[ GLOSSARY ]
What is data minimization?
Definition
Law and privacyData minimization
Data minimization means collecting, using and keeping only the personal data a stated purpose needs.
Why it matters for schools
It is becoming law. Maryland's Online Data Privacy Act limits collection to what is "reasonably necessary and proportionate," and the Maryland Kids Code requires minimization for children's data from larger firms. For AI chats, minimization means keeping structured learning evidence rather than raw transcripts where possible, deleting raw text sooner, and never inferring emotion, health or family life. Two more habits help: keep personal chats out of any analytics, and send AI providers pseudonymous IDs rather than names.
[ FAQ ]
Questions and answers
What is data minimization in schools?
Collecting and keeping only the student data a stated educational purpose needs.
Which laws require data minimization?
Maryland's Online Data Privacy Act and Kids Code are examples; COPPA also limits retention for children under 13.
How does minimization apply to AI chats?
Keep raw chats briefly, keep only the learning evidence you need, and never infer emotion or health.
[ SOURCES ]
Sources
Facts checked Oct 18, 2026.
- 1Maryland Commercial Law 14-4707 (MODPA)Read Oct 18, 2026 · mgaleg.maryland.gov
- 2Maryland Commercial Law 14-4806 (Maryland Kids Code)Read Oct 18, 2026 · mgaleg.maryland.gov
- 3Federal Register, amended COPPA Rule (90 FR 16918)Apr 22, 2025 · govinfo.gov
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