UNSPSC 60103921: Preserved life cycle specimens

UNSPSC 60103921 Preserved life cycle specimens is a Commodity code describing biological materials, typically preserved specimens used in educational and instructional settings. State and local governments buying under this code procure preserved organisms and anatomical materials for K-12 science labs, college and career readiness programs, and museum or research applications. Recent solicitations show school districts are the dominant issuing bodies, including independent school districts in Texas (Harlingen, Katy), Arizona (Cartwright Elementary School District No. 83 and consortium members), and Georgia (Cobb County). The scope extends beyond preserved specimens alone to encompass broader science supply procurement — vendors are expected to supply preserved non-formalin specimens alongside chemicals, micromedia, live materials, and general laboratory equipment as part of integrated science-education contracts. Districts evaluate vendors on cost (typically 25–30% of scoring weight), catalog pricing discounts, delivery speed (often ten business days), and ability to manage online ordering platforms with quarterly reporting.

Recent activity concentrates in the South and Southwest. Cobb County School District in Georgia issued IFB B26128 on May 15, 2026, requesting science specimens, chemicals, supplies, and equipment for 112 school sites serving 105,738 students, with bids due June 16, 2026, and an estimated annual expenditure of $175,000; the district requires preserved specimens using non-formalin preservatives, online ordering capability, and unloading and inside delivery included at no additional cost. Cartwright Elementary School District No. 83, procuring on behalf of the SAVE consortium for multiple Arizona school districts and municipalities, issued RFP 260331 for STEM and College & Career Readiness Kits, Programs & Materials on May 21, 2026, with proposals due June 8, 2026, and estimated annual usage of $1,346,000 across fifteen participating districts. Katy Independent School District in Harris County, Texas, issued supplemental RFP #2428KD-A on August 14, 2026, for teaching and instructional materials and services with contract term through October 22, 2027, and optional annual renewals through October 23, 2030. The Seminole County School Board in Florida posted a sole-source procurement (25260122S-VG) for five tonnes of Anorthosite Highlands Simulant from Space Resource Technologies in July 2026 with an approximate annual expenditure of $20,000.