Is magnesium sulfate basic, neutral or acidic?
Looking at the following references, it seems that most agree that a water solution of $\ce{MgSO4}$ is slightly acidic.

"The pH of an aqueous magnesium sulfate solution is related to the molarity of the MgSO4. Typically, the pH is between 5.5 and 6.5 due to magnesium's affinity for hydroxide ion (OH-). As the sulfate goes into solution, hydroxide anions associate with the magnesium, increasing the relative ratio of H+ to OH-. This shift results in more acidic solutions."

"The pH of a pure magnesium sulfate solution is approximately 6.4"

"The pH of [magnesium sulfate] hydrates is average 6.0 (5.5 to 6.5)."

"pH: Neutral to litmus"

Why not perform the experiment in class, using an accurate pH meter and/or indicators (see the pH indicator chart in Wikipedia for suggestions).