27ACLLP1 - ACLS Strategic Priorities Reference Guide.docx

This is a Reference Guide for the Adult Learner Opportunity and Workforce Pathways Initiative (27ACLLP1), issued by the Adult and Career Learning Services (ACLS) unit within the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The initiative seeks a qualified strategic implementation partner to provide technical expertise, implementation support, facilitation, research, training, communications, technology, evaluation, and project management services to strengthen Massachusetts' adult education system. The scope of potential support spans eight strategic priority areas: System Stewardship & Grant Administration; Policy, Standards & Professional Learning; Monitoring & Program Quality; Data, Research & Accountability; Workforce Pathways & Postsecondary Success; Learner Access & Digital Equity; Communications & Stakeholder Engagement; and Innovation & Systems Change. Prospective vendors are encouraged to propose innovative approaches aligned with their expertise rather than address every potential service area. The initiative is supported through state line item 1596-2514 and is covered under World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations.

Successful partnerships should demonstrate cross-cutting capabilities including adult education and workforce systems experience, equity-centered design, project management, data analysis and visualization, research and evaluation, facilitation, professional development, technology implementation, change management, and accessible multilingual communications. The desired outcomes focus on expanding equitable access to adult education and workforce pathways, improving learner progression and credential attainment, strengthening statewide program quality and accountability, increasing workforce alignment through strategic partnerships, and enhancing system effectiveness through research, innovation, and continuous improvement. The reference guide serves as an informational document to guide proposal development rather than prescribe specific deliverables, allowing bidders flexibility in proposing solutions tailored to ACLS's statewide priorities.