FY27 0189 Proficiency Outcomes in World Languages

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is soliciting proposals for FY27 0189 Proficiency Outcomes in World Languages, a competitive grant program with a proposal due date of July 30, 2026.

The program supports school districts in implementing standards-aligned, data-based, outcomes-driven world language programs to increase the number of students earning the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy. The scope encompasses both foundational and heritage language learners. Complete programmatic details, funding amounts, eligibility criteria, allowable uses of funds, project duration, submission forms, and application requirements are posted on the DESE Grants Management website at https://www.doe.mass.edu/grants/2027/0189/. Applicants must consult that posting for all necessary proposal preparation details.

All materials and deliverables developed using Commonwealth funds become DESE property unless otherwise specified in the contract and may be posted on the DESE website or distributed beyond the contract duration. Vendors must obtain all necessary permissions and licenses for DESE to use any intellectual property incorporated into deliverables. Digital deliverables must meet Commonwealth Digital Accessibility Standards, including Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) version 2.1 levels A and AA. Vendors must cooperate with accessibility testing at no additional cost and make digital products available for DESE evaluation prior to and throughout the contract period.

DESE reserves the right to reject any or all bids, award contracts based on bid quality and service acceptability, request personal interviews prior to contract execution, and award multiple contracts to different vendors. For projects involving federally funded components, vendors must provide access to books and records to both the Commonwealth and federal funding sources upon request, consistent with 34 CFR Part 74.40-8 and Part 80.36.

DESE will conduct Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) background checks on all vendor staff and subcontractors with direct or unmonitored contact with children. Vendors must notify DESE of staffing changes and any issues affecting personnel eligibility.