Legal Question in Education Law in Pennsylvania

Freedom of Information Act

Can someone please tell me how the freedom of information act pertains to public schools? I am a certified teacher in PA and OH and am currently seeking certification in NY and CT. I need a statement of professional experience from past employers, however one is refusing to complete it. The cause of this is because myself along with several other teachers filed grievences against the CEO of the school after our contract expired. I believe the information I am requesting is public record and I am entitled to it because of the Freedom of Information Act. Can someone verify this information?


Asked on 3/29/06, 10:03 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Freedom of Information Act

Well, you said that you filed grievances against the CEO of the school after your contract expired. That would indicate to me that this is a private, not public school. Freedom of Information Act doesn't apply to private institutions. Or perhaps this is a charter school, which is "public," or a "cyber" school, which is quasi-public, and a nonprofit corporation.

In any case, personnel records are not public information in any case.

However, you have a right to your personnel records under state labor law. I don't believe they're obligated to fill out anything for you if they don't want to, however. Your records should suffice.

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Answered on 4/06/06, 3:26 am


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