FY25-OST-TWO-STEP IFB- Needs Assessment Study of Out-of-School Time Programs in DC.

The District of Columbia is seeking proposals for a two-step Invitation for Bid (IFB) focused on conducting a comprehensive Needs Assessment Study of Out-of-School Time (OST) Programs. This procurement is specifically targeting research and analytical services to evaluate the current landscape of after-school and supplemental educational programs within the District. The primary objective appears to be generating an in-depth understanding of existing OST program effectiveness, coverage, and potential gaps in service delivery. Key deliverables are likely to include a detailed research report, data analysis, strategic recommendations, and potentially a comprehensive mapping of current OST program resources. The procurement was posted on March 24, 2025, with a tight submission deadline of March 28, 2025, indicating a compressed timeline for potential bidders to prepare and submit their proposals. Prospective vendors will need to demonstrate strong research methodologies, expertise in educational program assessment, and the capability to conduct robust data collection and analysis.

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the District of Columbia typically prioritizes local and disadvantaged business enterprises in its procurement processes. Potential respondents should be prepared to potentially demonstrate capacity as a local, small, or minority-owned business. The study's budget range is not specified in the current documentation, but given the comprehensive nature of a citywide needs assessment, it is likely to represent a significant investment in understanding and improving out-of-school time programming. The procurement suggests a focus on generating actionable insights for educational policy and program development, which implies potential future implementation phases or follow-on contracts based on the study's findings. Prospective bidders should be equipped with advanced research capabilities, experience in educational program evaluation, and the ability to provide nuanced, data-driven recommendations for improving OST program effectiveness across the District of Columbia.