FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

When receiving a request for student information from a psychologist, what is the first step a teacher should take?

1. Directly provide the information

2. Consult with the administration

3. Inform the student about the request

4. Decline to respond to the request

The correct answer is: Consult with the administration

When faced with a request for student information from a psychologist, the appropriate first step for a teacher is to consult with the administration. This procedure is crucial because student confidentiality and privacy laws dictate that sensitive information about students be handled with care. By involving the administration, the teacher ensures that the request is legitimate and adheres to the school’s policies, as well as legal requirements such as FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). The administration can provide guidance on how to respond appropriately and inform the teacher of any necessary protocols, ensuring that the student's rights are protected and that the educator is acting in accordance with school policy. Engaging the administration helps create a systematic approach to information sharing that respects the professional responsibilities of the teacher and safeguards student confidentiality.