Draft PWS STARBASE.pdf

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August 14, 2024

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

TRAINING, ASSISTANCE, AND ASSESSMENT SUPPORT FOR THE NATIONAL GUARD YOUTH

CHALLENGE PROGRAM AND DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE STARBASE PROGRAM

Part 1

General Information

1. G eneral: This is a non-personal services contract to provide training, assistance, and assessment support for the

National Guard Youth Challenge Program and Department of Defense STARBASE program. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein.

Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the

Government.

1.1 D escription of Services/Introduction: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform the

Training, Assistance, and Assessment Support Services as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS), except for those items specified as Government Furnished Property (GFP) and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract.

1.2 B ackground: Civil Military Programs (CMP) consists of the National Guard Youth Challenge

Program (32 USC 509), the Department of Defense STARBASE Program (10 USC 2193b) and the

Department of Defense (DoD) Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) Program (10 USC 2012).

This requirement supports the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs

(Reserve Integration) (OASD/M&RA(RI)). The Secretary of Defense (SecDef) has assigned the OASD/M&RA the responsibility of carrying out the National Guard Youth Challenge Program (NGYCP) and the Department of

Defense (DoD) STARBASE Program. In this capacity, the OASD/M&RA establishes policies, oversees management, and develops the NGYCP and DoD STARBASE annual budgets.

Section 509 of title 32, USC authorizes the SecDef to use the National Guard to conduct a civilian youth opportunity program that seeks to improve life skills and employment potential of its participants by providing military-based training and supervised work experience, together with eight core components. One important element of this program involves assisting participants with the necessary tools and education necessary to receive a high school diploma or its equivalent.

NGYCP functions within a unique management structure. Individual NGYCPs operate under the direct implementation of the State National Guard Adjutant General. Administration of the program is provided by the

National Guard Bureau (NGB). Through contractor support, NGB inspects each program’s operations for compliance and program’s resource management procedures. However, by law, the NGYCP is under the overall management and oversight of the Secretary of Defense which is delegated to OASD/M&RA(RI).

As per the evaluation guidance provided by the Office of Management and Budget, OASD/M&RA(RI) contracted with MDRC to conduct a rigorous longitudinal study on the NGYCP. The three (3) year evaluation validated and concluded that the NGYCP enriches the lives of its program graduates. Despite this well-documented success, there are a number of NGYCP programs throughout the country that are not meeting enrollment, graduation, and placement goals. Other NGYCP programs are having difficulty maintaining mentor contact with the program graduates during the post-residential phase of the program. Additionally, more information is being requested regarding the progress of the program graduates beyond the 12-month post-residential phase of the program. The reasons for the stagnate performance of these NGYCP sites are complicated, varied, and are different for each

2 | P a g e specific state/site. In most cases, average performance is caused by a mixture of issues that have not been easily identified or corrected.

OASD/M&RA(RI) have been investigating the actual reasons for the lack of positive trends in the performance of a majority of NGYCPs and will need to identify solutions to its policies and regulations, as well as, activities that can be proposed and implemented within the DoD, as well as, at the state and local levels.

Section 2193b of title 10 USC authorizes the SecDef to conduct a Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and

Design, and Mathematics (STEAM) education improvement program. The purpose of the program is to improve knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. The SecDef shall establish guidelines, criteria, and a process for the establishment of STARBASE programs. The SecDef shall prescribe regulations governing the conduct of the program.

Several local longitudinal studies sponsored by OASD/M&RA(RI) have documented positive outcomes and shown the program’s long-term effectiveness on the participants. To enhance these outcomes and be an effective outreach program for the DoD, OASD/M&RA(RI) established three performance levels, implemented an afterschool/out of school program for middle school students, and began extending the program’s outreach to high school students. OASD/M&RA(RI) will need to enhance its program staff training, identify new and innovative program activities, review and develop a more comprehensive way of delivering lessons, and establish more partnerships with both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

1.3 Objectives: Through this contract, the Government seeks to ensure compliance with internal

Departmental, external federal requirements, secure technical analysis to comply with Titles 10 & 32

United States Code and to adhere to Financial Management Regulations. The purpose of the is PWS is intends to develop and implement a training, assistance and assessment program designed to increase the enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of NGYCPs. The PWS will also document how

OASD/M&RA(RI) will need to address the longer-term outcomes for NGYCP graduates. Currently there are 39 existing NGYCP sites located in 33 states and one (1) territory. This training, assistance and assessment program will be designed to work with the NGYCP Directors and their staff at the state level, and with the NGB program office. It will recommend initiatives to be implemented that will increase enrollment, retention, and graduation rates during the residential phases of the program. The recommendations will also address increasing the long-term outcomes beyond the post-residential phase of the program.

Additionally, the PWS will support/assist OASD/M&RA(RI) in the training, evaluation and assessment of the DoD STARBASE Program by implementing a programmatic reporting mechanism, by assisting with the professional development of program staff, by reviewing program lesson plans, by enhancing the program’s strategic communications and outreach plan, by recommending strategies and developing best practices for enhancing performance of DoD STARBASE Program sites, by supporting existing and new afterschool/out-of-school outreach programs and by supporting new sites that are anticipated to be added each year.

In addition this PWS will document the preparation and drafting of an annual report on the design, conduct, and effectiveness of the DoD STARBASE Program in enhancing young students understanding and appreciation of science, technology, engineering, art and design, and mathematics. Furthermore, this

PWS documents the training assistance provided in the form of training workshops for program directors and instructors that will need to be conducted. Currently there are 84 existing DoD STARBASE Program sites located in 37 states and the territories of Guam and Puerto Rico and includes outreach initiatives to

Native American communities.

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1.4 S cope: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform the Training, Assistance, and

Assessment Support Services as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS), except for those items specified as Government Furnished Property (GFP) and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract.

1.5 Period of Performance: The period of performance shall be for Base Period 12-months (includes 30-day Phase-in) with four 12-month option periods.

1.6 G eneral Information:

1.6.1 Q uality Control: The Contractor shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The Contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The Contractor’s quality control program is how they assure themselves that their work complies with the requirement of the contract. The QCP shall be delivered via electronic mail within 30 days of contract award.

Amendments/changes to the QCP shall be delivered to the COR and KO within three business days following any change. After acceptance of the QCP the Contractor shall receive the Contracting

Officer’s acceptance in writing of any proposed change to Quality Control (QC) system.

1.6.2 Q uality Assurance: The Government shall evaluate the Contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). This plan is primarily focused on what the Government must do to ensure that the Contractor has performed in accordance with the performance standards. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and the minimum acceptable defect rate(s).

1.6.3 R ecognized Holidays:

Government personnel observe Federal Holidays listed in 5 USC § 6103. Additionally, the Government observes days designated by Federal Statute, Executive Order, or by the President’s Proclamation.

Contractor personnel are not customarily expected to work on holidays, but holiday work is possible, subject to advance scheduling with the contractor. In the event contractor personnel work during a holiday, no form of holiday pay or other premium compensation will be reimbursed by the Government to the contractor either as a direct or indirect cost, other than normal compensation for the time worked as set forth within the contract. The Contracting Officer has sole discretion through the COR to determine the required work during a holiday. Recognized Federal holidays are as follows:

New Year’s Day, January 1.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday, the third Monday in January.

President’s Day, the third Monday in February.

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May.

Juneteenth National Independence Day, June 19.

Independence Day, July 4.

Labor Day, the first Monday in September.

Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.

Veterans Day, November 11.

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November.

Christmas Day, December 25.

1.6.4 H ours of Operation: The Contractor is responsible for conducting business, between the WHS core hours of 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, arriving no earlier than 6:30 AM and departing no later than 6:30 PM

Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the Government facility is closed due to local or

4 | P a g e national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closings. For other than firm fixed price contracts, the Contractor will not be reimbursed when the Government facility is closed for the above reasons. The Contractor must always maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential.

1.6.4.1 When the Government grants administrative leave to Government employees, or is closed as a result of inclement weather, potentially hazardous conditions, or other special circumstances, the Contractor’s program manager and/or on-site manager shall coordinate with the Contracting Officer and/or Contracting

Officer Representative (COR) on the work status of contractor personnel and the Contractor’s decision to grant leave to it personnel to the extent that the overall performance is not adversely impacted. The

Contractor shall at all times maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the government facility is not closed for the above reasons.

1.6.5 Place of Performance: The Contractor will be required to perform work at Government facility locations in a Government provided office space within the National Capital Region (NCR) or at employer provided facilities. Situational Telework may be authorized in coordination and approval by the

COR and/or KO. Telework will be at no additional cost to the Government. Contractor personnel shall be required to report onsite to a Government facility to perform services at any time as required by the COR or KO. Contractor personnel may be requested to work at the Governments alternate locations during emergencies and emergency exercises. Contractor personnel may be designated as essential personnel to support contingency operations at alternate Government locations during actual emergencies and emergency exercises. Contractor personnel may also be required to travel to locations throughout the

United States and its territories, such as military component headquarters and program locations.

1.6.6 T ype of Contract: The Government will award a contract that consists of Firm Fixed Price (FFP) with Time and Materials, Contract Line-Item Numbers (CLINs) for travel.

1.6.7 S ecurity Requirements: The Contractor shall have Secret Facility Clearance from the Defense

Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) at the time of proposal submission and maintain the clearance level for the life of the contract. All Contractor personnel performing as key personnel under this contract must have and maintain a final Secret security clearance at the time of proposal submission and maintain the level of clearance for the life of the contract. The security requirements are in accordance with the attached DD Form 254 which will be provided to the Contractor upon award of the contract. The Contractor shall comply with all security policies and procedures that apply to DOD and

WHS Enterprise Management Directorate. Security procedures shall be made available to Contractor personnel. All personnel shall maintain the level of security clearance required throughout the life of the contract. The Government will NOT sponsor companies for any security requirements.

1.6.7.1 Common Access Card: This contract requires personnel to obtain the Government issued

Common Access Card (CAC) in order to provide identification for access government computer systems and physical access to facilities. Personnel must meet and maintain investigative and adjudicative requirements specified in DoDI 5200.46, and immediately report to the contracting officer any issues affecting CAC eligibility. Government issued credentials are the property of the United States

Government and must be returned when no longer required for performance on this contract. CACs will not be used to access information systems, facilities, or installations that are outside the performance requirements of this contract. CACs will be used only by the individual to whom it was issued and will not be used for or by any other person. The contractor will immediately notify the contracting officer if a

CAC is lost, stolen, or otherwise missing.

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1.6.7.2 Physical Security: The Contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all Government equipment, information, materials, and property provided for Contractor use. At the close of each work period, Government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured.1.6.7.3111111111111

1.6.7.3 Key Control. The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of making sure all keys/key cards issued to the Contractor by the Government are not lost or misplaced and are not used by unauthorized persons. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards. No keys issued to the Contractor by the

Government shall be duplicated. The Contractor shall develop procedures covering key control that shall be included in the Quality Control Plan. Such procedures shall include turn-in of any issued keys by personnel who no longer require access to locked areas. The Contractor shall immediately report any occurrences of lost or duplicate keys/key cards to the Contracting Officer.

1.6.7.4. In the event keys, other than master keys, are lost or duplicated, the Contractor shall, upon direction of the Contracting Officer, re-key or replace the affected lock or locks; however, the

Government, at its option, may replace the affected lock or locks or perform re-keying. When the replacement of locks or re-keying is performed by the Government, the total cost of re-keying or the replacement of the lock or locks shall be deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor. In the event a master key is lost or duplicated, all locks and keys for that system shall be replaced by the

Government and the total cost deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor.

1.6.7.5. The Contractor shall prohibit the use of Government issued keys/key cards by any persons other than the Contractor’s employees. The Contractor shall prohibit the opening of locked areas by

Contractor employees to permit entrance of persons other than Contractor employees engaged in the performance of assigned work in those areas, or personnel authorized entrance by the Contracting

Officer.

1.6.7.6 Lock Combinations: If Applicable, the Contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that all lock combinations are not revealed to unauthorized persons. The Contractor shall ensure that lock combinations are changed when personnel having access to the combinations no longer have a need to know such combinations. These procedures shall be included in the Contractor’s

Quality Control Plan (QCP).

1.6.8 S pecial Qualifications: All Contractor personnel are required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement

(NDA) as identified in Technical Exhibit 2 - Deliverable Table within five (5) working days after contract award. New contractor employees are required to sign an NDA with five (5) working days of onboarding to the Contractor to provide services under this contract. All contractor personnel shall adhere to government

Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) requirements (see section 1.6.19)

1.6.9 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The contracting officer, Contracting Officers

Representative (COR), and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the

Contractor to review the Contractor's performance. At these meetings the contracting officer will apprise the Contractor of how the Government views the Contractor's performance and the Contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.6.10 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The (COR) will be identified by separate letter. The

COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical

6 | P a g e requirements of the contract: perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance:

maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract: issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications: monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of Government furnished property, and provide site entry of

Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting contract. Refer to DFARS Clause 252.201-7000 “Contracting Officer’s

Representative”.

1.6.11 Key Personnel: The personnel listed below are considered essential to the work being performed under this contract. Before removing, replacing, or diverting any of the listed or specified personnel or facilities, the Contractor shall (1) notify the Contracting Officer reasonably in advance (at least 14 days) and (2) submit justification (including proposed substitutions) in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on this contract. The Contractor shall make no diversion, replacement, or substitution of key personnel without the Contracting Officer's written approval. Please see the below chart for the three (3)

Key Personnel positions.

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PWS Task # Position Qualifications

5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5

Program Manager (1 FTE) Skill/Experience:

15 years' of public sector consulting experience, with two years’ experience in Project Management with projects of similar size and complexity. 10 years’ work experience in finance and resource management.

Knowledge and understanding of the congressional legislative process

15 years’ experience in administration or finance roles within the Military Departments or offices of the Secretary of Defense and working with State and local governments and not-for-profit organizations is highly preferred.

Knowledge of the National Guard and the National

Guard Youth Challenge Program (NGYCP) at the national level, through the holding of managerial positions in organizations that provide direct support to the NGYCP educational and job training requirements.

Knowledge of the DoD STARBASE Program.

Knowledge of the Administration's strategy.

Understanding of the DoD Leadership position regarding outreach initiatives, and science, technology, engineering, art and design, and mathematics education.

Knowledge of DoD Civilian and Military organizations and DoD budgeting process so that the benefits of the DoD STARBASE Program can be accurately portrayed within DoD and to the

Congressional leadership in the annual report.

Security:

Secret Clearance

Education:

Master’s degree in business, management, or a related field.

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5.1, 5.2, 5.4, 5.5

Project Manager Subject Matter

Expert (1 FTE) Supporting

NGYCP)

Skill/Experience:

At least 10 years’ relevant experience with knowledge of the National Guard Youth Challenge

Program.

Experience in managing large complex federal government projects, through the holding of senior leadership positions within the Department of

Defense.

Knowledge of the NGYCP through demonstrated experience in managing the program at the National level.

legislative process.

Experience working with State and local governments and not-for-profit organizations.

Understanding of federally funded youth outreach programs.

Expertise in analyzing data related to the NGYCP.

Secret Clearance.

Bachelor’s Degree (e.g. Finance, Accounting, Business, etc.) or related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

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5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5

Project Manager Subject Matter

Expert (1 FTE) supporting DoD

STARBASE)

At least 10 years’ relevant experience with knowledge of the DoD STARBASE Program.

Knowledge of the Administration's strategy and understanding of the DoD Leadership position regarding outreach initiatives and science, technology, engineering, art and design, and organizations and DoD budgeting process so that the benefits of the DoD STARBASE Program can be accurately portrayed within DoD and to the

Congressional leadership in the annual report.

governments, not-for-profit organizations, school programs, systems, and teachers.

Ability to interpret, enhance and design curriculum for K-12 school students.

Understanding and working knowledge of the relevant needs of diverse student populations across the nation.

Experience in developing research and evaluation tools/methodologies.

A proven track record of successful report writing for federal agencies and/or the United States

Congress.

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5.2 Subject Matter Expert (Senior)

1 supporting NGYCP:

At least 8 years’ relevant experience with knowledge of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program.

Knowledge of the management of the

NGYCP, and its relationship within the state structure of the National Guard, through demonstrated experience in managing and supervising a NGYCP program at the state-level.

legislative process.

governments and not-for-profit organizations.

Understanding of federally-funded youth outreach programs.

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5.3 Subject Matter Expert (Senior)

1 supporting DoD STARBASE:

At least 8 years’ relevant experience with knowledge of the DoD STARBASE Program.

Understanding of the DoD Leadership position regarding outreach initiatives and science, technology, engineering and organizations and budgeting process so that the benefits of the DoD STARBASE

Program can be accurately portrayed within

DoD and to the Congressional leadership in the annual report.

Experience working with State and Local government, not-for-profit organizations, school programs, systems, and teachers.

Ability to interpret, enhance and design curriculum for K-12 school students.

Understanding and working knowledge of the relevant needs of diverse student populations across the nation.

Skill in coordinating/facilitating meetings and workshops.

1.6.12 Identification of Contractor Employees: All contract personnel attending meetings, answering

Government telephones, and working in other situations where their Contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all documents or reports produced by Contractors are suitably marked as Contractor-produced products or that Contractor participation is appropriately disclosed. Contractor personnel will be required to obtain, use, and display a CAC in the performance of this service.

1.6.13 Contractor Travel: In accordance with FAR 31.205-46, Travel, the Contractor will be required to travel CONUS and within the NCR during the performance of this contract to attend meetings, 12 | P a g e conferences, and training. The contractor shall provide a written request to the COR and KO for approval prior to making any travel arrangements. Requests for travel shall include the name of the person(s) traveling, travel destination, dates of travel, mode of transportation, and estimated costs for travel. All travel must be pre-approved in writing by the COR and KO prior to purchase of any tickets and commencement of travel. The Contractor shall be reimbursed for actual allowable, allocable, and reasonable travel cost incurred during performance efforts in accordance with FAR 31.205-46. The

Contractor will be authorized travel expenses consistent with the substantive provisions of the Joint

Travel Regulation (JTR) and the limitation of funds specified in this contract provisions of FAR 31.205-

46 “Travel Costs”. Invoices for travel by contractor personnel shall be submitted for government approval within sixty (60) days of the completion of travel. Receipts documenting travel expenses are required, all exceptions regarding travel must be pre-cleared with the COR and KO. Contractor travel will be a Time-and-Material CLIN.

1.6.13.1 The Government will not reimburse the Contractor for any travel within 50 miles of the NCR.

Travel to and from the contractors’ normal place of duty will not be reimbursed by the Government under this contract. Parking expenses at the normal place of duty (e.g., Government facility or the Contractor offices), commuter lots, or metro parking garages will not be paid by the Government under this contract.

The Government will not reimburse any other daily commuting costs such as fares for Metro/VRE rails, bus, rideshare, or tolls.

1.6.14 Other Direct Costs: This category includes travel (outlined in 1.6.13), reproduction, and shipping expenses associated with training activities and visits to contractor facilities. It could also entail the renting of suitable training venues.

1.6.15 Data Rights: Refer to FAR Clause 52.227-14 “Rights in Data – General” and Defense Federal

Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.227-7015 “Technical Data – Commercial Products and Commercial Services.” The Contractor agrees to assume responsibility for protecting the confidentiality of Government records, which is not considered public information. Each Contractor or employee of the Contractor to who information may be made available or disclosed shall be notified in writing by the Contractor that such information may be disclosed only for purposes and to the extent authorized herein. The Contractor shall not release any information related to this contract to the public, media or other unauthorized persons or organizations unless the Government has conducted the appropriate security review and granted written approval (e.g., posting information to a public website).

1.6.16 Organizational Conflict of Interest/Personal Conflict of Interest: Contractor and Subcontractor personnel performing work under this contract may receive, have access to or participate in the development of proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.) or perform evaluation services which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) as defined in FAR Subpart 9.5 as well as personal conflicts of interest. Using the Contractor OCI/ PCOI Disclosure Form, the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential conflict and shall promptly submit the conflict of interest disclosure form to the contracting officer to avoid or mitigate any such conflict.

The contractor’s mitigation plan will be reviewed and accepted/rejected solely at the discretion of the government, and in the event the government unilaterally determines that any such conflict cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the contracting officer may affect other remedies as he or she deems necessary, including prohibiting the contractor from participation in subsequent contracted requirements which may be affected by the conflict.

In addition, contractors shall conduct internal reviews as necessary to identify financial interests and determine if any personal conflicts of interest exist or may arise. The contractor shall ensure that the

13 | P a g e organization has analyzed each financial disclosure to determine whether actual or potential conflicts exist.

Information should be gathered and analyzed for all governing body members (e.g., board of directors, trustees, etc.) and principals of the organization as defined by FAR 52.203-13 and for each manager and key personnel who would be, or are involved with the performance of the contract.

1.6.17 Phase In: To minimize any decreases in productivity and to prevent possible negative impacts on additional services, the Contractor shall have personnel on board, during the thirty (30) calendar days phase-in.

This phase-in period will include onboarding new Contractor staff. The Contractor shall obtain the following, including, network accounts, permissions, CAC, Government Furnished Property (GFE), desktop software installations/configurations and any other materials or access needed to assume responsibility for supported systems. During the phase-in period, the Contractor shall become familiar with performance requirements in order to commence full performance of services on the contract start date. During the Phase-In the Contractor shall complete the following:

o Provide a detailed transition methodology in logical sequence to ensure a smooth transition of all tasks/subtasks of the contract without interruption or degradation of service levels;

o Provide a timeline for completion; and o Identify associated risks and issues and risk mitigation strategies.

1.6.18 Phase-out: Address the plan for transitioning from an incumbent contractor to a new contractor and/or contract type and the plan for ensuring that government furnished items, property, or information is accounted for

(The incumbent contractor is responsible for reconciling discrepancies.). Include transition strategies, schedules and identify the individuals responsible for facilitating a smooth transition. A final written report will be delivered to COR and KO at least30 days before the end of the contract.

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PART 2

DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS

2. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS:

2.1. DEFINITIONS:

2.1.1. CONTRACTOR. A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or service to the Government. The term used in this contract refers to the prime.

2.1.2. CONTRACTING OFFICER. A person with authority to enter into, administer, and or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the Government.

Note: The only individual who can legally bind the Government.

2.1.3. CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (COR). An employee of the U.S.

Government appointed by the contracting officer to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.4. DEFECTIVE SERVICE. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.

2.1.5. DELIVERABLE. Anything that can be physically delivered but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

2.1.6. KEY PERSONNEL. Contractor personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of a contract by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.

2.1.7. PHYSICAL SECURITY. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

2.1.8. QUALITY ASSURANCE. The Government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor are performed according to acceptable standards.

2.1.9. QUALITY ASSURANCE Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of Contractor performance.

2.1.10. QUALITY CONTROL. All necessary measures taken by the Contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.

2.1.11. SUBCONTRACTOR. One that enters into a contract with a prime Contractor. The

Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor.

2.1.12. WORKDAY. The number of hours per day the Contractor provides services in accordance with the contract is 8 hours. The Contractor employees may take one 30-minute lunch break each workday and are not required to perform services during a lunch break; a

15 | P a g e lunch break cannot be taken immediately upon arriving or before departing a workday. Rest periods and lunch breaks are not included in an 8-hour workday and not considered in the time in which a contractor employee is providing services.

2.1.13. WORK WEEK. Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.

2.1.14 NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION. geographic area located within the boundaries of (A) the

District of Columbia, (B) Montgomery and Prince Georges Counties in the State of Maryland, (C)

Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties and the City of Alexandria in the

Commonwealth of Virginia, and (D) all cities and other units of government within the geographic areas of such District, Counties, and City.

ACRONYMS:

ACOR Alternate Contracting Officer's Representative

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

CMP Civil Military Programs

CONUS Continental United States (excludes Alaska and Hawaii)

COR Contracting Officer Representative

DD Form 254 Department of Defense Contract Security

DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DMDC Defense Manpower Data Center

DOD Department of Defense

EM Enterprise Management Directorate

FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation

FTE Full-Time Equivalent

KO Contracting Officer

NGYCP National Guard Youth Challenge Program OCI Organizational Conflict of Interest

OCONUS Outside Continental United States (includes Alaska and Hawaii)

ODC Other Direct Costs

PIPO Phase In/Phase Out

POC Point of Contact

PRS Performance Requirements Summary PWS Performance Work Statement OASD/M&RA (RI) Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower & Reserve Affairs

(Reserve Integration) QA Quality Assurance

QAP Quality Assurance Program

QASP Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

QC Quality Control QCP Quality Control Program RI Reserve Integration TE Technical Exhibit

WHS Washington Headquarters Services

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PART 3

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES

3. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES:

3.1. Services: The Government will provide basic services to phones, desks, utilities, information technology, and general office supplies) while working in Government facilities.

3.2 FFacilities: Basic facilities such as workspace and its associated operating requirements (i.e., phones, desks, utilities, information technology, and general office supplies) will be provided while working in

Government facilities. Tele-workers will only use Government furnished equipment to remotely access the WHS network.

3.3 EEquipment: The Government will provide phones, desks, utilities, information technology, and general office supplies) while working in Government facilities. Tele-workers will only use Government furnished equipment to remotely access the WHS network. The COR will be the point of contact for identification of any required equipment, materials, and information to be supplied by the

Government.

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PART 4

CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

4. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

4.1 G eneral: The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work under this contract that are not listed under Section 3 of this PWS.

4.2 S ecret Facility Clearance: The Contractor shall have Secret Facility Clearance from the Defense

Security Services at the time of proposal submission and maintain the clearance level for the life of the contract. All contractor personnel performing as key personnel under this contract must have and maintain a final Secret security clearance at the time of proposal submission and maintain the level of clearance for the life of the contract. The security requirements are in accordance with the attached DD

Form 254 which will be provided to the Contractor upon award of the contract. The Contractor shall comply with all security policies and procedures that apply to DOD and WHS Enterprise Management

Directorate. Security procedures shall be made available to Contractor personnel.

4.3. Materials: NA

4.4. Equipment: NA

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PART 5

SPECIFIC TASKS

5. SPECIFIC TASKS:

5.1. B asic Services: The contractor shall develop/update (as defined and necessary) a work plan to address the required tasks and deliverables to support the training, assistance and assessment of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program and the DoD STARBASE Program.

5.2. National Guard Youth Challenge Program Training and Assistance Services: The contractor shall assist OASD/MRA(RI) in providing analytical support required for planning, training, and operational support. The Training and Assistance support functions include:

5.2.1 Develop/Update a statistical evaluation tool to assess the effectiveness of a NGYCP in terms of recruitment, retention, achievement of academic goals, graduation rates, and long term placement within 180 days. Using data already collected and maintained by the government, perform analysis and other statistical functions as required to target areas of concern for under-performance for all existing NGYCPs and report findings within 180 days.

5.2.2 Conduct on-site assist visits and on-site training workshops to at least 5 but no more than 10

NGYCP sites selected by the OASD/MRA(RI), Director Civil Military Programs. Conduct at least 1 but no more than 2 new program establishment site assistance visits.

5.2.2.1 Assess and evaluate performance in areas of recruitment, applicant selection, cadet retention, staff retention, staff training, infrastructure, academic achievement of cadets, discipline trends, and other key factors that may become evident and brief OASD/MRA(RI), Director Youth

Outreach Civil Military Programs each quarter.

5.2.2.2 Provide follow-on support to NGYCP sites at three (3) to six (6) month intervals to assess effectiveness of recommended improvements. Support may be provided through electronic means, or with the approval of the OASD /MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs, by a follow-on visit.

5.2.2.3 Work with NGYCP Directors and staff members to identify improvements to discovered problems. Develop a plan to achieve problem resolution, including recommendations to implement at the state and national level by the next scheduled Winter Workshop.

5.2.3 Assess the training being conducted at the State and program level. Review all existing TSG

Challenge training products for needed updates and corrections. Expand national training offerings by developing up to five new training courses for subject areas, prioritized at the direction of the OASD /MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs. Review and update the

NGYCP Staff Trainer Certification Course curriculum developed by the NGB Program Office.

Review and update the NGYCP Staff Acclimation and Foundations training modules quarterly.

5.2.4 As directed by OASD/MRA(RI), assist with the planning and execution of up to two (2)

NGYCP Staff Trainer Certification Workshops and up to three (3) functional staff training workshops. At the direction of OASD/MRA(RI), work with the NGB Program office and

NGYCP Training Committee (if established) to develop the national training agenda for the

Program Directors Training Workshop and the Joint Program Directors/Staff Training

Workshop.

5.2.5 Manage Challenge National Website and Virtual Learning Management System (Challenge-U). Ensure

19 | P a g e content is up-to-date with monthly status reporting. Assist program Staff Training Coordinators with access issues. Maintain on-line training courses that are developed for applicable functional areas with monthly status reporting.

5.2.6 Provide feedback and recommendations to OASD/MRA(RI) Director Youth Outreach Civil

Military Programs in monthly status report. Recommendations will encompass:

1. Proposed training improvements needed at the national level..

2. Recommended changes to DoD policies, regulations, or practices to help resolve issues in more than one NGYCP location.

3. Clarifications to DoD regulations and guidance for greater understanding and acceptance by NGYCP sites.

5.2.7 Publish five 5 electronic NGYCP Training Newsletters with at least 1 per quarter.

5.3 DoD STARBASE Program Training, Assistance, and Assessment Services: The contractor shall assist

OASD/MRA(RI) in providing analytical support required for planning, training, operational and assessment support. The Training, Assistance and Assessment support functions include:

5.3.1 Preparation of DoD STARBASE Program Annual Report for each reporting year shall be in a form that may be electronically transmitted directly Congress by March annually, and that contains the following information:

a. Assessment of the program’s progressive performance and effectiveness in increasing young peoples’ interest in seeking careers in science, technology, engineering, art and design, and mathematics;

b. Gauging changes in attitudes and behaviors of young people as measured by their interest in

STEAM activities in the contexts of education, the military, and future potential careers;

increased community awareness, demonstrating good citizenship, and displaying positive social behavior;

c. Assessment and identification of best practices demonstrated by the program sites in instructional content and delivery, program enhancements, and involvement with participant groups;

d. Assessment and evaluation of the implementation and start-up process for a new

STARBASE site, if applicable;

e. Evaluation of site compliance with DoD policy, guidelines, instructions, and key program performance factors.

f. Program cost analysis to include non-DoD resources i.e. in-kind donations, valuations, duration of support, cash considerations and their range of applications;

g. The results of the assessment and its implications for the core curriculum delivery, recommended action and net impact assessment;

5.3.2 Develop an annual work plan for approval by OASD/MRA(RI) to complete draft report 60 days after the end of the fiscal year and support the submission of the final annual report to Congress no later than 180 days after the end of the fiscal year. All submissions, whether draft or final, shall be in written form and an electronic file format. Each report must be in a style utilizing grammar, punctuation, and format common to and appropriate for Congressional reports of this nature.

5.3.3 Review, adjust and/or select evaluation tools that provide for best statistical documentation and evaluation of program performance and success and update Director, Civil Military Programs

20 | P a g e quarterly of its status.

5.3.4 Review, adjust and/or select evaluation tools/methods used by teachers to evaluate student performance in the program update Director, Civil Military Programs quarterly of its status.

5.3.5 Design, test and refine observational techniques and methodology for curriculum delivery of experiential process, imbedded math and core curriculum applications and update Director, Civil

Military Programs quarterly of its status.

5.3.6 At the direction of the OASD/MRA(RI) Director of Civil Military Programs, the contractor shall secure a workshop/training site and coordinate/facilitate three (3) or four (4) regional program directors’ training workshops for approximately 25-30 program directors. Purpose of the training is to provide professional development by sharing information with all DoD STARBASE

Program Directors, discuss and record best practices, review key site evaluation components.

The date of the professional development training workshop is to be determined by

OASD/MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs. Contractor must coordinate with

OASD/MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs regarding this task monthly in the months preceding the training workshops.

5.3.7 At the direction of the OASD/MRARI) Director Youth Outreach Programs coordinate, support and facilitate four (4) training workshops for DoD STARBASE Program instructors that support the goals of the Program. Secure a training workshop site and coordinate/facilitate two (2) or three (3) day professional development training workshops. The purpose of the training workshop is to make the DoD STARBASE Program instructors aware of new and innovative techniques of teaching STEAM subjects. Training workshop dates will be established by the

OASD/MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs. Contractor will be working with

OASD/MRA(RI) Director, Civil Military Programs regarding this task monthly in the months preceding the training workshop.

5.3.8 Design, develop and print program information package to include brochures and information sheets and other training workshop materials within 90 days of contract award.

5.3.9 Provide technical assistance and support to review, evaluate and recommend considerations in order to refine program director’s guidance, to enhance and standardize the DoD STARBASE

Program implementation plan, to review the communications and outreach strategy, and to enhance program’s curriculum to strengthen the quality of the program with a quarterly update to

Director, Civil Military Programs.

5.3.10 Provide technical assistance and publish ten (10) electronic DoD STARBASE Program newsletters beginning in December, annually.

5.3.11 Provide technical assistance and support to review, evaluate, and publish up to 10 and no less than eight (8) lesson plans developed by programs to enhance the curriculum and the quality of the program. Conduct two (2) data calls and hold at no more than two (2) in-person meetings with STARBASE Program curriculum advisory group members identified and approved by

OASD/MRA Director Civil Military Programs. Manage STARBASE Virtual Learning

Management System (STARBASE-U). Ensure content is up-to-date with monthly status reports

Assist program staff with access issues with resolutions within 10 business days. Maintain on-line training courses that are developed for applicable functional areas with quarterly status reports updates to Director, Civil Military Programs. Ensure that approved STARBASE curricula are posted on STARBASE-U to be available to STARBASE program staff with quarterly status reports updates to Director, Civil Military Programs.

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5.3.12 Conduct six (6) two (2)-day PTC 3-D engineering design training workshops for a minimum of

60 STARBASE teachers.

5.3.13 Perform operational site visits to established STARBASE sites, as determined by

OASD/MRA(RI) Director Civil Military Programs no less than once every 3 years.