Conducting Research Within SPS
The Office of Information, Technology, and Accountability (OITA) oversees the review and approval of all research conducted within Springfield Public Schools (SPS). This includes any study or evaluation, whether during or outside school hours, involving SPS students, staff, or facilities. Proposals related to curriculum evaluation, program assessment, or instructional initiatives often contain research elements and are therefore subject to the same approval process.
Proposals involving multiple schools require provisional District approval prior to obtaining written agreements from participating principals. Single-school proposals are subject to the same District review process.
The required forms listed to the right must be completed and submitted with your proposal for it to be considered. Once a complete application is received, please allow 4–8 weeks for review. We recommend planning your submission timeline accordingly.
Due to the high volume of submissions, the District approves only a limited number of proposals. Priority is given to those that align with district goals, offer meaningful insights for practice or policy, and minimize disruption to teaching and learning.