Glossary

Hover (or tap) the dotted-underlined terms anywhere on the site for these same definitions inline. For deeper context on the legal pathway, see Where We Are Now and Article 78.

Article 78

A New York court proceeding used to challenge a government agency decision as arbitrary, capricious, or contrary to law. Strict deadlines apply (often four months).

CEC

Community Education Council — an elected parent body that passes formal resolutions on education policy in its district.

COMPASS

DYCD's elementary and middle school afterschool program, funded through multi-year contracts with community-based providers.

Contract registration

The step where the NYC Comptroller reviews and registers a city contract. Until a contract is registered, it is not legally in effect.

DYCD

NYC Department of Youth and Community Development — the agency that awards COMPASS afterschool contracts.

FOIL

Freedom of Information Law — the New York statute that lets the public request government records.

PPB Rule §2-10

The City Procurement Policy Board rule that lets a losing or affected vendor formally protest the award of a city contract before it is registered.

Responsibility review

The agency's required determination that a chosen vendor is actually capable of performing the contract — adequate staff, finances, and a workable plan.

RFP

Request for Proposals — the formal solicitation a city agency issues so providers can compete for a contract.

Vendor protest

A formal written objection filed by an affected vendor under PPB Rule §2-10 before a contract is registered. The agency must issue a written decision.