U.S. Department of Education, OCFO, Contracts & Purchashing Operations, Support Services Group, 7th & D Street, SW, Room 3616, ROB-3, Washington, DC 20202-4443

U -- EVALUATION OF THE NATIONAL TESTS DUE 082597 POC Helen Chang, 202-708-9740 Sources Sought -- The Department of Education anticipates that one sole source contract will be awarded to the National Academy os Sciences to conduct and evaluation of the Voluntary National Tests. The President proposed in his State of the Union Address a voluntary, annual reading test in English at grade 4 and a Mathematics test at grade 8. These tests will provide parents and teachers with information about how their students are progressing compared to national and international standards. The purpose of this evaluation is to assess the development and implementation of the Voluntary National Tests in Reading and Mathematics to ensure that they produce valid and reliable information of individuals students, are properly administered and scored, and provide useful information to parents and teachers. The evaluation will be carried out by a panel of experts that will undertake a variety of activities including 1) design and oversight of data collection and/or analysis;2) site visits and other information-gathering activities; 3)convening workshops or other special metings with experts in various specific areas of interest; 4) evaluation of findings from the data analysis and other information gathering activities and 5) reporting the panel's conclusion and recommendations to the Department. It is essential that this evaluation be seen as being independent of the Department, be impartial and unbiased, and yet technically expert. It is imperative that the qualifications and integrity of the contractor be beyond reproach. Additionally the contractor must be able to convene a panel of nationally recognized experts and the panel must be designed to ensure scientific integrity, a balance of perspective, and independence from political pressure. The Department feels that there is only one source that has these qualifications. The National Academy of Sciences is viewed as an outside source. They have a mandate to investigate, examine, experiment, and report on any subject of science or art wherever called upon by any Department of the Government. The National Academy of Sciences will not be involved in developing, administering, or reporting on the National Tests. Additionally they are uniquely qualified to assemble scientific experts of the highest reputation to address critical national problems. Any business or firm who feels that they are qualified and able to perform this procurement should submit a written capability statement by COB August 25, 1997 outlining their qualifications. Notices should be submitted the above address, Attn: Helen M. Chang, Contracting Officer. Please refer to http://www.ed.gov/nationaltests for additional information about this initiative. (0190)

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