EVALUATING CAREER PATHWAYS PROGRAMS AND STRATEGIES

The U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences requires one or more contractors to conduct evaluations of career pathways programs and strategies through solicitation 91990024R0019. Managed by the National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance, this project focuses on programs designed to improve career outcomes for youth and adults, including individuals with disabilities. These initiatives encompass career and technical education, adult education, and other educational programs involving career exploration, workforce development, and related supports. Performance occurs in Washington, DC, under NAICS 541720, Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities, and PSC AF11, Education, Training, Employment, & Social Svcs R&D Svcs; Education Svcs R&D; Basic Research.

The evaluations utilize new data collection or existing sources to describe the implementation, costs, and participation trends of federally funded career pathways programs. Contractors will analyze the characteristics and activities of states, districts, schools, and postsecondary institutions while examining the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of policy-relevant programs through systematic evidence reviews and impact evaluations. Additionally, the work involves identifying the core components and conditions necessary to achieve positive impacts for high-need youth and adult populations.

Proposals for this solicitation are due by June 28, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET. Amendment 0001 was issued to provide responses to vendor questions and confirms the original submission deadline. The solicitation includes five attachments: a signed SF30 for Amendment 0001, a report planning template, a small business calculation tool, contractor performance information, and the original SF33. Katie Opper is the designated point of contact for this requirement.