ESBD_502225_1777664507918_3202600137 Questions and Answers Attachment A.docx

This document is a Questions and Answers Attachment from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) RFQ No. 3202600137 for the Workforce Diploma Pilot Program, serving Travis County. The program seeks qualified organizations to provide high school diploma attainment services to adult students over age 19, with instruction available in both online and in-person formats. Respondents must be authorized to grant high school diplomas under Texas Education Code or partner with entities holding such authorization, and must demonstrate at least two years of experience in dropout reengagement services. The solicitation requires respondents to project the number of adult students to be served and provide estimated total cost per student. Written questions were due by April 7, 2026, with responses due by 10:00 a.m. Central Time on May 5, 2026. The anticipated contract start date is June 2026, with an initial term expiring August 31, 2027, followed by three optional one-year renewal periods at TWC's discretion.

The program operates on a reimbursement-based milestone structure with a maximum program cost of $7,000 per graduate. Reimbursable milestones include $250 for half-credit completion, $250 for employability skills certification, $250 to $750 for industry-recognized credentials (based on training hours), and $1,000 for high school diploma attainment. Respondents must achieve a minimum 50 percent graduation rate. The solicitation does not establish formal set-asides for disadvantaged enterprises, though respondents may claim preferences under Texas Administrative Code for categories including Texas resident service-disabled veteran ownership and Texas-produced goods and services. No incumbent vendors are identified. Historical compensation for similar contracts has ranged from $100,000 to $200,000 per one-year contract term, though TWC makes no guarantee of volume or total compensation. Monthly invoices with supporting documentation must be submitted by the 10th of the following month and processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Respondents must provide firm pricing for 180 days from the solicitation deadline and comply with TWC requirements including E-Verify immigration verification, drug-free workplace compliance, workers compensation insurance at statutory limits, and commercial general liability coverage with minimum per-occurrence limits of $1,000,000.