How must local education agencies notify parents and eligible students of their rights under FERPA?

Local education agencies are required to notify parents and eligible students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in a manner that is reasonably likely to inform them. This means that the notification should be clear and accessible to the intended audience, ensuring that parents and students understand their rights regarding their education records, access, and privacy.

Using a method that is likely to effectively reach parents and eligible students acknowledges the diversity of communication preferences and circumstances. This approach may include multiple formats such as mail, digital communication, and even in-person meetings, depending on what is most effective for the community served.

The other options, while they are ways to communicate, do not necessarily ensure that the information will reach all parents and eligible students effectively. A public announcement may not guarantee that everyone hears or understands the message. Mailing letters can reach many, but not all families might receive or read them. Conducting school assemblies could also be informative, but it might not effectively reach parents who are not present. Thus, the focus on a method that is reasonably likely to inform all parties emphasizes the importance of effective communication in ensuring that rights under FERPA are understood.