Here's why:
* Educational records are protected: Federal law (FERPA in the US) and similar laws in other countries afford students certain rights regarding their educational records. While FERPA doesn't apply directly to private schools in the same way it does to public schools, private schools often have internal policies or are subject to state regulations that protect student access to their records.
* Withholding vs. Keeping: The crucial difference is that a private school can *withhold* your transcript—meaning they won't release it—until you pay your outstanding balance. They can't *keep* it in the sense of permanently deleting or destroying it. Your right to access your own academic record is typically protected.
* Legal recourse: If a private school refuses to release your transcript despite your right to access it, you might have legal options. This could involve contacting your state's education department or seeking legal counsel.
* Contractual obligations: The school's enrollment agreement might outline the school's policy regarding outstanding balances and transcript release. It's crucial to review this agreement carefully.
In short, while a private school can legally refuse to release your transcript until you pay your outstanding fees, they cannot legitimately claim ownership of your grades or permanently deny you access to your academic record. If you encounter this situation, it's advisable to attempt resolution through communication with the school's administration and, if necessary, seek legal advice.