Statewide Civil Rights Compliance Review

The Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is seeking qualified consultants to conduct a Statewide Civil Rights Compliance Review for local educational agencies (LEAs), including 295 school districts, 18 charter schools, and 8 state-tribal education compact schools. The primary objective is to monitor LEAs' compliance with nondiscrimination laws by reviewing policies, procedures, training documentation, and information sharing practices related to civil rights. Consultants will be responsible for drafting comprehensive determinations of each LEA's compliance, with initial reviews to be completed by March 2025 and the contract period running from February 2025 through June 30, 2025. Key qualifications include the ability to act in a neutral capacity, understanding of administrative monitoring and enforcement roles, proficiency in analyzing state and federal laws, and strong communication skills. The solicitation (RFQQ No. 2025-25) requires bidders to submit qualification affirmations, a pre-bid conference was held on December 19, 2024, and final proposals are due by January 10, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. PT. Desired but not mandatory qualifications include Bar Association membership and advanced understanding of nondiscrimination laws applicable to public schools.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though the Contract Intake Form includes certification options for woman-, minority-, or veteran-owned businesses. Bidders must be licensed to do business in Washington State and may submit proposals to complete some or all of the LEA reviews. OSPI has budgeted up to $450,000 for this project, with contractors expected to work remotely and submit an hourly rate for completed services. Travel expenses will be reimbursed according to state regulations, and OSPI anticipates approximately 40 LEA reports will require review each week. The procurement allows for potential contract renewals through 2028 at OSPI's discretion and includes provisions for additional awards to responsive, responsible bidders during the contract term if needed to address contractor vacancies or serve state interests. This is a re-post of a previous RFQQ (2025-11) from September 2024 that did not result in a contract award, meaning previous bidders are welcome to resubmit proposals.