Research Requests in Fort Bend ISD

Welcome to Research in FBISD

The Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) is committed to supporting high-quality, ethical research that enhances student learning, informs best practices, and drives continuous improvement. Our Organizational Development Division and Research Review Board (RRB) oversee all research activities to ensure alignment with district goals, legal requirements, and the highest ethical standards.

Why Conduct Research in FBISD?

Research in FBISD:

• Drives instructional improvement and program evaluation
• Informs policy development and strategic planning
• Supports professional growth for staff and students

All research must:

• Align with FBISD’s mission, vision, and strategic plan
• Protect student and staff privacy (FERPA, PPRA, HIPAA compliance)
• Minimize disruption to instructional time and district operations
• Demonstrate clear educational value to FBISD

Who Can Apply?

• FBISD Employees (for graduate studies or professional development)
• External Researchers (universities, agencies, organizations)
• Students in Research-Based Courses (e.g., AP Capstone as needed)

Note: There is no automatic right to conduct research in FBISD. All proposals are carefully reviewed for alignment and impact.

What Is Considered Research?

Research includes, but is not limited to:

• Surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations
• Data analysis of individual-level or de-identified data
• Program evaluations, curriculum studies, product field-testing
• Graduate theses, dissertations, and capstone projects

Publicly Available Data: If your research only uses data already published by FBISD, no application is required. Please submit a Public Information Request. 

Submitting a Research Proposal

Before You Apply:

• Review all relevant FBISD policies and federal regulations (FERPA, PPRA, HIPAA)
• Ensure your proposal aligns with district priorities and minimizes demands on staff and students
• Consider alternatives to surveys to reduce survey fatigue

Application Timeline:

• Submit your proposal at least 8 weeks before your intended start date
• The RRB meets monthly; see current deadlines below

Upcoming RRB Meeting Dates:

• September 25th, 2025 (submit by September 11th, 2025)
• October 23rd, 2025 (submit by October 9th, 2025)
• November 20th, 2025 (submit by November 6th, 2025)

What You Need to Submit:

• Completed Online Research Application
• Research instruments (surveys, interview guides, etc.)
• Evidence of IRB approval (if applicable)
• Data security and confidentiality plan
• Any required agreements (MOU, ILA, etc.)

Important Reminders

• Data Sharing:
  If your study uses secondary data, you must complete a Data Sharing Agreement (DSA) after RRB approval. District/campus staff cannot provide data directly to external researchers.
• Background Checks:
  External researchers with direct student contact must complete a criminal history background check after RRB approval.
• District Sponsorship:
  All external research must be sponsored by a district department (not by campus staff).

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Do I need approval for using public data?
  No, only for individual-level or confidential data.
• Who reviews my proposal?
  The FBISD Research Review Board (RRB).
• How long does approval take?
  Allow at least 8 weeks for review and processing.
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You can find out more information by click on the flyer below.

FBISD Research Process Flyer