Junk Mail Magic

Use a school directory-information opt-out

A school directory-information opt-out limits disclosure of information covered by the school’s notice. Start with that notice: it identifies the categories, who may refuse disclosure and the period for a written request. It is not a request to erase every school record.

By Junk Mail Magic. Updated .

Work from the current school notice

  1. Get the directory-information notice from the school or district’s verified website or records office. Check the school year and the categories it designates.
  2. Identify who holds the FERPA rights. They usually belong to the parent, then transfer to the student at 18 or on attendance at a postsecondary institution at any age.
  3. Read the school’s deadline, written-request method and any choices about particular uses or categories. Do not assume another district’s form applies.
  4. Submit through the stated school route and keep a copy. If the deadline or scope is unclear, ask the records office to explain the available choice.

Check what the choice affects

A directory restriction may concern more than recruitment mail. Use the school’s notice to understand the actual disclosures involved instead of guessing from the word directory. The Department of Education describes the process, but it does not supply one nationwide school deadline.

This request goes to the school holding the record. A business that already has a mailing record may need a separate postal marketing request. Removing a student from a college search service is another distinct action.

Private directory notice worksheet

Example for your own use. Replace the bracketed details and review what you share.

School and year: [details] Notice location and date: [verified document] Person holding FERPA rights: [parent / eligible student] Designated information: [relevant categories] Disclosures to restrict: [choice offered] Written-request deadline and method: [actual instructions] Copy submitted and confirmation: [dates and private storage location]

Save evidence of the request

Keep the notice, submitted wording and confirmation together. If mail arrives later, ask the sender how it obtained the address; arrival alone does not show that the school ignored the request.

Official sources

Check the high school recruiter-contact opt-outDoes a school directory opt-out continue after graduation?Opt out of College Board Student Search marketingStop college mail that continues after Search opt-outSchools and student recruitmentAll practical mail guides

Choose the route that matches the mailing

Use the official route described in this guide for this kind of mail. For a separate ordinary advertisement, Junk Mail Magic can help prepare a sender-specific removal request.

Compare removal routes