Cardiac Sonography Program

Project Overview Minnesota State – Northwest Technical College in Bemidji, MN seeks proposals to develop and support a new Cardiac Sonography program that meets industry standards, prepares students for certification, and ensures workforce readiness. The program must be inclusive, accessible, and aligned with accreditation requirements. Technical/Functional Requirements Program Development Design and implement a curriculum aligned with CAAHEP accreditation standards and Minnesota State guidelines. Ensure curriculum prepares students for ARDMS and/or CCI certification exams in Cardiac Sonography. Equipment Expertise Provide training on industry-standard cardiac sonography equipment, including: Echocardiography systems (specify major brands/models if applicable). Simulation tools for hands-on practice. Vendor must demonstrate proficiency in equipment operation and troubleshooting. Educator Staffing Supply full-time, on-campus educators who meet the following qualifications: Current RDCS or equivalent certification. Minimum of 3 years clinical experience in cardiac sonography. Prior teaching experience in allied health or sonography programs. Educators must integrate clinical simulation, lab instruction, and didactic teaching. Support Services Provide ongoing faculty development and training. Offer technical support for equipment maintenance and upgrades. Assist with program accreditation and compliance documentation. Performance Metrics Achieve measurable outcomes, including: Student pass rates on certification exams (target ≥ 80%). Graduate placement rates in cardiac sonography roles. Accreditation within agreed timeline. Compliance Adhere to HIPAA and all applicable Minnesota State educational and clinical training standards. Budget The budget for this contract is anticipated to be approximately $134,000.00 per year of the contract. This budget includes: Program developement, On-campus and off-campus education, and appropriate technology for instruction and simulation. Proposal Content Vendors must include: Ability to supply a full-time educator for five years. Experience and knowledge to assist in developing a Cardiac Sonography program. Proximity to Bemidji, MN to ensure high-quality on-campus educational experiences. Plan for inclusive and accessible education. Timeline for program development and accreditation. Selection Process The selection process will include the Dean of Nursing and two to three other individuals she chooses. This group will evaluate the proposals and make the final decision. Evaluation Factors The following factors and their identified weight will be used to evaluate the responses: Topic Factor Weight Adherence to Minnesota State Terms and Conditions. A statement of the objectives, goals, and tasks to show or demonstrate its view and understanding of the nature of the contract 10 Work Plan. A description of the deliverables to be provided by the Responder along with a detailed work plan that identifies the major tasks to be accomplished and be used as a scheduling and managing tool, as well as the basis for invoicing. 25 Cost/Value. Identify the level of the participation of Minnesota State in the contract, as well as any other services to be provided by Minnesota State, and details of cost allowances for this participation 30 Qualifications of Respondent and its personnel. An outline of the Responder’s background and experience with examples of similar work complete by the Responder and a list of personnel who will conduct the project, detailing their training, and work experience. Resumes or other information about project personnel should not, if possible, contain personal telephone numbers, home addresses or home email addresses. If it is necessary to include personal contact information, please clearly indicate in the proposal that personal contact information is being provided. 25 Completeness, thoroughness and detail of the response Completeness, thoroughness and detail of the response as reflected by the proposal's discussions and coverage of all elements of work listed abov10 10 Total: 100 Contract Terms Minnesota State desires to enter into a contract with the successful Respondent(s) effective March 1st 2026 or on the date the last recognized signature is obtained, whichever occurs later. The length of such contract(s) will be five years. If Minnesota State and Respondent are unable to negotiate and sign a contract by March 1st 2026, then Minnesota State reserves the right to seek an alternative Respondent(s). Minnesota State reserves the right to name a date which all responding Respondents will be invited to present demonstrations or participate in an interview. Minnesota State does not agree to reach a decision by any certain date although it is hoped the evaluation and selection will be completed by the contract terms date identified. Inquiries and Submission Instructions Minnesota State accepts all questions and bid submissions exclusively through Minnesota State's e-procurement system. Hard copy submissions, emails, or submissions through any other medium will not be considered. Each Respondent is solely responsible for the timely delivery of its questions and bids by the RFx date and time deadlines. Failure to meet the deadlines shall be grounds for rejection.