STATE OF MAINE

Department of Education Office of Workforce Development and Innovative Pathways

RFA# 202606105

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

RFA Coordinator

Meeting ID: 859 5816 0244 Passcode: 73399962

Submitted Questions Due Date

Thursday, July 23, 2026, no later than 4:00 p.m., local time

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

A. PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND

B. GENERAL PROVISIONS

C. ELIGIBILITY TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS

D. CONTRACT TERM

E. AWARDS

A. VENDOR SELF SERVICE SYSTEM (VSS)

B. INFORMATIONAL SESSION

C. QUESTIONS

D. AMENDMENTS

E. APPLICATION SUBMISSION

A. EVALUATION PROCESS – GENERAL INFORMATION

B. SCORING WEIGHTS & PROCESS

C. NEGOTIATIONS

D. SELECTION AND AWARD

E. APPEAL OF CONTRACT AWARDS

A. CONTRACT DOCUMENT

B. STANDARD STATE CONTRACT PROVISIONS

PUBLIC NOTICE

State of Maine Department of Education

RFA# 202606105

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

The State of Maine is seeking applications for building sustainable career pipeline programming to support Maine youth in grades 9-12 in exploring healthcare occupation opportunities, acquiring foundational skills, and creating meaningful connections to healthcare professionals and employers and relevant high school instruction, postsecondary enrollment, and workforce development opportunities in Maine.

A copy of the RFA and all related documents can be obtained through the Vendor Self Service System (VSS): https://mevss.hostams.com/PRDVSS1X1/AltSelfService

An Informational Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 2:00pm at the following location:

https://mainestate.zoom.us/j/85958160244?pwd=anjTiwmvXAm0bMZtCr1q4KGlDohGEe.1.

Applications must be submitted to the Office of State Procurement Services, via the Vendor Self Service System (VSS). Application submissions must be received no later than 4:00 p.m., local time, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Applications will be opened the following business day.

RFA TERMS/ACRONYMS with DEFINITIONS

The following terms and acronyms, as referenced in the RFA, have the meanings indicated below:

State of Maine

Office of Workforce Development and Innovative Pathways

RFA# 202606104

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

PART I INTRODUCTION

A. Purpose and Background

The Maine Department of Education (Department) in partnership with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking applications for building sustainable career pipeline programming to support Maine high school students in grades 9-12, in exploring healthcare occupation opportunities, acquiring foundational skills, and creating meaningful connections to healthcare professionals and employers and relevant high school instruction, postsecondary enrollment, and workforce development opportunities in Maine, as defined in this Request for Applications (RFA) document. This document provides instructions for submitting applications, the procedure and criteria by which the awarded Applicant(s) will be selected, and the contractual terms which will govern the relationship between the State of Maine (State) and the awarded Applicant(s).

This opportunity is funded through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) as a population health strategy to address health disparities and access to care barriers for people living in rural areas. This initiative supports Action A.4. of Maine's Economic Development Strategy, which states the need to “establish clear career pathways through partnerships between schools, technical centers, and employers to help students and workers navigate toward high-demand sectors.” And Action A.6. which strives to “Provide experiential learning opportunities for students through partnerships that engage youth in key industries and retain local talent in the state.”

Lastly, this healthcare career exploration and pipeline initiative intends to support Maine’s Life and Career Ready Standards of the Maine Learning Results for students in grades 9-12. Specifically, it reflects the following standards:

· B. Aspirations, 1. Exploring Opportunities: “Students articulate a variety of post high school options based on individualized, in-depth exploration.”

· C. Building Pathways for the Future, 1. Planning: “b. Seek out meaningful career exploration opportunities, both individually and in small-group interactive settings” and “c. Understand the financial impact of post high school credentialing programs, using that awareness to inform plans.”

· C. Building Pathways for the Future, 2. Career Awareness and Adaptability: “c. Explore credentialing requirements” and “d. Plan strategically (informed by changing career and economic trends) and choose learning experiences/courses/classes that strengthen knowledge and skills needed for individual next steps after high school.”

It is important to note that this RFA is not intended to provide students with initial credentialing in the healthcare industry due to the Federal five-year service commitment requirement for individuals who receive those types of credentials. While there are many high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Adult Education healthcare occupation training and educational programs, their programming is focused on providing students with instruction and work-based learning opportunities that result in industry recognized credentials which would initiate the service requirement.

This RFA intends to target rural high school students in grades 9-12 who may be unable to participate in these programs due to eligibility, enrollment constraints, geographic remoteness, course scheduling, or other reasons.

We do anticipate that the organizing of healthcare career exploration programs at high schools will help to encourage enrollment in other school-based programs in their community or region.

The primary goals of this RFA include:

1. Expand the number of high-quality age-appropriate healthcare exploration and pipeline programs offered in rural areas.

2. Develop a sustainable and effective rural healthcare pathway exploration support system.

3. Increase support to ensure rural high school students have the opportunity to participate in meaningful work-based or extended learning experiences in the healthcare sector.

4. Enhancing youth-focused pathways to emphasize healthcare occupations as a viable option for individuals to learn and earn in their rural community in their post-high school life.

Components and indicators to be evaluated through this initiative include:

· The types of healthcare-related training that can be effectively delivered to high school students.

· Areas of support including transportation services.

· Exploratory activities including work-based or extended learning opportunities developed in partnership with employers and/or healthcare industry.

· Post-program participation data including secondary and postsecondary enrollment and workforce training opportunities.

· Participant attitudes towards advancement in the healthcare field.

B. General Provisions

1. From the time this RFA is issued until award notification is made, all contact with the State regarding this RFA must be made through the RFA Coordinator identified on the cover page of this RFA. No other person/State employee is empowered to make binding statements regarding this RFA. Violation of this provision may lead to disqualification from the application process, at the State’s discretion.

2. Issuance of the RFA does not commit the Department to issue an award or to pay expenses incurred by an Applicant in the preparation of a response to the RFA. This includes attendance at personal interviews or other meetings, where applicable.

3. All applications must adhere to the instructions and format requirements outlined in the RFA and all written supplements and amendments (such as the Summary of Questions and Answers), issued by the Department. Applications must follow the format and respond to all questions and instructions specified in Part III of the RFA.

4. Applicants will take careful note that in evaluating an application submitted in response to this RFA, the Department will consider materials provided in the application, information obtained through interviews/presentations (if any), and internal Departmental information of previous contract history with the Applicant (if any). The Department also reserves the right to consider other reliable references and publicly available information in evaluating the Applicant’s experience and capabilities.

5. The application must be signed by the SAU’s Superintendent, charter school’s Head of School, or the community-based organization’s Executive Director to legally bind the Applicant. It must contain a statement that the application and the pricing contained therein will remain valid and binding for a period of 180 days from the date and time of the bid or application opening.

6. The RFA and the awarded Applicant’s application, including all appendices or attachments, will be the basis for the final contract, as determined by the Department.

7. Following announcement of an award decision, all records and documents regarding this RFA, including bid or application submissions, will be public records, available for public inspection pursuant to 5 M.R.S. §1825 B (6 &15) and the State of Maine Freedom of Access Act (FOAA) (1 M.R.S. § 401 et seq.). State contracts and information related to contracts, including all records, documents, supporting documents, and bid/application submissions, are public records unless otherwise excepted by statute (Id).

8. Subject to the above and pursuant to applicable law, in the event that an Applicant believes any information that it submits in response to this RFA is confidential, it must mark that information accordingly, and include citation to legal authority in support of the Applicant’s claim of confidentiality. In the event that the Department receives a FOAA request that includes submissions marked as confidential, the Department shall evaluate the information and any legal authority from the Applicant to determine whether the information is an exception to FOAA’s definition of public record. If the Department determines to release information that an Applicant has marked confidential, it shall provide advance notice to the Applicant to allow for them to seek legal relief.

9. The Department, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to recognize and waive minor informalities and irregularities found in applications received in response to the RFA.

10. If awarded a contract resulting from this RFA, awarded Applicant(s) shall be required to disclose, in writing and in accordance with applicable Maine law, any actual or potential conflicts of interest. Such disclosure must include any financial, professional, or personal relationships that could give rise to a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest. Failure to disclose a known conflict or appearance of conflict may result in disqualification, contract termination, or other remedies as provided by law.

11. All applicable laws, whether or not herein contained, shall be included by this reference. It shall be the Applicant’s responsibility to determine the applicability and requirements of any such laws and to abide by them.

C. Eligibility to Submit Applications

To be considered for grant funding under this application process, the lead applicants must meet one of the following categories:

1. School-based organization providing education to students in grades 9-12 including:

a. A public school as defined in Title 20-A §1: Definitions;

b. A public charter school as defined in Title 20-A, §2401: Definitions; or

c. A School Administrative Unit (SAU) as defined under Title 20-A §1: Definitions.

2. Community-based organization (CBO) with a demonstrated track record of delivering career exploration or occupational training in partnership with a school-based organization to participants resulting in postsecondary credits or industry-recognized credential attainment, postsecondary enrollment, or employment (e.g. pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship). A letter of intent for CBOs applying in partnership with a school (see 1 above) is required and must include the following:

a. Information regarding the scope of work

b. Signature from the Superintendent or individual authorized to enter into agreements and Executive Director of the CBO.

c. Agreement that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will be completed prior to contract approval.

Note: Applicants may create additional partnerships with other school-based organizations including CTE schools or Adult Education programs for administrative and instructional support, facility usage, and related assets; as well as partnerships with various healthcare providers, businesses, and other organizations to support the program goals are encouraged; however the programming must be focused on rural Maine high school students in grades 9-12. Awarded applicants will be required to provide assurance that background checks have been completed for all personnel who are in contact with students, a written policy is in place regarding required background checks, and copies of all pertinent records are kept on file.

D. Contract Term

The term of anticipated contract period resulting from this RFA is defined in the table below. The dates below are estimated and may be adjusted, as necessary, in order to comply with all procedural requirements associated with the RFA, the specific program awarded, and the contracting process. The actual contract start date will be established by a completed and approved contract.

E. Awards

The Department anticipates making up to four (4) award(s) as a result of this RFA process. The total grant funds available are $500,000.00, with awards up to $125,000.00. The Department reserves the right to make partial awards, eliminate the lowest scoring application(s) and/or make awards for amounts less or more than requested, whichever is in the best interest of the State.

Applicants must demonstrate fiscal capacity, including ability to manage large grants, and/or partner with an organization to assist in managing grant funding. If partnering with an organization to assist with financial management, applicants must provide a letter of support from the financial management organization outlining their qualifications.

If additional funds become available, the Department may extend the term of the award(s) by an additional year for a similar or reduced amount (cumulative 2 years).

PART II ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

A. Program Design

1. Programs must

a. focus on rural (as defined in this RFA - see also How We Define Rural | HRSA tool) high school students in grades 9-12,

b. provide new healthcare career exploration programming opportunities to increase awareness of various occupations in the field,

c. reinforce or encourage participants to aspire to enter a postsecondary enrollment opportunity within the healthcare sector, and

d. offer opportunities for participants to make connections with potential mentors and role models in the healthcare field.

2. Programs may include, but are not limited to, the following activities:

a. healthcare field immersion activities or programs (e.g. an intensive after-school or summer experience for juniors or seniors that provides participants with hands-on experience and skill acquisition);

b. work-based or extended learning opportunities (for example an internship or a research-focused opportunity that results in an academic paper, oral presentation, etc.);

c. formation of a school-sponsored health profession club (e.g. HOSA Future Health Professionals) among other similar activities;

d. healthcare focused content (secondary) coursework;

e. healthcare-related postsecondary credit bearing coursework; and,

f. related training such as Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR/First Aid, Stop The Bleed, Seizure First Aid, Opioid Overdose Recognition and Response, or other training that does not provide initial entry into an occupation but are opportunities for increased awareness of healthcare-related skills.

B. Required Activities

1. Participate in grant orientation and regularly scheduled virtual meetings to discuss progress, provide updates and receive technical assistance from the Department and Maine DHHS and meet quarterly with a learning cohort for awardees to share and learn best practices from one another.

2. Partner with a business(es) or healthcare provider(s) or other healthcare-related entities to provide exploratory opportunities (for example, field trips, work-based or extended learning experiences, and academic enrichment opportunities) for eligible participants. A formal partnership agreement(s) with industry partner(s) is required. Awarded applicants will be required to provide assurance that background checks have been completed for all personnel who are in contact with students, a written policy is in place regarding required background checks, and copies of all pertinent records are kept on file.

3. Provide advising and navigational support to recruit, retain and connect participants to the program design activities (for example, age-appropriate instruction, work-based or extended learning opportunities, and proposed certifications).

4. Participants should be counseled and advised as to additional opportunities such as training, credentialing, certificate or degree attainment beyond the initial occupational exposure to enter the field.

5. Directly or through partnerships, provide support to participants in entering healthcare field-related secondary program and/or postsecondary enrollments, apprenticeship opportunities or other training opportunities through assistance with resumes, applications, interview coaching, and related activities.

6. Directly or through partnerships, provide access to wraparound supports to address identified service needs (e.g. transportation) by making referrals and/or funding supports.

7. Track and report student participation; additional information may include instruction, training completions, work-based or extended learning experience data, postsecondary credits earned, and future postsecondary enrollment, apprenticeship, or workforce development training participation.

8. Letters of support from proposed partner organizations are required. Awarded applicants will be required to provide assurance that background checks have been completed for all personnel who are in contact with students, a written policy is in place regarding required background checks, and copies of all pertinent records are kept on file.

C. Allowable Use of Funds Funding must be used for programs that:

1. Are focused on rural students and schools as defined in this RFA (see also How We Define Rural | HRSA tool provided by Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).

2. Provide healthcare career awareness and exploration programming.

3. Are made available at no cost to participants.

4. Incorporate meaningful educational experiences in the healthcare field.

Funding may be used for:

1. Personnel

a. Program staff- to recruit participants, coordinate educational and awareness activities and work-based or extended learning opportunities, and conduct administrative duties related to reporting and invoicing activities.

b. Instruction personnel time including external certification and training staff (costs must be supplemental not supplanting).

2. External academic costs

a. Completed post-secondary coursework costs (up to 6 post-secondary credit). Completed coursework must be transcripted by an accredited Maine-based higher education institution. Department of Education early college programs (e.g. Aspirations) may not be used to fund postsecondary credits for participants in the program design.

b. Healthcare occupations training and related exams or certifications.

*Note: external academic costs will only be reimbursed upon successful completion of the course, training, exam, certificate, etc.

3. Supportive services

a. Transportation costs to assist participants with access to instructional activities or programming and work-based or extended learning opportunities are allowed. The mileage or rental reimbursement rate is determined based on the following criteria per 2 CFR 200.475:

i. In the absence of an acceptable, written non-Federal entity travel costs policy, the rate of reimbursement for will be the current US GSA per diem rate.

ii. If the awarded Applicant(s) has an existing travel policy, the reimbursement rate will be consistent with that of circumstances in the awarded Applicant(s) non-federally-funded activities.

Note: Reimbursement of guardians/parents/caregivers/participants is limited to the round-trip mileage incurred from the participant(s) primary residence to the program’s location and only on the days the participant(s) attendance corresponds with activities under this RFA.

4. Supplies (e.g. instructional materials)

a. Purchase of supplies, which include all tangible personal property other than “equipment” with a unit cost of less than $5,000. Equipment defined in D2 below.

b. Purchase of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

D. Non-Allowable Use of Funds

1. Food/Beverage.

2. Purchase of equipment, defined as an item with an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit and a useful lifetime of more than one (1) year.

3. Construction costs.

4. Clothing and merchandise for recruitment or marketing.

5. Gift cards or certificates.

6. Out of state travel.

7. Student stipends.

8. Certification or credentialing costs that provide initial entry into a healthcare occupation.

9. Indirect costs, overhead expenses, or program oversight expenses.

E. Reporting Requirements Reporting will be required on a quarterly basis with one annual report and a final report. This RFA does not require the transmission of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) for reporting purposes.

1. Quarterly report

a. Program metrics including:

i. Programming events and participation.

ii. School credits earned (if applicable).

iii. Post-secondary courses and credits earned (if applicable).

iv. Certifications or training successfully completed.

v. Work-based / extended learning placements and hours.

vi. Participant demographics.

b. Program narrative providing overview of successes and challenges. Included would be two success stories, at minimum, for publication and promotion through social media, printed stories, annual report to the Legislature, or other forms of publication.

2. Interim report:

a. Program metrics including:

i. Programming events and participation.

ii. School credits earned (if applicable).

iii. Post-secondary courses and credits earned (if applicable).

iv. Certifications or training successfully completed.

v. Work-based / extended learning placements and hours.

vi. Participant demographics.

b. Program narrative providing overview of successes and challenges. Included would be two success stories, at minimum, for publication and promotion through social media, printed stories, annual report to the Legislature, or other forms of publication.

c. Documentation and assessment of advising and navigational supports such as career counseling activities, resume and related skills, targeted “soft skill” training, etc.

d. Pre and post-program analysis of participant career expectations, attitudes, and perceptions of entering and advancing in the healthcare sector, as well as post-programming satisfaction.

e. Post-program participation in secondary or postsecondary enrollment opportunities, apprenticeships or pre-apprenticeships, or workforce development training participation.

f. Financial reports shall include at a minimum the following information:

i. Expense detail for period (for cost reimbursement arrangements, this amount must equal the payment claim amount);

ii. An accounting of year-to-date expenses, indicating cumulative actuals versus budget;

iii. Funding balance remaining as of reporting period;

iv. Supporting documentation, upon request.

3. Final report

a. Program metrics including:

i. Programming events and participation.

ii. School credits earned.

iii. Postsecondary courses and credits earned.

iv. Certifications or training successfully completed.

v. Work-based / extended learning placements and hours.

vi. Participant demographics.

b. Program narrative providing overview of successes and challenges. Included would be two success stories, at minimum, for publication and promotion through social media, printed stories, annual report to the Legislature, or other forms of publication.

c. Documentation and assessment of advising and navigational supports such as career counseling activities, resume and related skills, targeted “soft skill” training, etc.

d. Pre- and post-program analysis of participant career expectations, attitudes, and perceptions of entering and advancing in the healthcare sector, as well as post-programming satisfaction.

e. Post-program participation in secondary or postsecondary enrollment opportunities, apprenticeships or pre-apprenticeships, or workforce development training participation.

f. Financial reports should include at a minimum the following information:

i. Expense detail for period (for cost reimbursement arrangements, this amount must equal the payment claim amount);

ii. An accounting of year-to-date expenses, indicating cumulative actuals versus budget;

iii. Funding balance remaining as of reporting period;

iv. Supporting documentation, upon request.

PART III KEY PROCESS EVENTS

A. Vendor Self Service System (VSS)

1. The Office of State Procurement Services Vendor Self Service System website is found at the link below: https://www.maine.gov/dafs/bbm/procurementservices/vendors/vendor-self-service-system

2. A copy of the RFA and all associated documents will be published in VSS.

3. Only documents published in VSS will be considered binding.

4. Any interested party may view open solicitations in VSS using the Public Access feature.

5. Vendors and Applicants must have an active User ID and password in VSS to submit questions and respond to solicitations, including this RFA.

a. Vendor registration instructions and User Guide may be found at the link above, which include steps for searching for an existing account/User ID, or registering for a new account/User ID.

b. Vendors and Applicants interested in responding to a solicitation are encouraged to obtain a User ID and password for VSS as soon as possible.

6. Vendors and Applicants must have an active Vendor Code (VC or VS) to contract with the Department.

B. Informational Session The Department will host an informational session concerning the RFA beginning at the date, time and location shown on the RFA cover page. The purpose of the Informational Session is to answer and/or field questions, clarify for Applicants any aspect of the RFA that may be necessary, and provide supplemental information to assist potential Applicants in submitting responses to the RFA. Although attendance at the Informational Session is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged that interested Applicants attend.

C. Questions

1. General Instructions: It is the responsibility of all Applicants and other interested parties to examine the entire RFA and to seek clarification, in writing, if they do not understand any information or instructions.

a. Questions must be submitted in VSS as soon as possible but no later than the date and time published in VSS.

b. Questions should be clearly stated and reference the applicable section and/or page number of the RFA.

c. The Department assumes no liability for assuring accurate/complete/on time transmission and receipt.

2. Question & Answer Summary: Responses to all questions will be compiled in writing and published in VSS no later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the Application Submission Deadline. It is the responsibility of all interested parties to go to VSS to obtain a copy of the Question & Answer Summary. Only those answers issued in writing in VSS will be considered binding.

D. Amendments

All amendments released in regard to the RFA will be published in VSS. It is the responsibility of all interested parties to go to VSS to obtain amendments. Only those amendments published in VSS are considered binding.

E. Application Submission

1. Applications Due

a. Application submissions must be received no later than the Application Submission Deadline (closing date) published in VSS.

b. Any application submissions or any additional or revised application files received after the Application Submission Deadline will be rejected without exception.

2. Delivery Instructions

a. Application submissions must be submitted to the Office of State Procurement Services via VSS.

b. Only application submissions received via VSS will be considered. The Department assumes no liability for assuring accurate/complete receipt.

c. Submissions containing links to file sharing sites or online file repositories will not be accepted as submissions. Only application submissions that have the actual requested files attached will be accepted.

d. Encrypted submissions received which require opening attachments and logging into a proprietary system will not be accepted. Applicants should work with their Information Technology team to ensure that the application submission will not be encrypted due to any security settings.

e. File size limits are 15MB per file. Applicants may separate their submissions into multiple files, as necessary, due to file size concerns.

3. Submission Format

a. Applicants must submit at least one (1) file, labeled and including the required information as defined below:

File Name: RFA# 202606105 Application Submission – [Applicant’s Name]

· Must contain: Applicant’s completed Application Form and all required information and attachments as stated in the form.

b. The Application Form must be submitted as a single, typed file. If including attachments in the same file presents a file size issue, Applicants may submit those attachments as a separate, clearly labeled file.

c. Applicants must include any forms provided in the RFA (such as the Application Form) or reproduce those forms as closely as possible.

d. Applicants are not to provide additional attachments beyond those specified in the RFA or Application Form for the purpose of extending their response. Materials not requested will not be considered part of the application and will not be evaluated.

PART IV APPLICATION EVALUATION AND SELECTION

A. Evaluation Process – General Information

1. An evaluation team, composed of qualified reviewers, will judge the merits of the applications received in accordance with the criteria defined in the RFA.

2. Officials responsible for making decisions on the award selection will ensure that the selection process accords equal opportunity and appropriate consideration to all who are capable of meeting the specifications. The goals of the evaluation process are to ensure fairness and objectivity in review of the applications and to ensure that all contracts are awarded to the Applicants that provide the best value to the State of Maine.

3. The Department reserves the right to communicate and/or schedule interviews/presentations with Applicants, if needed, to obtain clarification of information contained in the applications received. The Department may revise the scores assigned in the initial evaluation to reflect those communications and/or interviews/presentations.

4. Changes to applications, including updating or adding information, will not be permitted during any interview/presentation process and, therefore, Applicants must submit applications that present their rates and other requested information as clearly and completely as possible.

5. Failure to respond to all questions and instructions throughout the RFA may result in the application being disqualified as non-responsive or receiving a reduced score. The Department, and its evaluation team, has sole discretion to determine whether a variance from the RFA specifications will result either in disqualification or reduction in scoring of an application.

B. Scoring Weights & Process

1. Scoring Weights: The score will be based on a 100-point scale and will measure the degree to which each application meets the following criteria. The information required in each section of the Application Form aligns with the Scoring Criteria defined below.

2. Scoring Process: For applications that demonstrate meeting the eligibility requirements defined in Part I, if applicable, the evaluation team will use a consensus approach to evaluate and score all sections listed above. Members of the evaluation team will not score those sections individually but, instead, will arrive at a consensus as to assignment of points for each of those sections.

C. Negotiations

1. The Department reserves the right to negotiate with the awarded Applicant(s) to finalize a contract.

2. The Department reserves the right to terminate contract negotiations with an awarded Applicant who submits a proposed contract significantly different from the application they submitted in response to the advertised RFA.

3. In the event that an acceptable contract cannot be negotiated with an Applicant, the Department may withdraw its award and negotiate with the next-highest ranked Applicant, and so on, until an acceptable contract has been finalized. Alternatively, the Department may cancel the RFA, at its sole discretion.

D. Selection and Award

1. The final decision regarding the award of the contract will be made by representatives of the Department subject to approval by the State Procurement Review Committee.

2. Notification of conditional award selection or non-selection will be made in writing by the Department.

3. Issuance of the RFA in no way constitutes a commitment by the State of Maine to award a contract, to pay costs incurred in the preparation of a response to the RFA, or to pay costs incurred in procuring or contracting for services, supplies, physical space, personnel or any other costs incurred by an Applicant.

4. The Department reserves the right to reject any and all applications or to make multiple awards.

E. Appeal of Contract Awards

Any person aggrieved by the award decision that results from the RFA may appeal the decision to the Director of the Bureau of General Services in the manner prescribed in 5 M.R.S.A. § 1825-E and 18-554 Code of Maine Rules Chapter 120. The appeal must be in writing and filed with the Director of the Bureau of General Services, 9 State House Station, Augusta, Maine, 04333-0009 within fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt of notification of conditional contract award.

PART V CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND CONDITIONS

A. Contract Document

1. The awarded Applicant will be required to execute a State of Maine Service Contract with appropriate riders as determined by the issuing department.

All exceptions will be negotiated between the awarded Applicant(s) and the State. The State will not accept any proposed exceptions as part of this RFA process. The State is not obligated to accept, negotiate, or compromise of any proposed exceptions.

The complete set of standard State of Maine Service Contract documents, along with other forms and contract documents commonly used by the State, may be found on the Office of State Procurement Services’ website at the following link: Office of State Procurement Services Forms Page

2. Allocation of funds is final upon successful negotiation and execution of the contract, subject to the review and approval of the State Procurement Review Committee. Contracts are not considered fully executed and valid until approved by the State Procurement Review Committee and funds are encumbered. No contract will be approved based on an RFA which has an effective date less than fourteen (14) calendar days after award notification to Applicants. (Referenced in the regulations of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Chapter 110, § 3(B)(i).)

This provision means that a contract cannot be effective until at least fourteen (14) calendar days after award notification.

3. The State recognizes that the actual contract effective date depends upon completion of the RFA process, date of formal award notification, length of contract negotiation, and preparation and approval by the State Procurement Review Committee. Any appeals to the Department’s award decision(s) may further postpone the actual contract effective date, depending upon the outcome. The contract effective date listed in the RFA may need to be adjusted, if necessary, to comply with mandated requirements.

4. In providing services and performing under the contract, the awarded Applicant must act as an independent contractor and not as an agent of the State of Maine.

B. Standard State Contract Provisions

1. Contract Administration Following the award, a Contract Administrator from the Department will be appointed to assist with the development and administration of the contract and to act as administrator during the entire contract period. Department staff will be available after the award to consult with the awarded Applicant in the finalization of the contract.

2. Payments and Other Provisions The State anticipates paying the awarded Applicants on the basis of net 30 payment terms, upon the receipt of an accurate and acceptable reimbursement request (invoice). Awarded Applicants must submit invoices for approved expenses through the Department’s online grant reimbursement system, Grants4ME. An invoice will be considered accurate and acceptable if it contains correct pricing information relative to the contract, provides any required supporting documents, as applicable, and any other specific and agreed-upon requirements listed within the contract that results from the RFA.

In order to receive payment, invoices must be submitted on a quarterly basis plus thirty (30) days, at a minimum. The awarded Applicants shall not submit more than one invoice per month.

State of Maine RFA# 202606105 1 Rev. 04/17/2026 – DAFS/Office of State Procurement Services

PART VI APPLICATION FORM

State of Maine Department of Education

RFA# 202606105

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

APPLICATION COVER PAGE

Applicant’s Organization’s Name:

Superintendent, Head of School, or Executive Director- Name/Title:

Tel:

E-mail:

Headquarters Street Address:

Headquarters City/State/Zip:

(Provide information requested below if different from above)

Lead Point of Contact for Application - Name/Title:

Tel:

E-mail:

Street Address:

City/State/Zip:

· This Application and the pricing structure contained herein will remain firm for a period of 180 days from the date and time of the bid or application opening.

· No personnel currently employed by the Department participated, either directly or indirectly, in any activities relating to the preparation of the Applicant’s Application.

· No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the Applicant to induce any other person or firm to submit or not to submit an Application.

· The above-named organization is the legal entity entering into the resulting contract with the Department should they be awarded the contract.

· The undersigned is authorized to enter contractual obligations on behalf of the above-named organization.

To the best of my knowledge, all information provided in the enclosed application, both programmatic and financial, is complete and accurate at the time of submission.

Printed Name and Signature of the SAU’s Superintendent, Charter School’s Head of School, or CBO’s Executive Director:

RFA# 202606105

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

RESPONSIBLE BIDDER CERTIFICATION

Applicant’s Organization’s Name:

By signing this document, I certify to the best of my knowledge and belief that the aforementioned organization, its principals and any subcontractors named in this application:

a. Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, and declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded from bidding or working on contracts issued by any governmental agency.

b. Have not within three years of submitting the application for this contract been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for:

i. Fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a federal, state, or local government transaction or contract.

ii. Violating Federal or State antitrust statutes or committing embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.

c. Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State or Local) with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (b) of this certification.

d. Have not within a three (3) year period preceding this application had one or more federal, state, or local government transactions terminated for cause or default.

e. Have not entered into a prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a response for the same materials, supplies, equipment, or services and this application is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. The above-mentioned entities understand and agree that collusive bidding is a violation of state and federal law and can result in fines, prison sentences, and civil damage awards.

f. Is not a foreign adversary business entity (https://www.maine.gov/oit/prohibited-technologies).

g. Is not on the list of prohibited companies (https://www.maine.gov/oit/prohibited-technologies) or does not obtain or purchase any information or communications technology or services included on the list of prohibited information and communications technology and services https://www.maine.gov/oit/prohibited-technologies (Title 5 §2030-B).

Printed Name and Signature of the SAU’s Superintendent, Charter School’s Head of School, or CBO’s Executive Director:

RFA# 202606105

Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

APPLICATION

Eligibility

Check the appropriate box to attest the Applicant meets one eligibility requirement as stated in Part I of the RFA.

☐ School-based organization providing education to students in Grades 9-12 including:

a. A public school as defined in Title 20-A §1: Definitions;

b. A public charter school as defined in Title 20-A, §2401: Definitions; or

c. A School Administrative Unit (SAU) as defined under Title 20-A §1: Definitions.

☐ Community-based organization (CBO) with a demonstrated track record of delivering career exploration or occupational training in partnership with a school-based organization to participants resulting in postsecondary credits or industry-recognized credential attainment, postsecondary enrollment, or employment (e.g. pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship).

A letter of intent for CBOs applying in partnership with a school (see definition above) is required and must include the following:

a. Information regarding the scope of work.

b. Signature from the Superintendent or individual authorized to enter into agreements and Executive Director of the CBO.

c. Agreement that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will be completed prior to contract approval.

Note: Applicants may create additional partnerships with other school-based organizations including Career and Technical Education (CTE) schools or Adult Education programs for administrative and instructional support, facility usage, and related assets; as well as partnerships with various healthcare providers, businesses, and other organizations to support the program goals are encouraged; however the programming must be focused on rural Maine secondary school student populations. Awarded applicants will be required to provide assurance that background checks have been completed for all personnel who are in contact with students, a written policy is in place regarding required background checks, and copies of all pertinent records are kept on file.

Organization Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must provide three (3) examples of projects which demonstrate a track record of delivering occupational training to participants resulting in postsecondary credits, industry-recognized credential attainment, or employment (e.g. pre-apprenticeship). CBO applicants’ examples are expected to include a partnership with a school-based organization as noted in the RFA.

Project 1

Client Name:

Client Contact Person:

Telephone:

E-Mail:

Brief Description of Project

Project 2

Client Name:

Client Contact Person:

Telephone:

E-Mail:

Brief Description of Project

Project 3

Client Name:

Client Contact Person:

Telephone:

E-Mail:

Brief Description of Project

Subcontractors

If subcontractors are to be engaged, Applicants must describe the application and review process the Applicant will use to evaluate the qualifications and experience of potential subcontractors, and how the Applicant will ensure that debarred, suspended, or otherwise ineligible parties are excluded from all subcontract relationships.

If more than one subcontractor will be engaged, Applicant should add additional lines.

Subcontractor

Subcontractor Name:

Contact Person:

Telephone:

E-Mail:

Brief Description of Anticipated Role and Qualifications

Litigation

Applicants must include a list of all current litigation in which the Applicant is named and a list of all closed cases that have closed within the past five (5) years in which the Applicant paid the claimant either as part of a settlement or by decree. For each, list the entity bringing suit, the complaint, the accusation, amount, and outcome.

Certificate of Insurance

Applicants must provide a certificate of insurance…