RFP_33201-00926_Amd%204_Schedule.pdf

This amendment document updates the Request for Proposals (RFP) schedule for Data Management and External Evaluation Services for GEAR UP Tennessee, issued by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). The RFP seeks comprehensive data management system implementation and external evaluation services for a federally funded seven-year initiative serving approximately 9,000 unique students across ten high schools and eighteen feeder middle schools. Services include development of a data management system with live dashboards for GEAR UP metrics, formative and summative evaluations, professional development delivery, and participation in the College and Career Readiness Evaluation Consortium. The RFP was originally issued on October 15, 2025, with key milestones including a written questions and comments deadline of October 31, 2025, a revised response deadline of December 8, 2025, and product demonstrations scheduled for January 6-9, 2026. The state will complete technical evaluations by December 17, 2026, open and score cost proposals on January 12, 2026, and conduct optional negotiations January 13-15, 2026. Notice of Intent to Award will be released on January 20, 2026, with the protest period ending January 27, 2026, and the contract anticipated to be executed by January 30, 2026.

The amendment confirms the updated RFP schedule without specifying pricing terms, set-asides, or incumbent information in this document. The project targets two student cohorts consisting of the high school graduating classes of 2030 and 2031, with priority given to seniors in years 2-7 of the program. Evaluation criteria emphasize qualifications of the lead evaluator, expertise in education research, ability to facilitate data utilization, quality of work products, and cost-effectiveness. The contract will be funded through federal GEAR UP grant funding, with the successful contractor required to demonstrate significant capabilities in education data management, program evaluation, and support for comprehensive student success strategies across multiple school districts. The contract term extends seven years with a start date anticipated in early 2026.