Purpose

This policy establishes the University’s approach to family notification and involvement in situations affecting student health, safety, and well-being while supporting student responsibility and independence. It provides guidance on when the University may communicate with parents or guardians in accordance with FERPA and institutional practices.

Scope

This policy applies to all Hofstra University students and governs the circumstances under which the University may notify parents or guardians about significant health, safety, behavioral, or emergency situations. It includes matters such as serious risks to self or others, hospitalizations, missing student reports, serious mental health concerns, and certain alcohol or drug-related violations involving students under the age of 21.

Policy

Hofstra University values families as essential partners in guiding students on their journey toward becoming responsible global citizens. We recognize that students grow and mature when they reflect upon and assume responsibility for their actions and decisions. In accordance with Hofstra’s student-centered philosophy, the University strives to communicate and work with students directly while embracing our partnerships with families.

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the University reserves the right to notify families in emergency situations to protect the health and safety of students or others. This may include instances where a student presents a serious risk of harm to self and/or others; hospitalization or hospital transport; official report of a missing student; or serious mental health concerns. In addition, the University may notify parents of students under age 21 in cases of serious or repeated violations of laws or policies regarding alcohol or other drugs.

Hofstra recognizes that individual instances guide decisions regarding family notification, depending on the nature and severity of the situation. Although students are encouraged to maintain ongoing communication with their families, the University reserves the right to notify families directly and/or to ensure that they have been satisfactorily informed in circumstances such as those listed above.

University staff will attempt to communicate with the student before contacting a family member to discuss the possible benefits and challenges of notification. The Hofstra administration uses professional judgment when determining whether notifying parents or guardians is essential and benefits student welfare.

Related Policies and References

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