BPM007707 Attachment Documents.docx

Contents

Attachment I – Questionnaire. (Page 2) Complete per the instructions stated on the form.

Attachment II – Offeror’s References. (Page 19) Complete per the instructions stated on the form.

Attachment III – Price Sheet. (Page 20) Complete per the instructions stated on the form.

Attachment IV – Offer and Acceptance. (Page 21) Complete per the instructions stated on the form.

Attachment V – Conformance Statements (Deviations and Exceptions). (Page 22) Complete per the instruction on the form.

Attachment V – Conformance Statements Supplemental. (Page 23) Complete per the instruction on the form.

Attachment VI – Designation of Confidential / Proprietary Submittals Form. (Page 24) Complete per the instruction on the form.

Attachment VII – AZDOHS Information Security Program Disclosure and Attestation. (Page 26) Complete per the instructions on the form.

Appendix A (Page 27)

Solicitation Attachments – Proposal Requirements State of Arizona Department of Education 1535 W. Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

Solicitation No.: BPM007707 Description: Arizona Academic Standards Assessment (AASA)

– Arizona Science Test (AzSCI) Grades 3 – 8

Provide a detailed narrative response to each question below. Proposals without a detailed narrative to the questions below will receive a lower score during the evaluation. The narrative response shall address the following questions, in the order below, referencing the related section of the scope of work.

METHOD OF APPROACH

1. Executive Summary

In a maximum of four (4) pages, provide an executive summary in non-technical language to summarize the Offerors approaches for accomplishing the services specified herein and overall capabilities and experience in providing similar services.

A. Contractor Responsibilities

2. Federal and State Requirements and Industry Standards

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Federal and State Requirements and Industry Standards pursuant to Section 5.1 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Comply with ESEA/ESSA requirements for statewide assessments.

· Apply industry best practices across test design, development, administration, scoring, reporting, and data management.

· Align work with recognized professional standards (e.g., AERA/APA/NCME, CCSSO, NCME).

· Maintain data integrity, fairness, and validity in all assessment processes.

· Ensure professionalism, ethical conduct, and stakeholder coordination across all activities.

3. Test Development

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Development pursuant to Section 5.2 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop, manage, and maintain item banks, including use of Arizona‑owned items.

· Conduct test design, item development, review, and production, including annual item development.

· Design assessments aligned to Arizona Academic Standards with appropriate structure, length, and item types.

· Ensure assessments support CBT and PBT formats and required accommodations (e.g., Braille, ASL).

· Provide valid, reliable, and standards‑aligned measures of student performance, including subgroup reporting.

· Involve ADE in review and approval of all test development activities.

· Apply validity, reliability, and Universal Design (UDL) principles.

· Address specific requirements (e.g., Grade 3 MOWR, foundational skills).

· Adapt to new or revised standards, including development of specifications, blueprints, and field testing.

· Conduct standard setting and provide aligned practice, interim, and formative assessments.

4. Test Development Security Requirements

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Development Security pursuant to Section 5.3 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Maintain a secure test development environment with access limited to authorized personnel.

· Protect test items during development, transmission, and review processes.

· Implement and enforce comprehensive test security procedures across all stages of test development.

5. Style Guide Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Style Guide pursuant to Section 5.4 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop a comprehensive Style Guide for ELA, Math, and Science assessments.

· Define item design, layout, navigation, and visual standards for online and paper formats.

· Ensure consistency between CBT and PBT item presentation.

· Update and maintain the Style Guide annually in collaboration with ADE, including review and approval processes.

6. Test Specifications and Test Blueprints

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Specifications and Test Blueprints pursuant to Section 5.5 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop test specifications and blueprints aligned to Arizona standards.

· Define content, reporting categories, and performance level descriptors (PLDs).

· Incorporate Depth of Knowledge (DOK) and support a range of item types, including higher‑order thinking.

· Establish methods for text complexity and grade‑level appropriateness.

· Develop internal and external test blueprints, including item distribution, difficulty, and balance across standards.

· Collaborate with ADE and TAC in the development and refinement process.

7. Item Development Plan

Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Item Development Plan pursuant to Section 5.6 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a comprehensive item development plan and timeline aligned to test blueprints.

· Produce and maintain sufficient high‑quality items annually, including refresh and release strategies.

· Ensure items are aligned to standards and support valid and reliable score interpretations.

· Conduct bias and Differential Item Functioning (DIF) analysis.

· Perform internal reviews for quality, accuracy, and alignment prior to ADE submission.

· Maintain and report on item bank inventory, usage, and statistics.

· Use compliant stimulus materials (e.g., public domain or owned content).

· Update plans annually and coordinate with ADE for review and approval.

8. Test Form Construction

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Form Construction pursuant to Section 5.7 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a test form construction plan aligned to style guides, specifications, and blueprints.

· Ensure appropriate selection and distribution of items (e.g., anchor, operational, field‑test) and alignment to test characteristics.

· Apply psychometric principles to support reliability, validity, and consistent score interpretation.

· Review forms for quality issues (e.g., bias, cluing, balance).

· Ensure equivalency between CBT and PBT forms.

· Collaborate with ADE and stakeholders in test form development.

· Provide and maintain test maps and supporting documentation.

9. ADE Review of Test Items and Test Forms

Describe the Offeror’s approach to ADE Review of Test Items and Test Forms pursuant to Section 5.8 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Support ADE review and approval of all test items and forms, including placement within forms.

· Provide review materials that replicate the student testing experience.

· Ensure all submitted items and forms are accurate and error‑free.

10. Stakeholder Review Committees

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Stakeholder Review Committees pursuant to Section 5.9 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Organize and manage stakeholder review committees, including coordination with ADE on member selection.

· Facilitate committee meetings, including logistics, materials, staffing, and documentation.

· Support a range of review committees (e.g., blueprint, content, bias/sensitivity, rubric validation, data review, standard setting).

· Provide timely meeting materials for ADE review and ensure secure handling.

· Produce post‑meeting reports summarizing feedback and recommendations.

11. Release of Operational Items

Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Release of Operational Items pursuant to Section 5.10 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement an item release plan for ADE review and approval.

· Release at least 10% of operational items annually across grades and subjects.

· Ensure released items reflect a range of item types.

· Provide clear timelines and accessible formats for public release

12. Test Administration

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Administration pursuant to Section 5.11 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Deliver accurate, reliable test administration without disruption.

· Collaborate with ADE on administration processes and approvals.

· Provide and support paper‑based testing, including printing, distribution, and scoring.

· Provide an optional plan for remote proctoring capabilities for computer‑based testing.

13. Test Administration Security Requirements

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Administration Security pursuant to Section 5.12 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a secure testing environment with controlled access to authorized materials.

· Implement role‑based access, authentication, and audit logging.

· Ensure accurate student identification and test assignment, including error correction processes.

· Comply with federal and state data privacy requirements (e.g., COPPA, FERPA, FISMA).

· Protect Personally Identifiable Information (PII) through secure data management and encryption practices.

14. Ensuring Test Security

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Ensuring Test Security pursuant to Section 5.13 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a Test Administration Security Plan aligned with industry standards.

· Provide training for test administration personnel on security procedures.

· Ensure secure management of assessments to prevent unauthorized access.

· Maintain audit logs and monitoring to detect testing irregularities.

· Identify and respond to security incidents before, during, and after testing.

· Provide independent validation of system security

15. Online Management System

Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Online Management System pursuant to Section 5.14 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a secure, reliable system for student data management, test administration, and reporting.

· Ensure system availability and uninterrupted access during test windows.

· Support role‑based access, user management, and secure data transfers (file/API).

· Enable ordering, tracking, and management of testing materials (CBT and PBT).

· Track student participation and system activity.

· Populate and maintain system data using ADE integrations.

· Support ADE review, updates, and branding requirements.

· Provide system monitoring and operational reporting.

· Deliver a dashboard with real‑time data and reporting for ADE and LEAs.

16. Standards for the Handling of Personally Identifiable Information (PII)

Describe the Offeror’s approach to protecting and handling Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in accordance with Section 5.15 of the Scope of Work and the applicable Special Terms and Conditions. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Comply with applicable State of Arizona data security, privacy, and protection requirements governing PI

· Implement and maintain appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect PII throughout its lifecycle

· Ensure that any subcontractors or third parties accessing PII adhere to all applicable data protection requirements.

· Identify and manage risks related to the use, storage, transmission, and processing of PII.

· Comply with any program-specific requirements related to the handling of PII, including restrictions on the

Describe the Offeror’s approach to complying with applicable State of Arizona Information Technology, security, and Homeland Security requirements in accordance with Section 5.16 of the Scope of Work and the applicable Special Terms and Conditions. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Comply with applicable State policies, standards, and regulatory requirements related to information security and technology.

· Implement and maintain appropriate administrative, technical, and physical controls to protect State systems and data.

· Support required security assessments, reviews, and risk management activities as required by the State.

· Ensure that any subcontractors or third-party providers comply with applicable information security and technology requirements.

· Identify and manage risks related to the use of information technology, including cloud-based services, if applicable.

· Provide documentation, processes, and controls necessary to meet State security, privacy, and compliance

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Hardware and Software Requirements pursuant to Section 5.17 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Support wired and wireless connectivity across required devices and maintain compatibility with updates and accessibility technologies.

· Provide a secure lock‑down testing environment that restricts unauthorized features and applications.

· Support multiple web browsers and platforms, including defined version ranges.

· Provide a secure testing browser or mode.

· Offer system readiness tools to verify device and network compatibility.

· Ensure compatibility with ADE device specifications.

· Provide advance notification of end‑of‑support technologies and transition planning.

19. Testing Platform Overview

Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Testing Platform pursuant to Section 5.18 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a customizable, accessible testing platform that supports Arizona users and accurately captures student performance.

· Implement Universal Design and accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508, WCAG, APIP).

· Deliver an intuitive user experience for students and administrators.

· Restrict access to secure content until training requirements are met.

· Support User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and ADE review of system functionality.

· Provide contingency solutions to address system performance issues.

· Meet performance requirements, including bandwidth efficiency, response times, and scalability for large user volumes.

· Monitor and report system performance and concurrent usage during testing.

· Provide infrastructure testing tools and user guidance to validate readiness prior to live testing.

20. Testing Platform Performance Requirements

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Testing Platform Performance Requirements pursuant to Section 5.19 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide site readiness tools to assess device compatibility, network performance, and bandwidth.

· Deliver guidelines and processes to simulate operational testing conditions.

· Verify LEA readiness, including completion of required technical steps prior to testing.

· Evaluate infrastructure capacity, including connectivity, hardware, browsers, and concurrent users.

· Establish and maintain approved client‑side technology standards in coordination with ADE.

21. Screen Layout Requirements

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Screen Layout Requirements pursuant to Section 5.20 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Design clear, consistent screen layouts for test item presentation.

· Display student information and testing tools in a logical and accessible manner.

· Ensure consistent navigation and icon placement across the system.

· Minimize scrolling and improve usability.

· Support flexible display options, including adjustable font sizes.

22. Testing Platform Tools and Features

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Platform Tools and Features pursuant to Section 5.21 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a comprehensive set of testing and universal tools to support student interaction and performance.

· Ensure tools are consistent, intuitive, and accessible across the testing platform.

· Support features such as calculation aids, reference materials, measurement tools, and item interaction tools.

· Provide universal accessibility tools (e.g., highlighting, masking, zoom, text‑to‑speech, notetaking, navigation supports).

· Ensure text‑to‑speech and accessibility tools are accurate, consistent, and not dependent on operating system variations.

· Support usability features such as pause/resume, review, and navigation controls.

· Enable flexible display capabilities, including zoom functionality for text, graphics, and interface elements.

· Ensure all tools function consistently across CBT environments and support student accessibility needs.

23. Accommodations

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Accommodations pursuant to Section 5.22 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide accommodations for all students, including English learners and students with disabilities.

· Support a range of assistive and accommodated testing tools (e.g., scribing, assistive technology, ASL, large print).

· Ensure accommodations are accessible, functional, and aligned to assessment requirements.

· Enable customization of display and interaction features (e.g., font size, color, input methods).

· Support specialized formats and guidance, including refreshable Braille and tactile accommodations.

24. Accommodated Paper Test Versions

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Accommodated Paper Test Versions pursuant to Section 5.23 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide accommodated paper formats (e.g., Braille, large print, regular forms) aligned to student needs.

· Ensure quality, accuracy, and timely delivery of accommodated materials, including replacements.

· Support secure administration, return, and scoring processes for paper‑based accommodations.

· Incorporate appropriate review and validation processes (e.g., Braille proofreading).

· Apply all test security and data protection requirements to accommodated materials.

25. Ancillary Materials

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Ancillary Materials pursuant to Section 5.24 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and deliver state‑specific ancillary materials to support test administration.

· Ensure all materials are Section 508 compliant and accessible.

· Provide key documents, including checklists, user guides, technology documentation, Test Administration Directions (TADs), and Test Coordinator Manuals (TCMs).

· Support both electronic and limited print distribution options as required.

· Collaborate with ADE on review and approval of all materials.

26. Providing Paper-Based Test (PBT) Materials

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Providing Paper‑Based Test Materials pursuant to Section 5.25 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a secure system for ordering, packaging, distribution, and return of paper‑based materials.

· Meet required shipping timelines for initial and additional orders during the testing window.

· Support a controlled ordering process through LEA coordinators, with ADE oversight.

· Ensure timely fulfillment of orders and delivery to LEAs.

· Provide for secure storage and destruction of unused and returned materials.

27. Training Resources

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Training Resources pursuant to Section 5.26 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide annual training for test coordinators, administrators, and technology staff.

· Deliver training across key areas (e.g., technology, administration, coordination, and ethics).

· Define training content, duration, and availability.

· Utilize accessible, technology‑based delivery methods.

· Implement training completion controls (gatekeeping) prior to system access.

· Provide a comprehensive support plan ensuring timely and accurate assistance.

· Deliver multi‑channel support (toll‑free phone, email, chat) during required service hours.

· Track and monitor support performance metrics (e.g., abandoned calls, responsiveness).

· Communicate issues to the field through clear reporting channels (e.g., portal, announcements, help desk).

29. Service Level Agreement (SLA)

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Service Level Agreements pursuant to Section 5.28 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide a comprehensive SLA framework covering availability, performance, support, and reporting.

· Meet required uptime and service hour standards, aligned to Arizona (MST).

· Deliver timely incident response, status updates, and escalation procedures.

· Conduct security testing and disaster recovery testing and maintain supporting plans.

· Provide immediate notification of security risks, service disruptions, or anomalies.

· Maintain a robust disaster recovery strategy, including RTO/RPO, backup, and failover processes.

· Ensure system performance and availability are not impacted by shared environments or other customers.

· Support continuous availability during testing windows, including mitigation of outages and adherence to contract remedies.

30. Practice Test Materials

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Practice Test Materials pursuant to Section 5.29 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide online practice tests that replicate operational test functionality, tools, and accommodations.

· Ensure practice tests are available in all required formats (CBT, PBT, accommodations).

· Align practice materials to Test Specifications and Test Blueprints.

· Provide supporting materials (e.g., answer keys, teacher guides).

· Follow ADE processes for review, approval, and annual updates.

· Provide and deliver accessible PDF versions for field distribution.

31. Test Data

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Data pursuant to Section 5.30 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Collaborate with ADE on data review, validation, and approval processes.

· Ensure proper data ownership, retention, and secure destruction in accordance with contract requirements.

· Maintain secure data storage and archival practices throughout the contract term.

· Support required analyses and studies, including third‑party alignment studies when standards are revised.

32. Test Data Security

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Test Data Security pursuant to Section 5.31 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Ensure secure access to student data and test results, limited to authorized users.

· Implement authentication, encryption, and audit logging for all system access.

· Accurately match students to test results and maintain data integrity.

· Control and track data modifications through role‑based permissions.

· Maintain complete audit trails for all access and data changes.

33. Scoring

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Scoring pursuant to Section 5.32 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide accurate and error‑free scoring of student responses.

· Apply and manage both machine scoring and hand‑scoring processes, as required.

· Support ADE review and validation of scoring data prior to score release.

· Ensure inter‑rater reliability and quality control, including read‑behind practices.

· Develop and implement scoring processes for alternative formats (e.g., Braille) as needed.

34. Scaling and Equating

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Scaling and Equating pursuant to Section 5.33 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Apply approved scaling methodologies (e.g., Rasch/Winsteps) or propose and justify alternatives.

· Conduct key psychometric processes, including item calibration, scale construction, and equating across forms and years.

· Monitor and address scale drift and psychometric integrity.

· Perform additional analyses as required for ADE, TAC, or federal peer review.

· Provide data and documentation to support ADE validation and replication of scaling and equating prior to score release.

35. Student Data Verification

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Student Data Verification pursuant to Section 5.34 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide data and documentation to support ADE validation of scoring.

· Enable replication and verification of student scale scores prior to score release.

36. Reporting Describe the Offeror’s approach to Reporting pursuant to Section 5.35 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a comprehensive reporting plan, including ADE review and stakeholder feedback.

· Deliver accurate, timely, and user‑friendly reports for students, families, educators, and the public.

· Meet required reporting timelines, including online and printed report delivery.

· Provide a full suite of reports and data files (e.g., student, roster, district, state, and accommodation reports).

· Support secure online reporting portals for educators and families with role‑based access.

· Handle data corrections, late reporting, and updated data files.

· Incorporate special reporting requirements (e.g., MOWR score).

· Develop interpretive guides and translated materials to support understanding.

· Ensure reporting supports state and federal accountability requirements.

· Establish processes for reporting urgent student content issues (e.g., safety concerns).

37. Technical Report and Studies

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Technical Reports and Studies pursuant to Section 5.36 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Produce an annual technical report demonstrating reliability, validity, and overall technical quality.

· Document psychometric methods, procedures, and results in a form suitable for public release.

· Provide evidence supporting fairness, accessibility, and consistent score interpretation across students and delivery modes.

· Incorporate results from standard setting and TAC feedback.

· Support ESSA and federal peer review requirements.

· Meet required timelines for draft and final report delivery.

· Conduct required studies (e.g., MOWR alignment and additional validity studies) in collaboration with ADE.

38. Technical Advisory Council Describe the Offeror’s approach to supporting the Technical Advisory Council (TAC) pursuant to Section 5.37 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Support TAC operations and collaboration with ADE.

· Prepare and deliver meeting materials in advance for ADE review.

· Provide qualified personnel to participate in TAC activities.

· Manage meeting logistics and coordination.

· Cover costs associated with TAC meetings, including stipends and travel.

39. Program Management Describe the Offeror’s approach to Program Management pursuant to Section 5.38 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a comprehensive program management plan.

· Manage resources and activities to ensure timely, accurate, and error‑free deliverables.

· Support the implementation and ongoing operation of the assessment program.

· Maintain effective oversight, coordination, and performance management.

40. Staff and Responsibilities Describe the Offeror’s approach to Staff and Responsibilities pursuant to Section 5.39 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Assign qualified and experienced personnel to support ADE and contract requirements.

· Provide ongoing technical expertise and staffing support.

· Manage key personnel assignments and transitions, including ADE approval processes.

· Ensure staff changes do not impact performance, timelines, or deliverables.

41. Communication Plan

Describe the Offeror’s approach to the Communication Plan pursuant to Section 5.40 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and implement a comprehensive communication plan across ADE, LEAs, and stakeholders.

· Prepare and disseminate communications for assessment activities, subject to ADE approval.

· Provide timely communication of issues and risks affecting testing or program delivery.

· Support LEA coordination and help desk communication channels during required service hours.

· Maintain a documentation repository with structured organization, access controls, and audit capabilities.

42. Schedule

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Scheduling pursuant to Section 5.41 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Develop and maintain a comprehensive project schedule covering all contract activities.

· Provide a detailed Year 1 schedule, including tasks, timelines, and assigned resources (FTEs).

· Identify roles, responsibilities, and level of effort required for project execution.

· Maintain and update a living schedule, including status tracking and revisions with ADE approval.

· Ensure adherence to key deliverable timelines and milestone requirements.

43. Program Meetings

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Program Meetings pursuant to Section 5.42 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Plan and conduct regular program meetings (e.g., weekly, annual, and project kickoff).

· Provide meeting documentation, including status updates, action items, and decision logs.

· Report on progress, issues, and corrective actions.

· Manage meeting logistics, facilities, and travel, including support for virtual participation.

· Support stakeholder and TAC meeting coordination and execution.

44. Program Management Reports

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Program Management Reporting pursuant to Section 5.43 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide comprehensive program management reports, including schedules, performance metrics, and operational data.

· Deliver reports on test administration, incidents, shipments, and help desk performance.

· Collect and report stakeholder feedback (e.g., surveys, customer service metrics).

· Produce forensics and analytic reports to monitor testing integrity and identify irregularities.

· Provide detailed student interaction and activity reporting to support analysis and oversight.

45. Incident Report and Root-Cause Analysis for Errors

Describe the Offeror’s approach to Incident Reporting and Root‑Cause Analysis pursuant to Section 5.44 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Provide immediate notification of incidents impacting testing, reporting, or system access.

· Document and communicate incident details and impacts.

· Conduct and deliver root‑cause analysis within required timelines.

· Identify corrective actions and preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

· Ensure transparency and accountability in issue resolution and reporting.

· Provide qualified technical support staff during all testing windows.

· Deliver timely technical assistance to LEAs and schools within required response timeframes.

· Ensure continuous monitoring and rapid response to issues affecting test administration.

· Provide advance notification of major system changes, updates, or redesigns.

· Communicate timelines and expected impacts of future platform changes.

· Ensure changes are planned and coordinated with ADE to avoid disruption to testing operations.

48. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) Describe the Offeror’s approach to User Acceptance Testing (UAT) pursuant to Section 5.47 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Support ADE‑led UAT processes, including provision of scripted test cases across platforms and environments.

· Ensure UAT is separate from internal quality assurance and does not replace defect‑free delivery obligations.

· Provide a structured process for defect tracking, prioritization, and resolution prior to testing windows.

· Deliver a UAT‑ready system environment within required timelines that reflects production conditions.

· Obtain formal ADE approval prior to production release and control changes after UAT sign‑off.

· Include performance, stability, and readiness validation activities (e.g., stress testing, outage handling).

· Collaborate with ADE to develop and execute UAT plans covering platform functionality and reporting.

49. Final Delivery of Materials Describe the Offeror’s approach to Final Delivery of Materials pursuant to Section 5.48 of the Scope of Work. The response shall demonstrate the Offeror’s ability to:

· Deliver all required assessment materials, data, and products to ADE annually.

· Provide materials in formats and timelines defined by ADE.

· Ensure completeness of deliverables, including test forms, item banks, reports, and data files.

· Support a seamless transition from and to other contractors.

· Coordinate with ADE and other vendors to ensure continuity of operations and data transfer.

· Enable secure import/export of item banks and assessment data, including compliance with interoperability standards (e.g., QTI®).

EXPERIENCE, CAPABILITY, AND RELIABILITY

51. Organizational Chart

The Offeror shall provide an organizational chart identifying all key personnel responsible for the performance of this contract. The organizational chart shall clearly indicate reporting relationships and delineate each individual’s role and area(s) of responsibility with respect to the Scope of Work.

52. References At least three (3) verifiable professional references must be provided regarding services provided by the Offeror similar to those required under this Solicitation. (The Offeror should use the designated Attachment.) Please note: it is the responsibility of the Offeror to choose references that are willing to respond to ADE’s request for references. The failure of a reference to respond may negatively impact the consideration of your offer. Also, do not use any ADE employee, officer or agent as a reference.

53. Firm’s Experience and Expertise In a maximum of two (2) pages, the Offeror shall provide a comprehensive narrative describing its experience and expertise relevant to performing the requirements of this RFP.

Attachment I Questionnaire State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

Offeror Name:

Provide (3) verifiable professional references, preferably within the past three years, in which a major role was played in providing service(s) similar in scope to that in this solicitation. The references should show the breadth of the individual or organization experience and demonstrated capabilities to support and manage the required service(s). Use a separate sheet for each reference.

Reference Information

Organization / Company Name:

Street Address

City/ST/Zip

Contact Information:

Contact Name Phone Number

Contact Email Address

Project Description

Estimated Cost:

Project Begin Date:

Project End Date:

Project Overview: (Include similar services performed as those required by this solicitation)

Attachment II Offeror’s References State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

Offeror proposes to furnish all services and related materials for AASA - AzSCI Assessment as stated in the Scope of Work. All pricing shall be submitted in the accompanying Excel workbook titled “Attachment III Price Sheet”.

The Excel workbook constitutes the official pricing submission form for this solicitation. Offerors shall complete all pricing fields contained in the spreadsheet and submit the spreadsheet with their proposal. No pricing information shall be entered I this Word document.

ATTACHMENT III

Price Sheet State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

SUBMISSION OF OFFER: The undersigned hereby offers and agrees to provide AASA in compliance with all terms, conditions, specifications, and amendments in the Solicitation and any written exceptions in the Offer indicated by the latest dated version below.

Offeror company name

Signature of person authorized to sign Offer Date

Address

Printed name and Title

City, State, ZIP

Contact name and Title

☐ By checking this box, Offeror is certifying that it is exempt from the requirements regarding the forced labor of ethnic Uyghurs and boycott of Israel because of one of the following: Contractor is a Sole proprietorship, has fewer than ten (10) employees; or is a non-profit organization.

Revised Offers:

Best and Final Offer:

CERTIFICATION: By signature in the above, Offeror certifies that it:

1. Will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment in violation of any Federal anti-discrimination laws, rules, regulations or executive orders, [Arizona] State Executive Orders 2023-09, 2023-01, 2009-09 or A.R.S. §§ 41-1461 through 41-1465;

2. Has not given, offered to give, nor intends to give at any time hereafter any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or Service to a public servant in connection with the submitted offer. Failure to provide a valid signature affirming the stipulations required by this clause will result in rejection of the Offer. Signing the Offer with a false statement will void the Offer, any resulting contract, and may be subject to legal penalties under law;

3. Complies with A.R.S. § 18-132 when offering electronics or information technology products, Services, or maintenance;

4. Has submitted this Offer as a firm offer for 180 days following the Solicitation due date and time per the Instructions to Offers. Any extensions to the Offer Acceptance Period shall be made in accordance with the A.A.C. R2-7-C310;

5. Did not and will not involve collusion or other anti-competitive practices; and

6. Is not debarred from, or otherwise prohibited from, participating in any contract awarded by federal, state, or local government.

7. Does not participate in, and agrees not to participate in during the term of the contract, a boycott of Israel in accordance with A.R.S. § 35-393 et seq. (Unless exempt)

8. Does not participate in the use of forced labor of ethnic Uyghurs as described in A.R.S. § 35-394. (Unless exempt)

ACCEPTANCE OF OFFER

The offer is hereby accepted.

The Contractor is now bound to sell the Materials or Services listed by the attached Contract and based upon the Solicitation, including all terms, conditions, specifications, amendments, etc., and the Contractor’s Offer as accepted by the State.

The Contract shall henceforth be referred to as Contract No.

The effective date of the Contract is

State of Arizona Awarded this day of

[Procurement Officer Name] Chief Procurement Officer Procurement officer signature

Attachment IV Offer and Acceptance State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

If taking exceptions, the relevant subsequent pages titled “Attachment Supplements” must be completed. Attach additional pages as needed.

STATE WILL NOT CONSIDER ANY EXCEPTIONS UNLESS DESIGNATED ON THIS FORM.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS BEFORE TAKING ANY EXCEPTIONS. OFFERS WITH EXCEPTONS MAY BE FOUND NOT SUSCEPTIBLE FOR AWARD UNDER A.A.C. R2-7-C311 OR RECEIVE LOWER SCORES DURING EVALUATION.

CONFORMANCE TO THE INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

Check one of the following:

CONFORMANCE TO THE SCOPE OF WORK

Check one of the following:

CONFORMANCE TO THE CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Check one of the following:

Offeror name

Signature of person authorized to sign

Attachment V Conformance Statements (Deviations and Exceptions) State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

Attachment Supplement – Conformance Statements – Deviations and Exceptions

Rationale: X

Offeror name

Signature of person authorized to sign

Attachment V Conformance Statements – Attachment Supplement State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

All materials submitted as part of a response to a solicitation are subject to Arizona public records law and will be disclosed if there is an appropriate public records request at the time of or after the award of the contract. Recognizing there may be materials included in a solicitation response that is proprietary or a trade secret, a process is set out in A.A.C. R2-7-103 (attached) that will allow qualifying materials to be designated as confidential and excluded from disclosure. For purposes of this process the definition of “trade secret” will be the same as that set out in A.A.C. R2-7-101(52).

This form must be completed and returned with the response to the solicitation and any supporting information to assist the State in making its determination as to whether any of the materials submitted as part of the solicitation response should be designated confidential because the material is proprietary or a trade secret and therefore not subject to disclosure.

All offerors must select one of the following:

My response does not contain proprietary or trade secret information. I understand that my entire response will become public record in accordance with A.A.C. R2-7-C317.

My response does contain trade secret information because it contains information that:

Please note that failure to attach an explanation may result in a determination that the information does not meet the statutory trade secret definition. All information that does not meet the definition of trade secret as defined by A.A.C. R2-7-101(52) will become public in accordance with A.A.C. R2-7-C317. The State reserves the right to make its own determination of Proposer’s trade secret materials through a written determination in accordance with A.A.C. R2-7-103.

If the State agrees with the proposer’s designation of trade secret or confidentiality and the determination is challenged, the undersigned hereby agrees to cooperate and support the defense of the determination with all interested parties, including legal counsel or other necessary assistance.

By submitting this response, proposer agrees that the entire offer, including confidential, trade secret and proprietary information may be shared with an evaluation committee and technical advisors during the evaluation process. Proposer agrees to indemnify and hold the State, its agents and employees, harmless from any claims or causes of action relating to the State’s withholding of information based upon reliance on the above representations, including the payment of all costs and attorney fees incurred by the State in defending such an action.

Company Name

Signature of Person Authorized to Sign

Address

Printed Name

Title

R2-7-103. Confidential Information

A. If a person wants to assert that a person's offer, specification, or protest contains a trade secret or other proprietary information, a person shall include with the submission a statement supporting this assertion. A person shall clearly designate any trade secret and other proprietary information, using the term "confidential". Contract terms and conditions, pricing, and information generally available to the public are not considered confidential information under this Section.

B. Until a final determination is made under subsection (C), an agency chief procurement officer shall not disclose information designated as confidential under subsection (A) except to those individuals deemed by an agency chief procurement officer to have a legitimate state interest.

D. If an agency chief procurement officer determines that information submitted is not confidential, a person who made the submission shall be notified in writing. The notice shall include a time period for requesting a review of the determination by the state procurement administrator.

Attachment VI Designation of Confidential, Trade Secret & Proprietary Information

State of Arizona Department of Education

Solicitation No.: BPM007707

Any resulting contract from this solicitation requires the proposed solution to comply with Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS) Information Security Program policy requirements. AZDOHS has designated GovRAMP as the standard for the Information Security Program for which products will be reviewed. The GovRAMP minimum requirements for this solicitation are identified under the Scope of Work. Failure to meet these requirements may result in the Offeror being determined not susceptible for award. For this Offer to be considered, the Offeror shall provide the information requested and acknowledge its agreement below.

A) If the Offeror has AZRAMP, FedRAMP, or GovRAMP status, check the box below, complete the applicable fields, attach supporting certification information, and sign the signature section. Note: existing AZRAMP or FedRAMP certifications do not inherently satisfy the requirements of the AZDOHS Information Security program. As such, the attestation in Section B applies to all offerors who have not met the GovRamp minimum requirements identified in the Scope of Work.

☐ AZRAMP. Expiration Date: _________ ☐ FedRAMP. Status: _________ ☐ GovRAMP. Status: _________ ☐ The proposed solution does not currently hold any of the above RAMP statuses.

B) If the Offeror has not achieved the GovRamp minimum requirements identified under the Scope of Work, the Offeror must sign the signature section and attest to the following:

· The Offeror will comply with AZDOHS’s Information Security Program Statewide Standard S8120.

· In the event of contract award, the offeror will enroll the product in the GovRAMP Progressing Snapshot program and receive the first Snapshot within 60 days of award.

· Understand that if GovRAMP…