Should kids scan their own faces in class?
Our position, and the biometric-data framing.
Our position
3D face scans are student biometric data. Check your district's data policy before kids scan their own faces. Many districts require written parental consent for any biometric capture, even for class projects. Scan a clay self-portrait instead, and the problem goes away.
Other voices
Reputable sources worth reading before you decide. Labels reflect our honest read of each source's general stance, not direct quotes.
FERPA / COPPA guidance
Broadly agreesFederal student-privacy regulations treat biometric data as a protected category. Districts interpret this differently, but the cautious path is clear.
Illinois BIPA and similar state laws
Broadly agreesIllinois and other states have strict biometric-privacy laws. Face scanning in those states requires explicit consent.
Opt-in permission forms
Nuanced / mixedA class with clear opt-in permission forms can scan faces. Our 'scan a clay portrait instead' is the easier default, not the only option.