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Questions and Answers
Alternate ID: 27SEPGT1 COMMBUYS Document #: BD-27-1026-DOE02-DOE01-130975
Questions submitted on COMMBUYS, via the COMMBUYS Q & A tab
Q & A closes: Date: 7/31/2026 Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Time
| Date Submitted |
| Question |
| Answer |
| 1 |
| 7/10/26 |
| There are some general (non module-specific) requirements listed on pages 7-8 of Attachment A, as well as in the scorecard. 1) are these included in the 3-page limit for the module response 2) should these be duplicated in each module response? |
| The general requirements in Attachment A represent overarching qualifications and expectations that apply to the RFR as a whole rather than any individual module. Applicants do not need to duplicate responses to these requirements within each module narrative. Responses to the general requirements are separate from the module-specific responses and are not counted toward the three-page limit established for each module. |
| 2 |
| 7/10/26 |
| Item 1 under submission requirements states that applicants should include "[a]n all inclusive budget broken into fiscal years, with identified deliverables for each year." Should we include the separate budgets for each module within a single pdf submitted with all requirements, or should these be submitted 1) in a single separate document or 2) in multiple separate documents, one for each module? |
| Applicants should submit one consolidated budget document with their proposal. The budget should clearly identify costs by fiscal year and by module proposed. If proposing multiple modules, the budget should distinguish the costs and deliverables associated with each module while remaining part of a single budget document. |
| 3 |
| 7/10/26 |
| Can you provide more guidance on how to create the budget for Module G given that the scope of work is not yet fully defined? For example, can you provide guidance on how much technical assistance and professional development (e.g., number of trainings, number of participating LEAs, amount of coaching) DESE expects the vendor to provide each year? Alternatively, can you provide relative percentages for the various types of activities listed in Module G? |
| The scope of Module G is intentionally broad because the Department has not yet identified the focus of the next State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP). During the initial phase of the contract, the selected vendor will work collaboratively with the Department to conduct needs assessments and research, review relevant data and evidence, support stakeholder engagement, and assist in identifying and recommending an appropriate SSIP focus. |
The vendor will also support the development of the SSIP's Theory of Action, Evaluation Plan, and implementation recommendations, including identifying evidence-based improvement strategies and performance measures. Because the direction and scope of this work will be informed by those collaborative activities, DESE is unable to provide estimated quantities for technical assistance, professional development, coaching, or other implementation activities at this time.
Applicants should propose a staffing model, project management approach, and budget that demonstrates the capacity and expertise to support the Department through the SSIP development process and subsequent planning activities. The specific scope of work, deliverables, and level of effort will be refined collaboratively with the selected vendor as the SSIP is developed.
| 4 |
| 7/10/26 |
| Attachment A mentions "developing accessible communication materials for diverse audiences." Is it expected that the vendor would be responsible for translating materials into languages other than English? If so, can you provide more information about how much translation is expected? |
| The expectation is that materials developed under this contract are accessible and appropriate for their intended audiences, including compliance with applicable digital accessibility requirements. Translation into languages other than English is not an anticipated responsibility under this procurement unless specifically requested by the Department. Should translation services be required for a particular project or deliverable, the Department will work with the selected vendor to determine the appropriate approach and scope. |
| 5 |
| 7/13/26 |
| Does the scorecard apply to a comprehensive application (all modules or a combination of particular modules) or is it used for each individual module being bid on? |
| The evaluation scorecard applies to the proposal as a whole regardless of whether an applicant is proposing on a single module, multiple modules, or all modules. The general submission requirements and overarching qualifications are evaluated once for the complete proposal. The module-specific evaluation criteria are applied only to the specific module(s) for which a proposal has been submitted. |
| 6 |
| 7/13/26 |
| In the Module B attachment, there is some language that seems to be the same used in Module A tasks. Can the state confirm whether this information is intended to be included in Module B submissions? |
| The Department has confirmed that the language in Attachment 2 describing the work for Indicators 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, and 13 was included in error. Applicants responding to Module B should respond only to the Module B scope of work for Indicator 8 that is included in the updated Attachment. |
| 7 |
| 7/13/26 |
| Do there need to be two reference letters for each key personnel across all modules or should they reflect the bidder's qualification in relation to the scope of work for specific modules the key personnel will support? |
| The reference letters should demonstrate the qualifications and relevant experience of the proposed key personnel in relation to the scope of work they will perform under the proposal. If a key individual is proposed to support multiple modules, the reference letters may address experience across those modules and do not need to be duplicated for each module. The Department does not require separate reference letters for each module when the same key personnel are proposed. |
| 8 |
| 7/14/26 |
| Does a business listed in the Directory of Certified Businesses with a certification Type of SBPP (Small Business Purchasing Program) qualify despite the language below? Or must the business have one of the certifications below? Eligible SDP Partner Certification Categories SDP Partners must be business enterprises and/or non-profit organizations certified or recognized by the SDO in one or more of the following certification categories: * Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) * Minority Non-Profit Organization (M/NPO) * Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) * Women Non-Profit Organization (W/NPO) * Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (VBE) * Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (SDVOBE) * Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) * Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Business Enterprise (LBGTBE) |
| When selecting an SDP partner, they must be listed in the directory posted by the Supplier Diversity Office and must be one (or more) of the certified types listed: * Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) * Minority Non-Profit Organization (M/NPO) * Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) * Women Non-Profit Organization (W/NPO) * Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (VBE) * Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (SDVOBE) * Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) * Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Business Enterprise (LBGTBE). Link to the Business Directory |
| 9 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module B: Can the Department clarify the anticipated frequency of stakeholder meetings related to Indicator 8, including whether these meetings are expected to occur annually or more frequently during each fiscal year? |
| The frequency of stakeholder meetings may vary from year to year based on varying priorities. The Department anticipates more frequent stakeholder meetings during the FFY2026 SPP/APR due to setting new targets. The Department currently holds stakeholder meetings annually with schedules and topics determined between the Department, the Parent and Training Information Center, and the vendor(s) and anticipates a similar schedule with the selected vendor(s). |
| 10 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module C: At what points are LEAs required to submit Indicator 7 data, such as entry/initial, annual, and exit? |
| LEAs currently submit Indicator 7 data consistent with the Department's established data collection timelines and procedures, including entry and exit data, three times a year. The Department will provide the selected vendor with the current collection schedule and procedures upon contract award. Applicants should demonstrate familiarity with IDEA Indicator 7 data collection requirements rather than base their proposal on a specific annual collection calendar. |
| 11 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module C: Does DESE's current system allow Indicator 7 data to be reviewed or drilled down by child, case manager, school, regions, and LEA? |
| The Department’s data collection system supports varying levels of reporting and analysis. The current system for Indicator 7 however does not provide the level of detail contained within the question. The selected vendor(s) will have access, consistent with applicable data-sharing agreements and requirements, to the information necessary to perform the scope of work. Additionally, the selected vendor(s) may provide suggestions for additional data and analysis to the Department for consideration. |
| 12 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module C: Are LEAs entering Indicator 7 data directly into the system, or are data submitted through another process? |
| Indicator 7 data are submitted by LEAs through the Department's established collection process. The Department will provide the selected vendor with the current data collection procedures following contract award. Applicants should focus their proposals on their ability to support the Department's data collection, analysis, reporting, and continuous improvement activities rather than a specific submission mechanism. |
| 13 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module C: How often are Indicator 7 data quality checks conducted to assess accuracy, plausibility, and completeness? |
| Data quality reviews are conducted throughout the data collection and reporting cycle as needed to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of the data. The selected vendor will collaborate with the Department to support these ongoing quality assurance activities consistent with Department procedures. |
| 14 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module D: What is the approximate frequency of stakeholder engagement (monthly and annually) across existing advisory committees and groups? |
| Stakeholder engagement activities vary based on the purpose of the work, Department priorities, and project needs. Applicants should propose an approach that demonstrates the capacity to support recurring stakeholder engagement activities while remaining flexible to accommodate changing priorities throughout the contract period. Please see the response to Question 9 for additional information about stakeholder engagement. |
| 15 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module D: To what extent does the Department anticipate stakeholder engagement events such as listening sessions, focus groups, and advisory body presentations will be conducted in-person vs. virtually? |
| The Department anticipates utilizing both virtual and in-person engagement strategies, depending on the purpose of the activity, stakeholder audience, geographic considerations, and operational needs. Applicants should demonstrate the ability to effectively facilitate both virtual and in-person engagement activities. |
| 16 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module D: How does the Department define "meaningful participation" regarding historically marginalized communities and multilingual families? Does the Department have existing efforts in place to ensure or expand stakeholder engagement efforts with these groups? |
| Meaningful participation refers to providing equitable opportunities for stakeholders to engage in Department activities in ways that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of diverse communities. The Department currently employs a variety of strategies to support engagement with historically marginalized communities and multilingual families and expects the selected vendor to build upon and strengthen these efforts consistent with Department priorities and applicable accessibility requirements. |
| 17 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module E: Given the interconnected nature of TA/PD activities with those described in other modules, if the Department engages multiple contractors across modules, what data sharing protocols will be implemented to ensure the timely sharing of information and data between third party partners? |
| The Department will coordinate activities among selected vendors, as appropriate, to ensure effective collaboration and implementation across modules. Information sharing will occur consistent with applicable confidentiality requirements, data-sharing agreements, and Department policies. Applicants should describe their experience collaborating with multiple partners and coordinating work across related initiatives. |
| 18 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module G: Can MA DESE clarify the expected scope and scale of stakeholder engagement for the SSIP review, analysis, and planning work, including the stakeholder groups to be prioritized, the geographic or programmatic reach desired, and whether the Department envisions targeted engagement with select groups or a broader statewide input-gathering process? |
| Because the Department has not yet identified the focus of the next SSIP, the specific stakeholder engagement strategy has not been determined. The selected vendor will work collaboratively with the Department to develop an engagement approach that is appropriate for the selected SSIP focus and includes relevant stakeholders, which may include families, educators, LEAs, advisory groups, partner organizations, and other interested parties. Applicants should demonstrate the capacity to plan and facilitate both targeted and broader statewide stakeholder engagement activities as appropriate. |
| 19 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module G: To what extent does the Department anticipate stakeholder engagement activities related to the SSIP overlap with the broader stakeholder engagement activities described in Module D? |
| While some stakeholder groups or engagement activities may overlap, Module G focuses specifically on stakeholder engagement necessary to support SSIP review, planning, development, implementation, and evaluation. Module D addresses broader stakeholder engagement activities that support the Department's overall IDEA Part B General Supervision responsibilities. The Department will coordinate work across modules to promote efficiency and minimize unnecessary duplication. |
| 20 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Module G: Does the Department anticipate the technical assistance and professional development activities to support the SSIP would be in addition to the TA and PD scope described in Module E or does the Department understand the activities of Module E to include support for SSIP priorities? |
| Module E encompasses the Department's broader technical assistance and professional development activities. Depending on the selected SSIP focus, technical assistance and professional development developed under Module G may inform or complement the work conducted under Module E. The Department will coordinate work across modules to ensure activities are aligned and not unnecessarily duplicative. |
| 21 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Please clarify the vendor's expected role related to noncompliance for this work. Specifically, is the vendor responsible for identifying noncompliance for any or all indicators, notifying LEAs of noncompliance, and tracking corrective actions and timelines through verification of correction, or will these responsibilities remain with DESE? |
| The selected vendor(s) will work collaboratively with the Department to review and analyze current processes related to the identification and correction of noncompliance and may recommend improvements to increase the efficiency, consistency, and effectiveness of those processes. For certain indicators, as identified in the applicable module, the selected vendor may conduct compliance reviews, including review of documentation, policies, practices, procedures, and other required evidence, and provide findings and recommendations to the Department. |
The Department retains responsibility for all official determinations of noncompliance, notification to LEAs, enforcement actions, and final verification of correction in accordance with IDEA and applicable state and federal requirements. The specific responsibilities of the selected vendor will vary by Indicator and will be carried out under the direction of the Department.
| 22 |
| 7/21/26 |
| Please clarify the expected format and process for preparing the Annual Performance Reports (APRs). Will the vendor be provided with DESE's existing APR templates, tools, or formatting requirements? Additionally, is the vendor expected to enter or support entry of APR content directly into OSEP's EMAPS system, and will the vendor participate in any preliminary data meetings or data clarification discussions with OSEP's data implementation team? |
| The selected vendor will be provided with the Department's existing procedures, templates, and reporting guidance used in preparing the SPP/APR. The vendor will assist the Department in drafting and revising APR content consistent with OSEP requirements and Department procedures. The Department retains responsibility for the official submission of the SPP/APR, including entry into the EMAPS system. The selected vendor may be asked to support the Department during the SPP/APR clarification process and other discussions with OSEP, as requested by the Department. |
| 23 |
| 7/23/26 |
| When does the client intend to award? What start date should be used for pricing? |
| The Department anticipates making an award late August to Mid Sept (subject to change). |
| 24 |
| 7/23/26 |
| For the budget, does DESE expect the labor hours by person by year and the deliverables by quarter for each module? |
| Applicants should submit an all-inclusive budget broken out by fiscal year that clearly identifies the proposed staffing, anticipated costs, and associated deliverables for each module proposed. Labor hours by individual or quarterly deliverables are not required; however, applicants should provide sufficient detail to demonstrate how the proposed budget aligns with the scope of work and expected deliverables. |
| 25 |
| 7/23/26 |
| Can the same work sample be used for multiple modules and referenced as such? Or are separate, independent work samples required for each module? |
| Yes. A work sample may be used to demonstrate experience relevant to more than one module, provided it clearly reflects the qualifications and experience applicable to each module for which it is being submitted. Applicants may reference the same work sample across multiple modules and are not required to submit duplicate copies. |
| 26 |
| 7/23/26 |
| The Bid Template lists a Questions Submission Deadline of 7/31/2027, which falls after the 8/10/2026 bid opening. Can the Department confirm the correct question-submission deadline for this solicitation? |
| The date listed in the Bid Template is a typographical error. The correct deadline for submitting questions is July 31, 2026. The Department will issue an amendment to correct this date. |
| 27 |
| 7/23/26 |
| For the Required Qualifications Criteria that call for demonstrated experience supporting IDEA Part B SPP/APR activities and demonstrated knowledge of RDA and OSEP reporting, may a bidder satisfy those criteria using the documented experience of a named subcontractor or teaming partner, or must the prime bidder itself hold that experience? |
| Yes. A bidder may demonstrate the required qualifications through the combined experience of the proposed project team, including identified subcontractors or teaming partners, provided the proposal clearly identifies the responsibilities of each organization and demonstrates that the proposed team collectively possesses the required qualifications and experience to perform the scope of work. |
| 28 |
| 7/23/26 |
| May a bidder propose a subset of the seven Modules, or must all seven be proposed together in a single response? |
| Applicants may propose on any individual module or any combination of modules. Applicants are not required to submit proposals for all seven modules. Proposals will be evaluated based on the requirements applicable to the module(s) for which the applicant submits a response. |
| 29 |
| 7/23/26 |
| For the Supplier Diversity Program Commitment, must the named certified partner hold active SDO or VA VetBiz certification as of the 8/10/2026 submission date, or may a bidder name a partner whose certification is in process at submission? |
| A partner that is pending review and approval from the SDO office may be named. If using a subcontracting partner they must be approved by the time of award. If using an ancillary partner they may be pending approval at the time of award and documentation must be obtained and provided by the awarded vendor on the status. If the ancillary partner is not approved a new one will need to be selected. The award may be suspended as a result of this. |
| 30 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| One of the five elements of comprehensive support vendors are providing is "data collection." Does that mean vendors are: developing an online platform that districts use to submit their SPP/APR data? Updating the Department's existing platform(s) that districts use to submit their SPP/APR data? Providing guidance and specifications on the platform that districts will use to submit their SPP/APR data that the Department will then use to develop/update their platform? Some other definition of "data collection"? |
| Data collection is used as a broad description of the activities necessary to obtain complete, accurate, timely, and usable data for the applicable SPP/APR indicators. Depending on the module, these activities may include: administering surveys or other collection instruments, |
supporting existing Department collection systems, conducting outreach and follow-up with LEAs, families, or former students;
monitoring submissions and response rates, cleaning, validating, organizing, and processing data, documenting collection procedures and business rules, recommending improvements to data structures, instruments, workflows, and system functionality, and supporting implementation of Department-approved changes.
The term does not mean that the selected vendor must develop or modify an online software platform. Platform development is expected only where expressly identified in a module or subsequently approved and defined by the Department.
| 31 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| Modules B, C, and F (Ind 7, 8, 14) list data collection, along with data analysis and reporting. Module A (Ind 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13) does not list data collection, only data analysis and reporting. Can you explain the data collection requirements for modules B, C, and F, and how that differs from the data work done for Module A? If vendors are expected to develop their own data collection platform or modules B/C/F, what are the expectations around that platform will integrate or align with the platform used for the module A indicators? |
| The difference reflects the current methods used to collect data for each group of indicators. For Module A, data for Indicators 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, and 13 are already collected through established Department data collections and/or the statewide longitudinal data system. The selected vendor will analyze and report on Department-provided data and may recommend improvements to existing collection procedures, but will not be responsible for conducting the data collection. |
For Modules B, C, and F, the selected vendor will support data collection activities specific to each indicator. These activities include administering or supporting survey and collection processes (Indicators 8 and 14), supporting the Department's existing ECOS collection process (Indicator 7), conducting outreach and follow-up with respondents or LEAs, monitoring data quality and completeness, and recommending improvements to collection procedures. Except where expressly stated in the module, vendors are not expected to develop new data collection platforms. Any proposed system changes or new collection tools would require Department approval.
| 32 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| Improving the data collection procedures will likely involve revisions to the current data structures (ie. how data is organized and stored within the Department system.) This will mean that historical data may be stored in a different structure or database than future data. Are vendors responsible for converting historical data to align to the revised, updated structure? Or will the Department team handle any conversions necessary of historical data? |
The Department does not assume that the current data structures or Department data systems will be revised as part of this work. For indicators where data are collected through existing Department systems and provided to the selected vendor for analysis, the vendor will work with the data in the format made available by the Department and perform any routine cleaning, organization, or transformation necessary to complete the required analyses.
Vendors are not expected to convert or migrate historical Department data into a new structure unless a specific need is identified and separately agreed upon with the Department. Should a proposed improvement to a collection process involve changes to data structures, the Department and selected vendor will determine the appropriate approach, responsibilities, and scope before any conversion work is undertaken.
| 33 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| For Module B, vendors are asked to develop a new collection system for Indicator 8, based on the recommendations of the Department. Are there restrictions or requirements regarding what software platform(s) the vendor uses to administer the new Parent Survey? Likewise, are their restrictions/requirements for the platform used for reporting and analysis? |
| The selected vendor will work with the Department to review the current process, evaluate available options, and develop a recommended collection approach that aligns with OSEP sampling and cohort requirements. |
Any proposed platform or tool must be approved by the Department and must comply with applicable state and federal confidentiality requirements, Department security and data-sharing requirements, digital accessibility standards, and requirements related to data ownership, portability, retention, and export. The platform must also allow the Department to obtain data in a usable format for disaggregated, longitudinal, representativeness, nonresponse-bias, LEA-level, and statewide analyses.
Applicants may propose a vendor-hosted platform, an existing commercially available product, or another feasible approach, but should clearly identify anticipated licensing, hosting, implementation, maintenance, technical support, and data-transfer costs in the proposed budget.
| 34 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| For Module C vendors are asked to, "Manage and support data collection systems (ECOS within the Department's Security Portal)" Does this mean the vendor is providing a dedicated development team to implement revisions directly to ECOS and to provide ongoing technical support? |
No. The vendor is not required to provide a dedicated software-development team or independently make programming changes directly within ECOS.
The selected vendor’s anticipated responsibilities include supporting the Department’s administration and use of the existing Indicator 7 collection process; monitoring data submissions; conducting outreach and follow-up with LEAs regarding entry and exit ratings; identifying data-quality or operational issues; documenting recommended improvements; assisting users with programmatic and procedural questions; and working with Department staff responsible for the system when technical changes are needed.
| 35 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| For Module F, vendors are asked to "Implement data collection procedures and activities." Does this mean the vendor is developing a new platform Indicator 14 survey administration and data collection? Or will they be taking over development and administration of an existing platform? |
| The selected vendor will be responsible for providing, administering, and managing the platform used to collect Indicator 14 survey responses. This includes implementing the Department's approved data collection procedures, administering the survey, collecting and processing responses, conducting data quality activities, and preparing the data for analysis and reporting consistent with OSEP requirements. The Department does not prescribe a specific platform; however, any platform used by the selected vendor must meet applicable Department requirements for data security, confidentiality, accessibility, and data transfer. The selected vendor may recommend enhancements to the collection process, subject to Department approval. |
| 36 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| Vendors are asked to provide disaggregated and longitudinal data analysis. Is the Department responsible for providing the data to the vendor in a format that allows for this analysis? Or is the vendor being asked to develop a data collection platform that structures and exports the data such that disaggregated and longitudinal analysis is possible? |
| The Department will provide the selected vendor with available data and relevant documentation. The selected vendor will be responsible for reviewing, cleaning, organizing, linking, and preparing the provided data as necessary to conduct the required disaggregated, longitudinal, trend, and LEA-level analyses. |
Except where the applicable module expressly includes the development or improvement of a data collection system, vendors are not expected to develop a new data collection platform solely to perform these analyses. The selected vendor may recommend improvements to data structures, collection procedures, or system functionality when those improvements would strengthen the quality, usability, or sustainability of the Department’s data. Attachment A generally requires vendors to provide disaggregated and longitudinal analyses, while Module A specifically describes the work as analysis of Department-provided data.
| 37 |
| 7-27-2026 |
| Vendors are asked to, "Generate LEA-level data displays and reporting (Individualized LEA Reports and/or public reporting documentation)." Is this requirement just to generate the reports that can be shared and saved for documentation purposes? Or, is it to develop a system that the Department can use to generate these reports, year after year? |
| The selected vendor will be responsible for producing the required LEA-level reports, data displays, and public-reporting documentation in formats approved by the Department. The Department also seeks sustainable and repeatable reporting processes. Currently, the Department produces LEA-level reports for Indicators 11, 12, and 13 (within Module A), Indicator 8 (within Module B), and Indicator 14 (within Module F) and would work with the selected vendor on these reports and suggestions for other Indicator reports. Therefore, vendors may propose templates, automated reporting tools, documented procedures, or other approaches that would allow the Department to reproduce or update reports in future years. |
The requirement does not require the development of a new standalone reporting system or software application. Any proposed reporting system, dashboard, or automated tool would be subject to Department approval and applicable accessibility, data security, maintenance, and ownership requirements.
| 38 |
| 7-28-2026 |
| Will the vendor be responsible for final formatting/editing/branding of deliverables or is this managed by DESE? |
| The selected vendor is expected to prepare deliverables that are professionally written, edited, and formatted in a manner appropriate for the intended audience. Deliverables should comply with applicable accessibility requirements. The Department will review all deliverables and is responsible for final approval, branding, and publication, as applicable. |
| 39 |
| 7-28-2026 |
| Should the budget/budget narrative be uploaded as a separate document? |
| Applicants may include the budget and budget narrative within the proposal response or submit them as a separate document. Regardless of the format, the budget should clearly identify proposed costs by fiscal year and, if proposing on multiple modules, distinguish the costs associated with each proposed module. |
| 40 |
| 7-29-2026 |
| The submission section in attachment A includes the following language: d. The research plan for the work, including: research questions that address the needs outlined and issues raised in the RFR, methodology and data analysis plan to answer the proposed research questions, clearly articulated and justified use of qualitative and quantitative measures, and timeline for each fiscal year. Can you clarify if a research plan is necessary for all modules or a specific subset of modules? |
| The research plan is a general submission requirement and should be included with all proposals. The plan should be tailored to the scope of the module(s) for which the applicant is submitting a proposal and describe how the applicant will use research, data, and evaluation methods to inform the work outlined in the applicable module(s). Applicants proposing on multiple modules may submit a single research plan that addresses each proposed module. |
| 41 |
| 7-2-2026 |
| If a research plan is required for a module, are the research questions intended to support public understanding of the information or are the questions intended to support DESE with understanding opportunities for future program and or process improvements? |
The research plan is intended to describe the applicant's approach to using research, data analysis, and evaluation methods to support the work described in the applicable module(s). It is not intended to propose independent or academic research studies. Rather, the plan should demonstrate how the applicant will use qualitative and quantitative methods, as appropriate, to inform implementation, evaluate outcomes, identify opportunities for continuous improvement, and support the Department's decision-making and IDEA reporting responsibilities.
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