FAQ

What is considered student directory information? 

Minneapolis Public Schools' Policy 5690, Section 3d, lists student directory information as:

• Name, height and weight of individual members of athletic teams;

• Name of recipient and name of award or scholarship received, and

• Names of participants in officially recognized school activities

In 2023, the Minnesota Legislature passed changed to the student directory information section, and no longer deems student's home address, telephone number, email address, or other personal contact information as directory information (MN Statute 13.32 subdivision 5)

Do I have to use active consent? 

Active consent of the research participant requires that the participant (or parent/guardian if the participant is under 18 years of age) actively agrees to participate in the research. Typically this means that the participant has received a letter and has completed and returned a written form giving consent for participation. 

Passive consent requires all students participate in the research unless their families opt-out of research activities. This means that the participant has received a letter, and is agreeing to participate.  If the parent chooses to opt-out, the parent will complete and return a written form removing consent for participation. 

How do I find a co-sponsor for my research?

We have a short list of subject matter experts here.  Executive Directors, Directors and subject matter experts can all be co-sponsors for research/evaluation projects.  

May I provide incentives to schools, staff or students for their participation?

MPS Policy prohibits incentives to encourage students, schools, or families to participate in research or evaluations.  Incentives cannot be used, or mentioned in marketing materials, informational materials, or consent forms.  

What do you mean by the term “historical/future data” and what data can I request?

This refers to data that MPS already collects, and has, or will have available.  MPS has data on demographics, attendance, enrollment, behavior, academics, and standardized tests.  

What if something changes in my study during the year?

Please contact us; we will request an addendum (stating the changes to your proposal), a written letter of acknowledgement of the specific changes from your co-sponsor, and revised timeline for the research/evaluation project.  

What are reasons why a proposal would not be approved?

MPS' research process is set up to support researchers and schools - if a project is not developed in partnership, or does not have school and principal support, then a researcher does not apply for approval.  

MPS rarely denies research/evaluation projects.  There are 3 common reasons why a proposal would not be approved.

1. Not aligned to MPS strategic goals.  

2. Burden on Minneapolis Public Schools resources.  Ex. research may be taking time away from instruction.

3. Not deemed appropriate for an educational setting.