College Advisor(s) Newport Public Schools

The Newport Public Schools in Rhode Island is seeking to procure a full-time college advising corps through Request for Proposals (RFP) #2026-NPS-001, targeting comprehensive college admissions and financial-aid advising services for students and families. The procurement specifically focuses on deploying advisors in underserved high schools, with a particular emphasis on supporting low-income and first-generation students through in-school and community-based advising sessions. Advisors will be expected to work an average of 40 hours per week, collaborating closely with school counselors, teachers, and administrators to increase college-going rates and provide strategic support in identifying, applying to, and successfully enrolling in colleges. The RFP requires proposals to be submitted in two separate envelopes - a technical proposal without cost information and a distinct cost proposal - with a submission deadline of August 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST. Minimum qualifications include demonstrated experience with the college admission process and proven work in underserved high school environments. Evaluation criteria will encompass both the written technical proposals and associated cost structures, with the contract term proposed for two fiscal years (FY 2025-2026 & FY 2026-2027).

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed in the provided documentation, the RFP suggests a competitive procurement process open to qualified college advising organizations or corps with demonstrated expertise in supporting student college transitions. The procurement appears designed to be inclusive, seeking vendors capable of delivering comprehensive advisory services to a diverse student population. The contract will be executed through Newport County jurisdictional parameters, specifically serving the Newport Public Schools system. Although precise budget ranges are not specified, the full-time nature of the advising corps and the two-year contract term indicate a substantial potential contract value. The RFP's focus on working with underserved populations suggests a strategic investment in supporting students' higher education pathways, with potential long-term educational and economic development implications for the community. Prospective respondents should carefully review the complete RFP documentation to understand the full scope of requirements and expectations for this college advising services opportunity.