Impact Evaluation of Parent Messaging Strategies on Student Attendance

***THIS NOTICE IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS***

This synopsis notice is posted in accordance with FAR Part 5.203(a).

The U.S. Department of Education (Department) anticipates the solicitation and award of one hybrid contract (contains both Fixed Price and Cost Reimbursement Tasks) for a new Fiscal Year 2016 procurement titled "Impact Evaluation of Parent Messaging Strategies on Student Attendance" on behalf of the Institute for Education Sciences (IES), National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance (NCEE). The purpose of the requirement is conduct an evaluation to examine the impact of providing parents or other guardians with information to improve elementary school students' attendance and ultimately achievement. It is anticipated that the evaluation will use a sequential, multiple assignment, randomized trial (SMART) design to examine how a low-cost technology-based messaging strategy can be used to most effectively provide parents with information that leads to improved student outcomes. It is also anticipated that the evaluation will target disadvantaged elementary schools (e.g., schools eligible for or receiving Title I assistance) that face challenges with student attendance.

The period of performance for the anticipated contract is 36 months. The first 12 months will focus on design and recruitment, the second 12 months will focus on implementation and data collection, and the final 12 months will focus on data analysis and report preparation.

The Department anticipates posting a Sources Sought Notice for this requirement within 7 business days from this posting. The DRAFT "Impact Evaluation of Parent Messaging Strategies on Student Attendance" Performance Work Statement will be attached to the Sources Sought Notice.

The Department anticipates posting the Request for Proposals in May 2016. It is anticipated that the acquisition strategy will be a negotiated, competitive acquisition (open to both small and large businesses) conducted in accordance with FAR Part 15.

All questions or comments concerning this notice or its contents must be directed to Elizabeth Price, Contract Specialist, via EMAIL ONLY at Elizabeth.Price@ed.gov; with a carbon copy to Veronica L. Price, Contracting Officer at Veronica.Price@ed.gov.