Specifications include, but are not limited to: 3.1 develop and follow a research and analysis plan, in coordination with the Vermont Head Start Collaboration Office (VTHSCO) and the Child Development Division (CDD), that: 3.1.1 includes identifying, evaluating, and efficiently using and building upon existing data sources, reports, and resources; and 3.1.2 provides detailed information about research methodology (including available evidence-based, industry standards models and methodologies), limitations, and data sources to frame, plan, and conduct analyses; 3.2 develop a classification plan, in coordination with VTHSCO/CDD, that: 3.2.2 establishes an inventory of early childhood settings, geographies, and positions to be included in the study; 3.2.3 identifies the appropriate labor market(s) for comparisons; 3.2.4 collects samples of inventoried position job descriptions; and 3.2.5 uses collected inventory to inform the development of a model position classification system, comprised of benchmark positions, that uniformly reflects distinguishing characteristics, essential job functions, minimum qualifications, license requirements, regulatory requirements, supervisory responsibilities, etc. for all classifications. Management, supervisory, professional, and general employees, including FLSA status (exempt/non-exempt) must also be identified; 3.3 draft and finalize a comprehensive wage and fringe benefit survey of Vermont’s early childhood workforce in conjunction with VTHSCO/CDD. The survey must utilize relevant questions and data sets, processes, format, and strategies to engage stakeholders, and promote a statistically significant survey response rate comparable to other high-quality wage and fringe benefit studies. Data to be collected will include, but is not limited to: • Organization type • Organizational budget • Number of employees • Geographic location (County/AHS District) • Job Titles • Major Responsibilities • Number of years in position • Educational level • Qualifications • Hourly wage • Number of days/Percentage of calendar year worked • Benefits offered (e.g. health and dental insurance, short- and long-term disability, retirement, paid time off, employee wellness)