Special Education in Institutional Settings

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is seeking multiple vendors to provide high-quality special education services to students in state-operated or contracted facilities, including the Departments of Youth Services (DYS), Mental Health (DMH), and County Houses of Correction (CHC). The program aims to complement DESE-led instruction at the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children. This solicitation is covered under the World Trade Organization (WTO). Work Details Vendors will administer a program that includes staffing and programmatic support for special education services. Specific responsibilities include: - Providing an educator workforce and curriculum for eligible students, - Maintaining effective human resource policies for recruitment and retention, - Ensuring timely reporting and investigation of personnel-related incidents, - Implementing services outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Vendors must also describe their capacity to support technology needs for students and educators, maintain efficient program operations, and coordinate with multiple stakeholders including the Department, host agencies, and school districts. Period of Performance The initial duration of the contract will be from the approval date until June 30, 2031, with options for two renewals of up to 24 months each. The renewal period will extend from July 1, 2031, to June 30, 2035. Place of Performance Services will be performed in state-operated or contracted facilities within Massachusetts, specifically at locations managed by DYS, DMH, CHC, and the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children. Bidder Requirements Bidders must demonstrate an administrative staffing plan that ensures effective management of programming. They are required to submit a Supplier Diversity Program Plan committing at least 1% of contract sales to diverse businesses certified by the Supplier Diversity Office. Additionally, vendors must comply with Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) requirements for personnel working directly with children.