Federal Complaint Alleges Misuse of Student Data by Illinois Institutions
Illinois State University (ISU) and other local institutions face a federal complaint alleging misuse of student loans data. The complaint, filed by Desi Anderson, claims these schools shared student directory information, including student loans details, with the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, potentially violating the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
ISU spokesman Chris Coplan maintains the university adheres to FERPA and denies any improper disclosure of student loans information. The complaint, however, names ISU, Heartland Community College, Eureka College, and Millikin University, accusing them of sharing student addresses, phone numbers, and student loans details with ALL IN.
The ALL IN initiative, recognized by ISU for voter engagement, is described as a non-partisan effort to boost student democratic participation. Yet, Illinois Republicans, including State Rep. Travis Weaver and U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, back the complaint, stressing the importance of student loans data privacy. Weaver believes federal legislation has a stronger chance of passing and advocates for students to control their personal student loans information. LaHood supports a federal bill led by Mike Lee to address student loans data privacy, emphasizing bipartisan support for the issue.
The complaint, currently under review by the U.S. Department of Education, alleges ISU and other schools violated privacy laws by sharing student loans data with ALL IN and ISU's Center for Civic Engagement without consent. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for student loans data privacy in higher education.
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