25046-RFP_Contracted_Psychologists_P.pdf

Superintendent Van Ayres

HillsboroughSchools.org • P.O. Box 3408 • Tampa, FL 33601-3408 • Procurement Services (813) 272-4327 Raymond O. Shelton School Administrative Center • 901 East Kennedy Blvd. • Tampa, FL 33602-3507

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PROCUREMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

FOR

25046A-RFP-DST CONTRACTED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS

February 10, 2025

Hillsborough County Public Schools (“HCPS”) hereby issues this competitive solicitation (“Request for Proposals,” “RFP,” or “solicitation”), per Rule 6A-1.012, F.A.C., to announce that HCPS is accepting proposals from all qualified firms or individuals interested in providing the services as described in Section 3. Scope of Services of this document. The proposal must demonstrate by their qualifications, experience, availability, approach, and work plan that they will best serve the overall needs of HCPS. The proposals should be submitted in a format commensurate with the sections in this RFP. This RFP will be evaluated by HCPS as stated in Section 2.4 Evaluation Process. HCPS reserves the right to waive any formalities, to reject any or all proposals, or to re-advertise proposals for these services. HCPS may withdraw all or part of this RFP at any time to protect HCPS’ interests. The proposers are asked to be thorough yet concise in their responses.

Failure to respond in the manner prescribed herein may be grounds for disqualification or loss of awarded points.

Important Dates. The following dates are subject to change. All changes shall be announced via www.myvendorlink.com.

Pre-Proposal Meeting (Voluntary Attendance) 02/14/2025 10: 00 A.M. EST.

Microsoft Teams Meeting Link - https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_OWIwNTk0MzgtZDBlMC00NDdkLWFlOGItODg0OGUwMTZjM2Q4%40thread.v2/ 0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2210a8fdf9-c2ff-4e0d-9c19- 1fe2c188164a%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22eed3ddd0-fd27-4c25-a4f3-da18e5a11737%22%7d

Last Day for Technical Questions. Technical questions regarding the solicited commodities and services must be received in writing via VendorLink no later than the last day for technical questions.

02/18/2025 12:00 P.M.

Proposal Due Date. 03/04/2025 3:00:00 P.M.

VendorLink (www.myvendorlink.com). HCPS will post all solicitations and supporting documents on VendorLink. It is the sole responsibility of interested parties to monitor VendorLink for solicitation opportunities and updates. Each proposer must have a current vendor application on file with VendorLink to conduct business, receive updates and addenda, and ask questions under any HCPS solicitation.

Addenda. Those interested in responding to and receiving addenda to this RFP, or any other HCPS procurement opportunity, must log on to VendorLink and select "active bids," search for this RFP and download the document(s).

Downloading the document will enter your email address as a participant and will provide notifications and updates for the solicitation. Each proposer must, before submitting the proposal, determine whether addenda were issued via VendorLink and if so, download and respond accordingly to such addenda.

VendorLink Technical Support. All proposers must allow adequate time to upload their submittal on VendorLink and are solely responsible to contact VendorLink technical support at support@eVendorLink.com if technical difficulties arise during the submission of the proposal.

Notice. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in § 120.57(3), Florida Statutes, or failure to post the bond or other security required by law within the time allowed for filing a bond shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes. Any protest must be timely filed with the General Manager of Procurement Services via email at corey.murphy@hcps.net.

http://www.myvendorlink.com/ mailto:corey.murphy@hcps.net

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 2 of 30 25046A-RFP-DST Contracted School Psychologists

Lobbying/Cone of Silence. Per policy 6320, Procurement: https://web.hillsboroughschools.org/policymanual/, prohibits any communication regarding an active solicitation between any HCPS employee or School Board member and any third party, representative, or lobbyist of that party, in effect from the time of the release of the solicitation until an agreement is signed by HCPS or awarded by the School Board.

[INTENTIONALLY BLANK.]

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 3 of 30

1 CONTACT INFORMATION & CERTIFICATION

2 PROPOSER INSTRUCTIONS

3 SCOPE OF SERVICES

4 QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

5 REQUIRED FORMS

6 COST/VALUE

7 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

8 REQUIRED SUBMITTALS CHECKLIST

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 4 of 30

1 CONTACT INFORMATION & CERTIFICATION

The proposer must supply the information listed below for consideration. In case of a dispute or if further clarification becomes necessary, please indicate your representative’s contact information. The General Manager of Procurement Services shall serve as the District’s representative.

Local Contact Information

Account Representative Name Title

Local Address

Phone Number Cell Phone Number

Email Address Fax Number

X Signature of Owner or Authorized Officer Date

Corporate Information

Representative's Name Telephone Number

Company Name

Principal Place of Business Address

Remit-To Address (if different from above)

☐ Corporation ☐ Sole Proprietor/Partnership ☐ Limited Liability Corp.

FEIN or SS# ________________________________ ☐ Other. ______________________________________ The preferred method to receive a purchase order. ☐ US Mail ☐ Fax ☐ Yes ☐ No. Is vendor Workers’ Compensation Exempt? If Yes, attach proof of exemption.

☐ Yes ☐ No. Is your company registered as an SBE with the HCPS Office of Supplier Diversity?

☐ Yes ☐ No. Is your company SMWBE certified with any of the following agencies?

• City of Tampa,

• FL. Statewide & Inter-Local Certification,

• Hillsborough County BOCC,

• Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council, or

• City of St. Petersburg.

[INTENTIONALLY BLANK]

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 5 of 30

2 PROPOSER INSTRUCTIONS

This RFP will comply with all applicable HCPS policies, and federal, state, and local laws. HCPS reserves the right to qualify proposals that HCPS deems to meet the qualifications listed in this RFP. HCPS, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to cancel, recall, or reissue all, or parts of this RFP, to reject any proposal, to waive any formality and irregularity, or to re-advertise the identical or revised specifications. HCPS may investigate the qualifications of any proposer under consideration, require confirmation of information furnished by a proposer, and require additional evidence of qualifications to perform the services described in this RFP. This RFP does not commit HCPS to enter into a contract nor obligate HCPS to reimburse any proposer for any costs incurred in the preparation and submission of Proposals or anticipation of a contract. Furthermore, HCPS may:

• evaluate the proposer’s past performance with HCPS and other customers; or

• reject any or all proposals; or

• issue a subsequent solicitation for the same commodities and services; or

• cancel the entire solicitation; or

• remedy solicitation errors; or

• reduce the scope of services (if deemed in HCPS’ best interest and at HCPS’ sole discretion); or

• appoint an evaluation committee to review the proposals; or

• seek the assistance of technical experts to review the proposals; or

• approve or disapprove the use of subcontractors and suppliers; or

• award a contract to one or more (or none) of the proposers; or

• accept other than the lowest-priced proposal; or

• waive informalities and irregularities in the Proposals; or

• award a contract without discussions or negotiations; or

• disqualify proposals upon evidence of collusion with intent to defraud or other illegal practices on the part of a proposer.

2.1 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE/SITE VISIT (“CONFERENCE”)

If applicable, see coversheet, HCPS may conduct a Conference (attendance may be mandatory or voluntary, or a site visit (mandatory attendance, as required by HCPS) to explain the procurement requirements. The Conference or site visit will be held long enough after the RFP has been issued to allow proposers to familiarize themselves with this RFP, but sufficiently before the due date to allow consideration of the Conference results in preparing their proposals. Nothing stated at the Conference or site visit shall amend this RFP unless and until a change is made via written addenda on VendorLink.

2.2 VENDORLINK (WWW.MYVENDORLINK.COM) REGISTRATION

HCPS will post all solicitations and supporting documents on VendorLink. It is the sole responsibility of interested parties to monitor VendorLink for solicitation opportunities and updates. Each proposer must have a current vendor application on file with VendorLink to conduct business, receive updates and addenda, and ask questions under any HCPS solicitation. Additionally, to conduct business under this RFP, HCPS requires that all its Contractors have a current vendor application on file with www.myVendorLink.com. HCPS may rescind an award for failure to comply with this condition.

2.2.1 Questions. A proposer with additional questions regarding this solicitation or a related document(s) may submit a written request for clarification to the solicitation via VendorLink no later than the “last day to request additional information or clarification.” Any interpretation to a proposer shall be via written addenda posted on VendorLink before the proposal’s due date. Any information that amends any portion of this RFP, received by any method other than an addendum issued to this RFP, is not binding on HCPS. Where there appears to be a conflict between this RFP and any addendum issued, the last addendum issued will prevail.

2.2.2 Addenda. Those interested in responding to and receiving addenda to this RFP, or any other HCPS procurement opportunity, must log on to VendorLink and select "active bids," search for this RFP and download the document(s). Downloading the document will enter your email address as a participant and will provide notifications and updates for this RFP. Each proposer must, before submitting the proposal, determine whether addenda were issued via VendorLink and if so, download and respond accordingly to such addenda.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 6 of 30

2.3 PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL

The Proposer is solely responsible for the on-time delivery of the proposal solely via VendorLink. No mailed hard copies will be accepted. HCPS will not review proposals before the due date and time.

2.3.1 Submittal Delays. Possible delays to the last day for questions or the submittal due date may involve the following, without limitation:

2.3.2 Questions/Due Date Extension. HCPS reserves the right to amend this RFP’s due date before the originally posted due date, via VendorLink.

2.3.3 Weather Conditions. Should weather conditions require HCPS to close its offices on the Proposal due date, said date will become effective on the same hour of the following HCPS business day or as posted by HCPS via VendorLink.

2.3.4 Responsive Proposal. A responsive proposal meets the requirements of this RFP, including the provision of all documentation, supporting exhibits, on-time submission, and all required signatures. HCPS is not responsible for the proposer’s discrepancies or inconsistencies provided in the proposal. HCPS may reject any proposal it deems as non-responsive. Failure to comply with these requirements may cause HCPS to deem the proposal as non-responsive.

2.3.5 Uploaded Proposal Format. The proposal must be electronic and organized as specified to maintain comparability and consistency in the evaluation process. Avoid elaborate promotional materials and provide only requested information. All supporting materials should reference the portion of this RFP to which they pertain.

2.3.6 Variance from Terms. The proposal must identify all variances from specifications, terms, and/or conditions regardless of how slight. Otherwise, HCPS will assume that the proposed commodities and services shall fully comply with the specifications, terms, and conditions herein.

2.3.7 Forms. Unless otherwise specified, proposers must use the form(s) furnished by HCPS. Failure to do so may be cause for rejection of the proposal.

2.3.8 Missing Attachments/Documents. The proposal must include all required attachments and requested documentation. HCPS will not review proposals nor acknowledge receipt of a proposal before the due date and time. HCPS cannot accept any missing documents after the due date unless HCPS deems the missing document as non-material to the evaluation of the proposal. All missing documents must be submitted to the Procurement Officer within 72 hours of the submitted request, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays. All communications between Procurement Services and the proposer shall be via email. HCPS shall not be responsible for emails that flow into a proposer’s spam folder.

2.3.9 Signatures. An officer or employee who has the authority to bind the organization must sign the proposal, in ink or digitally.

2.3.10 Public Inspection of Proposal. HCPS will provide a proposer’s representative with written notice if a public records request has been made for a confidential portion(s) of their proposal to this RFP. HCPS will provide for the inspection or copying of any non-exempt portions of any proposal in its possession by applicable law. If a Proposer wishes to preclude the inspection or copying of any non-exempt portions of its proposal or if a dispute exists as to whether such portions are entitled to an exemption, the proposer must obtain a protective order from a court of competent jurisdiction prohibiting the inspection or copying of the requested materials.

The failure to timely initiate such legal proceedings shall constitute a waiver by the proposer of any applicable exemption or confidential status of the requested materials. By submitting a proposal to this RFP, the proposer agrees to waive any cause of action or claim for damages it may have against HCPS for its release of records in response to a public record request other than those that are prepared and labeled as confidential or exempt as described in this section. The proposer agrees to hold HCPS harmless from any award to a plaintiff for damages, costs, or attorney’s fees based upon HCPS’ non-disclosure of portions of the proposer’s response that have been prepared and labeled as confidential or exempt from public inspection and further agrees to reimburse HCPS for any attorney fees and costs it may incur in the defense of such non-disclosure.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 7 of 30

2.3.11 Trade Secret. If applicable: all “trade secret” information submitted in response to this RFP shall be submitted in compliance with §§ 119.07 and 812.081, Florida Statutes, and shall be submitted in a separate file and so named. A failure by the proposer to prepare and label the confidential or exempt portions of their proposal in the manner specified herein shall constitute a waiver by the proposer of any applicable exemptions from disclosure or any confidential status including ones that may be applicable to trade secrets under Florida law. If challenged, the proposer who submits the trade secret information shall bear all costs associated with defending their position.

2.3.12 Joint Proposal. HCPS will recognize a single proposer as the primary contractor, should multiple proposers submit a joint proposal in response to the competitive solicitation. If offering a joint proposal, the prime contractor must:

• include the name and address of all parties of the joint proposal; and

• provide all bonding and insurance requirements, execute the contract, complete the proposal, and have overall and complete accountability to resolve any dispute arising within the award. Only a single award with the submitting proposer shall be authorized by HCPS: and

• be responsible for the performance of services associated with response to this RFP and overall contract administration; and

• preside over other Proposers participating or present at HCPS meetings, oversee the preparation of reports and presentations, and file any notice of protest and final protest as described herein; and

• prepare and present consolidated invoice(s) for services performed. HCPS shall issue only one check for each consolidated invoice to the prime contractor for services performed.

2.4 EVALUATION PROCESS

Procurement Services shall forward only those on-time proposals to the assigned HCPS Evaluation Committee (the “Committee”) for further evaluation. HCPS will not evaluate non-responsive/responsible proposals. The Committee may consist of HCPS personnel and additional stakeholders who will review, discuss, and rank the proposals. Procurement Services personnel will participate as facilitators. The Committee may deem additional Proposers as non-responsive or non-responsible and will not pursue further evaluation. Please note that HCPS reserves the right to:

• prefer to contract with the proposer(s) that are in full compliance with the provided terms and conditions stipulated in this RFP. However, after the allowance for any deviations, a proposal with alternatives may be considered. HCPS cautions proposers to indicate all restrictive deviations from the desired terms and conditions;

and

• select the proposal(s) deemed to be in its best interest and shall be the sole judge and final arbiter of its own best interest, the evaluation of submissions, and the resulting negotiated agreement; and

• deem that if in receipt of an adequate number of proposals, HCPS may choose to evaluate only those proposals as submitted and require no additional clarifications and/or information. The proposer should provide complete and thorough proposals, including the proposer’s most favorable terms.

• cancel this RFP or reject proposals at any time before an award and without further discussion; and

• perform a side-by-side comparison of like proposals. Procurement Services shall perform the preliminary phase upon initial proposal screening, this phase shall pass or fail, as determined by Procurement Services as to whether:

o all required forms are signed, submitted, or obtainable; and o the Proposer meets the minimum requirements; and o whether the information provided is in the required sequence to simplify the comparison of proposals.

2.4.1 Evaluation Phase 1. The Committee will rank proposals based on the stated summarized Weighted Criteria. The method of the award will be based on a qualitative appraisal rating and ranking of responsiveness to this RFP’s criteria, based on available point totals for each evaluation criteria and not on a percentage factor. The Committee will evaluate and rank responsive proposals on the evaluation criteria listed below. The criteria are

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 8 of 30 itemized with their respective weights for a maximum of 100 points. A proposer may receive the maximum points or a portion of this score depending on the merit of its proposal, as determined by the Committee.

EVALUATION PHASE I: DESCRIPTION WEIGHT

Section 3. Specifications/Scope of Work. 30 This section shall provide HCPS with information regarding the Proposer’s understanding of the required scope of work (tasks and service levels) and the vendor’s ability to provide deliverables within the required timeframe, and (if applicable) submit an optimal timeline with milestone payment information for the completion of deliverables, and provide optimal customer service.

Sections 4 & 5. Qualifications and Experience/Required Forms and All Signatures. 29 This section shall provide HCPS with information regarding the Proposer’s experience and qualifications with the related commodities and contractual services and their abilities.

Section 6. Cost/Value. 31 The price proposal shall be evaluated to determine the overall best value.

Utilization of HCPS-registered Small Business Enterprises 10 Evaluated by Procurement 1 point for each 10% of the funding to the HCPS-registered SBE.

0 points: 0% to 9% 6 points: 60% to 69% 1 point: 10% to 19% 7 points: 70% to 79% 2 points: 20% to 29% 8 points: 80% to 89% 3 points: 30% to 39% 9 points: 90% to 99% 4 points: 40% to 49% 10 points: HCPS SBE-Registered Vendor or 100%.

5 points: 50% to 59%

2.4.2 Evaluation Phase 2 (Optional). A short-list of proposers may be invited to provide Phase 2 presentations or provide answers to additional questions (via written, virtual/online, or phone means). For presentations, the proposers are encouraged to provide a multi-media presentation to include, but not limited to, additional discounts, answers to provided questions, question and answer session, and a summary of its capabilities and industry advantages within the HCPS-allotted time. All invited proposers shall be allotted the same amount of presentation time. Upon completion of this phase, the Committee will re-evaluate, re-rate, and re-rank the proposals remaining in consideration based upon the written documents combined with the oral presentation or answers to questions and the best and final offer.

2.4.3 Negotiations. Procurement Services may negotiate the proposed terms, conditions, and rates with the highest-ranked Proposer(s) before submittal to the School Board. HCPS may seek to reach acceptable terms with any Proposer or terminate discussions as it deems to be in its best interest. HCPS may continue the process until it reaches an agreement or until the termination of the process. For Single Negotiations, HCPS negotiates with the top-ranked Proposer. For concurrent negotiations, HCPS negotiates simultaneously with two or more top-ranked proposers after Phase 1. Negotiations continue simultaneously until a ‘best and final offer’ is reached resulting in a satisfactory agreement.

2.4.4 Tie Proposals. Tie Proposals that are identical in the Evaluation Committee scoring and meet all the requirements and criteria outlined in the competitive solicitation. If this should occur with the highest-ranked Proposals, priority for the award shall be given to vendors in the following sequence:

• A business that certifies that it has implemented a drug-free workplace.

• Office of Supplier Diversity certified small business vendor.

• Small/business certified by a governmental entity in Hillsborough County.

• Small/business certified by a governmental entity in the Tampa Bay area.

• Florida-certified small/business.

• Business located in Hillsborough County.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 9 of 30

• Businesses receive the larger dollar award on other items within the bid.

• Business located in Florida.

• A flip of a coin.

2.5 AWARD

2.5.1 Award by Group, Category, Area, or Item. As deemed to be in its best interest, HCPS reserves the right to make award(s) by individual item, group of items, all or none, or a combination thereof; on a geographical basis and on an HCPS-wide basis with one or more Proposals; to reject any or all offers or waive any irregularity or technicality in Proposals received. The Proposer is cautioned to make no assumptions unless their Proposal has been evaluated as being responsive. Any or all award(s) made because of this competitive solicitation shall conform to applicable HCPS, State of Florida, and Federal rules, regulations, and laws.

2.5.2 No Award. HCPS shall have the authority to reject any or all proposals submitted in response to this competitive solicitation and request new proposals or purchase the required commodities and services in any other manner authorized under Rule 6A-1.012, F.A.C.

2.5.3 Rejection of All Proposals. Per §§ 119.07(1), Florida Statutes, and 24(a), Article I of the State Constitution, HCPS may reject Proposals submitted in response to this competitive solicitation and shall remain exempt from §§ 119.07(1), Florida Statutes. and 24(a), Article I of the State Constitution, until HCPS provides notice of an intended decision concerning the reissued solicitation or until HCPS withdraws the reissued solicitation, not to exceed twelve (12) months from the date of the Notice of Rejection.

2.5.4 Contract. The provisions of the awarded proposal are deemed acceptable by HCPS, and a best and final offer shall be incorporated as the award and become legally binding.

2.5.5 Additional Awardees. HCPS reserves the right to award additional vendors throughout the term of the Agreement to ensure HCPS’ needs are met promptly.

2.5.6 Notice of Intent to Award/Rejection. HCPS will post a Notice of Intent to Award/Rejection to enter into one or more contracts with the Proposer(s) identified therein, via VendorLink.

2.5.7 No Contract Until Execution. A notice of intent to award under this RFP shall not constitute or form any contract between HCPS and the proposer. No contract is formed until HCPS provides notice of award or purchase order.

2.5.8 Committee Tabulation. The Committee’s tabulation will be posted via VendorLink. Tabulation of Proposal selections may also be viewed via the link located on the Board’s View Current Agendas page:

https://go.boarddocs.com/fl/sdhc/Board.nsf/Public.

2.6 PROTEST

A Proposer who wishes to file a Proposal protest must file a notice and follow procedures prescribed by § 120.57(3), Florida Statutes, for resolution. For bids solicited by Procurement Services, the notice must be filed with the General Manager of Procurement Services. Any person who files an action protesting a decision or intended decision concerning a Proposal under § 120.57(3)(b), Florida Statutes, shall post, at the time of filing the formal written protest, a bond payable to the Board for $5,000 or three (3%) percent of the estimated value of the contract, whichever is greater, conditioned upon payment of all costs and fees which may be adjudged against the protestor in the administrative hearing. If at the hearing the Board prevails, it shall recover all costs excluding attorney's fees from the protestor; if the protestor prevails, the protestor shall recover from the Board all costs excluding attorney's fees.

Failure to file a notice of intent to protest, or failure to file a formal written protest within the time prescribed in § 120.57(3), Florida Statutes, shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

2.6.1 Purchase Order. Award by the Board shall not constitute an order. The Awarded Vendor must receive an HCPS purchase order before the provision of any product or service. Shipments shall be as specified on the purchase order, conforming to the proposal form, specifications, and general instructions.

https://go.boarddocs.com/fl/sdhc/Board.nsf/Public

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 10 of 30

2.7 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Read and sign the separate document titled “Appendix: General Terms and Conditions for Request for Proposals” at www.myvendorlink.com. In the event of a conflict between the solicitation documents, the order of precedence shall be the best and final offer, negotiated terms and conditions, HCPS-issued addenda, this competitive solicitation, and the Appendix: General Terms and Conditions for Request for Proposals.

SUBMIT THIS SIGNATURE PAGE WITH YOUR PROPOSAL

A signature acknowledges that the Proposer has:

• thoroughly read the above Section 2; and

• read the General Terms and Conditions (see Section 2.7); and

• filled in and submitted the W-9 Form (see Section 2.8); and

• the Proposer has submitted the Proposal without collusion with any other individual or firm.

Vendor Name

Signature of Proposer’s Authorized Official Date

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 11 of 30

3 SCOPE OF SERVICES

3.1 HCPS’ CURRENT STATE. For the 2024-2025 school year, HCPS’ Psychological Services has multiple school psychologist vacancies, impacting various school sites. HCPS Psychological Services continues to collaborate with the HCPS recruitment office, hold virtual job fairs, present at local universities, and advertise on various platforms to recruit school psychologists. School psychologists fluent in English (reading and writing) are needed. Additionally, due to our culturally and linguistically diverse student population, bilingual practitioners are also in demand.

3.2 SPECIFIC NEEDS AND GOALS. HCPS Psychological Services aims to hire multiple school psychologists or contracted school psychologists with active licenses from the Florida Department of Health (FDOH).

Requirements: HCPS is actively seeking individuals and staffing agencies to provide school psychologists who meet the following essential requirements:

3.2.1. Experience and Qualifications. The school psychologist must:

• Have a valid and current FDOH license as a school psychologist or a psychologist (with a specialization in clinical psychology). The FDOH licenses must be current and include identifiable information such as full name, license number and validity period.

• Have a minimum of three years of experience as a school psychologist or psychologist.

• Have training and experience as a school psychologist or clinical psychologist conducting psychoeducational evaluations of children from pre-kindergarten through grade 12, including active participation in special education meetings.

3.2.2 References and Past Performance. The Proposer must include in their proposal the following information:

• Specify the number of FDOH-licensed school psychologists and clinical psychologists ready to deliver services to

HCPS.

• Provide an explanation of their experience in supplying psychologists and clinical psychologists to educational institutions servicing psychoeducational evaluations to pre-kindergarten through grade 12 students.

3.2.3 Scope of school psychologist services includes the following responsibilities:

• Must work on-site for the completion of psychoeducational evaluations for students. Meeting Attendance can be on-site (preferred) or virtual.

• Defines Evaluation/Report completion by addressing reasons for concern and including the following:

a. evaluation of the student (including direct and indirect assessment using observations and questionnaires completed by teachers and parents).

b. composition of a psychoeducational evaluation report utilizing a template provided by the district.

• Defines Meeting Attendance as:

a. participation in relevant meetings to determine special education program eligibility.

b. participation in the team development of an Individual Education Plan meeting, if needed.

• Demonstrates outstanding written and oral communication skills.

• Understands and engages in legal and ethical behavior, as defined by the appropriate governing entity (i.e., Florida Department of Education (FDOE), FDOH, National Association of School Psychologists, American Psychological Association).

• Possesses the ability to select, administer, and interpret appropriate psychoeducational assessments for students with suspected disabilities per the FDOE and the district protocol (see Deliverables section 3.2.3).

• Includes assessment tools such as standardized instruments, informal measures, parent and teacher rating scales, and behavioral observations, as appropriate for the area(s) of concern.

• Considers linguistic, cultural, and/or physical factors when selecting assessment instruments.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 12 of 30

3.2.4 Deliverables. The school psychologist is required to:

• Complete 10-12 (full-time) or 5-6 (half-time) psychoeducational evaluations of students, per month, including direct observations and assessments, parent and teacher rating scales, relevant feedback conference to parent/guardian, and written psychoeducational evaluation report.

• Utilize test kits, test record booklets, equipment, technology access, office supplies, and other related materials provided by HCPS.

• Provide all student evaluation records (including test protocols and electronic versions of psychoeducational evaluation reports) to HCPS for retention for the time specified by the Florida Department of State General Records Schedules.

• Provide individually administered assessments in the following areas when the corresponding disability or giftedness is suspected:

o Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Intelligence; academic achievement; social/emotional/behavioral functioning; adaptive functioning per parent and teacher completion of standardized questionnaires;

standardized instrument specific to ASD o Emotional/Behavioral Disability: Behavioral observations; academic achievement; interview data;

emotional/behavioral functioning; developmental functioning (as needed); review of evidence-based interventions previously implemented.

o Gifted: Intelligence o Intellectual Disability: Intelligence; pre-academic or developmental scale (as appropriate); academic achievement in reading, mathematics, and writing; adaptive functioning per parent and teacher completion of standardized questionnaires.

o Other Health Impairment: Preacademic or academic skills; behavioral rating scale relevant to the health condition (e.g., adaptive functioning per parent and/or teacher, standardized ADHD scale); additional assessment may be needed if significant deficits are evident.

o Specific Learning Disability: At minimum, academic achievement in the subject area(s) of concern as reported by the school and observed/suspected by the examiner during the evaluation. Additional assessments, as warranted.

*Note: The Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scales – Second Edition may only be used for Gifted Program evaluation and when deemed appropriate given the characteristics of the student.

• Compose a formal, written report that fully addresses the referral question(s), summarizes psychoeducational evaluation information, and is completed within federal and state-mandated time frames. Consult Psychological Services administrator(s) when evaluation results suggest additional referral questions or concerns need to be addressed.

• Consult and collaborate with Student Services Team members, educators, colleagues, students, families, and other professionals, as needed, to complete psychoeducational evaluations and written reports.

• Attend relevant meetings to determine special education eligibility/ineligibility.

• Participate in team development of Individual Education Plans, if needed.

3.2.5 Administrative Process includes:

• HCPS Psychological Services administrators will interview potential candidates for contracted work.

• The Contractor will be compensated a flat rate upon the completion of the Psychoeducational Evaluation and Report. A flat rate for Evaluation/Report per case type must be submitted in the proposal for each of the following special education exceptionalities:

o Autism Spectrum Disorder; and o Emotional/Behavioral Disability; and

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 13 of 30 o Gifted; and o Intellectual Disability; and o Other Health Impaired; and o Specific Learning Disability.

o For cases where dual exceptionalities are considered, compensation will be based on the exceptionality with the higher flat rate (excluding exceptionalities such as Language Impaired, Speech Impaired, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy).

• The Contractor will be compensated at a flat rate for Meeting Attendance during special education eligibility/ineligibility meetings and Individual Education Plan development, if needed.

• Travel within Hillsborough County is required. Travel expenses must be included in the flat rate pricing.

• The contracted psychologist must not be employed by HCPS in any capacity or as a school psychologist by HCPS within the prior school year.

• The Contractor must not hire any HCPS employee to perform services like those outlined in the scope of work of this RFP for 12 months following the termination of the employee’s employment with HCPS.

• The Contractor must not provide licensed school psychologists working in a job share program (i.e., 50%) position with HCPS.

3.2.6 Nature of Relationship. Nothing in this competitive solicitation shall be construed to create the relationship of principal and agent, or employer and Employee, between HCPS and the Contractor.

3.2.7 Relationships of the Parties. The Contractor is an independent contractor and not an employee, agent, partner, or joint venturer of HCPS. The Contractor shall have no authority over HCPS. The Staff provided by the Contractor shall be deemed employees or contractors of the Contractor, and the Contractor shall be solely responsible for their supervision, direction, compensation, and any required benefits.

3.2.8 Questions for Vendors. Please provide answer to the following:

1. Does the contracted agency have a dedicated customer support representative?

3.2.9 Customer Support Services. The vendor will be available to discuss contracted professionals’ performance. If the contracted professional(s) performs poorly, HCPS reserves the right to discontinue utilizing the contracted professional(s) with notice of 30 calendar days.

3.3 INTENT. Given HCPS Child Find responsibilities (i.e., identifying students with disabilities) and identifying gifted students, additional school psychologists must be directly/indirectly hired to fulfill this need.

As Child Find needs are met, students will receive the appropriate level of support leading to better educational outcomes, which may include Exceptional Student Education identification and the delivery of specialized instruction.

Additionally, the identification of students can lead to increased FTE for the district to provide such services.

Primarily, contracted school psychologists will be utilized for the in-person completion of psychoeducational evaluations.

A secondary function of these contracted individuals includes attending in-person (preferred) or virtual Child Study Team meetings, Exceptional Student Education staffing, Individual Education Plan meetings, and 504 meetings. These individuals will not be assigned to a specific school setting, but rather they will be 100% itinerant, and serve multiple schools.

HCPS proposes to contract with the highest-ranked proposer(s) to employ multiple school psychologists with active Florida Department of Health licenses as school psychologists.

3.3.1. Changes In Scope of Services. HCPS may order changes In the required commodities and contractual services consisting of additions, deletions, or other revisions within the general scope of the solicitation. Unless accepted by a mutually signed written amendment, The Awarded Vendor may make no changes related to the scope of services, amount of compensation, or any other adjustments to the Agreement. If the Awarded Vendor believes that a commodity or contractual service is not within the scope of services of the Award, is a

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 14 of 30 material change, or will otherwise require additional compensation to the Contractor, the Contractor must immediately notify the General Manager of Procurement Services in writing of this belief. If the General Manager of Procurement Services agrees that the commodity or contractual service is within the scope of the award, as written, the Awarded Vendor shall continue providing the commodities or contractual services as changed and at the cost stated for the product or service within the scope. The Awarded Vendor must assert its right to an adjustment under this clause within 30 days from the date of receipt of the written order. The General Manager of Procurement Services reserves the right to negotiate with the Contractor without completing the competitive bidding process for commodities and contractual services like those specified within the solicitation for which requirements were unknown upon release of the solicitation.

3.4 ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES

To calculate the amount of a protest bond, this contract is valued at approximately $ 3,382,238 for the initial term. This is only an estimate, and the actual amount may vary. HCPS will not be held responsible if actual purchases do not equal this amount.

3.5 AGREEMENT TERMS/RENEWALS

The initial term will begin upon approval by the Board and shall automatically renew for up to four (4) additional one (1) -year periods as appropriations allow in the budget, the Contractor’s performance, the continued need for the commodities and services, and mutual agreement between HCPS and the Contractor to provide the commodities and services required under the Agreement as outlined in the Scope of Work/Services and maintain the same terms and conditions as delineated herein.

3.5.1 Temporary Renewal. If HCPS needs to extend the Agreement beyond the stated renewal period(s), HCPS and the Contractor may agree to renew the Agreement for a period not to exceed 180 days.

3.5.2 Price/Rate Provision. Pricing shall remain firm for the contract period.

3.6 COVER LETTER

The Proposer shall provide a one to two-page cover letter to include the Proposers:

• understanding of the requirements and scope of services of this solicitation; and

• interest and ability to perform the requirements of this solicitation; and

• principles, including contact information; and

• representatives, including the contact information, of those who will represent Proposer during the solicitation process; and

• signature (by an authorized representative who may legally bind Proposer to the promises provided in its proposal)

SUBMIT THIS SIGNATURE PAGE WITH YOUR PROPOSAL:

The below signature acknowledges that the Proposer has read the above Section 3. Scope of Services thoroughly before submitting the Proposal, will fulfill the applicable obligations per the above terms and conditions, and is submitting without collusion with any other individual or firm.

Contractor Name

Signature of Proposer’s Authorized Official Date

Name and Title of Proposer’s Authorized Official

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 15 of 30

4 QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

4.1 QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

The Proposer shall provide a 2–4-page summary of their qualifications including related skills and market strengths. If applicable, include subcontractor qualifications. Provide information regarding past working relationships on similar projects. This section also includes the following:

• Key Personnel. Identify key personnel and provide biographical information (resumes) about their backgrounds, expertise, and job descriptions. Also, provide a staffing plan (including key personnel, number of dedicated team members, and team members’ professional qualifications).

• Technical Staff. Proposer must provide the number of technical personnel employed and how many will be available to support HCPS.

• Proposer Resources/Equipment. The Proposer must list all resources available to provide the required contractual services. At a minimum, list all applicable assets, such as equipment, vehicles, and any applicable specialized skills.

4.2 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Please read carefully: The Proposer must provide, with the proposal, proof that they meet the following minimum qualifications. A Proposer who submits a Proposal that fails to meet the minimum qualifications will be deemed as non-responsible and will not be evaluated. The Proposer must prove the validity of the stated documents to be in effect at the time of the Proposal's due date. The proposer must meet the following minimum requirements. Below, respond as to whether you meet the following minimum requirements. You must explain each exception.

Requirement

All marked Exceptions require further explanation from the Proposer.

Agreed / Exception

4.2.1.1 Experience (Corporate). The Proposer shall have been in the provision of the required commodities and contractual services herein for a minimum of three (3) years and must provide proof along with the proposal (including but not limited to):

• articles of incorporation; or

• Sunbiz.org screenshot (or equivalent from the Proposer’s home state if solely shipping commodities); or

• business tax receipts…).

__ Agreed

__ Exception

4.2.1.2 Authorization To Do Business In The State of Florida. Foreign corporations and foreign limited partnerships must provide proof of authorization to do business in the State of Florida. Domestic corporations must be active and in good standing in the state of Florida.

Proposer must provide proof of registration on www.sunbiz.org unless a Contractor will solely provide commodities via mail.

__ Agreed

__ Exception

4.2.1.3 E-Verify. Per § 448.095, Florida Statutes, all employers within the state shall use the U.S.

Agency of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system, https://e-verify.uscis.gov/emp, to verify the employment eligibility of all employees hired during the term of the Agreement. The Contractor shall also require all subcontractors performing work under the Agreement to use the E-Verify system for any employees they may hire during the term of the Agreement. The Contractor must provide evidence of compliance with § 448.095, Florida Statutes. Evidence may consist of, but is not limited to, providing notice of the Contractor’s E-Verify number. Failure to comply with this provision is a material breach of the Agreement and HCPS may choose to terminate the Agreement, at its sole discretion. The Contractor may be liable for all costs associated with HCPS securing the same services, __ Agreed

__ Exception

__ Does not employ State of Florida workers.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 16 of 30 inclusive, but not limited to, higher costs for the same services and bidding costs (if necessary). E-Verify #: _______________________________________________________

4.2.1.4 Proof of Insurance. The Proposer must provide proof of insurance. Also, upon award, at its own expense, the Contractor must maintain an insurance policy in effect at all times during the performance of this Agreement with an insurance company licensed or authorized to do business in the State of Florida having an “AM BEST” rating of A- or better, with coverage and limits of insurance not less than the below coverage amounts. Failure of the Consultant must maintain the required insurance will constitute a material breach entitling HCPS to immediately terminate this Agreement for default. See Appendix A. Insurance requirements.

__ Agreed

__ Exception

4.2.1.5 Provide a valid and current FDOH license as a school psychologist or a psychologist (with a specialization in clinical psychology). The FDOH licenses must be current and include identifiable information such as full name, license number and validity period.

__ Agreed

__ Exception

4.2.1.6 Subcontractors. The Awarded Vendor shall serve as a prime contractor and shall be responsible for all actions taken by its subcontractors and shall bear all liability for the subcontractors’ action under the Award. HCPS must pre-approve each subcontractor and must follow all of the Awarded Vendor’s requirements herein. All Awarded Vendor’s requirements and references to Awarded Vendor herein shall apply to all HCPS-approved subcontractor(s). The subcontractor includes any organization whom the Awarded Vendor utilizes for the provision of commodities and contractual services subject to the Award. The Awarded Vendor must notify HCPS for prior approval as to the use of or replacement of any subcontractor. If applicable, list all subcontractors:

__ Agreed

__ Exception

__ Not Applicable

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 17 of 30

4.3 BUSINESS REFERENCE FORMS

4.3.1 Business Reference Form (#1). In response to this Hillsborough County Public Schools solicitation, 25046A-RFP- DST Contracted School Psychologists, the Proposer (Proposer’s Name):

____ states they have provided similar commodities and services to your organization. Please respond as to the quality of the provided commodities and services. Return this form as soon as possible to the firm for Proposal submission. The filled-in references are due with their Proposal.

Referenced Organization’s Name

Address

Contact Person

Email Address Phone Number __ Yes __ No: Would you use this contractor again?

__ Yes __ No: May we contact you with additional questions?

Total Dollar Amount of Contract: $_________________

PERFORMANCE RATING: EXCELLENT = 4, GOOD = 3, FAIR = 2, POOR= 1, OR N/A

DESCRIPTION OF PERFORMANCE RATING

Overall Technical Performance. The vendor’s technical performance.

Partnership. The vendor’s ability and attention to the quality of outcomes.

Responsiveness. The vendor’s ability to follow instructions, handle complaints, and communicate with the customer’s staff.

Efficiency. The vendor’s overall effectiveness in planning, scheduling, monitoring, and problem-solving.

Uniformity of Commodities/Service Reliability. The vendor’s timely delivery and uniform quality of provided commodities and services.

Key Personnel/Management. The vendor’s ability to provide quality personnel and project oversight.

Overall Experience. Overall customer experience.

Additional Comments.

Signature Date

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 18 of 30

4.3.2 Business Reference Form (#2). In response to this Hillsborough County Public Schools solicitation, 25046A-RFP- DST Contracted School Psychologists, the Proposer (Proposer Name):

______________________________________________________________ states they have provided similar commodities and services to your organization. Please respond as to the quality of the provided commodities and services. Return this form as soon as possible to the firm for Proposal submission. The filled-in references are due with their Proposal.

Referenced Firm’s Name

Email Address Phone Number

Responsiveness. The vendor’s ability to follow instructions, handle complaints, and communicate with customer staff.

Efficiency. The vendor’s overall effectiveness in planning, scheduling, monitoring, and problem-solving.

Uniformity of Commodities/Service Reliability. The vendor’s timely delivery and uniform quality of

Hillsborough County Public Schools Page 19 of 30

4.3.3 Business Reference Form (#3). In response to this Hillsborough County Public Schools’ solicitation, 25046A- RFP-DST Contracted School Psychologists, the Proposer (Proposer Name):

_____ states that have provided similar commodities…