26QE031_JA_073026.pdf

This document is a Sole Source Justification for a federal contract award under FAR Part 12 (simplified acquisition procedures) valued between $250,000 and $9 million.

The Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA) is procuring courseware and professional learning services to support the use of Vernier probeware through a firm fixed-price contract with an estimated five-year (60-month) base period. FY26 Operations and Maintenance funds are available. The required supplies and services include: Connections subscriptions for science instruction in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science through hands-on experiments using Vernier probeware; Graphical Analysis Pro educational platform for data collection, visualization, and analysis from Vernier sensors; coaching on demand addressing teacher needs in using Vernier probeware and related resources; professional learning; and technical support. The contracting officer determined anticipated costs are fair and reasonable based on market research and current pricing comparison.

The justification supports sole-source award to Vernier Software & Technology, LLC, the sole designer, manufacturer, and distributor of the proprietary Vernier probeware and associated Connections software. The rationale establishes that no other vendor's software or service can interface with this proprietary equipment and that effective training requires integrated manufacturer-level knowledge of the hardware, Connections software, and Graphical Analysis Pro. DoWEA conducted extensive market research in 2021 and will publicize notice as required by FAR Subpart 5.2. The document references an attached Vernier Connections—Sole Source Letter and confirms the contracting officer's determination that sole-source contracting with Vernier will result in fair and reasonable pricing.