Privacy & Confidentiality Disclaimer

This Privacy and Confidentiality Disclaimer explains how information collected as part of this research study and documentary project will be handled, protected, and used.

Purpose of Data Collection
The purpose of this study is to examine racism and racial bullying in public schools through interviews, observations, and review of school policies. Information collected will be used to better understand how racism and racial bullying manifests, how it impacts students and families, and how school policies and practices address these issues.

Voluntary Participation
Participation in this study is entirely voluntary. Participants may decline to participate or withdraw at any time without penalty or negative consequences. Choosing not to participate will not affect current or future relationships with Rice University or participating sites.

Confidentiality of Information
All reasonable efforts will be made to protect participant confidentiality. Personal identifying information will be kept confidential and will not be disclosed in publications, presentations, or reports without explicit permission, unless required by law.

Consent forms and research data will be stored separately. Consent forms will be kept in a locked and secure location on Rice University property. Research data will be stored in secured digital or physical locations accessible only to authorized members of the research team.

To further protect confidentiality:

• Each participant will be assigned a unique identification number.
• Data will be recorded and analyzed using identification numbers rather than names.
• Pseudonyms will be used in publications and future research materials.
• Interview locations will be selected to ensure participant privacy.
• Audio recordings will be destroyed after transcription.
• Video or photographic material will only be used with participant consent.

Audio, Video, and Documentary Participation
Audio and video recordings may be collected as part of the documentary project. Participants should understand that participation may make it possible for others to infer their identity, particularly for individuals known within their communities. Participants who do not wish to have their image or identity disclosed must notify the research team so appropriate anonymity measures can be implemented.

Use of Data and Future Research
Identifiable information may be removed from collected data. De-identified data may be used for future research studies or shared with other researchers without additional consent.

Legal Disclosure
Rice University may be required to disclose consent forms, research data, or identifiable information if required by law, regulation, subpoena, or court order.

Risks and Support
While risks are minimal, discussing experiences related to racism and racial bullying may cause emotional discomfort. Support resources and counseling information will be made available to participants.

Contact Information
If you have questions regarding privacy, confidentiality, or your rights as a research participant, you may contact the Co-Principal Investigators listed above.

By participating in this study, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to the privacy and confidentiality practices described in this disclaimer.