High Quality Evidence-Based Instructional Materials QVL

The State of Missouri's Office of Administration, Division of Purchasing, is requesting proposals on behalf of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to establish a Qualified Vendor List for high-quality evidence-based instructional materials in early literacy for grades K–5, with proposals due September 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM CT through MissouriBUYS.

Vendors must meet strict capability thresholds to qualify. Minimum experience requirements include at least five years publishing foundational reading instructional materials, ability to deliver within thirty days of contract award, employment of at least two staff members dedicated to Missouri schools, and professional development personnel with minimum five years of experience. All proposed materials must align with the science of reading and Missouri Learning Standards, and vendors must submit digital samples alongside evidence of published reviews by The Reading League or self-evaluations using provided rubrics, EdReports curricular reviews or self-evaluations, and ESSA Evidence-Based Reading Program list inclusion or ESSA Tiers of Evidence demonstrations.

The contract period runs from award through one year, with the Division of Purchasing holding the right to renew for two additional one-year periods at its sole option. Pricing must be submitted as firm and fixed catalog/price lists for the initial term, with renewal pricing subject to vendor discretion but firm for any renewal period. No state taxes, shipping charges, insurance, or additional costs shall be invoiced. Delivery occurs on an FOB Destination, Freight Prepaid and Allowed basis to various Local Education Agencies throughout Missouri within thirty calendar days of order placement.

The state will issue multiple non-exclusive awards based on reliability and specification compliance; subsequent solicitations for similar materials are reserved. Approximately 555 Local Education Agencies and 385,089 K–5 grade students are eligible to utilize this QVL. Current contracts exist under bid numbers RFPC30034902300621, RFPC30034902400320, and RFPC30034902400335.