1. Introduction

Project NextGenEd ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of all students, parents, volunteers, and visitors who engage with our services. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose information when you use our website, platform, or participate in any Project NextGenEd programs.

2. Nature of the Program

Project NextGenEd is a student-led nonprofit initiative that provides free educational guidance, mentorship, and access to resources related to the college admissions process. We do not operate as a commercial business, certified admissions consultancy, or data brokerage entity.

3. What Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal and non-personal information:

• Student name, contact information (email, phone)

• Parent/guardian contact (if participant is a minor)

• School name and graduation year

• Academic data (GPA, test scores, courses)

• Essays, resumes, and college list submissions (if voluntarily shared)

• Survey responses, workshop feedback, and scheduling preferences

• Anonymous usage data via our website (e.g., browser type, visit duration)

4. How We Use Your Information

Information is used solely to:

• Provide individualized educational support and resources

• Match students with volunteer mentors or workshop sessions

• Track impact and measure program outcomes (in aggregate only)

• Communicate important deadlines, opportunities, and updates

• Maintain the security and functionality of our website and services

5. Who Has Access to Your Information

Access to personal information is strictly limited to:

• Authorized student volunteers and team leaders supporting your case

• School partners or counselors (only with consent or participation agreements)

• Parents or legal guardians when required for communication or consent

6. Data Protection and Storage

We take reasonable precautions to secure your data, including:

• Password-protected platforms (e.g., Google Workspace, Wix, Calendly)

• Limiting access to team members who have signed confidentiality agreements

• Avoiding collection of sensitive information like SSNs or financial data

However, we cannot guarantee absolute security due to the nature of third-party tools. Users should avoid sharing sensitive financial or legal data with us.

7. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy, or until the student requests removal. Inactive data may be anonymized and used for statistical analysis.

8. Use of Testimonials and Content

With explicit permission, anonymized versions of college essays, testimonials, or success stories may be used for educational or promotional purposes. Consent may be revoked at any time by emailing us.

9. Cookies and Analytics

Our website may use cookies and basic analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) to collect anonymous information to help improve user experience. You can disable cookies through your browser settings.

10. Communication Policy

By providing an email address, you agree to receive periodic communications related to our program. You may opt out at any time by clicking "unsubscribe" or emailing us directly. We do not send third-party marketing messages or sell contact lists.

11. Children’s Privacy

Project NextGenEd does not knowingly collect personal data from children under the age of 13 without parental consent. All minors must have permission from a parent or guardian to participate in our programs.

12. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access and review the personal data we hold about you

• Request corrections to inaccurate information

• Withdraw consent and request data deletion

• File a complaint if you believe your data was misused

To exercise these rights, please contact: projectnextgened@gmail.com

13. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted on this page with the revised effective date. Continued use of our services after changes are made constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

14. Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please email us at: projectnextgened@gmail.com