26OLASK1 | English Learners with Disabilities Research | RFR

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is seeking to engage an experienced researcher through a contract valued between $50,000 and $150,000 to support efforts in enhancing educational programming for English Learners with Disabilities (ELSWD). The primary objectives include conducting a comprehensive national scan and literature review on evidence-based practices in educating ELSWD students across the U.S., with a focus on promoting equitable access and outcomes. Additionally, the researcher will perform a gap analysis of existing DESE resources related to ELSWD, culminating in recommendations for updates to guidance and policies. This initiative aims to inform and improve instructional strategies, resource allocation, and policy development to better serve this student population. The procurement process is governed by strict compliance with Massachusetts state procurement regulations, including the use of the Commonwealth’s standard contract forms, adherence to the Small Business Purchasing Program, and the Supplier Diversity Program. Bidders are required to register with COMMBUYS, the state’s official procurement platform, and must demonstrate their capacity to meet program-specific criteria such as business location, size, revenue limits, and commitments to supplier diversity. The evaluation emphasizes best value, negotiation flexibility, and substantial supplier diversity commitments, with at least 25% of evaluation points allocated to the Supplier Diversity Program Plan. Additional considerations include compliance with IT security standards, nutrition and health standards for food-related procurements, and the use of electronic funds transfer for payments. The contract will include provisions for intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and reporting requirements, ensuring that the research outputs and resources developed are appropriately owned and protected. Overall, the contract aims to leverage expert research to inform policy and practice, fostering equitable educational opportunities for ELSWD students through strategic resource development and evidence-based practices.