Steps for Obtaining Permission to Conduct Research

1. Submit a completed copy of this application (Word or PDF) and a complete description of the proposed research project, including the instruments or tests to be used, methods for recording data, interview protocols, data needed from the district, estimated timeline, procedures for ensuring the privacy of individuals relative to your study, human subjects/IRB approval documents, and any pertinent consent or recruitment documents, to the person designated by the district as responsible for approving research requests.
2. The designated approver will work with affected school campuses and/or district departments to review the request.
3. After review, the research will be approved, not approved, or tentatively approved on the condition that some changes occur. 
4. At the conclusion of the study, a copy of the results of the research shall be provided to the district.

If you have specific questions about this process, or if you would like preliminary feedback on your research proposal prior to submitting your application, please contact James Polk, Director of Data & Assessment (research@usd497.org)

The Data Governance Team meets monthly to review research requests. Please note the schedule below for submission deadlines.