Title
Authorization to Contract with the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation
Description
Request the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to enter into contract with the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation (Foundation) to fund the Elevate Education Workforce Development Program (ElevateEdAZ) in the Phoenix school districts.
THIS ITEM IS FOR CONSENT ACTION
Report
Summary
ElevateEdAZ, which is managed by the Greater Phoenix Chamber through its Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, works with school partners to support students in completing industry-recognized credentials, attaining early post-secondary credit, and participating in work-based learning experiences. ElevateEdAZ also works closely with career and technical education programs focused on preparing students for careers in high-wage occupations within high-demand industry sectors.
On September 21, 2022, City Council supported the original partnership by authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department (CEDD) contract with the Foundation to expand ElevateEdAZ in Phoenix schools. During that 17-month contract, the following outcomes were achieved at four Phoenix high schools.
- 187 job shadow experiences for students and 19 internships.
- Career awareness events reaching over 10,000 students.
- Increased the number of students earning industry-recognized credentials by 318.
- Increased the number of dual enrollment students by 1,779.
- Increased enrollment in high-wage, high-demand career and technical education pathways by 1,463.
Re-connecting to this program would allow CEDD access to an established 501(c)(3) partner and facilitate the Mayor's and City Council’s priority of developing the future workforce of Phoenix. The program budget will be focused on funding contractual agreements to further develop and maintain this program in Phoenix. This proposed contract and funding will support program staffing, program development, and incentives to increase the number of high school students completing high-wage, high-demand career pathways. To better align with the traditional school year calendar, CEDD proposes an initial $300,000 contract and term for a 15-month period, with three one-year renewal options for $150,000 annually. This partnership provides access to a proven program model and aligns with existing City efforts to support workforce development in under-served communities.
ElevateEdAZ operates on 21 high school campuses within Maricopa County, thirteen of which are in Phoenix. Educational partners include Arizona State University Preparatory Academy, Deer Valley Unified School District, Paradise Valley Unified School District, and Phoenix Union High School District.
Procurement Information
In compliance with Administrative Regulation 3.10, an exception to the procurement process was approved to select this vendor. A direct selection was made as the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation is uniquely positioned to provide services as its programs are currently operating in Phoenix schools.
Contract Term
If approved, the contract will begin on or around April 1, 2025 with a term of 15 months and three one-year renewals.
Financial Impact
The total aggregate contract value will not exceed $750,000. The Community and Economic Development Department has funding available within the department's Strategic Economic Development Fund.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager John Chan and the Community and Economic Development Department.