Does FERPA apply to university teachers when they are working as private tutors?
On page 3, "FERPA applies to educational agencies or institutions that receive funds from programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education." Because you are a PRIVATE tutor and do not receive funds from the US Department of Education, you are not subject to FERPA. However, there is a fuzzy line on when you're tutoring as an agent of the University or when you are acting on your own. I would recommend as to not juggling the two, that you stick with FERPA laws and respect the student's privacy. Best would be to get written consent from the student to discuss his/her progress with his/her parents.