Use OBC RFP templates with market validators and ESSA evidence tiers as efficacy criteria¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The presentation provides OBC RFP template language in which applicants demonstrate efficacy through one or more criteria: holding "strong (Tier 1), moderate (Tier 2) or promising (Tier 3) evidence under ESSA" for the district's target student population, showing a track record of achieving payment outcomes with a supporting theory of change, or earning alignments, badges, or certifications. Districts can adopt this template language directly in their own RFPs to make evidence a scored procurement criterion.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• RFP definitions for efficacy, digital equity, and accessibility must be available when rating the indicator

Constraints¶

• The certification criterion applies only "If applicable" and is one of several alternative efficacy routes, not a sole requirement

Target Learners¶

• K-12 students, with particular focus on key subgroups such as English learners and students with disabilities

Target Learning Goals¶

• Procuring edtech with demonstrated efficacy for the district's target population

Related Strategies¶

• Structure OBC procurement around intentionality questions on learner goals, populations, outcomes, and stakeholders
• Plan mutual accountability for implementation, including rollout plans, educator supports, and early indicators for pivoting
• Support future edtech OBC cohorts with readiness assessments, early planning, needs-assessment framing, and cross-cohort collaboration
• Embed certification-status questions with evidence requirements in RFPs and RFAs

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Van Nostrand, P., Shell, A., & Noakes, S. (2024). Empowering Education Leaders in Edtech Procurement. Digital Promise. https://digitalpromise.dspacedirect.org/items/47852ca7-537f-4f37-84c2-47c4031ef337