Final answer:
Under FERPA, an instructor can release confidential student information under limited circumstances such as obtaining written consent, protecting health and safety, or sharing with other school officials with legitimate educational interest.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the provisions of the Family Education Rights to Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), there are limited circumstances under which an instructor can release confidential student information. One of these circumstances is when there is written consent from the student or their parent/guardian authorizing the release of the information.
Another circumstance is when the release of information is necessary to protect the health and safety of the student or others. For example, if a student poses a threat to themselves or others, the instructor may be required to disclose relevant information to the appropriate authorities.
Additionally, information may be disclosed to other school officials with a legitimate educational interest in the information, such as teachers, administrators, or counselors.