FERPA only allows an exemption to consent if research is conducted "for or on behalf of the school." The purpose of the studies must be related to predictive testing, improving instruction or administering student aid programs.
The fact that you have access to the student records does not entitle you to use them for any purpose other than necessary to perform your duties at the school. Unauthorized access for purposes other than those necessary are FERPA violations, regardless of the intent or purpose of the data, or if the student's personally identifiable information is disclosed or not.
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