Requests for Research

  • Lawrence Public Schools receives many requests to conduct research on educational programs and services. As a district, we have the responsibility to protect the rights of our staff, students, and patrons. We must ensure that the research process does not unduly interfere with the educational endeavors in our schools. Protocols have been established to aid individuals and organizations seeking permission to conduct research with our students and staff. These protocols also apply to staff members who desire to conduct research within their schools for professional, personal, and academic reasons (e.g. degree programs).

    Steps for Obtaining Permission to Conduct Research

    1. Submit a completed copy of this application 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 Dr. Jana Craig-Hare, Director of Data & Assessment (research@usd497.org)