RFP #161: Impartial Hearing Officer (IHO) Professional Development

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is seeking a single vendor to provide multi‑year professional development, technical assistance, and complaint‑investigation services for NYS‑certified Impartial Hearing Officers (IHOs). The contractor will design and deliver virtual certification trainings, mandatory annual sessions, quarterly learning modules, and a searchable online library, while also handling investigations of complaints against IHOs and offering ongoing technical support. The contract runs from 1 June 2026 through 30 September 2029 and requires adherence to MWBE participation goals and strict conflict‑of‑interest rules. • Deliver up to four virtual IHO certification trainings per year and additional mandatory sessions (one all‑day and two 2‑hour sessions). • Provide quarterly online learning opportunities, 24‑hour technical‑assistance response, and maintain an online training library. • Conduct investigations of complaints alleging misconduct or competence issues of IHOs; attend regular coordination meetings with NYSED staff. • Comply with NYSED’s MWBE participation targets (30 % overall) and ensure no staff represent parties in due‑process hearings during the contract period.