Research, Accountability, and Assessment
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major functions of the Research Office in the Baltimore County Public Schools?

  • Perform program evaluations for the offices and schools of the Baltimore County Public Schools.
  • Design, process, analyze, and report results of school climate surveys of parents, faculty, and students.
  • Prepare the Baltimore County Public Schools’ annual Results Report.
  • Prepare the Baltimore County Public Schools’ annual Maryland School Performance Program Report.
  • Review and coordinate requests to conduct research in the Baltimore County Public Schools from employees, universities, government agencies, and private companies.
  • Maintain the statistical series of the Baltimore County Public Schools, including student achievement indicators.
  • Provide research, evaluation, and statistical services to the schools and offices of the Baltimore County Public Schools, including school improvement activities.

How do I obtain approval to do research in the Baltimore County Public Schools?

  • Prepare an abstract of the study, including purpose; university, advisor, and IRB approval (for a thesis or dissertation); timelines; number and kinds of schools, students, faculty, or administrators needed; kinds of data to be collected or extracted.
  • Address how your study aligns with the Blueprint for Progress for the Baltimore County Public Schools.
  • Include copies of all surveys, tests, interviews, and other data collection instruments.
  • Send your proposal to Dr. Gary Brager, Office of Research, Baltimore County Public Schools. You may use e-mail (gbrager@bcps.org), fax (410-561-5769), or surface mail (1940-G Greenspring Drive, Timonium, Maryland 21093).
  • Your request will be reviewed, assigned to a Baltimore County Public Schools project number, and you will be notified as soon as possible.

How do I obtain student data statistical reports or selected rosters for research purposes?

  • Provide a thorough, exact explanation of what information you need and why.
  • Your request will be submitted through the Baltimore County Public Schools’ “data integrity” process.
  • If approved, you will receive as soon as possible the requested sample or reports, usually in electronic format (e.g., spreadsheet).