Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Philadelphia Literacy Initiative ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting the privacy and security of all users, especially student information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information in compliance with FERPA and applicable privacy laws.

2. Information We Collect

We collect the following types of information:

Tutor Information

• Name and contact information (email, phone number)
• Authentication credentials
• Session reports and tutoring activity

De-Identified Student Information

• Student codes (no real names)
• Grade level and reading levels
• Session attendance and progress records
• Social-emotional learning (SEL) assessments

Technical Information

• Device and browser information
• IP address and access logs
• Usage data and analytics

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information for the following purposes:

• Facilitate tutoring sessions and track student progress
• Generate reports for schools, coordinators, and funders
• Improve our platform and educational programs
• Communicate with tutors and program administrators
• Ensure platform security and prevent unauthorized access
• Comply with legal obligations

4. Student Privacy Protection (FERPA Compliance)

We take student privacy seriously and comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

• All student data is de-identified using anonymous codes
• No personally identifiable student information is stored in the platform
• Access to student progress is restricted to authorized tutors and administrators
• Student data is never shared with third parties for marketing purposes
• Schools maintain control over their students' educational records

5. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information:

• Encrypted data transmission (HTTPS/SSL)
• Secure authentication with phone verification and magic links
• Role-based access controls
• Regular security audits and updates
• Secure cloud hosting infrastructure

6. Information Sharing

We do not sell or rent your information. We may share information only in the following circumstances:

• With Schools: Aggregated progress reports and session data
• With Service Providers: Trusted vendors who help operate our platform (e.g., hosting, email)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect rights and safety

7. Data Retention

We retain information for as long as necessary to provide services and comply with legal obligations:

• Active user accounts and session data are maintained while accounts are active
• Historical data is archived for program evaluation and reporting
• Data may be deleted upon request, subject to legal retention requirements

8. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Request corrections to inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your account (subject to legal requirements)
• Opt out of non-essential communications
• Contact us with privacy concerns

9. Cookies and Tracking

We use essential cookies to maintain your session and ensure platform functionality. We do not use third-party advertising or tracking cookies.

10. Children's Privacy

Our platform is designed for use by tutors and administrators, not directly by children. All student information is de-identified and entered by authorized adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify users of significant changes via email or platform notification. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us: