The awarded contractor may provide services throughout the state. Although most reporting will be related to contested proceedings before the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH), the awarded contractor may also provide services related to the State Board of Education (SBOE), State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC), the Commissioner of Education, and/or any other proceedings requested by TEA. The awarded contractor will only receive compensation for work performed as requested by TEA. Services will be requested on an as-needed basis and there are no guaranteed minimum or maximums. The awarded contractor must meet the following minimum qualifications and requirements throughout the entire term of the contract. Requirements 1. The reporter must work cooperatively with the agency legal administrative staff and attorneys. 2. In performing his/her duties, the reporter shall travel to the destination where the services will take place. Travel expenses within the scope of work must be included in the fee and cannot be billed separately. Any travel for activities outside the normal scope of work must be approved in advance by the TEA in writing to receive reimbursement. Any reimbursement for travel expenditures will be at State approved rates in accordance with State travel regulations. 3. The reporter must arrive at the destination of the proceeding no later than twenty (20) minutes prior to the scheduled time for the proceeding. The reporter must have all equipment completely set up and must be ready to begin work at the time the proceeding is scheduled to start. 4. The reporter must provide, at reporter’s cost, all supplies necessary for reporting a proceeding, including, but not limited to, sufficient audiotapes, tape recorders, microphones, extension cords and machinery. 5. Should the reporter be unable to complete his/her duties prior to the adjournment of the proceeding, it is the responsibility of the firm and reporter to immediately make arrangements for a substitute reporter and the reporter or firm shall notify TEA in writing of the substitution. If feasible, the reporter shall remain on duty until the replacement arrives. Substitute reporters must meet all the qualifications in this solicitation. Should no substitute be available, the hearing will be adjourned and rescheduled.
