RFP Document.pdf

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND REGULATION

ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY PROGRAM

123 WEST MISSOURI AVENUE

PIERRE, SD 57501-4505

PROVISION OF ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY SERVICES IN SOUTH DAKOTA

PROPOSALS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN 5:00PM CDT ON MAY 01, 2026

RFP #: 26RFP19640 State POC: DLR / AEL EMAIL: John.Anderson@state.sd.us

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FIRM NAME: AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:

ADDRESS: TYPE OR PRINT NAME:

CITY/STATE: TELEPHONE NO:

ZIP (9 DIGIT): FAX NO:

FEDERAL TAX ID#: EMAIL:

UNIQUE ENTITY ID:

PRIMARY CONTACT INFORMATION

CONTACT NAME: TELEPHONE NO:

FAX NO: EMAIL:

* State Specific Requirement(s)

1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 PURPOSE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

Under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (“WIOA”), the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (“DLR”) seeks to award Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (“AEFLA”) grant funds (“funds”), including dedicated general funds, to eligible Applicants for the provision of allowable Title II instruction, activities, and services. DLR anticipates the federal funds available for 01 July 2026 – 30 June 2027 (“initial grant year”) will total approximately $1,200,000, plus approximately $1,300,000 of general funds.

Applicants may reference the following web link to explore WIOA law, guidance, and related resources.

https://aefla.ed.gov/

1.2 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Applicants eligible for the award of funds under this RFP (individually and collectively referred to herein as “Applicant” or “Applicants”) are organizations with demonstrated effectiveness in providing adult education and literacy activities that may include— a local educational agency;

a community-based organization or faith-based organization;

a volunteer literacy organization;

an institution of higher education;

a public or private nonprofit agency;

a library;

a public housing authority;

a nonprofit institution [not noted above] which has the ability to provide adult education and literacy activities to eligible individuals;

a consortium or coalition of the agencies, organizations, institutions, libraries, or authorities noted above; and a partnership between an employer and an entity noted above.

1.3 DIRECT AND EQUITABLE ACCESS

Applicants will be required to utilize the same proposal process pursuant to Section 231 of WIOA. DLR’s Adult Education and Literacy Program (“AEL”) is required to ensure all eligible Applicants have direct and equitable access to apply and compete for the funds being awarded under this RFP; additionally, DLR is required to use the same grant-announcement process and application process for all eligible Applicants.

Special Rule: DLR will not use Title II funds for the purpose of supporting or providing programs, services, or activities for ineligible participants, unless the aforementioned are related to family literacy activities. In providing family literacy activities under AEFLA, an eligible Applicant shall attempt to coordinate with programs and services that are not assisted under this title prior to using funds for adult education and literacy activities under this title for activities other than activities for eligible individuals.

1.4 ISSUING OFFICE AND RFP REFERENCE NUMBER

DLR is the issuing agency for this document and all subsequent addenda relating to it, on behalf of the State of South Dakota. The reference number for the transaction is #26RFP19640. This number must be noted on all proposals, correspondence, and documentation relating to the RFP.

1.5 LETTER OF INTENT *

All potential Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent to respond to this RFP.

The letter of intent must be received by DLR no later than 5:00pm CDT on April 10, 2026. The Letter of Intent must include an email address for the potential Applicant’s point of contact. The Letter of Intent may be submitted to John Anderson via email at John.Anderson@state.sd.us. Please place the following in the subject line of your email: Letter of Intent for RFP #26RFP19640.

1.6 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

RFP Publication March 13, 2026 Letter of Intent to Respond Due April 10, 2026—5:00pm CDT Deadline for Submission of Written Inquiries April 10, 2026—5:00pm CDT Responses to Written Inquiries April 16, 2026 Applicants’ Conference Proposal Submission

April 17, 2026 (see §1.16) May 01, 2026—5:00pm CDT

Anticipated Award Decision May 29, 2026

1.7 SUBMITTING YOUR PROPOSAL

All proposals must be completed and received [timestamped] before the date and time indicated in the Schedule of Activities. The application should be submitted in electronic format (Microsoft Word or PDF format) by May 01, 2026, at 5:00pm CDT.

The Award Proposal section must be submitted as a separate file labeled “Award Proposal.” No funding, cost, or budget information should be included with the Detailed Response portion of Applicant’s proposal (see Section 5.2 and Section 7.0).

All proposals must be signed by an officer of the Applicant and legally authorized to bind the Applicant to the proposal. Proposals that are not properly signed may be rejected. Each proposal should have Request for Proposal #26RFP19640 in the subject line submitted to John.Anderson@state.sd.us.

No proposal shall be accepted from, or no contract or purchase order shall be awarded to any person, firm or corporation that is in arrears upon any obligations to the State of South Dakota, or that otherwise may be deemed irresponsible or unreliable by the State of South Dakota.

1.8 CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION, INELIGIBILITY AND VOLUNTARY

EXCLUSION – LOWER TIER COVERED TRANSACTIONS

By signing and submitting this proposal, the Applicant certifies that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation, by any Federal department or agency, from transactions involving the use of Federal funds.

Where the Applicant is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, the Applicant shall attach an explanation to their offer.

1.9 NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

The State of South Dakota requires that all applicants, contractors, vendors, and suppliers doing business with any State agency, department, or institution, provide a statement of non-discrimination. By signing and submitting their proposal, the Applicant certifies they do not discriminate in their employment practices with regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, ancestry, national origin, or disability.

Applicant policies on services to adults with disabilities must not discriminate or violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). Because programs cannot discriminate in any manner in their services to individuals, programs must ensure they have made a concerted effort to serve all learners effectively.

Successful Applicants must certify, through official signature of the Applicant’s executive officer, compliance with specific state and federal laws and/or regulations annually. Signatures indicate that the Applicant agrees, if selected as a Fund recipient, to fully comply with all assurances. It is the responsibility of Applicants to be knowledgeable about applicable laws and regulations.

1.10 MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS

Proposals may be modified or withdrawn by the Applicant prior to the established due date and time.

No oral, telephonic, telegraphic, or facsimile responses or modifications to informal bids, formal bids, or Request for Proposals will be considered.

1.11 APPLICANT INQUIRIES

Applicants may email inquiries concerning this RFP to obtain clarification of requirements. No written inquiries will be accepted after the date and time indicated in the Schedule of Activities. Email inquiries must be sent to John Anderson at John.Anderson@state.sd.us with the subject line as RFP

#26RFP19640.

DLR prefers to respond to an Applicant’s written inquiries via email. A summary of Applicant-written inquiries and DLR’s responses will be emailed to all potential Applicants [who have submitted a Letter of Intent] on April 16, 2026. Furthermore, a summary of all Applicant inquiries made during the Applicants’ Conference and DLR’s responses will be emailed to these same Applicants on April 24, 2026. Applicants may not rely on any other statements, either of a written or oral nature, that alter any specification or other term or condition of this RFP. Applicants will be notified in the same manner as indicated above regarding any modifications to this RFP.

1.12 PROPRIETARY INFORMATION

The proposal of the successful Applicant(s) becomes public information. Proprietary information can be protected under limited circumstances such as client lists and non-public financial statements. Pricing and service elements are not considered proprietary. An entire proposal may not be marked as proprietary. Applicants must clearly identify in the Program Abstract and mark in the body of the proposal any specific proprietary information they are requesting to be protected. The Program Abstract must contain specific justification explaining why the information is to be protected. Proposals may be reviewed and evaluated by any person at the discretion of DLR. All materials submitted become the property of DLR and may be returned only at the DLR's option.

The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (“FFATA”) went into effect in September 2006.

The intent of the FFATA is to reduce wasteful spending in the government through accountability measures. The FFATA requires information on federal awards be made public via a single, searchable website, which is www.USASpending.gov. Funds awarded through this RFP are subject to the foregoing and the information pertaining thereto will be posted on the aforementioned website. DLR is required to collect and report certain information on successful Applicants to the FFATA Sub-award Reporting and System.

1.13 LENGTH OF AWARD

Beyond the anticipated $1,200,000 of federal AEFLA Instructional funds and approximately $1,300,000 general funds available for the initial PY2026 grant year (i.e., 01 July 2026 – 30 June 2027), DLR anticipates the same funding amounts will also be available for the second year (i.e., PY2027) of the designated two-year grant period. However, renewal for Grant Year II is dependent upon Sub-Recipient performance, as well as the availability and level of federal and state funding.

The designated two-year grant period would therefore span Program Year 2026 through Program Year 2027 (i.e., 01 July 2026 through 30 June 2028). Funds may be allocated and divided among multiple eligible Applicants in accordance with each provider’s needs and the criteria set forth herein. Final grant awards are always subject to the availability of funds and the expenditure-authority as appropriated by the South Dakota Legislature.

DLR does not guarantee a subsequent award of funds and the exercise of the optional renewal possibility may be based upon the successful Applicant’s compliance with federal and state policies, responsiveness to monitoring and technical requirements under this award, completion or sufficient progress toward stated goals and objectives, timely submission of required reports, participation in DLR-sponsored meetings/trainings, and verification of the contracted number of adults participating in funded programs.

1.14 GOVERNING LAW *

Venue for any and all legal action regarding or arising out of the transaction covered herein shall be solely in the State of South Dakota. The laws of South Dakota shall govern this transaction.

1.15 DISCUSSIONS WITH APPLICANTS (ORAL PRESENTATION/NEGOTIATIONS) *

An oral presentation by an Applicant to clarify a proposal may be required at the sole discretion of DLR.

However, DLR may award funds based on the initial proposals received without discussion with the Applicant. If DLR determines that oral presentations are required, all Applicants will be afforded an opportunity to deliver an oral presentation; furthermore, the presentations will be scheduled after the submission of proposals. Oral presentations would be conducted via a web-based conferencing platform.

This process is a Request for Proposal/Competitive Negotiation process. Each proposal shall be evaluated, and each respondent shall be available for negotiation meetings at DLR’s request. DLR reserves the right to negotiate on any and/or all components of every proposal submitted. From the time the proposals are submitted until the formal award of a contract, each proposal is considered a working document and as such, will be kept confidential. The negotiation discussions will also be held as confidential until such time as the award is completed.

1.16 APPLICANTS’ CONFERENCE

One Applicants’ Conference will be provided to potential Applicants who have submitted a Letter of Intent to respond in accordance with Section 1.5 herein. Information and inquiries will be limited to the factual content of the RFP narrative, including without limitation, AEFLA funding parameters, constraints, and state/federal regulations relating thereto.

The Applicants’ Conference will be held on April 17, 2026, at 11:00am CDT via webinar. Potential Applicants who submitted a timely Letter of Intent will receive the webinar-link and conference-call details prior to the Applicants’ Conference.

1.17 SUPPLEMENT NOT SUPPLANT

Pursuant to Section 241(a) of WIOA, funds made available for adult education and literacy activities under this title shall supplement and not supplant other State or local public funds expended for adult education and literacy activities. Therefore, DLR can only accept a Restricted Indirect Cost Rate on the WIOA Title II grant.

Because DLR can only accept a Restricted Indirect Cost Rate, you must submit your current Indirect Cost agreement [with your federal cognizant agency] if you intend to charge Indirect Costs to the AEFLA grant.

If for some documentable reason your federal cognizant agency does not identify a “Restricted” rate, then you may potentially use an 8% rate per 34 CFR 76.564.

1.18 PROGRAMS FOR CORRECTIONS EDUCATION AND OTHER INSTITUTIONALIZED INDIVIDUALS

The funds made available under WIOA §225 shall be used for the cost of educational programs for criminal offenders in correctional institutions and for other institutionalized individuals, including academic programs for— adult education and literacy activities;

special education;

secondary school credit;

integrated education and training;

career pathways;

concurrent enrollment;

peer tutoring; and transition to re-entry initiatives and other post-release services with the goal of reducing recidivism.

1.19 INTEGRATED ENGLISH LITERACY AND CIVICS EDUCATION (IELCE)

The funds made available under WIOA §243 shall be used for integrated English literacy and civics education, in combination with integrated education and training activities. These IELCE programs shall be designed to— prepare adults who are English language learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency; and integrate with the local workforce development system and its functions to carry out the activities of the program.

1.20 SOUTH DAKOTA’S WIOA STATE PLAN

For Applicants’ reference, here is the link to the nation’s WIOA State Plans: https://wioaplans.dol.gov/.

Applicants can view or download South Dakota’s WIOA State Plan, as well as search terms across plans.

1.21 RESTRICTION OF BOYCOTT OF ISRAEL *

For contractors, vendors, suppliers, or subcontractors with five (5) or more employees who enter into a contract with the State of South Dakota that involves the expenditure of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) or more, by submitting a response to this solicitation or agreeing to contract with the State, the Applicant certifies and agrees that the following information is correct:

The Applicant, in preparing its response or offer or in considering proposals submitted from qualified, potential vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors, or in the solicitation, selection, or commercial treatment of any vendor, supplier, or subcontractor, has not refused to transact business activities, has not terminated business activities, and has not taken other similar actions intended to limit its commercial relations, related to the subject matter of the bid or offer, with a person or entity on the basis of Israeli national origin, or residence or incorporation in Israel or its territories, with the specific intent to accomplish a boycott or divestment of Israel in a discriminatory manner. It is understood and agreed that, if this certification is false, such false certification will constitute grounds for the State to reject the bid or response submitted by the Applicant on this project and terminate any contract awarded based on the bid or response. The successful Applicant further agrees to provide immediate written notice to the contracting executive branch agency if during the term of the contract it no longer complies with this certification and agrees such noncompliance may be grounds for contract termination.

2.0 STANDARD CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS *

Any contract or agreement resulting from this RFP will include DLR’s standard terms and conditions as detailed in Appendix A, along with any additional terms and conditions or modifications as negotiated by the parties.

3.0 SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 General Scope. Under WIOA, the term ‘‘adult education’’ is defined in §203 as academic instruction and education services below the postsecondary level that increase an individual’s ability to— read, write, and speak in English and perform mathematics or other activities necessary for the attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent;

transition to postsecondary education and training; and obtain employment.

The funds awarded under this RFP are to be utilized by successful Applicants to operate one or more programs providing services or instruction in one or more of the following categories, which may include— adult education, literacy, workplace adult education and literacy activities, family literacy activities, English language acquisition activities, integrated English literacy and civics education, workforce preparation activities, or integrated education and training.

The aforementioned categories are defined in WIOA Section 203. Please reference this link for more details: https://www.congress.gov/113/bills/hr803/BILLS-113hr803enr.pdf.

These programs are limited to participants who have attained the age of 16 years of age and who are not enrolled [or required to be enrolled] in secondary school under State law; and who— are basic skills deficient;

do not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and have not achieved an equivalent level of education; or are English language learners.

Applicants should provide the information requested below, as applicable, for each program for which they seek an award of funds under this RFP.

3.2 Demonstrated Effectiveness. DLR is responsible for determining if an Applicant is deemed an “eligible provider of demonstrated effectiveness”; therefore, as part of this RFP, each Applicant must address the following when submitting data on demonstrated effectiveness.

3.2.1 An Applicant must provide performance data on its record of improving the skills of eligible individuals, particularly eligible individuals who have low levels of literacy. This must be demonstrated in the following content domains:

reading, writing, mathematics, and English language acquisition.

3.2.2 An Applicant must also provide information regarding its outcomes for participants related to— employment, attainment of secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and transition to postsecondary education and training.

3.2.3 There are two ways an eligible provider may meet these requirements:

An Applicant that has been previously funded under AEFLA must submit performance data [required under WIOA Section 116] to demonstrate past effectiveness.

o Submit National Reporting System Table 4 and Table 5 for both PY2023-24 and PY2024-25, as well as Table 4A for PY2024-25.

An Applicant that has not been previously funded under AEFLA must provide performance data to demonstrate its past effectiveness in serving basic skills deficient eligible individuals, including evidence of its success in achieving outcomes listed in 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.

o Submit data and outcomes [from the two most recent program-years] that reflect competency in the listed domains and effectiveness in the listed outcomes in whatever format the Applicant uses in the formal rendering of such information for its stakeholders.

3.2.4 DLR will determine an Applicant’s eligibility based upon the data submitted for demonstrated effectiveness. If an Applicant can provide the requested data, and those figures average at least 50% of the agency’s statewide/aggregate figures in the respective [and relevant] categories, the application will be further reviewed, scored, and considered for funding. However, applications that do not result in a determination that the Applicant is from an organization of demonstrated effectiveness will not be further considered for funding.

If an Applicant is a consortium, each member of the consortium must provide the requested performance data to demonstrate effectiveness in the areas listed in 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.

3.3 Requisite Information and Assurances. Each Applicant seeking a grant must provide to DLR the following information and assurances.

3.3.1 Describe how funds awarded under this title will be spent consistent with the requirements of title II of AEFLA.

3.3.2 Describe any cooperative arrangements the Applicant has with other agencies, institutions, or organizations for the delivery of adult education and literacy activities.

3.3.3 Describe how the Applicant will provide services in alignment with the statewide workforce development plan, including how the Applicant will promote concurrent, appropriate enrollment in programs and activities under WIOA Title I.

3.3.4 Describe how the Applicant will meet the State-adjusted levels of performance for the primary indicators of performance identified in the State's Unified State Plan, including how the Applicant will collect data to report on such performance indicators.

3.3.5 Describe how the Applicant will fulfill, as appropriate, the required one-stop partner responsibilities of providing access through the One-Stop delivery system to adult education and literacy activities, as well as using a portion of the funds made available under the Act to maintain the One-Stop delivery system, including payment of the infrastructure costs for the one-stop centers.

3.3.6 Describe how the Applicant will provide services in a manner that meets the needs of eligible individuals. Specifically, per Section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act, each Applicant for the WIOA Title II Program must detail how it intends [as an eligible Sub-Recipient] to maintain equitable access to (and participation in) Adult Education instruction, activities, and services.

Based upon local circumstances, the Applicant may address any of the statute's six types of barriers that can impede equitable access or participation: gender, race, national origin, color, disability, or age.

3.3.7 Provide the requested information that addresses the following 13 [federal] considerations as detailed in Section 3.4 herein.

3.4 Statement of Need. Demonstrate the need for the grant program in relation to the RFP. A need is defined as the difference between the current status and the outcomes and/or standard the applicant would like to achieve. Provide documentation to substantiate the stated need. Documentation may include but is not limited to census figures, Labor Market Information, community-needs assessment results, standardized test data, student demographics, personnel data, and relevant research.

3.4.1 Describe the Applicant’s ability to prove responsive to the goals and needs of South Dakota’s

WIOA Unified State Plan. Additionally, describe the Applicant’s capacity to serve individuals most in need of adult education and literacy activities; these groups include those who have low levels of literacy and those who are English language learners.

3.4.2 Describe the Applicant’s ability to serve eligible individuals with disabilities, including eligible individuals with learning disabilities.

3.4.3 Describe the Applicant’s past effectiveness in improving the literacy of eligible individuals, especially with respect to individuals who have low levels of literacy.

3.4.4 Describe how the Applicant would align the proposed activities and services with the Unified State Plan and the One-Stop partners.

3.4.5 Describe how the Applicant’s programming is of sufficient intensity and quality, and based on the most rigorous research available so that participants achieve substantial learning gains;

additionally, describe how the Applicant uses instructional practices that include the essential components of reading instruction.

3.4.6 Describe how the Applicant’s activities (i.e., reading, writing, speaking, mathematics, and English language acquisition instruction) are based on the best practices derived from the most rigorous and relevant research available, including scientifically valid research and effective educational practice.

3.4.7 Describe the Applicant’s effective use of technology [services and systems] and how technology leads to improved performance. If the Applicant has involvement with distance education, please address this topic as well.

3.4.8 Describe how the Applicant’s activities provide learning in real-life contexts, including through integrated education and training, so that an individual acquires the skills needed to transition to [and complete] postsecondary education and training programs, obtains and advances in employment leading to economic self-sufficiency, and exercises the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

3.4.9 Describe how the Applicant’s activities are delivered by well-trained instructors, counselors, and administrators, and who have access to high quality professional development, including through electronic means.

3.4.10 Describe how the Applicant’s activities will coordinate with other available education, training, and social service resources in the community for the development of career pathways. (Some examples might include links with elementary schools, secondary schools, postsecondary educational institutions, institutions of higher education, local economic development boards, One-Stop centers, job training programs, social service agencies, business, industry, labor organizations, community-based organization, and nonprofit organizations.)

3.4.11 Describe how the Applicant offers flexible schedules and coordination with Federal, State, and local support services (such as childcare, transportation, mental health services, and career planning) that are necessary to enable individuals with disabilities or other special needs to attend and complete programs.

3.4.12 Describe the Applicant’s capacity to maintain a high-quality management information system that has the capacity to report measurable participant outcomes and to monitor program performance.

3.4.13 Describe how the Applicant’s local service-area(s) has/have a demonstrated need for additional English language acquisition programs and civics education programs.

3.5 Goals and Objectives. For each grant year, describe your program’s plans and initiatives to improve or address perceived deficits. Provide data and other evidence used to determine program improvement priorities, identify constituents involved in this planning, and detail your program’s capacity to implement these initiatives.

Year 1 July 01, 2026 – June 30, 2027 Year 2 July 01, 2027 – June 30, 2028

Objectives should be measurable, achievable, realistic, and consistent with the needs described. Provide a time frame for the accomplishment of each objective.

The objectives should indicate improvement and progress of the project over the two-year period.

Although some objectives may remain consistent throughout both years, new objectives may also be formed. For example, perceived deficits that were identified in year one should be reflected in new objectives, beginning in year two. The objectives should lead to the achievement of the outcomes.

Both Performance Measures and Program Quality Improvement should be addressed.

3.6 Program Activity Plan. * Describe the tasks and activities planned for the accomplishment of the goals and objectives as listed in the RFP’s Section 3.3.

3.6.1 Describe all the proposed activities that will lead sequentially to the attainment of the objectives.

3.6.2 Clearly state the activities that will enable the project to be at full implementation by the completion of the initial grant year.

3.6.3 Describe the staff development activities utilized to accomplish objectives.

3.6.4 Identify the number and titles of staff responsible for the activity. Indicate staff from other participating agencies where appropriate.

3.7 Program Evaluation Plan. * Provide an evaluation plan that will determine if the gap between needs and desired outcomes has been closed. Describe the methods that will be used to evaluate the program (formative) and outcomes (summative) of the program. Describe the measures and instrumentation to be used, who will develop and conduct the evaluation, and how results will be used.

3.7.1 Specify measures to be used.

3.7.2 Who/what is to be measured.

3.7.3 Provide a schedule of measurement activities.

3.7.4 Describe how the results will be used to improve the program.

4.0 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS AND APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS

4.1 The Applicant is cautioned that it is the Applicant's sole responsibility to submit information related to the evaluation categories and that DLR is under no obligation to solicit such information if it is not included with the proposal. The Applicant's failure to submit such information may cause an adverse impact on the evaluation of the proposal.

4.2 Applicant's Contacts: Applicants and their agents (including subcontractors, employees, consultants, or anyone else acting on their behalf) must direct all of their questions or comments regarding the RFP, the evaluation, etc., to the awarder of record indicated on the first page of this RFP. Applicants and their agents may not contact any state employee other than the awarder of record regarding any of these matters during the solicitation and evaluation process. Inappropriate contacts are grounds for suspension and/or exclusion from specific procurements. Applicants and their agents who have questions regarding this matter should contact the buyer of record.

4.3 Successful applicants will enter into a Sub-Recipient relationship with DLR. Based upon the Office of

Management and Budget’s Uniform Grant Guidance (2 CFR 200.331), DLR is required to conduct a risk assessment. The Applicant must submit the following information with its application: *

4.3.1 Any conflicts of interest existing between the Applicant and the State.

o A conflict of interest usually arises when a state officer or employee works for or derives a benefit from the entity entering into contractual relationship. Having a conflict of interest does not exclude an entity from receiving a grant, but a waiver may need to be applied for if a grant is awarded.

4.3.2 The staff and their qualification who will be complying with the grant agreement, including the fiscal components.

o This can include the program director, fiscal director, and executive director.

4.3.3 The Applicant’s policies and procedures for complying with federal grants.

o If the Applicant does not have formal policies and procedures established yet, the

Applicant will be directed to create them if successful in receiving a grant. Policies required by the Federal regulations include:

i. Payments (vouchering) 200.302 (6), and 305

ii. Procurement 200.318

iii. Competition (procurements) 200.319

iv. Method for evaluation and selection (procurements) 200.320

v. Allowable costs 200.302 (7) and Subpart E – Cost Principles

vi. Compensation 200.430

vii. Fringe Benefits 200.431

viii. Employee relocation costs 200.464

ix. Travel costs 200.474

x. Cost Allocation Plan (if applicable)

4.3.4 Any audit reports conducted on the Applicant’s operations over the past 3 years.

4.3.5 Personal property owned by an employee which may be utilized and reimbursement sought.

4.3.6 The authorized procurement card users, reviewers of card purchases, and person who approves the card purchases if the Applicant intends to use procurement cards for program purchases.

4.3.7 A brief explanation of each of the following items:

o The accounting system the Applicant utilizes, including whether it is manual, automated, or a combination.

o How the Applicant prepares, reviews/approves, and reconciles Federal vouchers.

o The process used for tracking the matching requirements for the grant.

o The Applicant’s timekeeping methodology or system.

o The Applicant’s IRS 990 status [and its posted location], if applicable.

4.4 If applicable, provide the following information related to at least three previous and current services/contracts, performed by the Applicant’s organization, which are similar to the requirements of this RFP. Provide this information for any contract that has been terminated, expired, or not renewed in the past three years.

Name, address, and telephone number of client/contracting agency and a representative of that agency who may be contacted for verification of all information submitted;

Dates of the service/contract; and A brief, written description of the specific prior services performed and requirements thereof.

4.5 Successful Applicants will be required to submit program reports documenting grant-related activities.

These reports will be reviewed to ascertain the successful Applicants progress within the scope of work and its compliance with program regulations. Required reporting documentation will include, without limitation, quarterly reports detailing adult education statistics, performance, compliance, and progress toward program goals. Failure to submit the foregoing reports in a timely fashion or unsatisfactory progress demonstrated in said reports could result in a non-renewal of funds in subsequent grant years.

4.6 As a condition of receiving funds, successful Applicants will be required to provide an annual local match at a percentage negotiated between the Applicant and DLR in accordance with fund regulations, policies, and guidelines. The award will require an annual cash or in-kind match, or a combination of the two, between 5% and 25% of the funds awarded to the successful Applicant (final percentage to be negotiated). Specific reporting requirements relating thereto will be provided to successful Applicants after the funds have been distributed. *

4.7 Unless otherwise negotiated with DLR, not less than 95% of the federal AEFLA funds awarded to successful Applicants shall be expended for carrying out adult education and literacy activities. The remaining amount, not to exceed 5%, shall be used for planning, administration (including the performance requirements of WIOA §116), professional development, service-alignment with the Unified State Plan (such as concurrent enrollment with Title I), and One-Stop partner responsibilities.

Special Rule: In cases where the Local Administrative Cost Limits [of ≤ 5%] are too restrictive, the Applicant may negotiate with DLR to determine an adequate level of funds to be used for noninstructional purposes (WIOA §233).

4.8 Successful Applicants will be required to demonstrate improvement in literacy skill performance in participants, as measured by student educational functional level (“EFL”) gain. Using the National Reporting System (“NRS”) benchmarks, program instructional personnel can determine when participants have made progress with an EFL, completed an EFL, and are ready to move to the next level. EFL descriptors can be found in Appendix B at this hyperlink, while test benchmarks can be found here.

4.9 Successful Applicants, as AEFLA Sub-Recipients, will be subject to ongoing monitoring from DLR for programmatic and fiscal compliance with all grant requirements. Monitoring may be in the form of a desk review, onsite review, or both.

5.0 PROPOSAL RESPONSE FORMAT

5.1 The proposal shall be submitted in electronic format, either Microsoft Word or PDF format.

5.2 All proposals shall be organized using the following folder-/file-naming conventions:

5.2.1 RFP Form. DLR’s Request for Proposal form completed and electronically signed.

5.2.2 Program Abstract. The one- or two-page program abstract is to briefly describe the Applicant's proposal. This summary should highlight the (a) need for the program; (b) its purpose; and (c) projected outcomes. The reader should be able to determine the essence of the proposal by reading the program abstract. Proprietary information requests should be identified in this section.

5.2.3 Detailed Response. This section should constitute the major portion of the proposal and must contain at least the following information:

5.2.3.1 A specific point-by-point response, in the order listed, to each requirement in the RFP.

The response should identify each requirement, as applicable, enumerated in Section 3 herein. The detailed response must include a thorough analysis of Demonstrated Effectiveness, Requisite Information and Assurances, Statement of Need, Goals and Objectives, Program Activity Plan, and Program Evaluation Plan [sections].

5.2.3.2 A clear description of any options or alternatives proposed.

5.2.3.3 A clear indication if the Applicant, in addition to applying for basic-grant funds, is also applying specifically for Corrections Education funds (WIOA §225) or Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education funds (WIOA §243) as detailed in the RFP’s Sections 1.18 and 1.19 respectively.

5.2.4 Risk Assessment. The Applicant must submit all information it has pertaining to Section 4.3 to the best of its ability. The Applicant does not need to create policies and procedures to apply but will be required to document policies and procedures if successful.

5.2.5 Award Proposal. Awards will be evaluated independently from the technical proposal.

Applicants may submit multiple award proposals. All costs related to the provision of the required services must be included in each award proposal submitted.

The award proposal(s) must be submitted as a separate folder/file labeled “Award Proposal” as outlined in Section 1.7 of this RFP.

See Section 7.0 for more information related to the award proposal.

6.0 PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND AWARD PROCESS

6.1 After it has been verified that a proposal has met the mandatory requirements stated in this RFP, evaluators shall use subjective judgment, guided by the federal considerations noted in Section 231 of AEFLA, in determining the proposal’s merit:

6.1.1 The degree to which the Applicant would be responsive to (a) needs or priorities identified in the

Unified State Plan; and (b) serving individuals in the community most in need of adult education and literacy activities, including individuals (i) who have low levels of literacy; or (ii) who are English language learners.

6.1.2 The ability of the Applicant to serve eligible individuals with disabilities, including individuals with learning disabilities;

6.1.3 The past effectiveness of the Applicant in improving the literacy of eligible adults, and the ability of the Applicant to meet State-adjusted levels of performance as described in WIOA §116, especially with respect to eligible individuals who have low levels of literacy;

6.1.4 The extent to which the Applicant demonstrates alignment between proposed activities and services and the strategy and goals of the Unified State Plan, as well as the activities and services of the One-Stop partners;

6.1.5 Whether the Applicant’s program (a) is of sufficient intensity and quality, and based on the most rigorous research available so that participants achieve substantial learning gains; and (b) uses instructional practices that include the essential components of reading instruction;

6.1.6 Whether the Applicant’s activities, including reading, writing, speaking, mathematics, and English language acquisition instruction, are based on the best practices derived from the most rigorous research available and appropriate, including scientifically valid research and effective educational practice;

6.1.7 Whether the Applicant’s activities effectively use technology, services, and delivery systems, including distance education in a manner sufficient to increase the amount and quality of learning and how such technology, services, and systems lead to improved performance;

6.1.8 Whether the Applicant’s activities provide learning in context, including through integrated education and training, so that an individual acquires the skills needed to transition to and complete postsecondary education and training programs, obtain and advance in employment leading to economic self-sufficiency, and to exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship;

6.1.9 Whether the Applicant’s activities are delivered by well-trained instructors, counselors, and administrators, and whether the Applicant’s staff members have access to high quality professional development, including through electronic means;

6.1.10 Whether the Applicant’s activities coordinate with other available education, training, and social service resources in the community, such as by establishing strong links with elementary schools and secondary schools, postsecondary educational institutions, institutions of higher education, One-Stop centers, job training programs, and social service agencies, business, industry, labor organizations, community-based organizations, nonprofit organizations, for the development of career pathways;

6.1.11 Whether the Applicant’s activities offer flexible schedules and coordination with Federal, State, and local support services (such as childcare, transportation, mental health services, and career planning) that are necessary to enable individuals, including individuals with disabilities or other special needs, to attend and complete programs;

6.1.12 Whether the Applicant maintains a high-quality information management system that has the capacity to report measurable participant outcomes (consistent with WIOA §116) and to monitor program performance; and

6.1.13 Whether the local areas in which the Applicant is located have a demonstrated need for additional

English language acquisition programs and civics education programs.

6.2 After determining that a proposal satisfies the mandatory requirements stated in this RFP, consistent with SDCL 5-18D-18, the evaluators shall also use their judgment in conducting a comparative assessment of each qualified proposal by considering the following criteria:

6.2.1 Specialized expertise, capabilities, and technical competence as demonstrated by the proposed approach and methodology to meet the project requirements; *

6.2.2 Resources available to perform the work, including any specialized services, within the specified time limits for the project; *

6.2.3 Record of past performance, including price and cost data from previous projects, quality of work, ability to meet schedules, cost control, and contract administration; *

6.2.4 Availability to the project locale; *

6.2.5 Familiarity with the project locale; *

6.2.6 Proposed project management techniques; and *

6.2.7 Ability and proven history in handling special project constraints. *

6.3 After verifying an Applicant’s proposal has met the requirements as stated in this RFP, DLR shall conduct a risk assessment of each eligible submission. This risk assessment includes a review of the Applicant’s prior experience in providing such services, compliance with Federal grants, and general operations management.

6.4 Experience and reliability of the Applicant's organization are considered in the evaluation process. Therefore, the Applicant is advised to submit any information which documents successful and reliable experience in past performances, especially those performances related to the requirements of this RFP.

6.5 The qualifications of the personnel proposed by the Applicant to perform the requirements of this RFP, whether from the Applicant's organization or from a proposed subcontractor, will be evaluated. Therefore, the Applicant should submit detailed information related to the experience and qualifications, including education and training, of proposed personnel.

6.6 DLR reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive technicalities, and make award or multiple awards as deemed to be in the best interest of DLR and the Purposes under this title as noted in WIOA §202.

7.0 AWARD PROPOSAL

7.1 Funding Formula: A modified foundation formula shall be used to negotiate final allocation which factors a base-funding amount by students’ program type, an Applicant’s geographic location(s), a percentage of most-in-need or difficult-to-serve participants, an Applicant’s ability to demonstrate past effectiveness, and other available services/resources [as noted in SD’s Unified State Plan §III.b.5.B.1].

This methodology for grant-award allocation prioritizes scope-of-service, potential return-on-investment, inclusion of special populations (i.e., Individual with a Barrier to Employment), and the anticipated impact upon targeted sectors or high-demand occupations. Applicants’ proposals will also be reviewed to determine fiscal accountability. Based upon historical budgets, the average [participant] cost to serve an adult has totaled approximately $1,200 per fiscal year; however, these average annual costs have also ranged from $500 to $2,000+ per adult learner, depending upon the scope, capacity, intensity, and duration of these AEFLA activities.

7.2 Please indicate the amount of funds requested for each program and itemize all program costs regardless of whether funds are being requested for a specific expense.

7.2.1 The award proposal must identify sufficient financial resources to support the Applicant’s proposed activity plan. Include funds from other funding sources (e.g., grants or matching funds).

7.2.2 The award proposal must demonstrate a clear link between proposed expenditures and proposed activities.

7.2.3 The award proposal must be shown to be reasonable and practical within the context of the program description and rationale, the goals and objectives, and the activity plan.

7.2.4 Funds must be allocated appropriately across budgetary line items.

7.2.5 The award proposal must support and justify the funds requested [with details and/or cost-estimates such as salaries, benefits, facilities, utilities, technology, curricula, assessments, etc.].

7.2.6 Funds must be allocated in conformity with the requirement listed in Section 4.7 herein.

7.2.7 The award proposal must show all program costs regardless of whether grant funds are being requested for a specific purpose.

7.2.8 Detail award amount attributed to each program participant (e.g., $1,500 per English language learner, $1,200 per Adult Basic participant, $900 per Adult Secondary student, etc.).

7.3 Please briefly detail the changes, if any, to the award proposal(s) which would occur if:

7.3.1 75% of funds requested are awarded; or 50% of funds requested are awarded.

7.3.2 For award proposals encompassing more than one program, funds are awarded to cover only one program proposed. If any difference occurs based on which program is awarded funding, please differentiate between programs.

Adult Education Award Proposal

Initial ___ Revised ___ Final ___ (PY2026)

Applicant Name: ____________________________ RFP #26RFP19640

AEFLA Grant Local Match

(5-25% of AEL grant) * Total

ADMINISTRATIVE

Administrative/Support Staff Salaries & Benefits

Administrative Supplies & Equipment Administrative Other (e.g., Facilities, Travel, etc.)

Staff Development Training, initiatives, credentials

Data Management Collection, entry, analysis, & reporting

Indirect Costs/Other Specify: (Restricted Rate, §1.17)

SUBTOTAL Administrative

INSTRUCTIONAL

Instructional Salaries & Benefits Instructional Supplies & Equipment Instructional Other (e.g., Facilities, Travel, etc.)

SUBTOTAL Instructional

GRAND TOTAL

Signature Date