Early Intervention / Early Childhood Special Education Providers

The Oregon Department of Education is seeking applications from eligible entities to provide Early Intervention (EI) and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) services for a two-year grant period from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027, with potential renewal options up to six years. This Request for Application (RFA) aims to award nine grant agreements covering all Oregon counties, including Baker County, to establish a comprehensive system of direct EI and ECSE services. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide services across their entire designated service area, establish local interagency advisory councils, meet IDEA program assurances, and comply with specific reporting requirements. The evaluation criteria will assess applicants' strategies for staff recruitment and retention, governance structure, service area coverage, communication and collaboration plans, child find obligations, inclusion practices, cultural responsiveness, and partnerships with state and local agencies. The application has a maximum score of 100 points, with specific page limits for each section, and the due date for submissions is November 8, 2024, with the Notice of Intent to Award expected during the week of December 30, 2024.

The procurement is strictly limited to Oregon public school districts and education service districts, with no other types of organizations eligible to apply. This opportunity includes federal and state funding sources, including IDEA Part B 611 and 619, IDEA Part C, and the Student Success Act, though specific award amounts will be determined based on the number of children served and geographic area covered. The grant requires applicants to provide a detailed budget worksheet, with funding subject to legislative appropriations. While the Intent to Award document indicates potential awardees for the nine service areas, including Intermountain Education Service District and High Desert Education Service District, the actual funding and specific allocations are not explicitly disclosed. Applicants must be prepared to provide comprehensive early intervention and special education services, including maintaining appropriate policies, coordinating with local interagency councils, and adhering to strict reporting and monitoring requirements. The Oregon Department of Education reserves the right to negotiate terms with successful applicants and monitor their performance, with the potential to withhold or recover funds if grant requirements are not met.