Final answer:
FERPA's directory information exception allows schools to disclose certain basic student information without consent unless prohibited by the student or parent. Other exceptions also exist for judicial orders and emergencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) includes a key element that states that schools can share information without permission in certain instances, which is known as the directory information exception. This allows schools to share certain basic information about students, such as their names, addresses, phone numbers, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance unless the student or parent has advised the school they do not want this information released. Additionally, there are other circumstances outlined in FERPA where schools can disclose student records without consent, such as to comply with a judicial order, in cases of health and safety emergencies, or to school officials with legitimate educational interests.