Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), located § 2.2-3700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, guarantees citizens of the Commonwealth and representatives of the media access to public records held by public bodies, public officials, and public employees.

A public record is any writing or recording—regardless of whether it is a paper record, an electronic file, an audio or video recording, or any other format—that is prepared or owned by, or in the possession of a public body or its officers, employees or agents in the transaction of public business. All public records are presumed to be open, and may only be withheld if a specific, statutory exemption applies.

The Code of Virginia states that the purpose of FOIA is to promote an increased awareness by all persons of governmental activities. In furthering this policy, FOIA requires that the law be interpreted liberally, in favor of access, and that any exemption allowing public records to be withheld must be interpreted narrowly.

Albemarle County School Board Policy Reference: KBA, Requests for Public Records

To request records from ACPS, citizens may direct their request to the ACPS FOIA Officer:

Jason Grant
Chief Communications Officer
Phone: 434-296-5820
Email: FOIArequest@k12albemarle.org

In addition, the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council is available to answer any questions citizens may have about FOIA:

FOIA Council
Phone: 804-698-1810
Toll-Free: 866-448-4100
Email: foiacouncil@dls.virginia.gov

Learn more about your rights under FOIA