FAQ's
What is a public record?
A public record is information the school district keeps that shows how it does its work. This can include emails, documents, or reports related to school operations. PortTownsend School District Policy 4040, 4040P, 4040F
What kind of records can I request?
You may request records such as:
- School board meeting reports, recordings, agendas and minutes
- District policies and procedures
- Budgets and financial reports
- Contracts and agreements
- Emails or documents related to district business
Are student records public? (BUT can't be released without parent/eligible student permission or court order)
No. Student records are private and protected by law. This includes grades, discipline records, health information, and counseling records. These records cannot be released without the parent/eligible student's permission.
What is FERPA?
FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. It gives parents and eligible students (age 18 or older) rights over who can see a student’s information. Due to FERPA, schools are prohibited from releasing student records to the public.
Are staff records public?
Some basic staff information is public, such as job titles and salaries. Personal information like home addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers is private and not shared.
Do I have to explain why I want the records?
No. You do not need to explain why you are requesting records.
Will the district create new records for my request?
No. The district can only provide records that already exist. It does not create new documents or summaries.
Is there a cost to request records?
There may be a small fee for copies or electronic files. You will be told about any costs before records are provided.
What Is Not Publicly Disclosable, Common Exemptions
Even though many records are public, some information is protected and must be withheld or redacted:
Student Privacy
- Individual student education, health, discipline, counseling, and similar records are protected by federal privacy laws such as FERPA and HIPAA. These cannot be released in a public records request without proper consent or legal basis
Personal Employee Information
- Sensitive personal data like social security numbers, home addresses, personal phone numbers, resumes, and similar information is exempt and redacted.
- However, basic employment information such as job title, salary, and dates of employment are typically considered public because they relate to how public funds are spent.
Attorney Communications
- Communications between district staff and their attorneys about legal strategy or privileged advice are generally exempt.
Other Legal Exemptions
Exemptions in the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56) and other Washington laws are designed to protect privacy, security, and sensitive info. Washington Attorney General