Which of the following is considered a common violation of FERPA?

The choice regarding denying access to a student's records is identified as a common violation of FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). FERPA grants parents and eligible students the right to access educational records maintained by educational institutions. These rights include reviewing the records, requesting amendments to them, and, under certain circumstances, having a say in disclosure of personal information. If an institution outright denies access to these records, it contradicts the fundamental rights that FERPA is designed to protect.

In contrast, providing adequate data security programs is a requirement rather than a violation, and allowing parental access to records, when appropriate, aligns with FERPA guidelines. Notifying students of their rights falls under compliance measures that educational institutions must follow, so it does not constitute a violation. Therefore, denying access to a student’s records directly infringes on the rights afforded to students and parents by FERPA, making it the correct answer regarding common violations.