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PA 16-189, An Act Concerning Student Data Privacy, restricts how student information may be used by contractors, consultants and operators of websites, online services and mobile applications for schools.
The law, which will go into effect Oct. 1, requires companies to specify how they will secure student data and prohibits them from using it for advertising unless authorized by their contract.
“It was great to see a bill that originated from the concerns of a Fairfield parent and advocate signed by the governor today,” McCarthy Vahey said. “Jennifer Jacobsen has been the driving force in our state bringing the issue of student data privacy to light.
“Websites, mobile apps, and other online services are important tools for facilitating classroom learning, but we need to ensure that students’ personal information is secure. This law will give families the peace of mind that taking advantage of online services doesn’t come at the cost of their children’s privacy.”
Jacobsen, a former educator and the founder of the Fairfield-based grassroots advocacy group Connecticut Alliance for Privacy in Education, began taking an interest in student privacy when she noticed that an online school textbook was being used to solicit donations from her daughter.
“What began as a passion became a venture into my own education in how student information, used as a tool to help our educators, can also pose risks,” Jacobsen said. “Along with many other concerned parents, I began to advocate for a state law that would serve to protect the children of our state.
“We are grateful for the help from key legislators, like Rep. Cristin McCarthy Vahey and Rep. Gail Lavielle of Norwalk, who helped the legislature to understand the importance of student data privacy legislation. The result is a very good law that marks an important first step for Connecticut's students and families and keeps the door open for future dialogue.”
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