Final answer:
The statement that parents can contact college professors about student grades, attendance, and assessments is false due to FERPA. Students' educational records are protected, and rights are transferred to the student when they turn 18 or attend college, requiring written consent for parental access.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that parents and other individuals are more than welcome to contact college professors about grades, attendance, and assessments is generally false. In the United States, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or attends a postsecondary institution, rights under FERPA transfer to the student, meaning parents do not have automatic access to their child's college records without the student's consent. In the case that a student wants to grant such access, they must do so through a signed, written consent.
It is encouraged for students to communicate directly with their professors regarding academic difficulties or interests. Instructors typically appreciate when students reach out for help or further discussion about course material, meaning that students should not hesitate to utilize office hours to enhance their understanding of the subject matter.