27ACLLP1 | Adult Learner Opportunity and Workforce Pathways Initiative | RFR

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Adult and Community Learning Services unit is requesting responses for a strategic implementation partner to support the Adult Learner Opportunity and Workforce Pathways Initiative under RFR 27ACLLP1, with proposals due September 1, 2026 by 12:00 PM Eastern Time and questions due by August 17, 2026 at 12:00 PM.

All bidders must commit a minimum of 1 percent of contract sales to partnerships with Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office–certified diverse businesses or non-profit organizations (MBE, WBE, VBE, SDVOBE, DOBE, LGBTBE categories), with at least 25 percent of evaluation points allocated to the Supplier Diversity Program Plan. The procurement is covered under World Trade Organization regulations and is sourced entirely from state appropriations under unit code 1596-2514.

The scope encompasses design, implementation, management, and evaluation of three interconnected programs: Student Ambassador Program (including up to $150,000 in annual participant stipends and internships), Conversation Cafe Program, and Student-to-Staff Program (approximately $100,000 annually for participant training and professional development). The vendor must also collaborate with ACLS staff on strategic planning and evaluation activities and deliver workshops and technical assistance aligned with ACLS priorities and the Research, Engagement, Development, and Transformation (REDT) framework. Required qualifications include demonstrated experience conducting anti-racism and diversity, equity, and inclusion training; proven ability to work with adult learners, English speakers of other languages, refugees, and immigrants; strong organizational and payment management skills; and knowledge of adult education.

The maximum obligation for Year 1 (FY2027, from approval through June 30, 2027) is $700,000. The contract includes three optional renewal periods of up to 12 months each, extending through June 30, 2030, with estimated annual budgets of approximately $700,000 for subsequent years. Evaluation criteria include project narrative addressing all three programs and adult learning theory (25 points), annual implementation plan (20 points), equity narrative demonstrating anti-racist practices (15 points), Supplier Diversity Program Plan (25 points), staff qualifications via resumes or CVs (10 points), and budget alignment (5 points). All submissions must be made through COMMBUYS; email submissions are not accepted. The contract manager is Lisa V. Patrick at lisa.v.patrick@mass.gov or 781-426-5765. No pre-bid conference has been scheduled.