Specifications include, but are not limited to: provide an evaluation of IL-EMPOWER. IL-EMPOWER, which was approved as part of the Illinois Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) State Plan, is the statewide system of accountability and support that empowers schools with greater choice and voice in the school improvement process. Schools, districts, partners, and ISBE will work collaboratively to promote shifts in practice and build capacity. IL-EMPOWER is focused on capacity development for statewide school support and it is required for those schools identified to receive comprehensive services. Schools that receive services will complete a needs assessment process using multiple data sources. The findings will guide the identification of priority areas to address in collaboration with external Professional Learning Partner(s). Such partners are pre-approved by ISBE to offer specialized services in three major categories: Governance and Management, Curriculum and Instruction, and Safe and Healthy Climate. Also, applicants whose work does not easily fit into one of the aforementioned categories may indicate that they provide services specifically designed for a particular purpose (e.g., technical assistance specific to working with students identified as gifted and talented or English Learners). Each school identified for comprehensive services shall create a one-year work plan to develop long-term goals that over three subsequent years demonstrate actionable strategies and results for improving student learning. IL-EMPOWER provides resources for schools to address the needs of the “whole child,” recognizing cognitive, social, emotional, and physical developmental domains within the interconnected home, school, and community learning ecosystems. This holistic approach requires that ISBE, the school/district, and the Professional Learning Partners all work collaboratively to ensure that every child receives equitable resources and equal access to high-quality opportunities to ensure successful preparation for college or career readiness.