How to Get School Records When You're With Your Kid Part Time

As a parent, you have the right to get school records on behalf of your kids. This includes their report cards, standardized test scores, and any disciplinary records on file. When your kids live with you every day, these documents are usually sent to you directly, and often come home in your kids' backpacks.

For non-custodial parents and those who share custody, getting school records may not be as easy. In fact, you may need to formally ask for copies, either from your ex or from the school. There are usually two ways to get school records.

Communicate Your Request to Your Ex

The easiest way to get copies of your kids' school records is to communicate your request to your ex. You're probably already in contact on a regular basis, and if you're not, consider rebuilding trust and communication with your ex before you do anything else. If your ex denies your request or claims that it will be too difficult to make copies and keep you in the loop, you'll need to move on to next step: contacting your child's school. 

Directly Contact Your Child's School

Don't worry if you have to go this route because it's really not that difficult. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives parents the right to access their children's school records, which will allow you to stay informed of your child's progress.

In most cases, all you need to do is write the school a letter requesting access to your child's report cards, standardized test scores, and other records. You may need to show your personal ID to school officials to verify your identity, but the school should not need to see copies of your child custody agreement or a letter signed by the other parent.

Know Your Rights

When it comes to contacting your child's school to get copies of their records, you may need to remind school officials that FERPA grants parents access to their children's school records. As your child's natural parent, you cannot be denied access to your child's school records unless there is a court order specifically revoking your rights to such information.

You May Only Get to View the Records

Your chid's school is not legally required to make copies of your child's school records on your behalf. Generally, they will allow you to come in and view your child's records or charge you for copies and postage if documents need to be mailed. The school will not let you "check out" your child's school records with the promise to return the file later.

If your child's school provides online access to grades and test scores, ask school officials to provide you with the appropriate access code so that you can stay informed on a regular basis.

Get to Know Your Child's Teacher

Just like you should keep the lines of communication open with your ex, you should also proactively communicate with your child's teacher. Make sure your child's teacher has your email address and phone number. If you would like to be notified directly of any changes in your child's academic performance or behavior, make sure that your child's teacher knows this.