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General Laws Chapter 71, Section 34H, is a state law that is designed to standardize the process by which public elementary and secondary schools provide student records to parents who do not have physical custody of their children ("non-custodial parents"). The law, which was added by Chapter 285 of the Acts of 1998, is currently in effect.

Section 34H is very detailed. The law is intended to encourage parents to be involved in and informed about the education of their children, while protecting the rights and safety of all parties. The Massachusetts Department of Education Question and Answer document (MA DOE Frequently Asked Questions) is a must read if you are not familiar with this law.

The Hopkinton Public Schools complies fully with this law and seeks to do so in a respectful manner with the minimum procedural requirements necessitated by the law. Each of our schools has a designated administrator of records for compliance with 34H. These records administrators can help to answer your questions. You may also contact the Superintendent's Office for assistance.