2026-2027 MSSD Bootheel School Vision Services

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is requesting bids for Vision Therapy services for Missouri Schools for the Severely Disabled (MSSD) Bootheel region under an Invitation for Bid, with responses due October 9, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Central Time through MissouriBUYS. Contractors must hold Missouri teacher-of-the-blind-and-visually-impaired certification in good standing, the core qualification filter.

The scope covers direct therapy and consultation services to students aged 5–21 with severe disabilities, delivered at assigned MSSD school locations during school hours (Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) per each student's Individualized Education Program. Services use an integrated therapy approach within the classroom setting. MSSD estimates 7.5 therapy units per week at the Bootheel location, where one unit equals 30 minutes; the exact number is not guaranteed. Compensation is unit-based at firm fixed rates: up to 4 units for training, 2 units for IEP assistance, and 16 units for additional approved services per student annually. Approved assistants or provisionally licensed individuals provide services at a 20 percent rate reduction. Non-reimbursable activities include travel, record review, invoice preparation, and data entry. Contractors must complete Family Care Safety Registry background screening and FBI fingerprint checks, maintain professional liability insurance naming Missouri as additional insured, enroll in E-Verify, and comply with HIPAA and confidentiality requirements.

The contract term runs August 1, 2026 through July 31, 2027, with two optional one-year renewals at the department's sole discretion. All services and MO HealthNet reimbursements become property of MSSD. Award will use multiattribute scoring methodology. Questions are directed to DESE.MSSDbusinessservices@dese.mo.gov. Prospective bidders must achieve "Approved" and "Spend Authorized" status in MissouriBUYS to be considered for award.