Dear Prospective Bidders:

Request for Proposals for the Individualized Education Program Facilitation Network

The enclosed Request for Proposals (RFP) invites proposals from eligible bidders to develop the model for an individualized education program (IEP) facilitation network in California, in conjunction with working with a specified legislative subcontractor to identify areas and guide the state of California in improving outcomes for alternate dispute resolution. The model for an IEP facilitation network shall delineate policies and procedures to ensure that IEP facilitation services are provided by neutral, trained facilitators in compliance with relevant state and federal law. The contracted entity shall do all of the following:

• Solicit stakeholder input to inform the development of the model.
• Create a written implementation report that delineates policies and procedures to comply with state and federal law.
• Ensure that the model is reflective of nationally recognized best practices for state IEP facilitation programs and responsive to the needs of California families and local educational agencies.
• Designate at least $50,000 of the contract amount to work in consultation with the organization designated by the United States Department of Education to assist states in improving special education dispute resolution systems.

It is anticipated that the RFP process will result in an IEP Facilitation Network Model contract which will begin on or after July 1, 2023, and will continue through August 31, 2024. The actual starting date of the contract is contingent upon approval of the agreement by the Department of General Services and continued California legislative authorization. The California Department of Education anticipates a maximum of $300,000 will be available for this contract. The California Department of Education also anticipates an amendment to Senate Bill 129 will occur to adjust the contract date and report due date of the original legislation regarding the IEP Facilitation Network RFP.

Interested applicants should note the RFP Schedule of Events in Section 2.3 of the RFP.

If you have any questions regarding the RFP, please contact Sherry Rickenbach, Education Programs Consultant, Special Education Division, by email at SRickenbach@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Heather Calomese, Director
Special Education Division

HC:mp
Enclosure