25SASMS1 | Assessment Support Services

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is seeking a vendor to provide comprehensive technical assistance for its large-scale assessments during fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The scope of services includes offering technical support for summative assessments and related programs, as well as developing and deploying a continuing student growth model. The procurement process is formalized through a solicitation identified as Assessment Support Services, with the response deadline set for May 3, 2024. The contract will be managed under the standard Massachusetts Commonwealth terms, which incorporate detailed legal, financial, and performance provisions, including compliance with state policies on procurement, security, and small business participation. The vendor will be expected to adhere to strict guidelines on intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and information security, particularly for IT systems, which must conform to the Enterprise Information Security Policies issued by the state's Office of Technology Services & Security. Supporting documentation emphasizes the importance of compliance with state procurement regulations, including registration with COMMBUYS, participation in the Small Business Purchasing Program, and adherence to diversity and inclusion policies. The contract will be governed by the Commonwealth’s standard terms and conditions, which detail payment mechanisms, confidentiality obligations, record-keeping, and rights related to intellectual property developed during the engagement. The procurement process encourages participation from small and diverse businesses, with specific eligibility criteria outlined for the Massachusetts Small Business Purchasing Program. Overall, the contract aims to secure specialized technical assistance to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of DESE’s assessment programs, ensuring compliance with legal, security, and diversity standards established by the Commonwealth.