Greater Ohio Virtual School (GOVS) is dedicated to maintaining transparency while protecting the privacy rights of our students and families in accordance with state and federal laws.
Public Records Policy
As a public educational program operating in the state of Ohio, Greater Ohio Virtual School complies with the Ohio Public Records Act.
Accessing Public Records
- Inspection: Any person may inspect public records of the school during regular business hours by making prior arrangements with the school administration or designated records officer.
- Copies: Copies of public records can be provided at cost upon request.
- Exemptions: Certain records are exempt from public disclosure under state and federal law, including but not limited to personally identifiable student education records, confidential medical records, certain personnel files, and records subject to attorney-client privilege.
To submit a public records request, please contact our administrative office using the details provided below.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Notice
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that affords parents and eligible students (students 18 years of age or older or attending a postsecondary institution) certain rights with respect to the student's education records.
1. The Right to Inspect and Review Education Records
Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Requests should be submitted to the school administration identifying the specific record(s) they wish to inspect.
2. The Right to Request Amendment of Education Records
Parents or eligible students have the right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that they believe are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights.
3. The Right to Consent to Disclosures
Parents or eligible students have the right to provide written consent before the School discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent (such as to school officials with a legitimate educational interest).
4. Directory Information
GOVS may designate and disclose certain basic "Directory Information" without prior written consent, unless notified in writing by parents or eligible students to withhold such information. Directory information typically includes student names, participation in officially recognized activities, and award listings.
5. The Right to File a Complaint
Parents and eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
- Family Policy Compliance Office
- U.S. Department of Education
- 400 Maryland Avenue, SW
- Washington, DC 20202
Contact Information
For questions regarding public records requests, student records, or FERPA compliance, please contact:
- Greater Ohio Virtual School
- Address: 24 W. 1st Street, Franklin, Ohio 45005
- Phone: 513-695-2924