Education Department probes schools for concealing student records from parents

July 27, 2026 - 00:35

Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced that federal investigators are looking into multiple school districts accused of keeping parents in the dark about their children's gender identity and other sensitive personal matters. The investigations focus on whether these schools violated federal privacy laws by withholding records that parents have a legal right to see.

McMahon stated that the department has received complaints from parents who say schools refused to share information about students' mental health, disciplinary actions, and changes in gender expression. In some cases, school officials allegedly told staff not to inform parents when a child asked to use a different name or pronouns. The Education Department argues that such policies may break the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, which grants parents access to their child's education records.

The probes cover districts in several states, including California, New York, and Illinois. Critics of the investigations say they could force schools to out students who are not ready to discuss their gender identity with their families. Supporters argue that parents have a fundamental right to know what is happening with their children at school.

McMahon emphasized that the goal is not to punish schools but to ensure transparency. She said the department will work with districts to correct any violations and protect parental rights. The investigations are ongoing, and no final decisions have been made.