My child was hit; I want a copy of the video!

I work in an elementary school. A young man “struck” a young lady on the arm. After investigating, it was found that the young man initiated and instigated the situation, and the young lady did not engage/retaliate after being struck. The young lady told the adults. The principal suspended the student from school for the appropriate amount of days and will issue a “stay away agreement” if and when the student (the young man) returns to school. After contacting both parents, the female student's parent is a firefighter, called and requested the video. The principal advised the parent that he/she could not have a copy of the video. Dr. White, what do I do?

Thank you for your email! Let me start by stating please check with your Board Attorney regarding policies, procedures, and state law for your district.

The principal is correct in stating that the parent cannot have a copy of the video. The fact that the parent is a firefighter is irrelevant. School districts must only provide such information if subpoenaed by a court/judge. Videos are student records and are protected by law. In some districts, parents are allowed to view the video with an administrator if the other identities of students can be masked. If the student belonging to the parent requesting is alone in the video, you can allow them to view the video without issue; however, you still cannot and should not provide a copy of the video to the parent.

For more details regarding this situation or others like it, email drkorriewhite@gmail.com.

I look forward to assisting you!

Your friend in education,

Dr. White