W911NF24S0003 FOA DSEC_2.0_Amendment_01_20240216.pdf

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

ANNOUNCEMENT

FOR

Defense Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education

Consortium (DSEC) Cooperative Agreement

W911NF24S0003

ISSUED BY:

U.S. Army Contracting Command‐Aberdeen Proving Ground Research Triangle Park Division on behalf of Army Research Office and the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering

(Basic Research Office)

Issued: January 11, 2024 Application Inquiries and Questions (Deadline): February 12, 2024 Applications Due: March 11, 2024

AMENDMENT 1, [22 February 2024]: Summary of Significant Changes

Section I, Required Overview Content, #7, page 5: Updated Important FOA dates.

Section II.A.3, Page 8: Clarified language to specify that the Government recommends that the Consortium Member leading Fundamental Element 5 does not also provide Strategic STEM Initiatives programming, to eliminate any bias in recommending budget allocations for STEM education and outreach partners to the Lead Organization and to the Government.

Section II.A.3, Page 12: Called out the Interim Program Review as a Consortium requirement through including this requirement as a stand‐alone bullet.

Section II.A.3, Page 20: Clarified language to specify that under Fundamental Element 4 the applicant should consider current DSEC Hub efforts to determine if these regional Hubs are to be sustained and captured in their application. Under the award, Fundamental Element 4 will work with Fundamental Element 2 to assist in evaluation efforts that examine the effectiveness of existing regional hubs.

Section II.D.2, Page 32: Page limit for Chapter 4 (Credentials) extended from 10 pages to 20 pages total, to include the any resumes or biographical sketches of individuals.

Section II.D.2, Page 34: Added Attachment 5 (A copy of the proposed Articles of Collaboration, signed by a duly authorized representative for each CMC) as application submission content.

Section II.E.1, Page 37: Specified that the proposed Articles of Collaboration signed by each CMC Member should be submitted as Attachment 5.

Section II.F.3.a, Page 51‐52: Deleted language and requirements that are not relevant to this DSEC solicitation. Deleted text includes, “The report will contain a listing of students added to the program, departing from the program, and continuing in the program as of the report date…” and “Progress Reports and Final Reports.”

Table of Contents

I. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

1. Agency Name

2. Issuing Acquisition Office

3. Opportunity Title

4. Announcement Type

5. Opportunity Number

6. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number and Title

7. Response Dates

8. Funding

9. Cost Share or Matching

10. Profit/Fee

11. Place of Performance

II. DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

A. Funding Opportunity Description

1. Program Description ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

2. Guiding Policies and Authorities……………………………………………………………………………….7

3. Fundamental Elements ..………………………………………………………………………………………….7

B. Federal Award Information C. Eligibility Information D. Application and Submission Information E. Application Review Information

1. Criteria……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………29

2. Review and Selection Process…………………………………………………………………………………32

F. Award Administration Information G. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts H. Other Information

I. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

Short Description of funding Opportunity: The Department of Defense Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (DoD STEM), under its National Defense Education Program (NDEP) and 10 U.S. Code 2192, seeks to enter into a cooperative agreement with a Consortium of like‐minded organizations (herein “Consortium Members”) to provide a continuum of meaningful STEM learning experiences for students and educators through effective STEM education and outreach programs. The Consortium will be named the Defense STEM Education Consortium (DSEC). The Department intends to award ONE (1) cooperative agreement award of up to $190M over a period of performance of (up to) ten‐years. This cooperative agreement will consist of ONE (1) two‐year base period of up to $37M, followed by up to FOUR (4) two‐year option periods of $37.5M to $39M each, totaling up to ten years and up to $190M total.

Optional renewal periods are subject to availability of funds based on annual budget appropriations.

Background: The pace of innovation is accelerating globally, and with it, the competition for scientific and technical talent. The Department of Defense (DoD) is cultivating the future STEM workforce by providing unique education opportunities to students and educators of all ages and across all demographics throughout the country.1 Building the STEM workforce of tomorrow starts with STEM education and outreach investments beginning as early as PreK‐12.

According to the latest National Defense Science and Technology Strategy, the Department of Defense seeks to build enduring advantages by investing in the future workforce at every level of education to address national security challenges of today, and tomorrow.2 Building skills and STEM interests at an early age through various STEM activities like competitions and immersive STEM camps is critical to excite and encourage students’ interests in pursuing STEM careers. As the largest employer of Federal scientists and engineers across the Federal agencies,3 the DoD is committed to developing the Nation’s STEM talent.

The Department of Defense (DoD has a comprehensive approach in developing STEM talent through its PreK‐20 STEM activities under DoD STEM4. DoD STEM aims to inspire, cultivate, and develop talent to address the Nation’s technological challenges, now and into the future. DoD STEM encompasses efforts from across the military services (Department of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air and Space Forces) and other Defense Agencies (e.g., Missile Defense Agency, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, National Security Agency, etc.). The largest program under DoD STEM is the National Defense Education Program (NDEP) which fosters and enhances the DoD’s ability to develop and access high‐quality STEM talent vital to national defense. Aligned to the Federal STEM Education Strategic Plan5 and to the DoD STEM Strategic Plan (2021‐2025)1, NDEP addresses critical STEM education and talent development challenges

1 DoD STEM Strategic Plan ‐ https://dodstem‐assets.dodstem.us/files/DoD_STEM_Strategic_Plan_2021.pdf 2 National Defense Science & Technology Strategy 2023. United States Department of Defense.

https://www.cto.mil/wp‐content/uploads/2023/05/2023‐NDSTS.pdf 3 Based on Office of Personnel Management FedScope Data, June 2019, https://www.fedscope.opm.gov/ 4 DoD STEM Website: https://dodstem.us/ 5 Federal STEM Education Strategic Plan ‐ https://dodstem‐assets.dodstem.us/files/2018‐23‐Federal‐STEM‐ Education‐Strategic‐Plan.pdf using a continuous learning structure and evidence‐based approaches. NDEP activities support the DoD STEM effort in providing authentic learning experiences through a variety of education and outreach initiatives in the form of scholarships, internships, enrichment activities, competitions, and mentorships, by leveraging partners from industry, academia, and other government organizations with a shared STEM mission. DSEC is one of the main efforts under NDEP to address STEM talent development (see figure below).

The STEM education and outreach activities of DSEC should leverage the strengths and unique capabilities of each consortium member to align with the Federal Education and DoD STEM Strategic Goals. Enhancing the permeability of ideas into the DoD's STEM workforce, through mutually beneficial regional/national alliances with States, local governments, Indian tribes, Institutions of Higher Education (IHE), nonprofit organizations, for‐profit organizations, and other partners in STEM, should deliver far‐reaching sustainable and scalable programs and partnerships. DSEC efforts will align with the DoD STEM mission to “inspire, cultivate, and develop exceptional STEM talent through a continuum of opportunities to enrich our current and future Department of Defense workforce poised to tackle evolving defense technological challenges.” DSEC efforts should focus primarily on PreK‐12 activities for students, educators, and parents. However, applicants are welcome to include activities that continue to engage students at the undergraduate level. DSEC will work collaboratively with the Government to provide a cohesive strategy to meet the vision, roles, and goals outlined in the DoD STEM Strategic Plan.

Required Overview Content

1. Agency Name Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E))

2. Issuing Acquisition Office U.S. Army Contracting Command‐Aberdeen Proving Ground, Research Triangle Park (ACC‐APG‐ RTP) Division

3. Opportunity Title Defense Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Consortium (DSEC) Cooperative Agreement

4. Announcement Type This is an initial announcement. This is a follow on to W911NF‐19‐2‐0007.

5. Opportunity Number

W911NF24S0003

6. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number and Title

12.006 ‐ "National Defense Education Program (NDEP) Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education and Outreach Activities"

7. Response Dates Applications must be received by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, March 11, 2024.

The following is an estimated summary of the events and dates associated with the DSEC Cooperative Agreement (COA) Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). Additional information will be posted on the Grants.gov website regarding the Opportunity Day.

EVENT DATE

Funding Opportunity Announcement Posted on Grants.gov 11 JAN 2024

Opportunity Day 24 JAN 2024

Deadline to submit questions 12 FEB 2024

Applications DUE 11 MAR 2024

Estimated date range for award notification 1‐15 JUN 2024

Estimated date to Finalize Cooperative Agreement Award 31 JUL 2024

Estimated start of Period of Performance 1 AUG 2024

Opportunity Day will be held virtually on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 from 1:00‐4:00 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST). To Register, email osd.dodstem@mail.mil with subject heading W911NF‐24‐S‐0003 Opportunity Day. More details will be provided prior to the event.

8. Funding The FOA issued is subject to the availability of funds. The FOA provides the estimated funding levels for the cooperative agreement. The Government has submitted the requisite documents to request funding for the period covered by the cooperative agreement; however, applicants are reminded that this request is subject to Presidential, Congressional and Departmental approval. The funding levels provided in the FOA are for application preparation purposes only. The actual funding level of the cooperative agreement will be updated annually as part of the appropriation process.

Hereafter, the terms COA and Cooperative Agreement are synonymous; the terms DSEC and Consortium are synonymous; and the terms Applicant, Lead Organization (LO), and Recipient are synonymous. The term “Consortium Members” refers to all organizations and entities within the cooperative agreement, to include the Lead Organization (“Recipient”) as well as any subawardees, including those responsible for providing STEM education and outreach programming.

9. Cost Share or Matching Cost sharing or matching is not required for this FOA.

10. Profit/Fee Profit/fee is not permitted under the cooperative agreement.

11. Place of Performance The recipient’s place of performance is limited to the United States. However, DSEC programs may reach U.S. students in Puerto Rico, Guam, or other U.S. Territories, as well as DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) locations6 around the world.

II. DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

A. Funding Opportunity Description

1. Program Description The Defense STEM Education Consortium (DSEC) is a collaborative partnership between States, local governments, Indian tribes, Institutions of Higher Education (IHE), nonprofit organizations, for‐profit organizations and other partners in STEM that aims to broaden STEM literacy and prepare the STEM workforce of the future for the Department of Defense and for the Nation.

Aligned to the Federal STEM Strategic Plan5 and the DoD STEM Strategic Plan1, DSEC will aim to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers through activities that engage students and educators in meaningful STEM experiences; connect student and educator participants to the DoD science and technology mission; empower parents and legal guardians of student participants to be better informed of the DoD STEM opportunities; serve military‐connected students and those historically underrepresented in STEM; leverage the network of Consortium Members to broaden reach and impact; and to evolve approach based on data.

The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)) provides the strategic direction of the DoD STEM activities and sets department‐wide policy in coordinating these programs across the DoD. These DoD STEM programs7 are currently comprised of several activities that span across the formal and informal learning environments in support of the DoD STEM Strategic goals:

1. Inspire community engagement in DoD STEM education programs and activities to provide meaningful STEM learning opportunities for students and educators.

2. Attract the Nation’s and DoD’s current and future workforce through multiple pathways to education and career opportunities.

6 DoDEA Schools Worldwide: https://www.dodea.edu/about/about‐dodea/dodea‐schools‐worldwide 7 DoD STEM Website: https://dodstem.us/

3. Increase participation of underserved and underrepresented groups in STEM education and workforce development programs, activities, and outreach.

4. Advance the efficiency and effectiveness of STEM education and workforce development programs, activities, and outreach through evaluation and assessment.

Additionally, the DoD STEM portfolio intends to strategically invest in programs that encourage students to pursue STEM education and career opportunities, and that will provide students with exposure to DoD research and career opportunities. Education and outreach activities will support the future mission of the DoD through sustainable partnerships, student engagement opportunities (including authentic STEM experiences), and mentorship. This DoD‐wide strategic plan1 is an overarching framework that is driven by the Federal priorities with a focus on developing education and outreach initiatives that are unique to the DoD’s mission, needs, and resources and required to build enduring advantage in human capital to defend our Nation. The STEM education and outreach partnerships and programs8 which are expected to be part of DSEC should be treated as critical elements of the DoD's Science and Technology strategy2, and cultivating, recruiting, and retaining the best STEM professionals possible is key to building a future force capable of ensuring technical superiority in an increasingly competitive world.

Addressing this challenge requires a multi‐faceted approach that expands beyond our traditional approaches of internships and scholarships.

There are five Fundamental Elements under the DSEC Cooperative Agreement (COA): (1) Consortium Management; (2) Program Evaluations: Near‐, Mid‐, and Longitudinal Data Collection, Analysis, and Reports; (3) Strategic Communications, Outreach, and Alumni Engagement; (4) Regional Hubs and Ecosystems; and (5) Strategic STEM Initiatives. These Fundamental Elements are the essential components of the consortium effort that will support the DoD STEM education and outreach goals. The five (5) Fundamental Elements above are provided for Applicants to functionally organize the efforts the Recipient and Consortium Members will perform under DSEC.

Since the resulting award will be a cooperative agreement with substantial Government involvement, the Recipient will be in regular communication with the Government working collaboratively to administer and execute DSEC goals, as well as to identify new and emerging areas of interest and targeted areas of emphasis during performance under the cooperative agreement.

2. Guiding Policies and Authorities for DoD STEM Programs

10 U.S. Code Section 2192 – Improvement of education in technical fields: general authority regarding education in science, mathematics, and engineering.

o Under Section 2192, “The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, shall, on a continuing basis – (i) identify actions which the

8 Current STEM education and outreach partnerships and programs under DSEC detailed here:

https://dodstem.us/about/partners/. Previous partnerships and programs, as well as details on programmatic outcomes are included in publicly available reports available under “Partners’ Impact Reporting” at https://dodstem.us/about/impact/.

Department of Defense may take to improve education in the scientific, mathematics, and engineering skills necessary to meet the long‐term national defense needs to the United States for personnel proficient in such skills; and (ii) establish and conduct programs to carry out such actions.”

10 U.S. Code Section 2192b – Program on enhancement of preparation of dependents of members of armed forces for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

STEM education programs executed under U.S.C. Title 10, Section 2192 must adhere to the guidance provided by the Federal Coordination in STEM (FC‐STEM) as established by the America Competes Reauthorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111‐358), and supported by U.S.C. Title 42, Section 6621.

10 U.S. Code Section 2193a – Improvement of education in technical fields: general authority for support of elementary and secondary education in science and mathematics.

3. Fundamental Elements: It is the intent of this FOA to solicit the most creative, innovative, and effective approaches to assist in the success of DSEC. In response to the FOA, an Applicant must submit an application that provides evidence of their ability to perform the following:

DSEC Efforts

1 Consortium / COA Management

2 Program Evaluations: Near‐, Mid‐, and Longitudinal Data Collection, Analysis, and Reports

3 Strategic Communications, Outreach, and Alumni Engagement

4 Regional Hubs and Ecosystems

5 Strategic STEM Initiatives

An overview of the Consortium structure is provided in the figure below. Note that Consortium Members leading the Fundamental Elements are not required to also provide STEM education and outreach programming.

The Lead Organization (LO), in its leadership role to the Consortium (Fundamental Element 1), is ALSO able to engage in the administration of Fundamental Elements 2‐5. However, it is strongly encouraged that other Consortium Members lead the other Fundamental Elements, and that the LO does not lead more than two Fundamental Elements (including Fundamental Element 1).

In order to eliminate bias and ensure robust evaluation, it is strongly recommended that the LO does not oversee Fundamental Element 2. Finally, it is further recommended that the Lead Organization (Fundamental Element 1), the Consortium Member overseeing Fundamental Element 2 (Program Evaluations), and the Consortium Member overseeing Fundamental Element 5 do not provide direct STEM education and outreach programming under the Fundamental Element 5, Strategic STEM Initiatives (although either may serve in the administrative and oversight role of Fundamental Element 5). These recommendations are made in order to ensure unbiased funding and evaluation efforts can be executed by the LO and Consortium Member leading Fundamental Element 2.

FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT 1: CONSORTIUM/COA MANAGEMENT

Overview: The Recipient will lead the Consortium to ensure the Fundamental Elements are focused on planning and executing programs in alignment with STEM priorities and goals as outlined in the DoD STEM Strategic Plan1. It is critical the Consortium be structured and managed to foster an open, collaborative environment in which each Consortium Member is equal and receptive to leveraging knowledge and resources as well as sharing and adapting best practices to achieve the Government’s priorities and objectives. The Recipient will be responsible for planning Consortium Management Committee (CMC) Meetings (CMC is described below), submitting consolidated Consortium‐wide deliverables, overseeing holistic evaluation and assessment of the Consortium, and facilitating cross‐Consortium outreach and communications efforts. The Recipient will also be responsible for the distribution of funding to all members of the Consortium.

The organizational framework of the Consortium should be efficient and flexible with defined areas of responsibility among the Consortium Members to minimize overhead and duplication while ensuring relevance and proper oversight. Applicants should identify management tools and mechanisms in their application, but in doing so they must also justify and demonstrate the benefit and cost effectiveness of these management activities.

The Applicant (Lead Organization) is to assemble a qualified team of organizations (Consortium Members) that have expertise and a proven track record in the areas required to successfully manage and implement Fundamental Elements described in this announcement. The Recipient (Lead Organization) must be a “non‐federal entity,” defined in 2 CFR § 200.1 as a State, local government, Indian tribe, Institution of Higher Education (IHE), or nonprofit organization or a for‐profit organization per 32 CFR 34. The Applicant will propose a Consortium structure that seamlessly integrates the COA Fundamental Elements and program components in a way that promotes and enables collaboration, creativity, and synergy, ultimately aiming to achieve the goals established by the Government. The Lead Organization should establish structure and guidance such that at the request of the Consortium and at the approval of the CMC and the government, additional Consortium Members may be added to or removed to advance DSEC efforts and improve alignment to emerging areas of interest or to address gaps within the Consortium.

The following requirements are to be addressed in an application for the technical management and oversight of the Consortium9:

Cooperative Agreement Manager (CAM): Overall technical management and fiscal responsibility for the DSEC COA will reside with the CAM, designated under the cooperative agreement. The CAM will work closely with the Grants Officer at the U.S. Army Contracting Command, APG‐RTP Division, and the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Office. The CAM is the Government lead for this effort and therefore, all executables must be approved by the CAM, to include programmatic and budgetary changes.

Consortium Chair (CC): The CC of DSEC is the technical representative charged with the responsibility to manage and provide guidance to DSEC. The CC will be designated by, and must be a part of, the Lead Organization (LO).

Individual Program Administrator (IPA): The IPA is the primary point of contact designated by the Consortium for each Fundamental Element and should regularly communicate with the CC and CAM. It is acceptable for a Consortium Member to be responsible for more than one Fundamental Element, depending on how the Consortium is formed and program responsibility is divided. The IPA will also serve as the representative on the CMC.

Cooperative Management Committee (CMC): DSEC will have a CMC that at minimum includes the IPA of each Fundamental Element of the Consortium. The CMC may also include any additional members whose eligibility must be clearly outlined in the Articles of Collaboration. The CAM participates as an ex officio member in all discussions except those that deal with purely internal Consortium matters. The CMC will be chaired by the CC. Each CMC Member will have one vote on the CMC to support programmatic and management‐ related activities and decisions. In the event of a tie, the Recipient will cast the deciding vote. The CMC will be responsible for the management and integration of the Consortium's efforts under the DSEC COA, to include programmatic, technical, reporting, financial, and

9 Note that a summary of the recommended Consortium management approaches (to include the CAM, CC, IPAs, and CMC) can be found in the 2021‐2022 DSEC APR posted on the DoD STEM website at https://dodstem‐ assets.dodstem.us/files/APROY2Final.pdf administrative matters. The CMC may make recommendations to the CAM and CC that concern the membership of the Consortium, the definition of the tasks, and goals of the Consortium. Regular meetings (twice annually, at minimum) will be conducted by the CMC.

Articles of Collaboration (AOC): AOC will be established by the Consortium and submitted with the application. A sample is attached (Appendix). Articles of Collaboration define the operational structure within the Consortium. Applicants are free to modify this document as appropriate to address and achieve the objectives outlined in support of the COA priorities, however any changes must be clearly identified in an application and these changes must be acceptable to the Government for the applicant to be eligible for the award. Applications must include a copy of the proposed Articles of Collaboration, signed by a duly authorized representative for each CMC. The Articles of Collaboration will be evaluated under the Management Evaluation Factor.

Biennial Program Plan (BPP): As part of the application, applicants will submit an initial program plan (IPP) for the base period of the DSEC COA and a BPP template. The IPP for the base period should provide a detailed description of how the recipient and its Consortium members plan to execute the first two years of the DSEC COA. The IPP will also include a 10‐ year roadmap which describes the 10‐year plan to be accomplished by the Consortium. The roadmap should provide a detailed description of a well‐coordinated plan of program execution, focused on DoD STEM priorities and objectives as outlined in this FOA. It should provide approximate timelines, to the best possible extent for the various components and activities. The BPP template will be proposed by the applicant and reviewed as a part of the evaluation criteria.

Towards the end of the base period and every option period exercised thereafter, the Consortium will work with the Government, through the CAM, in developing a BPP prior to the start of the next option period. The CAM will approve the BPP and formally submit to the Grants Officer for incorporation into the cooperative agreement. This process will continue through the life of the cooperative agreement. Each BPP will cover a two‐year timeframe, but may be altered, with the approval of the Grants Officer if work requirements change. Information to consider for the BPP is execution planning, projected 3‐year targets, etc. Funding will not be released until an approved BPP is in place. Additionally, annual funding is contingent upon Congressional approval of the Federal budget.

The Consortium, as an entity, will not solicit or accept funding from outside sources without the approval of the CAM and the Grants Officer. However, if funding from outside sources is approved, it will be considered a cost share. During the period of performance of the COA, the Grants Officer, in coordination with the CAM, will have approval authority for certain changes to the IPP/BPP including but not limited to:

1. Changes in the scope or the objective of the program or IPP/BPP.

2. Change in the key personnel of the Consortium.

3. The need for additional Federal funding.

4. Any sub‐recipient, transfer, or contracting out of program performance under an award, unless described in the IPP/BPP.

During the period of performance of the COA, the Grants Officer, in coordination with the CAM, will have approval authority for certain specific changes to the cooperative agreement including, but not limited to:

1. Changes to the Articles of Collaboration, if such changes substantially alter the relationship of the parties as originally agreed upon.

2. Solicitation or acceptance of funding under the agreement from sources other than the DoD.

3. Changes in CMC membership.

Biennial Program Review (BPR): With CAM approval, the Consortium will be responsible for coordinating and participating in a end of base/option period BPR to the DoD to present the results and achievements of the previous program cycle and to propose plans for the following option period. The program review will foster interactions and collaborations among all consortium members and the Government. A proposed BPR format/template will be included in each application to be reviewed and included in the evaluation of the application. For reference, please see the 2021‐2022 DSEC Annual Program Review (APR) posted on the DoD STEM website at https://dodstem‐ assets.dodstem.us/files/APROY2Final.pdf.

Interim Program Review (IPR): In the years a BPR is not submitted, an IPR will be provided to the CAM. The IPR format/template may be distinct from that of the BPR, and is expected to be more brief, while providing essential reported program metrics, such as number of student and educator participants served in a given year. The recipient will work with the CAM to develop the IPR template.

Biannual Reviews: In coordination with the CAM, the Consortium will establish, at minimum, biannual consortium meetings with a minimum of one in‐person meeting (preferably year‐end program reviews). The biannual meetings will provide the Consortium and the CAM the opportunity to share best practices, address programmatic issues/updates, and synchronize DoD STEM outreach and communications efforts.

Insurance: The Recipient will carry an insurance policy to cover all student participants participating in COA efforts for each year of performance. Cost of the insurance policy will be included as a specific line item in the budget for the COA. This policy must cover accidental death, accidental dismemberment, and medical expense benefits for participants or survivors of participants. A copy of the most up to date policy will be provided to the

CAM.

Compliance:

Child and Data Protection The Recipient will assure compliance with all applicable federal and state child protection and labor laws; the protection and management of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) data, which will need to be properly safeguarded per the Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93‐

579) as codified in 5 U.S.C. §552a and DoD Regulation 5400.11‐R.; 15 U.S. Code 6501 – Children Online Privacy Protection; data management and security; and relevant Institutional Review Board (IRB) compliance with regards to all DSEC Fundamental Elements.

The applicant will provide a Data Management Plan which will describe the data that is collected through the course of the proposed research and information on how the data will be shared, organized, and preserved. In instances where this is not possible, The Data Management Plan must explain why it is not possible or scientifically appropriate. The Data Management Plan should not exceed two pages and be included under the generic “Other Attachments.” Information on the Data Management Plan can be found in DoDI 3200.12, Section 3.c. of Enclosure 3.

(https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/320012p.pdf?ver=20 19‐04‐30‐073122‐220 ).

Even if selected, awards are not final until these documents are received and approved:

Evidence of compliance with DoD Instruction 3216.02, “Protection of Human Subjects and Adherence to Ethical Standards in DoD‐ Conducted and ‐Supported Research.”

Intellectual Property The Recipient must comply with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.227‐7020 Rights in Special Works.

The Recipient must comply with the Governmentwide patent rights award clause at 37 CFR 401.14, with the modifications as described in the DoD R&D Terms and Conditions (September 2023). DoD adopts this Governmentwide clause for the following entities, thereby broadening the applicability beyond types of entities included in the definition of “contractor” in 37 CFR part 401: any institution of higher education, non‐profit organization, State, local government, Indian tribe, for‐profit entity, foreign organization, or foreign public entity receiving a DoD award or subaward for the performance of experimental, research, or developmental work.

The Recipient must recognize the Federal Government’s right to obtain, reproduce, publish, or otherwise use the data produced under this award; and authorize others to receive, reproduce, publish, or otherwise use the data produced under this award for Federal Government purposes.

Program Promotion: The Recipient will develop a plan for cross program promotion to strategically reach audiences to increase students’ and educators’ participation through the

DoD’s PreK‐20 continuum of opportunities. The Recipient, within the scope of the proposed 10‐year program plan and in collaboration with the Government, will provide innovative ideas and facilitate proposals of new Consortium Members or strategic initiatives to further the initiatives of the DoD STEM mission and goals as outlined in this FOA.

Metrics: Performance metrics are to be provided to measure the COA’s accomplishments against its overall priorities and objectives, such as successful integration of goals into all programs, partnerships, and processes; effective integration and use of website and branding; collaboration of all organizations; effectiveness of evaluations, common metrics, and data collection; and management of the COA.

Financial Tracking: The Recipient is responsible for Consortium financial tracking and ensuring compliance with funding allocation requirements and reporting. The Applicant should address what approaches will be used to monitor Consortium finances, anticipated financial challenges, and how those will be addressed. As noted in the “Deliverables” section, the Recipient is responsible for submitting monthly financial reports describing funds execution to date and status of current funding allocation balance across the Fundamental Elements.

It should be noted that in addition to these Fundamental Element 1 responsibilities, the LO is also responsible for ensuring that Fundamental Elements 2‐5 tasks and expectations are adequately addressed by the Consortium Member overseeing each Fundamental Element, including those the LO does not independently lead. References to the “Recipient” or “Applicant” when describing Fundamental Element specific expectations below are used to refer to the shared responsibility of the LO and the Consortium Member leading each Fundamental Element.

FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT 2: PROGRAM EVALUATIONS – COMPREHENSIVE NEAR‐, MID‐, AND

LONGITUDINAL DATA COLLECTION, ANALYSIS, AND REPORTS

Overview: Aligned with the Federal Strategic Plan and the DoD STEM Strategic Plan, the Government requires the evaluation of all DoD STEM programs based on specific metrics and evidence‐based approaches to achieve key objectives of DoD outreach; increased efficiency and coherence; ability to share and leverage best practices; as well as focus on DoD STEM priorities and core objectives. DoD strives to make programmatic decisions driven by data and analysis through its evaluation efforts. The Recipient is responsible for executing and enhancing current evaluation efforts through documenting activities and outputs, as well as near‐, mid‐, and long‐ term outcomes through annual evaluations of STEM programs8. To meet Federal expectations of STEM education programmatic reporting, mid‐ to long‐term impact evaluation efforts (i.e.

Alumni Studies, detailed below) should be incorporated into the DSEC evaluation strategy.

The Recipient is responsible for ensuring a cohesive and coordinated evaluation strategy across the Fundamental Elements. A centralized evaluation is required to satisfy key Federal guidelines for rigorous evaluation, in that it:

Is conducted by capable professionals who are external to Consortium Member programming and their institutions, to assure confidence in the objectivity of the evaluation.

Strives to (1) assess whether programs are making satisfactory progress toward STEM program objectives; (2) recommend reasonable, evidence‐based adjustments to programming; and (3) provide indications of potential program effects.

Employs research‐backed methods that are appropriate, aligned to the evaluation objectives and data assessment tools, and account for the varying developmental stages of STEM programs and objectives.

May assess the health and effectiveness of DSEC as a strategic collaboration across various stakeholders. This may include a plan for evaluating factors critical to successful collaborative efforts, and for evaluating the corresponding effectiveness or impact of such collaborations.

The following requirements are to be addressed in an application for this Fundamental Element:

Program Evaluations: The Consortium will be responsible for developing and managing program evaluations including design and instrumentation, data collection and analysis, and the generation of annual reports (BPRs and IPRs, described earlier). Overall evaluations are a DSEC‐ wide effort, and the Government envisions each Consortium member to be an integral part of the process and execution. The DoD STEM website, and proposed application and/or survey tools will be used as the primary method to collect data from STEM program participants (students, educators, and other primary participant groups, as relevant). The Consortium is responsible for assuring that complete and accurate participant data are reflected in the data collection and program evaluations. In addition to the participant information collected and evaluation surveys, the Consortium should include in their application the types of quantitative and qualitative data from students, teachers, mentors, and other participants in their individual program(s) it plans to collect. As the subject matter expert and lead on evaluations and data collection, the Recipient is responsible for guiding evaluation efforts, including collection, synthesis, interpretation, reporting of data, and overall development of the evaluation strategy.

In collaboration with the Government, the Recipient will develop and publish a Biennial evaluation report which captures evaluation outcomes for the current period of performance to include instruments used in the evaluations. For current DSEC evaluation reports, please see the DSEC Annual Program Evaluation 2021‐2022 Data Chapter at https://dodstem‐ assets.dodstem.us/files/DSEC‐EvalDataChptr‐21‐22.pdf.

Information to consider should be a clear execution strategy for evaluation of individual programs (i.e. executed by Consortium Members responsible for direct programming) and for all of DSEC, proposed assessment tools for each program as well as common metrics across DSEC, and a timeline of execution to include data collection, analysis, and report writing.

The application should detail a sufficient number of personnel with the appropriate skills and expertise to meet program evaluation requirements. The application should also address the following near‐, mid‐, and long‐term outcomes and impacts (for reference, please see DoD STEM logic model at https://dodstem‐assets.dodstem.us/files/DoDSTEM‐LogicModel.pdf):

Near Term Outcomes Mid and Long‐term Impact

Increased student interest and engagement in STEM (formal and informal)

Increased participant STEM competencies (STEM skills, knowledge, abilities, and confidence)

Increased participant awareness of, and interest in, DSEC opportunities

Increased participant awareness of, and interest in, STEM research and careers

Increased participant awareness of, and interest in, DoD STEM research and careers

Scientist and Engineer (S&E) Mentors’ impact on DSEC participants

Changes in teacher approaches to teaching about STEM concepts, practices, and careers in their classrooms

Implementation of evidence‐based recommendations to improve programs

Sustained student appreciation of STEM and DoD STEM

Increased student pursuit of DSEC opportunities and DoD workforce development programs

Increased student pursuit of STEM coursework in secondary and post‐ secondary schooling

Increased student pursuit and achievement of STEM degrees

Increased student pursuit and achievement of STEM careers

Increased student pursuit and achievement of DoD STEM careers

Continuous improvement and sustainability of DSEC

For applicable COA efforts, the Recipient will ensure demographic and other program application information is made available to Consortium Members and the Government.

Program application data may include information that affects an individual’s privacy, to include Personally Identifiable Information (PII) data, which will need to be properly safeguarded per the Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93‐ 579) as codified in 5 U.S.C. §552a and DoD Regulation 5400.11‐R.

DoD STEM GIS Map: The Applicant will collaborate with the Government to maintain the GIS mapping of DSEC and other DoD STEM activities which illustrates to the general public the breadth and depth of the Department’s investment in building the Nation’s technical workforce of the future. The Applicant will continuously identify ways to enhance the GIS map. The current DoD STEM GIS map can be found at https://azusearcgis1.air.org/portal/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=9f83d504c4f548d0ae a4dee7b1911cb6&extent=‐127.0772,23.9599,‐62.17,50.3971.

STEM Alumni Study: The application should include a proposed longitudinal alumni study to ascertain the status, achievement, attitudes, and future aspirations of STEM program alumni, and assess the extent to which alumni perceive their participation in a STEM program as contributing to these factors (herein referred to as alumni study). The alumni study would evaluate the extent to which STEM is successful in achieving its longer‐term objectives through assessing mid‐ and long‐term outcomes. The infrastructure developed for this study could then be used (as resources are available) to support longitudinal tracking and study of these same alumni over the next 8‐10 years. Because such a small proportion of alumni are (historically) retained in the DoD STEM pipeline, the infrastructure established for the alumni study could provide a new mechanism for tracking alumni and studying changes in outcomes over time after they leave the DoD STEM pipeline or do not otherwise participate in DoD STEM annual evaluation studies.

The Applicant will develop a strategic implementation plan with timelines and processes, proposed work with target outcomes for the base period, and subsequent option periods.

FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT 3: STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS, OUTREACH, AND ALUMNI

MANAGEMENT

Overview: A comprehensive and coordinated overarching outreach strategy is essential to the successful management, execution and measurement of the DoD STEM programs. The primary objective of the outreach strategy is to promote DoD STEM as a coordinated and cohesive effort offering students and teachers a pipeline of STEM educational opportunities, sparking an early interest in STEM subjects by providing hands‐on learning, and maintaining that interest through STEM competitions, summer enrichment activities, and competitive apprenticeships. In order to meet DoD STEM goals, and in consideration of the broader NDEP portfolio, outreach strategies and tactics should be designed to influence and educate PreK‐16 students, educators and other key stakeholders about the STEM educational opportunities available across the DoD STEM continuum, including DoD STEM career opportunities, while increasing participation among historically underserved/and underrepresented populations (Goal 4.0, DoD STEM Strategic Plan).

The following requirements are to be addressed in an application for this Fundamental Element:

Outreach and Communications Strategy: The application should define a sufficient number of personnel with the appropriate skills and expertise to ensure the proactive and successful execution of the overall outreach communications plan. This plan should detail how the applicant intends to synchronize and coordinate with IPAs to ensure the successful implementation of the outreach and communications strategy; manage and execute internal communications through collaboration tools, regular messages to Consortium members, newsletter, etc.; develop and implement coordinated outreach/communications campaigns that leverage IPAs and their networks to increase awareness of as well as engagement and participation (e.g. through webinars, social media strategies and tactics, etc.); and manage and maintain the DoD public‐facing website, https://dodstem.us/, while ensuring program information, DSEC News, and other website content are accurate and up‐to‐date. The Applicant will also need to detail how it plans on communicating DSEC milestones and successes through the development and dissemination of program press releases on a regular basis; conduct media relations and outreach, increasing visibility and awareness of DoD STEM programs and identifying relevant media engagements for DSEC personnel; establish and maintain a blog that allows DSEC stakeholders (e.g., DoD leadership, past STEM participants) to voice their opinions and share their experiences; plan, manage, and execute DSEC’s social media presence and strategy; and develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive calendar of DoD STEM events and posted on the website.

In close collaboration with the Government, the Recipient will develop a plan for the overall strategic outreach and communications campaign in support of DoD STEM priorities and goals. The Recipient will coordinate with the CAM to develop, manage, and execute the annual strategic communications plan and vision (in coordination with the DoD and IPAs; in alignment with DoD STEM objectives and priorities); develop, manage, and execute an annual communications schedule/editorial calendar (in coordination with DoD and IPAs; based on program year); plan, manage, and execute an integrated Social Media Strategy; and establish a communication infrastructure that is efficient and scalable to strengthen DoD STEM’s engagement with target audiences across multiple platforms integrating the website, and traditional social media channels.

DoD STEM Technical Exchange: In collaboration with the Government, the Recipient will plan and coordinate for the biennial DoD STEM Technical Exchange to bring together experts from STEM education and workforce development to share innovative practices for inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. The DoD STEM Technical Exchange should prioritize engagement of DoD STEM education and workforce development practitioners, external partners, and other key stakeholders. For information on the inaugural DoD STEM Technical Exchange held on February 2023, please visit https://dodstem.us/stem‐exchange‐23/.

Purchases and contracting: The Applicant should detail the process in which the purchase and contracting of services, items, and collateral required to support the outreach and communications plan. All such purchases must follow federal fiscal laws and will be approved by the CAM. These purchases can include, but are not limited to:

Graphic Design Services

Web Design Services

Print/Press Production

Promotional Materials/Informational Items

Outreach Suite/Memberships

Video Production Services

Web Domain Fee and Maintenance

The Recipient will work with the Government to ensure that all of the STEM’s strategic initiatives are advertised through the centralized DoD STEM website, https://dodstem.us/.

This website is a government‐owned website which DSEC will be responsible for maintaining for the duration of the COA. This website will enable the DoD and the Consortium to ensure all partnership and program information is managed, stored and accessible in a centralized location for efficient and effective dissemination of information. The Recipient will ensure adequate personnel are in place to manage the entire DoD STEM website.

Alumni Engagement: Over time, DSEC programs and partnerships will generate a large pool of talented, highly skilled STEM alumni who have benefitted from participating in DoD‐sponsored STEM programs. STEM alumni engagement efforts will capitalize on the outcomes and successes of its programs, which can most effectively be accessed and shared through its alumni network. The best testimonial to the value of DoD STEM programs are previous and current program participants, their educational and professional pathways, and the experiences they can share with the greater STEM network. The Government believes that previous and current program participants are best suited to serve as role models and ambassadors for the DoD STEM programs, they participated in. Therefore, STEM alumni engagement efforts will provide the Government a way to access, connect, exchange, and share information that is relevant to current and future DoD STEM generations.

The Recipient will work with the Government to develop a strategy and tactics that will establish and grow STEM alumni engagement. The Applicant should consider innovative ways to accomplish the development of a STEM alumni network that allows DSEC and the Government to engage in a mutually beneficial connection to each other and DoD STEM programs, to support and advance DoD STEM eminence for future generations, and to stimulate continued interest in DoD STEM programs and share how they benefitted from engagements such as hands‐on STEM experiences, and competitions.

FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT 4: REGIONAL HUBS AND ECOSYSTEMS

Overview: DoD STEM aims to broaden reach and impact by engaging, partnering, and collaborating with an established network of like‐minded organizations in strategic regional locations to increase program…