How Can We Help?

Find answers to common questions about StudentDPA, how it works, and why it’s the trusted platform for managing student data privacy agreements.
  • What is StudentDPA?

    StudentDPA is a platform designed to simplify and streamline the process of managing Data Privacy Agreements (DPAs) for schools and educational technology providers. Our system ensures compliance with federal, state, and local privacy laws while making it easy to track, sign, and manage agreements in a centralized location.

  • Who can use StudentDPA?

    StudentDPA is designed for anyone involved in student data privacy agreements, including school districts, educational institutions, technology vendors, and privacy officers. The platform provides tools to help all stakeholders manage and track compliance requirements efficiently.

  • How does StudentDPA help protect student data?

    StudentDPA ensures that all educational technology providers follow strict data privacy standards before their services are used in schools. By managing Data Privacy Agreements and providing transparency into data practices, the platform helps districts make informed decisions and keep student data secure.

  • Is StudentDPA affiliated with any government agencies?

    No, StudentDPA is an independent platform developed to assist schools and educational technology providers in managing student data privacy agreements. While we align with federal and state regulations, we are not affiliated with any government agency.

  • How do I get started with StudentDPA?

    Getting started with StudentDPA is simple. Visit our Get Started page at studentdPA.com/get-started to create an account and explore our platform. Whether you’re a school district or a technology provider, our system will guide you through the process of managing your Data Privacy Agreements with ease.

  • What are the benefits of using the StudentDPA Chrome Extension?

    The StudentDPA Chrome Extension helps schools manage student data privacy by providing real-time visibility into the apps students use. It ensures compliance with Data Privacy Agreements (DPAs), reducing the risk of unauthorized tools being used in the classroom. By centralizing approved apps, it streamlines access for educators, improves transparency with families, and supports data-driven decision-making. Schools can confidently integrate technology while maintaining high privacy and security standards.

Learn how Local Education Agencies (LEAs) can use StudentDPA to simplify compliance, streamline agreements, and ensure student data privacy.
  • What is a Data Privacy Agreement (DPA), and why is it important for LEAs?

    A Data Privacy Agreement (DPA) is a legally binding document between an educational institution and a service provider that outlines the terms and conditions under which student data is handled, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local privacy laws. For Local Education Agencies (LEAs), a DPA is crucial as it guarantees that the technology vendors they engage with are committed to safeguarding student data. This not only helps in complying with legal requirements but also builds trust within the educational community that student information is protected.

  • How can LEAs ensure that the apps they use comply with student data privacy laws?

    Local Education Agencies (LEAs) can ensure that the apps they use comply with student data privacy laws by requiring that all technology providers sign a Data Privacy Agreement (DPA) that aligns with these laws before any app is used in educational settings. LEAs should conduct regular audits of the apps in use to confirm compliance, and leverage platforms like StudentDPA, which streamline and document the compliance process. This proactive approach helps maintain a secure digital environment conducive to learning.

  • What should an LEA do if an app they wish to use does not have a signed DPA?

    LEAs should request apps their students use through the StudentDPA platform. Our team will then reach out to the vendor and negotiate a Data Privacy Agreement. If the vendor is hesitant or refuses to sign, LEAs should consider alternative compliant applications that ensure student data protection.

  • How does StudentDPA facilitate the DPA process for LEAs?

    StudentDPA provides a centralized platform where LEAs can easily request, manage, and track Data Privacy Agreements. The platform simplifies the negotiation and signing process, ensures compliance with relevant laws, and maintains a record of all agreements for easy access and monitoring.

  • How can LEAs track the status of DPA negotiations?

    LEAs can track the status of DPA negotiations directly through the StudentDPA platform, which offers real-time updates on each step of the process, from initial request to final approval.

  • What happens if a vendor refuses to sign a DPA?

    If a vendor refuses to sign a DPA, StudentDPA will notify the LEA, which should then consider suspending the use of the app to protect student data and comply with privacy regulations.

  • How are LEAs notified about DPA renewals and expirations?

    LEAs receive automated notifications and reminders via email through the StudentDPA platform well in advance of DPA renewals and expirations, ensuring continuous compliance.

  • Who should LEAs contact if they have issues or questions about the DPA process?

    LEAs should contact StudentDPA support at support@studentdpa.com for any issues or questions related to DPA processes, platform navigation, or compliance concerns.

  • What should an LEA do if they discover an app is collecting more data than stated in the DPA?

    LEAs should immediately report the discrepancy to StudentDPA and cease using the app until the issue is resolved. This ensures compliance with data privacy laws and protects student information.

  • I quit using an app, how do I do a disposition of data request to a vendor?

    LEAs should formally request data disposition from the vendor via StudentDPA, specifying the requirement for complete data deletion or anonymization as per the terms of the DPA.

  • Can I view an example of what your National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA) looks like?

    Absolutely! If you would like a non-executable blank template for review, click here.

  • Where do I find your W9 to enter into our financial system?

    The W9 form is attached to your service agreement for your convenience. It may also be requested directly from our support team at support@studentdpa.com.

  • How does your Chrome Extension work?

    The StudentDPA Chrome Extension works as a monitoring tool that helps ensure that only compliant apps are used within educational settings. It does not store PII but ensures that any apps used comply with the DPAs on file.

  • Why should I use the Chrome Extension?

    Using the Chrome browser extension helps maintain compliance with student data privacy laws automatically and ensures that all apps used in your educational setting adhere to the agreed DPAs.

  • Is involving teachers necessary or recommended?

    Involving teachers in understanding and implementing data privacy policies is recommended as they are often the primary users of educational apps. Training and involving teachers can help prevent breaches and ensure a culture of data protection within the school.

Discover how vendors can efficiently manage and sign Data Privacy Agreements (DPAs) with schools, ensuring compliance while reducing administrative burden.
  • My app doesn't collect PII, should I sign the DPA? Why?

    Absolutely. Signing a DPA is crucial even if your app does not collect Personally Identifiable Information (PII). It's not just about compliance; it's about communication. Without a DPA, schools are left in the dark, unsure whether your app is genuinely safe or if there's a lack of a DPA for less benign reasons. Signing a DPA is a clear signal to the educational community that your app is safe and respects student data privacy. Moreover, our DPA provides a mechanism for you to formally declare that your app does not collect PII, reinforcing trust and transparency with schools and districts.

  • Can I sign for multiple apps?

    Yes. We support batch e-signing of multiple DPAs at once for multiple apps and for multiple states simultaneously. Our system also accommodates multiple apps for vendors, which is a common scenario. Our platform is uniquely designed from the ground up to offer this level of efficiency, making it the only one on the market that facilitates such a streamlined process for signing DPAs.

  • Can I sign a DPA offline?

    While our platform is designed for efficiency and security with electronic signatures, we understand that some vendors may need to sign agreements offline due to policy restrictions or other reasons. In such cases, we have an ad hoc process to accommodate this rare event. Please contact our support team to discuss alternative arrangements for signing the DPA offline.

  • What if I am prohibited by policy from using e-signatures?

    Most vendors find that e-signing is both secure and efficient, benefiting both the vendor and the LEA. However, we understand that in extremely rare cases, vendors may have specific policies that restrict the use of e-signatures. If you find yourself in this situation, don't worry. We have developed an ad hoc process to accommodate such unique requirements. Please reach out to our support team to discuss how we can work together to fulfill the agreement while adhering to your policy constraints.

  • I am not the right contact, I don't handle these types of requests, who should I send this request to?

    If you've received a request to sign a DPA but are not the appropriate contact within your organization, please forward the request to the individual or department responsible for handling data privacy agreements or legal contracts. If you're unsure who this might be, consider contacting your legal department or data privacy officer.

  • How long does the process take to sign a DPA?

    Our system features a streamlined, 5-step wizard that simplifies the process of adding your app's basic data, reviewing the DPA and related appendices, and electronically signing the document. The entire process can be incredibly swift, especially for vendors who are familiar with the NDPA. If you've gone through this process before, it could take just a few minutes to complete. Our platform is designed to make the DPA signing as efficient and hassle-free as possible.

  • Is there a fee to use the StudentDPA service?

    No, there is no cost for vendors to use the StudentDPA service for signing agreements. Our platform is designed to facilitate an efficient and secure process for both vendors and school districts without imposing any fees on vendors.

  • How secure is the information I provide on the StudentDPA platform?

    We prioritize the security of all data provided on our platform. We implement industry-standard security measures, including encryption and secure access protocols, to protect your information and ensure the confidentiality of the agreements you sign.

  • Can I update the DPA after signing?

    No, once a DPA is signed, the document is locked and cannot be directly updated. If there's a significant change in your app or corporate structure that necessitates modifications to the DPA, you have the option to remove the current agreement and initiate a new one through our platform. However, previously executed contracts involving LEAs may still be active and binding. This process ensures that all parties are aligned with the latest terms and conditions relevant to the service provided.

  • What if my company’s policies don’t allow me to access your platform?

    If your company's policies restrict access to our platform, please reach out to our support team directly. We can discuss alternative methods to facilitate the DPA process while adhering to your company's policy requirements. Our aim is to ensure both efficiency for you and compliance with school districts, even when direct platform access is not possible.

  • I need to redline the DPA. How do I go about doing this?

    If you require changes to the DPA, our platform facilitates this process seamlessly. While reviewing the NDPA, you can click on any clause you find problematic and suggest alternative language directly. This action triggers a redlining process, alerting our legal team, who will then review your proposed changes and respond promptly. This feature ensures that your concerns are addressed efficiently, maintaining the integrity of the standardized DPA process while accommodating specific needs.

  • If I start the process, can I stop and come back to it?

    Yes, you can pause your work on the DPA at any time and return later to continue where you left off. To ensure your work is saved, make sure to move to the next or previous page before leaving, as this action automatically saves your progress.

  • Can I download a template to prepare my information before entering it on your platform?

    Our system is designed to collect your app information and merge it into our DPA template, facilitating a streamlined process. We strongly encourage you to enter your information directly on our platform. This approach allows you to review and download a PDF of your DPA with your information before e-signing.

    If you require a non-executable blank template for preparation, we provide such a template for your convenience. It is available here.

  • What if I encounter technical issues while using the platform?

    Should you encounter any technical difficulties or errors on our platform, our support team is ready to assist. Contact us at support@studentdpa.com with a detailed description of your issue, and we'll work swiftly to help you resolve it.

  • Is there documentation available on how to use the StudentDPA platform?

    Yes, comprehensive documentation on how to utilize the StudentDPA platform is available. This includes step-by-step guides and tutorial videos designed to help you navigate the platform easily. For access to these resources, visit our support site at https://support.studentdpa.com/.

Having trouble? Find troubleshooting tips and technical support information to help you navigate the StudentDPA platform with ease or visit our support website at support.studentdpa.com.
  • How do I get started with StudentDPA?

    Getting started with StudentDPA is simple. Click here to get started and follow the guided steps to begin managing your Data Privacy Agreements. For a step-by-step walkthrough, visit our support site at support.studentdpa.com.

  • I need help signing a DPA. Where can I find guidance?

    If you're unsure how to sign a Data Privacy Agreement (DPA) on our platform, our support site provides detailed instructions, including a step-by-step guide and FAQs. Visit support.studentdpa.com and search for "Signing a DPA" to find relevant resources.

  • What if I encounter technical issues while using the platform?

    If you experience technical difficulties, check our troubleshooting section at support.studentdpa.com. If the issue persists, contact our support team through the site, and we’ll assist you as quickly as possible.

  • Where can I find documentation and tutorials?

    We provide a variety of guides and tutorials on how to use StudentDPA effectively. Visit support.studentdpa.com to access documentation, FAQs, and video tutorials that walk you through key features.

  • How do I contact support?

    For assistance, visit support.studentdpa.com, where you can find answers to common questions and submit a support request if needed. Our team is ready to help with any issues or inquiries.

Articles & Resources

Here are some interesting articles we think you'd enjoy

blog-post-image
Legal Responsibilities of School Districts in Case of Vendor Data Breaches

Legal Responsibilities of School Districts in Case of Vendor Data Breaches In today’s K-12 education landscape, school districts rely heavily on third-party vendors to provide digital learning tool...

blog-post-image
AI-Powered EdTech and Student Privacy: The Hidden Risks Vendors Must Address

AI-Powered EdTech and Student Privacy: The Hidden Risks Vendors Must Address Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the educational landscape, offering innovative tools that enhance per...

blog-post-image
Emerging Trends in Student Data Privacy Laws: A Comprehensive Overview

In an increasingly digital educational landscape, the importance of robust student data privacy laws has never been more critical. Schools and educational institutions are collecting more data than ev...