Please note: This is a Sole Source Notification. The State intends to make a noncompetitive purchase and create a contract for the North Dakota Native American Essential Understandings Statewide Initiative, which aims to eliminate the “achievement gap” between Native and non-Native students in North Dakota in a way that has the potential to become a model nationwide. INTENDED SOURCE: Compass, Partners in Learning 1925 Plaza Drive Rapid City, SD 57702; JUSTIFICATION: The North Dakota Native American Essential Understandings Statewide Initiative is effectively closing the achievement gap between Native and non-Native students. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), Native American students have shown a 2–4 point improvement in reading and math—gains that were historically unattainable. Since the initiative began, Native American graduation rates have increased from 52% to 83%. This success reflects a future where Native students view schools as culturally relevant and affirm that embracing cultural identity enhances learning for all students. NDDPI has partnered with Compass Partners in Learning (formerly Technology & Innovation in Education) in the past. Continued funding ensures that Phase IX builds upon the significant progress already achieved and supports North Dakota’s commitment to culturally grounded, academically successful learning environments for all students.
