Provide services for the Step Up to Quality program and 25 more items

The Nebraska Department of Education has awarded a service contract to Susan Jensen, an independent contractor, for the provision of rating review services under the Step Up to Qualify early childhood education program. The contract, effective October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027, carries a total value of $14,554.00, comprised of $11,202.00 in service fees and $3,352.00 in reimbursable expenses. Funding is derived from State funds ($8,004.70 total at 55%) and Federal Child Care and Development Fund Quality Rating and Improvement System funds ($6,549.30 at 45%). The contractor will perform services across participating early childhood education programs within Nebraska.

Under the contract, Jensen will deliver comprehensive rating review services including conducting on-site rating reviews at participating programs, completing orientation training, submitting required documentation within five days of criteria verification, participating in rating reviewer meetings and conference calls, and serving as a Step Up to Qualify program spokesperson. Compensation is structured on an hourly rate basis, ranging from $25 to $70 per hour depending on service type, with rates specified for rating review site visits ($70/hour), document reviews ($30/hour), training and meetings ($30/hour), travel beyond one hour per trip ($25/hour), planning time ($30/hour, not to exceed two hours per program), and spokesperson services ($45/hour). The contractor is obligated to maintain strict confidentiality of all information obtained during contract performance, including personally identifiable information protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and applicable state privacy laws.