NC H378, known as Leon’s Law, is a bipartisan legislative proposal that mandates community colleges to grant automatic access to the educational records of minor students to their parents, legal guardians, or individuals acting in a parental capacity in the absence of a parent or guardian, provided specific criteria are satisfied.
On March 19, 2025, the Higher Education Committee conducted the first hearing on Leon’s Law. During this session, NC Youth Impact president Mason Dupre and vice president Jake Xu delivered compelling arguments in support of the bill. They emphasized that granting parents and guardians access to academic records would enable them to play a more active and informed role in their child’s education. This access would facilitate early intervention in cases where a student is struggling, allowing parents or guardians to engage with educators, modify study strategies, or seek additional academic support. Furthermore, they underscored the broader benefits of parental involvement in addressing potential academic and emotional challenges that may impact a minor student’s overall well-being.
If enacted, Leon’s Law is poised to significantly enhance the educational experience and academic success of high school students in North Carolina by fostering increased parental engagement and support.