top of page

RAce In Schools (RAIS) Project

IRB # 21-0011

The goal of the RAce In School (RAIS) in Schools Project is to learn more about what happens to students and their peers at school and how students feel about these events. We are recruiting participants (10-18 year old Black youth enrolled in public school) for this project.

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you might have questions about your child's participation in our research study. As parents and guardians, you want to make informed decisions about your child's involvement in research. Below, we've answered common questions about the study, what participation involves, and how this research helps us better understand students' school experiences. If you don't find the answer to your question here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our research team.

Who can participate in this study?

To participate, your child must:

  • Identify as Black, African American, or Multiracial Black/African American

  • Be between 10 and 18 years old

  • Be enrolled in a public school

What will my child be asked to do?

Your child will complete an online survey that asks about their school experiences. The survey includes questions about:

  • Basic background information (age, grade, race/ethnicity, gender)

  • Their experiences at school

  • How they feel about different situations at school

  • Their relationships with teachers and other students

How long does the survey take?

The survey takes about 25 - 45 minutes to complete

Are there right or wrong answers?

No! There are no right or wrong answers. We want to learn about your child's real experiences and feelings.

Do parents need to give permission?

Yes. Parents/guardians myst complete a Parental Consent form before their child can participate. Your child will also be asked if they want to participate before starting the survey.

What kinds of questions will be asked?

The survey includes questions like:

  • "Have people acted as if they're better than you?"

  • "How often have things gone your way?"

  • "Do you feel your teachers would help if something was wrong?"

  • "Have you seen other Black students being treated unfairly?"

What are the benefits of participating?

By participating in this study, your child:

  • Helps create better tools to understand Black students' school experiences

  • Gets their voice heard about important issues affecting Black youth in schools

  • Contributes to research that can lead to positive changes in schools

  • Receives a $25 gift card as a thank you for their time

  • Can feel proud about helping other Black students by sharing their experiences

Are there any risks to participating?

Your child may be asked questions that make them uncomfortable or bothered (e.g., school experiences with racism and/or discrimination, perceptions of stress). Your child will not need to answer any questions that they do not wish to and can stop participating in the study at any time. If they become very upset, we will end their participation. We will also offer to have your child speak to someone about what they are feeling. We will also tell you about any problems.

There may be other risks that we do not know about yet.

You or child’s relationship with their school or school district or Winston-Salem State University will not be impacted by participating or not participating in this research study.

How can I sign up my child?

  1. Click the "Parent Consent Form" button on this page

  2. Complete the permission form

  3. We'll send you the survey link once we receive your consent

Questions or Concerns?

Contact the MAAD Lab:

Want to learn more about our research into student experiences? We're happy to answer any questions you have!

©2021 by Minority Academic Achievement and Development Lab. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page