PUBLIC_NOTICE_SOLE_SOURCE_CERTIFICATION_SAFE_13OCT2026_3150007081.pdf

Notice of Intent to Certify Sole Source

RFX #: 3150007081

Date: October 13, 2026

Service Overview:

The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is currently seeking to enter into a sole-source contract for Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) services as described below. Anyone objecting to this purchase as a sole source shall follow the procedures outlined below by Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 3:00 pm CST.

Purpose:

The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in the state. As part of this mission, MDCPS licenses homes to care for children in need of placement. These homes must meet certain standards to ensure that the children entrusted to their care are provided with a nurturing and safe environment.

MDCPS seeks to provide foster parents and agency staff with effective measures to support youth in placements with stability and a nurturing environment. By focusing on the quality of care and support within the home environment, MDCPS hopes to improve the overall well-being and outcomes of these youth. This initiative is crucial in ensuring that families have the tools and resources they need to succeed in providing a nurturing and stable environment for children in their care. Ultimately, the success of families in providing a supportive home to study is vital in improving the lives of vulnerable children and adolescents.

Scope of Services:

MDCPS has partnered with the Consortium for Children to implement the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology. The SAFE methodology provides a standardized, comprehensive, and research-informed framework specifically designed for the assessment of prospective foster, adoptive, and relative caregivers within the child welfare system. This methodology is designed to provide a uniform, comprehensive, and structured approach to the home study process that assesses the suitability of prospective families to care for children. It is designed to reduce worker bias and promote the safety and protection of all parties involved in the process. By using a standardized method like SAFE, MDCPS can ensure that all licensed homes are evaluated consistently and thoroughly.

The Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) training provided by the Consortium for Children program is a key component of ensuring that families have the resources and support needed to be successful. SAFE also provides the specialized training, certification, technical assistance, and consultation necessary to ensure fidelity to the methodology. This program is a direct response to the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services' (MDCPS) Improving Care plan, which emphasizes the importance of enhancing training for staff. By equipping providers and staff with essential skills, MDCPS aims to improve the quality of care and support provided to vulnerable children and adolescents who come from challenging backgrounds.

The vendor will provide an evidence based supported home study training that has demonstrated measurable impacts within similar environments.

The vendor will provide ongoing training certification programs for both the partner provider and MDCPS agency team members.

The vendor will provide MDCPS access to an established online-learning platform.

The vendor will provide designated certification at the completion of all learning activities of the attendees (MDCPS staff and providers).

The vendor will provide MDCPS with access to a complete training report for all newly certified practitioners.

The vendor will provide MDCPS with a 90-day notice of recertification for all certified

Practitioners.

MDCPS will receive notification of updates to curriculums.

MDCPS has identified three key learning objectives related to Structured Analysis Family Evaluation:

1. Understand the principles of providing a safe and supportive environment for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

2. Develop skills in recognizing signs of abuse or neglect and knowing how to appropriately respond and report concerns.

3. Gain knowledge of trauma-informed care and techniques for helping children heal from past trauma in a home setting.

Technical Requirements

1.) The vendor will conduct the initial 2-day certification training, which is in-depth training on how to use the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology.

2.) The vendor will conduct half-day SAFE supervisor training, which is designed to train Supervisors in the proper supervision of SAFE which is required when performing a SAFE home study.

3.) The vendor will conduct full day SAFE refresher training, which covers the entire SAFE methodology and the SAFE tools, including any updates to SAFE resources, and provides a forum for participants to ask questions.

4.) The vendor will provide access to all SAFE tools and documents needed to conduct a SAFE home study.

5.) The vendor will provide access to SAFE resource center, including access to sample home studies, tutorials, and skill building articles.

6.) The vendor will provide ongoing technical assistance for partner providers and MDCPS team members.

7.) The vendor will provide access to forms, reports, and support tools.

Location/Delivery Setting:

Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) Training will be offered in a location agreed upon by both parties.

Explanation of why the source is the only person or entity that can provide the required services.

The Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) program was created to train and support child welfare professionals who conduct home studies for foster and adoptive families, which is a primary mission for MDCPS staff. SAFE is currently used throughout the United States and Canada and provides a uniform home study tool which also facilitates inter-state and inter-country placements.

SAFE is copyrighted and the sole property of The Consortium for Children which has been recognized internationally for its unique contribution to child welfare and adoption. Permanency Planning Mediation (PPM) and SAFE have led the way in helping children move to permanence while maintaining their important connections, as well as ensuring the quality and safety of their homes.

Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) is a structured home study methodology that allows child welfare agencies to thoroughly evaluate prospective kinship, foster, adoptive, and/or guardianship families in a uniform manner. To use the SAFE methodology, evaluators must be SAFE certified and have a SAFE certified Supervisor. All SAFE Supervisors must have completed both the SAFE 2-Day Training and the SAFE Supervisor Training. The SAFE certification training is provided by Consortium for Children. Once an evaluator and Supervisor are SAFE certified, they receive access to all SAFE tools and documents needed to conduct a SAFE home study. In addition, they receive access to the SAFE Resource center, which contains sample home studies, tutorials, and skill building articles that can enhance their knowledge of the SAFE process. Support from the SAFE team doesn’t end when the training does. SAFE Specialists are available to provide consultation to SAFE certified HSPs and Supervisors on an ongoing basis. Technical assistance is also available. Only the authorized SAFE provider can deliver the official training curriculum, certification process, and ongoing technical assistance that guarantee fidelity to the methodology.

The Consortium for Children is the only vendor with the rights to the SAFE methodology. No other vendor can provide the complete SAFE system, including the proprietary tools, pre-formatted reporting structure, and the authorized certification pathway.

Objection to Sole Source Procedure:

If any person or entity objects to the Agency’s determination that the service provider is a sole source and alleges the service can be provided by another person or entity, the objecting person or entity shall notify MDCPS Procurement & Contracts and the Director of the Office of Personal Service Contract Review (OPSCR). The objecting party shall submit a written, detailed explanation of the basis for the objection to sole source determination.

The objection must provide a detailed explanation of why the personal or professional service provider is not a sole source; identify the Agency; identify the proposed Sole Source Vendor;

state the RFIN Number for the sole source determination and the date that determination was first published (if available); and identify the objecting party to include valid contact information by which the objecting party can be immediately reached by the MDCPS or the PPRB (or its staff).

Written notice shall be provided via email to:

MDCPS Procurement & Contracts contracts@mdcps.ms.gov

The subject line must read “Objection to Sole Source Determination – Structured Analysis Family

Evaluation (SAFE) Training

Notice shall also be provided to:

Public Procurement Review Board c/o Tesslyn Funches, Director

Office of Personal Service Contract Review Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration

Hand Delivery: U.S. Mail: Electronic Mail:

501 North West St. Suite 1301C Post Office Box 267 tesslyn.funches@dfa.ms.gov Jackson, MS 39201 Jackson, MS 39205 cc:OPSCR@dfa.ms.gov

If after a review of the submitted notice and documents, MDCPS determines that the service in the proposed sole source request can be provided by another person or entity, then MDCPS will withdraw the sole source request publication from the procurement portal website and submit the procurement of the service to an advertised competitive bid or selection process.

If MDCPS determines after review that there is only one (1) source for the required service, then MDCPS will appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board. MDCPS will have the burden of proving that the service is only provided by one (1) source.

MDCPS WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DELAYS IN THE DELIVERY OR RESPONSES.

Timely submission of the objection is the sole responsibility of the objecting party, and the objecting party bears all risk regarding delivery of the objection. Objections received after Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 3:00 pm CST will not be considered by MDCPS or the PPRB.

Interested Parties may contact Natalie Segrest to verify the receipt of their responses. Responses received after the deadline will be rejected.

Attachment

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ATTACHMENT A

UNEXECUTED CONTRACT

STATE OF MISSISSIPPI

MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES

CONTRACT FOR STRUCTURED ANALYSIS FAMILY EVALUATION (SAFE)

TRAINING

WITH

CONSORTIUM FOR CHILDREN

1. Parties. The parties to this contract are the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (hereinafter “MDCPS”) and Consortium for Children (hereinafter “Independent Contractor”).

2. Purpose. The purpose of this contract is for Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE)

Training. Independent Contractor hereby agrees to render certain professional services described in Paragraph 3, “Scope of Services.”

3. Scope of Services. Independent Contractor will perform and complete training and certification in a timely and satisfactory manner as further detailed in the Scope of Services, attached hereto as Exhibit A, and in accordance with the “2nd Modified Mississippi Settlement Agreement and Reform Plan”, attached hereto as Exhibit B, and incorporated herein by reference.

4. Consideration. As consideration for the performance of this Contract, Independent Contractor shall be paid a total fee not to exceed One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($150,000.00) in accordance with rates, volumes, and frequencies as outlined in the budget attached hereto as Exhibit C.

5. Period of Performance. This contract will become effective for the period beginning January

1, 2027, and ending on December 31, 2028, upon the approval and signature of both parties hereto.

6. Renewal of Contract. The contract may be renewed at the discretion of MDCPS for a period of three (3) successive one-year periods at the same rates, prices, terms, and conditions as in the original contract and/or subsequent contracts. Any renewal exercised under this provision shall extend the contract beyond the date of December 31, 2031.

7. Method of Payment & Billing. Independent Contractor shall be compensated on a monthly basis at the firm, fixed testing rate specified within Exhibit C. The testing rate shall remain firm for the duration of the two-year term of the resultant contract or any renewal periods. The total compensation payable (as reflected in Section 4 of this contract) shall be based on the service performance description from Exhibit C – Budget, performed and properly invoiced at the agreed upon rates herein. Payments shall be submitted on invoices in a format agreed upon by MDCPS and the Independent Contractor. Invoices at a minimum shall include: contract number, invoice number, and number and type of service provided as per descriptions in

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Exhibit C - Budget. As requested by MDCPS, Independent Contractor hereby agrees to provide MDCPS supporting documentation for submitted invoices.

The final invoice is to be submitted no later than fifteen (15) days after the contract end date. Independent Contractor is classified as an independent contractor and not a contractual employee of MDCPS. As such, any compensation due and payable to Independent Contractor will be paid as gross amounts. Independent Contractor invoices shall submit invoices in the manner and frequency required by MDCPS. Independent Contractor invoices shall be submitted to MDCPS at contract.invoices@mdcps.ms.gov monthly, or at another frequency as requested by MDCPS, and include all services rendered for the invoiced month reflecting provided services. The email subject line for invoices submitted to the above email address shall include: (1) independent contractor name; (2) contract number; and (3) invoice number.

MDCPS agrees to issue payment on approved invoice amounts pursuant to Mississippi Code Annotated § 31-7-301, et seq.

8. Coordination of Services. Independent Contractor shall coordinate the performance of services provided hereunder with and through the MDCPS Office of Wellbeing and Permanency and consult with said Office on specific courses of action throughout the life of the contract.

9. Applicable Law. The contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Mississippi, excluding its conflicts of laws provisions, and any litigation with respect thereto shall be brought in the courts of Mississippi.

10. Availability of Funds. It is expressly understood and agreed that the obligation of MDCPS to proceed under this agreement is conditioned upon the appropriation of funds by the Mississippi State Legislature and receipt the appropriated funds. If the funds anticipated for the continuing time fulfillment of the agreement are, at any time, not forthcoming or insufficient, regardless of the source of funding, MDCPS shall have the right upon 10 business days written notice to Contractor, to terminate this agreement without damage, penalty, cost or expense to the MDCPS of any kind whatsoever. The effective date of termination shall be as specified in the notice of termination.

11. Representation Regarding Contingent Fees. By executing the contract, the Independent

Contractor represents that it has not retained any person or agency on a percentage, commission, or other contingent arrangement to secure this contract. If the Independent Contractor cannot make such a representation, a full and complete explanation shall be submitted in writing to the MDCPS prior to contract execution.

12. Representation Regarding Gratuities. Independent Contractor represents that it has not, is not, and will not offer, give, or agree to give any employee or former employee of MDCPS a gratuity or offer of employment in connection with any approval, disapproval, recommendation, development, or any other action or decision related to the solicitation and resulting contract. Independent Contractor further represents that no employee or former employee of MDCPS has or is soliciting, demanding, accepting, or agreeing to accept a gratuity or offer of employment for the reasons previously stated; any such action by an employee or former employee in the future, if any, will be rejected by Independent Contractor. Independent

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Contractor further represents that it is in compliance with the Mississippi Ethics in Government laws, codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 25-4-101 through 25-4-121, and has not solicited any employee or former employee to act in violation of said law.

13. Compliance with Laws. Independent Contractor shall comply with, and all activities under this agreement shall be subject to, all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, as now existing and as may be amended or modified.

14. Insurance. Independent Contractor represents that it will maintain workers’ compensation insurance as required by the State of Mississippi which shall inure to the benefit of all the Independent Contractor’s personnel provided hereunder; comprehensive general liability or professional liability insurance, and employee dishonesty insurance or fidelity bond insurance with third party liability coverage. All general liability, professional liability, employee dishonesty, and fidelity bond insurance will provide coverage MDCPS as an additional insured. MDCPS reserves the right to request from carriers, certificates of insurance regarding the required coverage. Insurance carriers must be licensed or hold a Certificate of Authority from the Mississippi Department of Insurance.

15. Indemnification. To the fullest extent allowed by law, Independent Contractor shall indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless, protect, and exonerate the MDCPS its commissioners, board members, officers, employees, agents, and representatives, and the State of Mississippi from and against all claims, demands, liabilities, suits, actions, damages, losses, and costs of every kind and nature whatsoever including, without limitation, court costs, investigative fees and expenses, and attorneys’ fees, arising out of or caused by Independent Contractor and/or its partners, principals, agents, employees and/or subcontractors in the performance of or failure to perform this agreement.

In the MDCPS’ sole discretion, upon approval of the Office of the Mississippi Attorney General and the MDCPS, Independent Contractor may be allowed to control the defense of any such claim, suit, etc. In the event Independent Contractor defends said claim, suit, etc., Independent Contractor shall use legal counsel acceptable to the Office of the Mississippi Attorney General and the MDCPS. Independent Contractor shall be solely responsible for all costs and/or expenses associated with such defense, and the MDCPS shall be entitled to participate in said defense. Independent Contractor shall not settle any claim, suit, etc. without the concurrence of the Office of the Mississippi Attorney General and the MDCPS, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.

16. Stop Work Order. The MDCPS may, by written order to Independent Contractor at any time, require Independent Contractor to stop all or any part of the work called for by this contract.

This order shall be for a period of time specified by the MDCPS. Upon receipt of such an order, Independent Contractor shall forthwith comply with its terms and take all reasonable steps to minimize any further cost to the MDCPS. Upon expiration of the stop work order, Independent Contractor shall resume providing the services which were subject to the stop work order, unless the MDCPS has terminated that part of the agreement or terminated the agreement in its entirety. The MDCPS is not liable for payment for services which were not rendered due to the stop work order.

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17. Severability. If any part of this agreement is declared to be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of the agreement that can be given effect without the invalid or unenforceable provision, and to this end the provisions hereof are severable. In such event, the parties shall amend the agreement as necessary to reflect the original intent of the parties and to bring any invalid or unenforceable provisions in compliance with applicable law.

18. Termination.

1) Termination for Convenience. The MDCPS may, when the interests of the Agency so require, terminate this contract in whole or in part, for the convenience of the Agency. The MDCPS shall give written notice of the termination to Independent Contractor specifying the part of the contract terminated and when termination becomes effective. Independent Contractor shall incur no further obligations in connection with the terminated work and on the date set in the notice of termination Independent Contractor will stop work to the extent specified. Independent Contractor shall complete the work not terminated by the notice of termination and may incur obligations as are necessary to do so.

2) Termination for Default. If the MDCPS gives the Independent Contractor a notice that the personal or professional services are being provided in a manner that is deficient, the Independent Contractor shall have 30 days to cure the deficiency. If the Independent Contractor fails to cure the deficiency, the MDCPS may terminate the contract for default and the Independent Contractor will be liable for the additional cost to the MDCPS to procure the personal and professional services from another source. Termination under this paragraph could result in Independent Contractor being excluded from future contract awards pursuant to Chapter 15 of the Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract Review Rules and Regulations. Any termination wrongly labelled termination for default shall be deemed a termination for convenience.

19. Termination Upon Bankruptcy. This contract may be terminated in whole or in part by MDCPS upon written notice to Independent Contractor, if Independent Contractor should become the subject of bankruptcy or receivership proceedings, whether voluntary or involuntary, or upon the execution by Independent Contractor of an assignment for the benefit of its creditors. In the event of such termination, Independent Contractor shall be entitled to recover just and equitable compensation for satisfactory work performed under this contract, but in no case shall said compensation exceed the total contract price.

20. Compliance with Equal Opportunity In Employment Policy. Independent Contractor understands that the MDCPS is an equal opportunity employer and therefore, maintains a policy which prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex, age, national origin, physical handicap, disability, genetic information, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. All such discrimination is unlawful, and Independent Contractor agrees during the term of the agreement that Independent Contractor will strictly adhere to this policy in its employment practices and provision of services.

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21. Modification or Renegotiation. This agreement may be modified only by written agreement signed by the parties hereto. The parties agree to renegotiate the agreement if federal and/or state revisions of any applicable laws or regulations make changes in this agreement necessary.

Modifications shall not be initiated by the Independent Contractor within the last 90 days of the contract period, without prior approval from the Commissioner’s Office.

22. Contract Assignment and Subcontracting. Contractor acknowledges that it was selected by the

State to perform the services required hereunder based, in part, upon Contractor’s special skills and expertise. Contractor shall not assign, subcontract, or otherwise transfer this agreement, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the State, which the State may, in its sole discretion, approve or deny without reason. Any attempted assignment or transfer of its obligations without such consent shall be null and void. No such approval by the State of any subcontractor relationship shall be deemed in any way to provide for the incurrence of any obligation of the State in addition to the total fixed price agreed upon in this agreement.

Subcontracts shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this agreement and to any conditions of approval that the State may deem necessary. Subject to the foregoing, this agreement shall be binding upon the respective successors and assigns of the parties.

23. Non-Solicitation of Employees. Each party to this agreement agrees not to employ or to solicit for employment, directly or indirectly, any persons in the full-time or part-time employment of the other party until at least six (6) months after this agreement terminates unless mutually agreed to in writing by the State or Contractor.

24. Waiver. No delay or omission by either party to this agreement in exercising any right, power, or remedy hereunder or otherwise afforded by contract, at law, or in equity shall constitute an acquiescence therein, impair any other right, power or remedy hereunder or otherwise afforded by any means, or operate as a waiver of such right, power, or remedy. No waiver by either party to this agreement shall be valid unless set forth in writing by the party making said waiver. No waiver of or modification to any term or condition of this agreement will void, waive, or change any other term or condition. No waiver by one party to this agreement of a default by the other party will imply, be construed as, or require waiver of future or other defaults.

25. E-Payment. Contractor agrees to accept all payments in United States currency via the State of

Mississippi’s electronic payment and remittance vehicle. The Agency agrees to make payment in accordance with Mississippi “Timely Payments for Purchases by Public Bodies” laws, which generally provide for payment of undisputed amounts by the Agency within 45 calendar days of receipt of invoice. Mississippi Code Annotated § 31-7-301, et seq.

26. E-Verification. If applicable, Independent Contractor represents and warrants that it will ensure its compliance with the Mississippi Employment Protection Act and will register and participate in the status verification system for all newly hired employees. Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 71-11-1 and 71-11-3. Independent Contractor agrees to provide a copy of each verification upon request of the MDCPS subject to approval by any agencies of the United States Government. Independent Contractor further represents and warrants that any person assigned to perform services hereafter meets the employment eligibility requirements of all

Contract No.8800010853 Page 10 of 18 immigration laws.

The breach of this clause may subject Independent Contractor to the following: (1) termination of this contract and exclusion pursuant to Chapter 15 of the Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract Review Rules and Regulations; (2) the loss of any license, permit, certification or other document granted to Independent Contractor by an agency, department, or governmental entity for the right to do business in Mississippi; or (3) both. In the event of such termination, Independent Contractor would also be liable for any additional costs incurred by the Agency due to Contract cancellation or loss of license or permit to do business in the state.

27. Required Public Records and Transparency. Upon execution of a contract, the provisions of the contract which contain the personal or professional services provided, the unit prices, the overall price to be paid, and the term of the contract shall not be deemed to be a trade secret or confidential commercial or financial information pursuant to Mississippi Code Annotated § 25-61-9(7). The contract shall be posted publicly on www.transparency.ms.gov and shall be made available at the Agency for examination, inspection, or reproduction by the public. The Independent Contractor acknowledges and agrees that the MDCPS and this contract are subject to the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 25- 61-1, et seq. and its exceptions, Mississippi Code Annotated § 79-23-1, and the Mississippi Accountability and Transparency Act of 2008, codified at Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 27- 104-151, et seq.

28. Paymode. Payments by MDCPS using the state’s accounting system shall be made and remittance information provided electronically as directed by the state and deposited into the bank account of Independent Contractor’s choice. The MDCPS may, at its sole discretion, require Independent Contractor to electronically submit invoices and supporting documentation at any time during the term of this Agreement. Independent Contractor understands and agrees that the Agency is exempt from the payment of Mississippi taxes. All payments shall be in United States currency.

29. Notices. Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and personally delivered or sent by electronic means provided that the original of such notice is sent by certified United States mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, or overnight courier with signed receipt, to the party to whom the notice should be given at their business listed herein. Notice shall be deemed given when actually received or when refused. MDCPS and Independent Contractor agree to promptly notify each other in writing of any change of address.

For the Agency: For Contractor:

[Company Fax]

[Keywords] [Manager]

[Status] 750 N. State Street 750 Grant Ave. Suite 250 Jackson, MS 39202 Novato, CA 94945

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30. Procurement Regulations. The contract shall be governed by the applicable provisions of the

Mississippi Public Procurement Review Board Office of Personal Service Contract Review Rules and Regulations, a copy of which is available on the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration’s website (www.dfa.ms.gov). Any offeror responding to a solicitation for personal and professional services and any contractor doing business with a state Agency is deemed to be on notice of all requirements therein.

31. Severability. If any term or provision of this Contract is prohibited by the laws of the State of

Mississippi or declared invalid or void by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Contract shall not be affected thereby and each term and provision of this Contract shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

32. Trade Secrets, Commercial and Financial Information. It is expressly understood that

Mississippi law requires that the provisions of this contract which contain the commodities purchased or the personal or professional services provided, the price to be paid, and the term of the contract shall not be deemed to be a trade secret or confidential commercial or financial information and shall be available for examination, copying, or reproduction.

33. Requirements Contract. During the period of the contract, Independent Contractor shall provide all the service described in the contract. Independent Contractor understands and agrees that this is a requirements contract and that MDCPS shall have no obligation to Independent Contractor if no services are required. Any quantities that are included in the scope of work reflect the current expectations of MDCPS for the period of the contract. The amount is only an estimate and Independent Contractor understands and agrees that MDCPS is under no obligation to Independent Contractor to buy any amount of the services as a result of having provided this estimate or of having any typical or measurable requirement in the past. Independent Contractor further understands and agrees that MDCPS may require services in an amount less than or in excess of the estimated annual contract amount and that the quantity actually used, whether in excess of the estimate or less than the estimate, shall not give rise to any claim for compensation other than the total of the unit prices in the contract for the quantity actually used.

34. Entire Agreement. This Contract constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter contained herein and supersedes and replaces any and all prior negotiations, understanding, and agreements, written or oral, between the parties relating thereto.

35. Approval Clause. It is understood that if this contract requires approval by the Public

Procurement Review Board (“PPRB”) and/or the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration Office of Personal Service Contract Review (“OPSCR”) and this contract is not approved by the PPRB and/or OPSCR, it is void and no payment shall be made hereunder.

36. Force Majeure. Each party shall be temporarily excused from performance for any period and to the extent that it is prevented from performing any obligation or service, in whole or in part, as a result of causes beyond the reasonable control and without the fault or negligence of such party and/or its subcontractors. Such acts shall include without limitation acts of God, strikes, Contract No.8800010853 Page 12 of 18 lockouts, riots, acts of war, epidemics, governmental regulations superimposed after the fact, fire, earthquakes, floods, or other natural disasters (“force majeure events”). When such a cause arises, Independent Contractor shall notify the Agency in writing at its earliest reasonable opportunity of the cause of its inability to perform, how it affects its performance, and the anticipated duration of the inability to perform. All parties shall make reasonable efforts to minimize the impact of the force majeure event on contract performance. The MDCPS may exercise any rights it has under the contract which are available when neither party is in default.

37. Property Rights. Property rights do not inure to Independent Contractor until such time as services have been provided under a legally executed contract. Independent Contractor has no legitimate claim of entitlement to the provision of work hereunder and acknowledges that the MDCPS may terminate this contract at any time for its own convenience.

38. Modification or Renegotiation Required by Change In Law. The parties agree to renegotiate the agreement in good faith if federal and/or state revisions to any applicable laws or regulations make changes in this agreement necessary. This agreement may be modified only by written agreement signed by the parties hereto and approval by the Public Procurement Review Board, if required.

39. No Limitation of Liability. Nothing in this agreement shall be interpreted as excluding or limiting any liability of the Contractor for harm arising out of the Contractor’s or its subcontractors’ performance under this agreement.

40. Disclosure of Confidential Information Required by Law. In the event that either party to this Agreement receives notice that a third-party has served upon it a subpoena or other validly issued administrative or judicial process ordering divulgence of the other party’s data or other information, the party subject to the subpoena or other legal process shall promptly inform the other party at the earliest reasonable opportunity, unless prohibited by law from doing so.

Thereafter, the party subject to the legal process shall respond to the extent mandated by law.

This section shall survive the termination or completion of this agreement. The parties agree that this section is subject to and superseded by Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 25-61-1, et seq.

41. Failure to Enforce Does Not Constitute Waiver. Failure by the MDCPS at any time to enforce the provisions of the contract shall not be construed as a waiver of any such provisions. Such failure to enforce shall not affect the validity of the contract or any part thereof or the right of the MDCPS to enforce any provision at any time in accordance with its terms.

42. Information Designated by the Agency as Confidential. Any liability resulting from the wrongful disclosure of confidential information on the part of Independent Contractor, or its subcontractor(s) shall rest with Independent Contractor. Disclosure of any confidential information by Independent Contractor or its subcontractor(s) without the express written approval of the MDCPS may result in the immediate termination of this agreement.

43. Right to Audit. Independent Contractor shall maintain such financial records and other records as may be prescribed by the MDCPS or by applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

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Independent Contractor shall retain these records for a period of three years after final payment, or until they are audited by the MDCPS, whichever event occurs first. These records shall be made available during the term of the contract and the subsequent three-year period for examination, transcription, and audit by the MDCPS, the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office, and/or other entity of the state.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have affixed their signatures below, after first being authorized so to do.

By: By:

Mississippi Department of Child

Protection Services Consortium for Children

(for) Andrea Sanders Authorized Official Commissioner Authorized Official Title

Date: Date:

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ATTACHMENT A

SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Contractor will perform the following services upon request of the Agency in fulfillment of the purposes of this contract:

The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in the state. As part of this mission, MDCPS licenses homes to care for children in need of placement. It is crucial that these homes meet certain standards to ensure that the children entrusted to their care are provided with a nurturing and safe environment.

To achieve this goal, MDCPS has partnered with the Consortium for Children to implement the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology. The SAFE methodology is a standardized and uniform home study process that assesses the suitability of prospective families to care for children. By using a standardized method like SAFE, MDCPS can ensure that all licensed homes are evaluated consistently and thoroughly.

Using a standardized method like SAFE is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it helps to ensure that all prospective families are assessed fairly and consistently. This means that no family is given preferential treatment, and all families are held to the same standards.

Additionally, using a standardized method like SAFE helps to streamline the evaluation process, making it more efficient and effective.

Overall, the implementation of the SAFE methodology by MDCPS demonstrates the agency's commitment to protecting children and ensuring that they are placed in safe and loving homes.

By using a standardized and evidence-based method like SAFE.

The Structured Analysis Family Evaluation provided by the Consortium for Children program is a key component of ensuring that families have the resources and support needed to be successful. This program is a direct response to the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services' (MDCPS) Improving Care plan, which emphasizes the importance of enhancing training for staff. By equipping providers and staff with essential skills, MDCPS aims to improve the quality of care and support provided to vulnerable children and adolescents who come from challenging backgrounds.

By focusing on the quality of care and support within the home environment, MDCPS hopes to improve the overall well-being and outcomes of these youth. This initiative is crucial in ensuring that families have the tools and resources they need to succeed in providing a nurturing and stable environment for children in their care. Ultimately, the success of families in providing a supportive home to study is vital in improving the lives of vulnerable children and adolescents.

MDCPS has identified three key learning objectives related to Structured Analysis Family Evaluation:

1. Understand the principles of providing a safe and supportive environment for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

2. Develop skills in recognizing signs of abuse or neglect and knowing how to appropriately respond and report concerns.

3. Gain knowledge of trauma-informed care and techniques for helping children heal from past trauma in a home setting.

Scope:

The vendor will provide an evidence based supported home study training that has demonstrated measurable impacts within similar environments.

Contract No.8800010853 Page 15 of 18

The vendor will provide ongoing training certification programs for both the partner provider and MDCPS agency team members.

The vendor will provide MDCPS access to the established SAFE online-learning platform.

The vendor will provide designated certification at the completion of all learning activities of the attendees (MDCPS staff and providers).

The vendor will provide MDCPS with access to a complete training report for all newly certified practitioners.

The vendor will provide MDCPS with a 90-day notice of recertification for all certified Practitioners.

MDCPS will receive notification of updates to curriculums.

Technical Requirements 8.) The vendor will conduct the initial 2-day certification training, which is in-depth training on how to use the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology.

9.) The vendor will conduct half-day SAFE supervisor training, which is designed to train Supervisors in the proper supervision of SAFE which is required when performing a SAFE home study.

10.) The vendor will conduct full day SAFE refresher training, which covers the entire SAFE methodology and the SAFE tools, including any updates to SAFE, and provide a forum for participants to ask questions.

11.) The vendor will provide access to all SAFE tools and documents needed to conduct a SAFE home study.

12.) The vendor will provide access to SAFE resource center, including access to sample home studies, tutorials, and skill building articles.

13.) The vendor will provide ongoing technical assistance for partner providers and MDCPS team members.

14.) The vendor will provide access to forms, reports, and support tools.

Contract No.8800010853 Page 16 of 18

ATTACHMENT B

2nd Modified Mississippi Settlement Agreement and

Reform Plan

(See Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services Website) https://www.mdcps.ms.gov/about/olivia-y-lawsuit/

Contract No.8800010853 Page 17 of 18

ATTACHMENT C

BUDGET

Contract Rate Schedule The total amount for these services will not exceed One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($150,000.00).

SAFE HOME STUDY 2-DAY TRAINING –

Mandatory for Staff and Supervisors

2027 Rate $440/per person

2028 Rate $475/per person

The SAFE 2-Day Training is the initial training that certifies a Home Study Practitioner (HSP) to conduct SAFE home studies. The course educates HSPs in the use of the structured methodology of SAFE to identify and explore the family’s strengths, as well as potential concerns, in a uniformed, comprehensive, and sensitive fashion. Once the Home Study Practitioner has completed both days, they are SAFE Certified. This training has a minimum billing for 25 participants and a maximum capacity of 40 participants. Pricing includes the SAFE Desk Guide and Workbook, as well as all relevant training materials.

SAFE FOR SUPERVISORS (Half-Day) – Mandatory for Supervisors

2027 Rate $250/per person

2028 Rate $285/per person

The SAFE Supervisor Training is meant for individuals who are responsible for the on-going supervision of SAFE home studies. This half-day training will train attendees in the proper supervision of the SAFE methodology, including providing guidance in supervising SAFE in the most effective manner. This guidance also includes tips, supports, and suggestions for easing the supervision process. This training has a maximum attendance of 25. Pricing includes all relevant materials.

SAFE INTERVIEW Training (Half-Day) 2027 Rate $230/per person

2028 Rate $250/per person

The SAFE Interview Training is a half-day training that focuses on the most effective ways to gather information during the home study interview process that will be included in the home study report. Using information acquired from SAFE Questionnaires and Desk Guide ratings, the course covers the interview process from beginning to end, including techniques to help prepare the family for the interview. This training has a maximum capacity of 40 participants. Pricing includes all relevant materials.

SAFE REFRESHER (Full Day) 2027 Rate $250/per person

2028 Rate $285/per person

The SAFE Refresher Training is a full day overview of the SAFE home study process. The course covers all aspects of the process from Questionnaires and the Harvesting Sheet to Mitigation and writing the home study report. The course also provides a forum for a Q&A with a SAFE Specialist. This training has a maximum attendance of 40. Pricing includes all relevant materials.

SAFE BOOSTER WEBINAR

2027 Rate

$60/per person 2028 Rate

$60/per person The SAFE Booster Webinar is a brief 60-minute overview of the SAFE home study process. The webinar is designed to provide condensed instruction on the use of the SAFE Tools (Questionnaires, Desk Guide, Psychosocial Inventory) as well as a summarized overview of mitigation and developing the Psychosocial Evaluation. The webinar does not offer a forum for Q&A with the facilitator.

SAFE MITIGATION WEBINAR

2027 Rate

$60/per person 2028 Rate

$60/per person This webinar provides an in-depth exploration of the mitigation process within the SAFE process. Designed for SAFE practitioners and supervisors, this session focuses on understanding and effectively applying the mitigation process during the SAFE home study. We will discuss the critical steps involved in mitigation, including SAFE Supervision, identifying the potential concerns, choices of mitigation (sustain, reduce, erase), the use of outside

Contract No.8800010853 Page 18 of 18 sources, and how to document mitigation in the SAFE home study, ensuring compliance and alignment with SAFE best practices.

SAFE NARRATION WEBINAR

2027 Rate

$60/per person 2028 Rate

$60/per person This webinar focuses on completing the psychosocial evaluation section of the SAFE home study. Participants will learn what information is required for this section, effective methods for gathering that information, and best practices for incorporating it into a comprehensive and accurate psychosocial evaluation. The webinar will include detailed guidance on narrating Desk Guide and Mitigation ratings and emphasizing the use of clear and descriptive language. Participants will learn where to incorporate these narratives within the psychosocial evaluation section and will review examples to illustrate effective narration techniques.

CONSULTATION/TECHNICAL SUPPORT

CFC agrees to provide ongoing consultation and technical assistance to all SAFE users who have completed the SAFE 2- Day Training. Consultation and technical support are provided at no charge by SAFE Specialists.

Sole Source Determination Miss. Code Ann. § 27-104-7(2)(o) and (4)

Section 3-206 of the PPRB Rules and Regulations

THE PROPOSED CONTRACT TERMS ARE ATTACHED TO THIS DETERMINATION.

Agency: ____________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Sole Source Vendor:__________________________________________________________

Intended Contract Term: ______________________________________________________________

Anticipated Contract Amount: __________________________________________________________

The personal or professional service offered in the contract is:

The personal or professional service described above is the only one that can meet the needs of the agency because:

The proposed sole source vendor is the only person or entity that can provide the required personal or professional service because:

Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) The Consortium For Children - Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE)

January 1, 2027 - December 31, 2028 $150,000.00

Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) is a standardized, uniform home study methodology that is used to support consistent, standardized assessment and decision-making within the child welfare system. Used throughout the United States and Canada, the methodology can be used to assess individuals applying to become foster parents, adoptive parents, kinship providers, and/or guardianship providers. SAFE was initially developed in 1999 and has been revised throughout the years to reflect current data, research, and trends in child welfare. SAFE is designed to provide a uniform, structured, and comprehensive home study process helping to eliminate worker bias and protect everyone involved—the child/youth, the prospective family, the Home Study Practitioner, the Supervisor, and the Agency/Jurisdiction. The methodology consists of four components: the Information Gathering Tools, the Structured Analysis, the Pre-Formatted Home Study Report, and the SAFE Compatibility Inventory. Each component ties together to create a thorough evaluation. Included with the training is on-going technical assistance and certification process.

Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology is currently used throughout the United States and Canada. SAFE provides a uniform home study tool which also facilitates inter-state placements. SAFE methodology provides a standardized, comprehensive, and research-informed framework specifically designed for the assessment of prospective foster, adoptive, and relative caregivers within the child welfare…