Section 20-2-661 - Legislative intent and findings(a) The General Assembly acknowledges that student data is a vital resource for parents, teachers, and school staff, and it is the intent of the General Assembly to ensure that student data is safeguarded and that students' and parents' privacy is honored, respected, and protected.(b) The General Assembly finds that: (1) Student data allows parents and students to make more informed choices about educational programs and to better gauge a student's educational progress and needs;(2) Teachers and school staff utilize student data in planning responsive education programs and services, scheduling students into appropriate classes, and completing reports for educational agencies;(3) Student information is critical in helping educators assist students in successfully graduating from high school and preparing to enter the workforce or postsecondary education;(4) In emergencies, certain information should be readily available to school officials and emergency personnel to assist students and their families;(5) A limited amount of this information makes up a student's permanent record or transcript; and(6) Student information is important for educational purposes, and it is also critically important to ensure that student information is protected, safeguarded, kept private, and used only by appropriate educational authorities to serve the best interests of the student.Added by 2015 Ga. Laws 171,§ 1-1, eff. 7/1/2016.