Specifications include, but are not limited to: The purpose of this RFP is to solicit competitive, sealed proposals to establish a contract for the development, implementation, and management of a statewide Career Planning Management Platform. This platform will serve as a comprehensive tool designed to assist local education agencies (LEAs) and K-12 students in managing career development and growth. Additionally, the platform should help students plan, track, and achieve their career goals through a range of features and functionalities. Alabama’s annual average unemployment rate for 2023 was 2.6% and annual average labor force participation rate was a staggering 57%. There is widespread agreement that a statewide Career Planning Management Platform will aid students in their career development, ultimately combatting employment gaps. The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) echoes this need by emphasizing career exploration and career development activities in the middle grades and allowing funds to be spent on students as early as fifth grade. In addition to school counselors, career coaches, and teachers, a comprehensive Career Planning Management Platform is designed to provide career guidance and career development opportunities to students seeking to make informed career choices. The primary objectives of a statewide Career Planning Management Platform are: • Provide participants with valuable insights into different career paths. • Equip participants with the necessary tools and resources for effective career planning. • Foster collaboration between schools, industry partners, and postsecondary institutions. • Utilize technology and innovative approaches to deliver a dynamic and impactful experience. • Support career planning and goal setting. • Improve access to career resources and opportunities. • Enhance workforce readiness and employability.
