Conducting Research in Plano ISD

The Plano ISD supports high quality research that addresses well-formed research questions of educational importance. At the same time, the district has moral and legal obligations that require oversight of research activities that make use of district resources such as data, facilities, employee time, or access to students.

In order to conduct research in the Plano ISD, a proposal must be submitted to and reviewed by the district's Research Review Committee (RRC). The RRC is housed within the Department of Assessment & Accountability, and draws on the expertise of district researchers, as well as the professional knowledge of staff from the departments of Curriculum and Instruction and Campus Services.

External research proposals must demonstrate clear and direct educational value to the district and not just to the profession of education in general; be minimally disruptive to the educational process; manifest a sound research methodology, and comply with current privacy laws. The potential direct benefit to Plano ISD must outweigh demands on district resources, particularly on staff and student time. Plano ISD strongly encourages and gives priority to external research projects that contribute to or complement the district's research agenda.