial purposes.
3. Right to Inspect Educational Materials

Parents or eligible students may request to inspect:

  • Surveys that collect protected information before administration;
  • Instruments used for collecting personal data for marketing or commercial distribution;
  • Instructional materials (excluding academic assessments) used in the school curriculum.

These rights transfer to students when they turn 18 years old or become emancipated minors under applicable law.

Responsibilities of GDE Institutions

Institutions under GDE must:

  • Develop and implement policies that safeguard student privacy and ensure compliance with PPRP.
  • Provide annual notifications to parents and eligible students regarding their rights.
  • Notify parents directly (via mail or email) about surveys, data collection, or activities requiring opt-out rights, including specific or approximate dates.
  • Offer parents a reasonable review period for materials and an opportunity to opt their child out of participation.

Filing a Complaint

Parents or students who believe their rights under PPRP have been violated may submit a formal complaint to the Graham Department of Education Compliance Office:

Report Institution 

Mailing Address:
Compliance Office (GDE)
1502 Palm Street, Reading, Pennsylvania, United States of America.

The Graham Department of Education Protection of Pupil Rights Policy (PPRP) ensures that all students and their families are informed, protected, and empowered in the educational environment.

Skip to content