B-38403 - Question and Answer Addendum 2.docx

New RFP - Illinois Licensure Testing System B-38403

Question and Answer Addendum #1

1. Given the tight turnaround for the proposal and the aggressive timeline for implementation, is the State open to creative solutions for ensuring continued administration during the initial contract years? For example, would the State be open to the possibility of continuing use of a subset of tests by the current vendor that the new vendor may not have immediately available? Or would the State consider licensing content from the current vendor for tests that the new vendor does not have available? Without the potential for creative solutions, the State is limiting the potential for competitive bids.

ANSWER: To meet the requirements of the procurement, the offeror may propose creative solutions in its response.

2. Some requirements in the Deliverables Table may require in-depth discussions and design activities to meet the State’s desired goals. Is the State open to a phased approach for implementation of some deliverables in order to provide solutions that fulfill Illinois’ needs?

ANSWER: Offerors may propose their suggested phase in approach in their offer.

3. Does the State own any of the current tests or test items? If so, please provide details on the number of items by test title that the State owns. Can the successful vendor expect to receive content in a mutually agreeable format within a certain number of calendar days following contract award in order to meet the State’s timelines?

ANSWER: The State owns all of the current tests and test items. The Vendor, however, retains proprietary rights for certain products that will be employed in implementing the program, including but not limited proprietary computer software.

4. Mandatory requirement F.1.1 indicates “custom creation of technically valid and reliable assessments”, but elsewhere the requirements indicate that it is possible the State will adopt existing off-the-shelf or other state tests. Is it a requirement that all tests be custom developed for Illinois or is it permissible to bid existing nationally recognized tests that align to Illinois standards?

ANSWER: Nationally recognized tests aligned to Illinois standards may be bid; but please note that some tests may need to be customized to include content specified in Illinois School Code or Administrative Rule.

5. Regarding mandatory requirement F.1.5, the requirement states “120 days after ISBE gives notification of the need for a new content-area test (including flexible test options) unless otherwise agreed upon in writing by ISBE (with the exception of Target Language Proficiency tests, which must be created and launched within 180 days after ISBE notification).” What specifically is required after 120 days (or 180 days for Target Language Proficiency tests)? For example, is it required that a brand new test be developed, field-tested, and launched operationally within that time period? Does that include design and development activities with Illinois Committees?

ANSWER: The vendor must begin development of new content area tests within this timeline. New content tests do not have to be launched by this timeline. However, new Target Language Proficiency tests must be created and launched within 180 days.

6. Does Illinois have any requirements related to remote proctored assessments? Or will all Illinois assessments be administered at physical testing sites?

ANSWER: There are no current requirements for remote testing and offerors are welcome to present remote administration options in their response.