654321-26-0126.pdf

ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

Procurement Department

2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055

New Orleans, LA 70114

Telephone (504) 304-3917 | FAX (504) 309-2879

Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 26-0126

PROFESSIONAL LOBBYIST SERVICES

ELECTRONIC PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DEADLINE:

TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M.

VIRTUAL PRE - PROPOSAL MEETING: THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M.

PROPOSER:

SIGNATURE:

NAME (PRINT OR TYPE):

ADDRESS:

CITY, STATE, ZIP:

TELEPHONE:

EMAIL ADDRESS:

TERMS:

2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055

New Orleans, Louisiana 70114

ADVERTISEMENT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 26-0126

PROFESSIONAL LOBBYIST SERVICES

Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal relative to the above will be received via email submission to the Purchasing Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the

District”) at 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 10:00 A.M.

(CST) on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Specifications and qualifications documents may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools.com; or by contacting the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nolapublicschools.com.

The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 10:00

A.M. (CST). The Virtual link can be found below:

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o-9z_HoBQHOG-beY-UsoYQ

The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best interest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this advertisement shall not be waived.

Paul A. Lucius

Executive Director of Procurement

FIRST INSERTION DATE: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

SECOND INSERTION DATE: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2026

THIRD INSERTION DATE: WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2026

NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The requests for any reasonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings.

http://www.nolapublicschools.com/ mailto:procurement@nolapublicschools.com https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o-9z_HoBQHOG-beY-UsoYQ

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Request for Proposal / Invitation to Bid Instructions

1.0 Overview

1.1 Instructions to Proposers

1.2 Purpose

1.3 School District Profile

2.0 Scope of Services

3.0 General Terms & Conditions

4.0 Specifications

5.0 Special Terms & Conditions

6.0 Evaluation Criteria / Process

7.0 Proposal Forms/Submissions Requirements & Specifications

7.1 Proposal Submission Requirements

7.2 Submittal Requirements/Specifications

Appendix A – NOLA-PS Required Documents

8.0 Authority to Contract on Behalf of Company

9.0 Cost Form

10.0 References

11.0 Indemnity and Insurance

12.0 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility & Voluntary Exclusion

13.0 Certification Regarding Lobbying Form

14.0 Proposer’s Certification Form

15.0 Non-Collusion Statement Form

16.0 Vendor Registration and W-9 Form Link

17.0 Conflict of Interest Form

18.0 Proposer Guaranties and Warranties

19.0 EDGAR Contract Form

Appendix B – Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Required Documents

20.0 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program – Policy & Provisions

1.0 OVERVIEW

1.1 Introductions to Proposers

One signed original proposal shall be submitted electronically and clearly marked: REQUEST

FOR PROPOSAL NO. 26-0126 ON JULY 21 , 2026 AT 10:00 A.M. to Mr. Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement: procurement@nolapublicschools.com.

The Orleans Parish School Board will not be responsible for the opening of, post-opening of, or failure to open a Proposal not properly addressed or identified.

The Orleans Parish School Board will not assume the responsibility for any delay as a result of failure of any entity to deliver Proposals on time.

The Proposal Submission Checklist is provided in Appendix A of this RFP. The checklist contains the required documents needed to be submitted with vendor proposal. All vendors shall refer to the checklist while preparing their proposals to ensure all required documents are submitted (See

Appendix A). Failure to submit required documents shall result in rejection and proposals will not be reviewed by the Evaluation Committee.

No Proposal will be accepted after July 21, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M. under any conditions unless in the best interest of NOLA-PS by an addendum notification.

Pre-Proposal Meeting (via Virtual) Thursday July 2, 2026 @

10:00 A.M.

Last Day for Questions@ 4:00 P.M. (CST) Wednesday July 8 , 2026

Last Day for Addendum Friday July 10, 2026

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE no later than 10:00 A.M. July 21, 2026

Oral Presentations (if applicable) July 30 - July 31, 2026

Evaluation Committee Meeting July 30 – July 31, 2026

Award Notification (approximate) TBD

Execution of Agreement (approximate) TBD

CODE OF SILENCE:

From the date the RFP is issued; through the time the Agreement is finally awarded by NOLA-PS

Elected Officials, Proposers shall not contact any Representatives of NOLA-PS, nor the District

Staff, nor their Advisors or Consultants with respect to this RFP, or RFP process, other than to submit questions or protest in accordance with the Instructions to Proposers therein. This prohibition does not apply to questions or comments sent in writing to the Director of Procurement, or questions made at Pre-Proposal conferences, in presentations before evaluation committees, or during contract negotiations. Proposers who violate this Code of Silence may be deemed non-responsive, and their proposal may be rejected for cause.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS: A complete set of Request for Proposal documents shall be used in preparing proposals; neither the Orleans Parish School Board nor its representatives assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of Request for Proposal Documents.

The forms furnished as part of the specifications MUST be used for filing of Request for

PROPOSALS and must be signed by the proposer. No proposals will be considered unless made on the forms provided and must not be detached from the proposal document of which it forms a part.

Failure to follow these instructions may result in your proposal being disqualified.

OBJECTION TO THE AWARD: If any Proposer who submitted a proposal has an objection to the award of the contract to the Selected Proposer, the objecting Proposer shall furnish that protest, in writing, to the Executive Director of Procurement (or Designee) within ten (10) Business Days of the notification of non-award. The protest shall describe in detail the basis for the protest and shall request a determination under this section of the Instructions to Proposers.

If a protest is filed in a timely fashion, the Executive Director of Procurement (or Designee) will review the basis for the protest and relevant facts under such terms and conditions as he considers proper. Upon completion of the review, the Executive Director of Procurement (or Designee) shall submit applicable findings and recommendations to the Superintendent and/or Chief Financial Officer, who shall then review the matter under such terms and conditions, as deemed proper. Upon receipt of authority to act from the Superintendent or NOLA-PS, the Executive Director of Procurement (or

Designee) will notify those Proposers involved of its decision. The decision shall be final and binding on the objecting Proposer.

WITHDRAWAL OF BID: Any bid may be withdrawn if clear and convincing sworn, written evidence of obvious mechanical, clerical or mathematical error is furnished by the proposer to the

Executive Director of Procurement within 48 hours of proposal receipt.

SUPPLIER PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION: The proposer, vendor, service provider and/or supplier performance process will involve evaluating the proposer, vendor, service provider and/or supplier’s overall quality status, as well as evaluating the quality of each material or service the NOLA-PS wishes to purchase. Prior to the invoice submission, the proposer, vendor, service provider and/or supplier, shall meet with a purchasing representative to discuss and review deliverables and timeline events for said services. Contract with automatic renewals will be based upon the NOLA-PS evaluating and analyzing proposer, vendor, service provider, and/or supplier performance.

DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION: To ensure that the Orleans Parish School Board does not enter into a contract with a debarred or suspended company or individual, each responsive proposer must include a certification statement with each bid. By signing the certification statement, the proposer certifies that neither it nor any of its principals (e.g., key employees) have been proposed for debarment, debarred or suspended by a Federal Agency. It is the responsibility of each proposer to sign the attached certification statement and submit it with the bid. Failure to comply with this requirement will cause your bid to be disqualified and declared non-responsive.

BACKGROUND CHECK: Contractor will not employ any person to provide services who has been convicted, or pled nolo contendere to, any one of the crimes listed in the Louisiana Child

Protection Act. La R.S. 15:587.1 (C). Criminal History Record must be obtained by contractor for all employees to be hired and shall be retained during the duration of the employment. Records are to be updated on an annual basis.

PERFORMANCE INVESTIGATIONS: As part of the proposal evaluation process, the NOLA-

PS may make inquiries and investigations, including verbal or written references from the firm’s customers, to determine the ability of the firm to provide service.

EMPLOYMENT: It is understood that all employees will be employees of the successful firm(s), including but not limited to the successful firm’s subcontractors, partners, etc.

NOTICE TO OFFEROR: The NOLA-PS shall consider the intentional employment by the selected firm of unauthorized aliens in violation of U.S. immigration laws cause for unilateral cancellation of the contract resulting from this RFP.

PROPOSAL FORMAT: Proposals should be prepared simply but completely, providing a straightforward, concise description of capabilities to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. Please carefully read Sections as outlines within the Table of Contents. Emphasis should be on completeness and clarity of content.

SELECTION: Selection shall be made of one or multiple firm(s) deemed to be fully qualified and best suited among those submitting proposals on the basis of the evaluation factors contained in this

RFP. Fee structure/pricing will be considered, but will be one among many determining factors. The

NOLA-PS may cancel this RFP, reject proposals or any portion thereof at any time prior to an award, and is not required to furnish a statement of the reason why a particular qualification was not deemed to be the most advantageous. Should the NOLA-PS determine in writing and in its sole discretion the firm(s) that is fully qualified, or that one firm is clearly more highly qualified than the others under consideration, a contract may be awarded to that firm.

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) PROGRAM:

The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is race & gender-neutral, and open to all business owners regardless of race, ethnicity or gender. DBE firms currently certified with the

Louisiana Unified Certification Program (LAUCP), or the State & Local Disadvantaged Business

Enterprise (SLDBE) Program must submit a copy of their certification letter for eligibility with the offer/response to this solicitation.

The Proposer shall submit the following forms below:

• DBE Responsiveness Form 1

• DBE Responsiveness Form 2

• DBE Certification Letter (for each company)

• DBE Professional Services Compliance Certification Checklist

“DBE Provisions (Attached), which is hereby made a part of this RFP. Failure to include DBE participation; including all signatures and notary, shall cause a firm’s proposal to be non-responsive and cause for rejection. All DBE forms must be properly completed whether or not they are applicable to Proposer. All DBE forms must have a signature and dated. All DBE forms must be properly completed, whether or not they are applicable to Proposer.”

COMPUTED COST SCORE:

The cost evaluation shall constitute fifteen percent (15%) of the total points assigned and will be based upon standard cost rates submitted by the proposers. The proposer with the lowest cost shall receive the highest cost evaluation score. Other proposers will receive a cost score computed as follows:

CSF = (LPC/PC*X)

CSF = Cost Scoring Formula

LPC = Lowest proposed cost

PC = Proposer's cost

X= n% of the total number of points assigned

PURCHASES USING FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS (2 C.F.R. 200).

When NOLA-PS seeks to procure goods and services using funds under a federal grant or contract, specific federal laws, regulations, and requirements may apply in addition to those under state law.

This includes, but is not limited to, the procurement standards of the Uniform Administrative

Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, 2C.F.R. 200

(sometimes referred to as the “Uniform Guidance” or new “EDGAR”). (EDGAR FORM

ATTACHED)

All Vendors awarded a contract under this proposal must complete the NOLA-PS EDGAR Contract

Addendum before a purchase order can be entered as proof of their willingness and ability to comply with certain requirements which may be applicable to specific NOLA-PS purchases using federal grant funds.

This information will be made available to the NOLA-PS for its use while considering their purchasing options when using federal grant funds.

1.2 Purpose

The selected contractor shall provide comprehensive, strategic, and results-driven legislative and intergovernmental affairs services on behalf of the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) and

NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS).

1.3 School District Profile

OPSB currently oversees 71 charter schools and a school with two educational programs for students in secure-care facilities

One of the District’s core responsibilities, as a charter school authorizer, is to hold these schools accountable to a set of performance expectations that help ensure every student is provided with a high-quality education.

The vision of the OPSB is as follows: every student receives a high-quality education that fosters their individual capabilities, while ensuring that they thrive and are prepared for civic, social, and economic success.

The District’s geographical boundaries are concurrent with those of the City of New Orleans. The

District, however, is a separate entity, independent of the City of New Orleans. The District’s governing body is a seven-member elected board.

The District serves more than 43,875 students across Orleans Parish. As of February 2022, the student population was approximately 77.41% African American, 10.71% Hispanic, 8.09% White, 1.65% Asian, 1.9% Multi-Racial, and .18% Native American. Further, the District serves a student population that is 86.22% economically disadvantaged. Approximately 7.28% of the students have limited English proficiency.

The District’s administration has approximately 269 employees. The District’s total proposed general fund budget for 2022-2023 is $556 million dollars, system-wide, and of that $35.5 million is allocated to the District’s administration.

PROPOSAL REJECTION: NOLA-PS shall have the right to reject any or all proposals and in particular to reject a proposal not accompanied by data required by the RFP or in any way incomplete or irregular, including omission of cost and budget information, i.e. in the best interest of NOLA-PS. Conditional proposals will not be accepted.

CONTRACT AWARD: Award shall be made to the Most Qualified Proposer(s) whose proposal is determined to be the most advantageous; thus, when taking into consideration the evaluation factors set forth in the sections that follow, including overall long-term value to the NOLA-PS.

Fees/pricing consideration will not be the sole determining factor. There is no obligation on the part of the NOLA-PS to award a contract.

CONTRACT TERM AND RENEWAL: Contract term will be for a period of one (1) year with an option to renew two (2) additional one (1) year periods. If warranted terms and conditions for an amendment to the contract will be in writing, negotiable and subject to NOLA-PS approval.

ERRORS: NOLA-PS is not liable for any errors or misinterpretations made in responding to this

Request for Proposal.

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION: One electronic original Proposal document to be submitted as per date and time established/set within this Request for Proposal.

INQUIRIES: NOLA-PS will not give verbal answers to inquiries regarding the Request for

Proposals, or verbal instructions prior to the award of a contract. A verbal statement regarding same by any person shall be non-binding. The NOLA-PS is not liable for any increased costs resulting from the acceptance of verbal direction. Cost or problems associated with misinterpretation of the intent of the NOLA-PS will be the responsibility of the proposing firm.

All inquiries must be in writing and addressed to: Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nolapublicschools.com. All inquiries will be answered in the form of an addendum after the pre-proposal meeting. No contact in any form or manner is to be made with any employee of the District except through the Executive Director Of Procurement. Violation of this provision shall be considered grounds for disqualification.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS: A complete set of Request for Proposals documents shall be used in preparing proposals. Neither the Orleans Parish School Board, nor its representatives assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of Request for Proposal Documents.

OPEN COMPETITION: NOLA-PS encourages free and open competition. Whenever possible, specifications and proposal terms and conditions are designed to accomplish this objective, consistent with the necessity to satisfy the needs of the NOLA-PS and to guarantee an economically sound solution. The signature on this proposal guarantees that the prices quoted have been established without collusion with other firms and without effort to preclude the NOLA-PS from obtaining the best possible competitive value. The firm certifies that neither its officers nor its employees have bribed or attempted to bribe or influence in any improper manner any officer, employee or agent of the NOLA-PS.

PREPARATION EXPENSE: All proposals submitted in response to this RFP must be submitted at the sole expense of the proposing firm, irrespective of the final decision of the NOLA-PS as to contract award.

TITLE VI SOLICITATION NOTICE:

NOLA-PS, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat.

252, 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all Proposers that it will affirmatively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation, and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award.

EVALUATION PROCEDURES:

All proposals will be evaluated by the RFP Evaluation Committee that will conduct an independent, objective evaluation of proposals for Professional Governmental Relations Services. All members of the Evaluation Committee must execute a disclosure certifying they do not possess a conflict of interest with any of the proposers. Before beginning the evaluation process, the Evaluation

Committee must review the RFP, concerning not only the scope of work but also the qualifications and the evaluation criteria. See Evaluation criteria – Section 6.0.

The purpose of the Evaluation Committee is to conduct an independent, objective evaluation of

Request for Proposals for Professional Lobbyist Services.

REVIEW AND EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS:

A Finance Department representative shall serve as the Evaluation Committee coordinator and is solely responsible for disseminating all information received during the RFP evaluation process.

After completion and tallying of the technical evaluation scores, each Evaluation Committee member shall sign and date his/her individual score sheet.

NOLA-PS will evaluate proposals on a qualitative basis. This includes our review of the firm(s) proposal and related materials for evidence of prior experience, value-added services beyond the scope of work, qualifications of staff to be assigned to the project, cost effectiveness, and the

Proposer’s completeness and timeliness in its response, etc.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. ALL NOLA Public Schools solicitations/addendums can be found on NOLA-PS website at: www.nolapublicschools.com. Click Community/business resources/solicitations.

http://www.nolapublicschools.com/

ADDENDUM TO REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: NOLA-PS reserves the right to revise and amend the specifications prior to the date set for the opening. Proposers are requested to clarify any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, omission or other error(s) in this RFP in writing and request the modification or clarification desired. NOLA-PS will issue an addendum to evidence any revisions or amendments made to this RFP. As a courtesy, every effort will be made to send an issued addendum to the parties known to have been furnished a complete copy of this RFP. Addenda are made available on the NOLA-PS website under community/business resources/solicitations. Please acknowledge receipt of addendum on Signature Page. Failure to acknowledge all Addenda will result in the proposal being rejected.

All questions must be in writing and electronically submitted to the Executive Director of

Procurement at procurement@nolapublicschools.com no later than 4:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. No addendum will be issued later than Friday, July 10, 2026 or 72 hours prior to proposal due date, except an addendum withdrawing the proposal or postponing the opening of the proposal. It is the responsibility of each Proposer, prior to submitting the qualifications response, to determine if addenda were issued and, if so, to acknowledge the addendum on the applicable form.

Times and dates are final unless there is an unexpected “emergency” beyond NOLA-PS’s control.

ORAL PRESENTATIONS via ZOOM: (Optional)

PRESENTATION DATES: JULY 30 - JULY 31, 2026

NOLA-PS, at its sole discretion may invite the top two to four (2-4) Proposers to provide oral presentations and justify how they propose to meet the Districts’ objectives with RFP No. 26-0126.

Commitments, if any, made by the Proposer at the oral presentation will be considered binding. The evaluation committee has the option to conduct initial reviews of proposals and only host oral presentations of the top 1 to 4 firms in the best interest of the District.

Each firm selected should be prepared to conduct a presentation to the NOLA-PS Evaluation

Committee. The presentations must be shown that the firm clearly understands the requirements of the solicitation and possesses the knowledge, skills, and capacity to complete the work. Firms presenting for the oral presentation process will be notified of their allotted presentation time with the District on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The time frame for the presentations will follow the schedule provided below:

• 10 minutes for vendor set-up and brief Introductions

• 20 minutes for presentations to NOLA-PS Evaluation Committee demonstrating firms’

Qualifications and Expertise with the requirements as it relates to the RFP services

• 15 minutes for question/answer session

• 5 minutes for closing

NOLA-PS is requesting firms respectfully adhere to the assigned time allotted for presentations.

2.0 SCOPE OF WORK/SERVICES

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

intergovernmental affairs services on behalf of the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) and

NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS). This includes representing and advancing the interests of the district before governmental bodies, developing and executing advocacy strategies aligned with

OPSB’s legislative priorities, and providing timely analysis, communication, and guidance on legislative, regulatory, and policy matters that may impact the district.

Services shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Provide representation for OPSB legislative and intergovernmental affairs before the State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans, and conduct research and prepare reports on legislative, regulatory, and related issues as requested.

2. Develop and implement a comprehensive, proactive strategy to advance the OPSB legislative agenda and adopted legislative priorities.

3. Advocate on behalf of OPSB before elected and appointed officials of Louisiana and the

Louisiana Legislature regarding authorization, appropriations, and regulatory matters.

4. Provide proactive and responsive communication and engagement with state and city officials regarding programmatic issues.

The Scope of Work will be Repeated in Section 4.0 Specifications.

3.0 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

3.1 SPECIFICATIONS:

3.1.1 NOLA-PS SPECIFICATIONS have been developed by the Using Department to show minimal standards as the usage, materials, services, and contents based on their needs.

3.1.2 MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS (DESIGN GUIDE). Whenever an article in this proposal is defined by description as either a proprietary product or by using the name of a manufacturer, the Proposer is encouraged to offer an item which is equal in quality, durability and in full compliance with our Specifications. If the term equivalent, alternate, or equal is not inserted, it shall be implied. The specified article or material shall be understood as descriptive, not restrictive.

3.2 RESPONSIBLE VENDOR. A responsible vendor is a vendor who has adequate financial resources (or the ability to obtain such resources), can comply with the delivery requirements, and is a qualified and established firm regularly engaged in the type of business that provides the items listed herein.

3.3 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. NOLA-PS assumes no financial responsibility for any costs incurred by Proposers in developing and submitting a proposal or any amendments or addenda, participating in pre-proposal meetings, participating in any negotiation sessions or discussions, or any other costs incurred by Proposers pursuant to this RFP.

3.4 BEST AND FINAL OFFERS must be received by the date and time provided during discussions and/or negotiations, or the originally submitted proposal will be used for further evaluation and award recommendation.

3.5 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS takes into account the following considerations: price, quality, suitability for the intended use, probability of continuous availability, proposer’s service, safety record, and date of proposed delivery and placement. It is not the policy of

NOLA-PS to purchase on the basis of low proposals alone. (See 6.0 Evaluation and Award of Proposal(s))

3.6 WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS will not be allowed for a period of 120 days following the proposal opening. Rejection or withdrawal after offer is accepted shall constitute a breach of contract.

3.7 RETENTION OF PROPOSAL DOCUMENTATION. All proposal materials and supporting documentation that are submitted in response to this proposal becomes the permanent property of NOLA-PS.

3.8 REBID. NOLA-PS may elect to rebid this project if NOLA-PS believes that, in its sole discretion, it is in the best interest of NOLA-PS to do so.

3.9 MULTIPLE CONTRACT AWARDS. NOLA-PS reserves the right to award multiple contracts under this RFP, including multiple contracts for each product/service category.

Product/Service categories are established at the sole discretion of NOLA-PS. The decision to award multiple contracts, award only one contract, or to make no awards rests solely with 12

NOLA-PS. These facts should be taken into consideration by each Proposer.

3.10 OPEN RECORDS POLICY. NOLA-PS is a governmental entity subject to the Louisiana

Public Information Act. Proposals submitted to NOLA-PS as ab result of this RFP may be subject to release as public information after contracts are executed or the procurement is terminated. If a Proposer believes that its response, or parts of its response, may be exempted from disclosure under Louisiana law, the Proposer must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response that it believes are exempt. In addition, the Proposer must specify which exception(s) to the Louisiana Public Information Act are applicable and provide detailed reasons to substantiate the exception(s). Vague or general claims to confidentiality will not be accepted. NOLA-PS assumes no obligation or responsibility relating to the disclosure or nondisclosure of information submitted by Proposers.

3.11 NOLA-PS RESERVATIONS reserves the right to:

1. Cancel this solicitation in whole or in part, at the sole discretion of NOLA-PS.

2. Accept, reject, or negotiate modifications in any terms of the Proposer's proposal or any parts thereof.

3. Conduct oral interviews/discussions or presentations necessary to select the best value

Proposer and/or to obtain request for pricing.

4. Reject and/or disqualify any or all proposals received.

5. To award contracts for individual products or services as may appear advantageous.

6. To negotiate separately in any manner necessary to serve the best interest of NOLA-PS.

7. Waive any formalities, technicalities, or other defects if deemed in the best interest of

NOLA-PS.

8. Request clarification and/or correction by Proposer(s) to eliminate minor errors, clerical errors, and/or non-substantive irregularities.

9. Be the sole judge of quality and equality.

10. Award one or more contracts, in part or in whole, to a single or multiple Proposers, in

NOLA-PS’s sole discretion.

11. Make all decisions regarding this RFP, including, without limitation, the right to decide whether a proposal substantially complies with the requirements of this RFP.

3.12 DEFAULT CONDITIONS. If the Proposer breaches any provision of the proposal stipulations, becomes insolvent, enters voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy, or receivership proceedings, or makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors, NOLA-PS will have the right (without limiting any other rights or remedies that it may have in the contract or by law) to terminate this contract with five (5) days written notice to the Proposer.

NOLA-PS will then be relieved of all obligations, except to pay the value of the Proposer’s prior performance (at a cost not exceeding the contract rate). The Proposer will be liable to

NOLA-PS for all costs exceeding the contract price that NOLA-PS incurs in completing or procuring the service as described in the proposal. NOLA-PS’s right to acquire strict performance of any obligation in this contract will not be affected by any previous waiver, forbearance, or course of dealing.

3.13 QUANTITIES REQUIRED are substantially correct. The NOLA-PS reserves the right to purchase additional quantities above that stated at the same unit price unless otherwise specified by the Proposer.

3.14 NO GUARANTEE OF QUANTITIES. NOLA-PS makes no guarantee or commitment of any kind concerning quantities that will actually be purchased under this RFP and the resulting contract, if any. NOLA-PS makes no guarantee or commitment of any kind regarding usage of any contracts resulting from this RFP.

3.15 DELIVERIES required in this proposal shall be freight prepaid F.O.B. destination and proposal prices shall include all freight and delivery charges. For shipments (if applicable) designated on the purchase order to the NOLA-PS, 2401 Westbend Parkway, New Orleans, LA. 70114, delivery hours are 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. NO

DELIVERIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER 4:00 P.M.

3.16 OTHER REQUIREMENTS. Any problems or discrepancies that are not covered by the above requirements should be directed to the Director of Procurement, Dr. Shawan Bellow at sbellow@nolapublicschools.com for a determination or clarification prior to any action taken on said problem or discrepancy. If the Proposer fails to make such request, no excuse will thereafter be entertained for failure to carry out the work in a satisfactory manner.

3.17 FUNDING OUT CLAUSE. The term of this Contract is a commitment of the NOLA-PS’s current revenue only.

3.17.1 The Board retains the continuing right to terminate the contract at the expiration of each budget period during the term of the contract.

3.17.2 The contract is conditioned on a best effort attempt by the Board to obtain and appropriate funds for payment of the contract.

3.18 NON-APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS. Renewal of this Contract, if any, will be in accordance with Applicable LAW concerning non-appropriation of funds for multi-year contracts. Notwithstanding any other provision of this RFP/Contract or obligation imposed on NOLA-PS by this Contract, NOLA-PS shall have the right to terminate this applicable

Contract or any Purchase Order without default or liability to Vendor resulting from such termination, effective as of the expiration of each budget period of NOLA-PS if it is determined by NOLA-PS, at its sole discretion, that there are insufficient funds to extend this

Contract or any Purchase Order. The parties agree that this RFP/Contract and/or any

Purchase Order are commitments of the current revenue of NOLA-PS only.

3.19 NO WAIVER OF IMMUNITY. NOLA-PS does not waive or relinquish any immunity or defense on behalf of itself, its trustees, officers, employees, and agents as a result of its execution of this Contract and performance of the functions or obligations described herein.

3.20 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Vendor shall comply with all applicable federal, state, local, and State of Louisiana laws, statutes, ordinances, standards, orders, rules, and regulations, including, as applicable, workers' compensation laws, minimum and maximum salary and wage statutes and regulations, prompt payment and licensing laws and regulations, and building code requirements. For the entire duration of this Contract, Vendor and all subcontractors shall maintain all required licenses, certifications, permits, and any other documentation necessary to perform this Contract. Vendor must pay all fees and charges for connections to outside services and for use of property outside the project site.

3.21 ALL CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS between Merchants and NOLA-PS shall strictly adhere to the statutes as set forth in the Uniform Commercial Code as last amended by the American Law Institute in the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform

State Laws, if applicable. Reference: Uniform Commercial Code or latest, Official Text.

3.22 GOVERNING LAW AND EXCLUSIVE VENUE. The laws of the State of Louisiana, without regard to its provisions on conflicts of laws, govern this Contract. Any dispute under this Contract involving NOLA-PS must be brought exclusively in the state and federal courts located in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the parties hereby submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of said courts.

3.23 PURCHASES USING FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS (2 C.F.R. 200). When NOLA-PS seeks to procure goods and services using funds under a federal grant or contract, specific federal laws, regulations, and requirements may apply in addition to those under state law.

This includes, but is not limited to, the procurement standards of the Uniform

Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, 2 C.F.R. 200 (sometimes referred to as the “Uniform Guidance” or new “EDGAR”). (See

17.0 EDGAR CONTRACT ADDENDUM)

3.23.1 All Vendors awarded a contract under this proposal must complete the NOLA-PS

EDGAR Contract Addendum before a purchase order can be entered as proof of their willingness and ability to comply with certain requirements which may be applicable to specific NOLA-PS purchases using federal grant funds.

3.23.2 This information will be made available to the NOLA-PS for its use while considering their purchasing options when using federal grant funds.

3.24 WORKFORCE (IF APPLICABLE). Vendor shall employ only orderly and competent workers, skilled in the performance of the services, if any, which/shall be performed under this RFP/Contract. Vendor, its employees, subcontractors, and subcontractor's employees may not use or possess any firearms, alcoholic or other intoxicating beverages, illegal drugs or controlled substances while on the job or on NOLA-PS property, nor may such workers be intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs on NOLA-PS property.

3.25 ORDERING PROCEDURES. A purchasing commitment represents an obligation to pay a

Vendor for future delivery of goods or services. NOLA-PS’s purchase commitments are made via Purchase Orders. No payments will be made for work performed or goods delivered before a Purchase Order is issued by the Procurement Department.

Purchase Order do so at their own risk. Purchase Orders are issued by NOLA-PS and submitted electronically to the Vendor by fax or email.

3.26 NOLA-PS will make payments directly to Vendor. NOLA-PS shall alone be liable and/or responsible for payment for product(s) and/or service(s) ordered and must be invoiced directly by Vendor.

3.27 NO SUBSTITUTION. Any Purchase Order issued pursuant to a Contract shall conform to the specifications and descriptions identified in this RFP. Vendor shall not deliver substitutes without prior written authorization from NOLA-PS.

3.28 VENDOR PERFORMANCE. Vendor agrees to use commercially reasonable best efforts to provide the product(s) and/or service(s) subject to this Contract. Vendor shall furnish all supervision, labor, tools, equipment, permits, licenses, transportation, insurance, material, and supplies necessary to complete any scope of work or Purchase Order under this

Contract. Vendor shall use skilled, trained personnel, who shall be supervised by Vendor.

3.29 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY. During the performance of this Agreement, the

Contractor agrees as follows:

(1) The Contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. The

Contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following:

Employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising;

layoff or termination; rates of pay or other of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The Contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices to be provided setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause.

(2) The Contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the Contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

(3) The Contractor will not discharge or in any other maimer discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because such employee or applicant has inquired about, discussed, or disclosed the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant. This provision shall not apply to instances in which an employee who has access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of such employee’s essential job functions discloses the compensation of such other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to such information, timeless such disclosure is in response to a formal complaint or charge, in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or is consistent with the contractor's legal duty to finish information

(4) The Contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which he has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice to be provided advising the said labor union or workers' representatives of the Contractor's commitments under this section, and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment.

(5) The Contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order 11246 of

September 24,1965, and of the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

(6) The Contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order

11246 of September 24, 1965, and by rules, regulations, and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records, and accounts by the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor for p1.nposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations, and orders.

(7) In the event of the Contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this Agreement or with any of the said rules, regulations, or orders, this contract may be canceled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts or federally assisted construction contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and such other sanctions may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order

11246 of September 24, 1965, or by rule, regulation, or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by law.

(8) The Contractor will include the portion of the sentence immediately preceding paragraph (1) and the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (8) in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary of Labor issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The Contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as the administering agency may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions, including sanctions for noncompliance:

Provided, however, that in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction by the administering agency, the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.

The applicant further agrees that it will be bound by the above equal opportunity clause with respect to its own employment practices when it participates in federally assisted construction work: Provided, That if the applicant so participating is a State or local government, the above equal opportunity clause is not applicable to any agency, instrumentality or subdivision of such government which does not participate in work on or under the contract.

The applicant agrees that it will assist and cooperate actively with the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor in obtaining the compliance of contractors and subcontractors with the equal opportunity clause and the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of

Labor, that it will furnish the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor such information as they may require for the supervision of such compliance, and that it will otherwise assist the administering agency in the discharge of the agency's primary responsibility for securing compliance.

The applicant further agrees that it will refrain from entering into any contract or contract modification subject to Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, with a contractor debarred from, or who has not demonstrated eligibility for, Government contracts and federally assisted construction contracts pursuant to the Executive Order and will carry out such sanctions and penalties for violation of the equal opportunity clause as may be imposed upon contractors and subcontractors by the administering agency or the Secretary of Labor pursuant to Part II, Subpart

D of the Executive Order. In addition, the applicant agrees that if it mils or refuses to comply with these undertakings, the administering agency may take any or all of the following actions:

Cancel terminate, or suspend in whole or in part this grant (contract, 1oan, insurance, guarantee);

refrain from extending any further assistance to the applicant under the program with respect to which the failure or refund occurred until satisfactory assurance of future compliance has been received from such applicant; and refer the case to the Department of Justice for appropriate legal proceedings.

4.0 SPECIFICATIONS

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

intergovernmental affairs services on behalf of the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) and

NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS). This includes representing and advancing the interests of the district before governmental bodies, developing and executing advocacy strategies aligned with

OPSB’s legislative priorities, and providing timely analysis, communication, and guidance on legislative, regulatory, and policy matters that may impact the district.

Services shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Provide representation for OPSB legislative and intergovernmental affairs before the State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans, and conduct research and prepare reports on legislative, regulatory, and related issues as requested.

2. Develop and implement a comprehensive, proactive strategy to advance the OPSB legislative agenda and adopted legislative priorities.

3. Advocate on behalf of OPSB before elected and appointed officials of Louisiana and the

Louisiana Legislature regarding authorization, appropriations, and regulatory matters.

4. Provide proactive and responsive communication and engagement with state and city officials regarding programmatic issues.

SPECIFICATIONS:

5. Inform NOLA-PS and OPSB of anticipated or planned changes in state or city policies, regulations, legislation, or procedures that may impact the district. At the conclusion of each legislative session, provide a comprehensive report outlining all changes affecting the district.

6. Provide advocacy at the Louisiana State Capitol and with state elected/appointed officials as requested, including, but not limited to:

• Identifying and monitoring both proposed and introduced legislation that affects or potentially affect OPSB;

• Providing OPSB with copies of monitored legislation and amendments which affect or potentially affect OPSB;

• Appearing before legislative committees and presenting testimony on behalf of OPSB, as requested;

• Coordinating individual meetings with legislators and other elected or appointed officials;

• Coordinate writing legislation or amendments on behalf of OPSB 18

• Monitoring of legislation, interim committee activities, and action of relevant regulatory bodies, appropriated boards and commissions or study group meetings;

• Representing OPSB on legislative and intergovernmental affairs on issues related to the district and its interests.

5.0 SPECIAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

5.1.0 AWARD OF CONTRACT

In accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations for public procurement, award(s) will be made to the responsible Vendor(s) whose proposal(s) is/are determined after evaluation by

NOLA-PS to be the best value to NOLA-PS. To qualify for evaluation, a proposal must have been submitted sealed and on time and must materially satisfy all mandatory requirements identified in this document.

5.2.0 DEVIATIONS AND EXCEPTIONS TO REQUIREMENTS

Deviations or exceptions MUST BE stipulated in Vendor’s response. Deviations and

Exceptions may result in disqualification or acceptance i.e. To be Determined in the BEST interest of NOLA-PS.

5.3.0 CONTRACT BUDGET

Annual budget $95,000.00

6.0 EVALUATION CRITERIA /PROCESS

EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

The evaluation of the proposal will be performed by a committee consisting of designees of NOLA-

PS. It is critical to the ultimate award of this Request for Proposal the proposal be complete and accurate. While cost is an important factor, it should be understood that the NOLA-PS is under no obligation to accept the lowest proposal. In evaluating qualified proposals, the following considerations will be taken into account for award recommendations (if applicable).

Criteria Points

Assigned

A. Successful experience working with the Louisiana

State Legislature, including knowledge of the

Minimum Foundation Program (MFP), state budget, appropriations, and capital outlay processes.

B. Successful experience working with the Office of the

Mayor, New Orleans City Council, Orleans Parish

Legislative Delegation, and State Bond Commission.

C. Qualifications of the firm’s primary lobbyist/personnel assigned to the project

D. Performance history, including costs, control, work quality, and ability to meet schedules and deadlines

E. Cost 15

F. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Goal (DBE) of

35%

Total points possible 100

Please note Cost and DBE will be determined by the Procurement Department.

7.0 PROPOSAL FORMS/SUBMISSIONS

7.1 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

In addition to the requirements stated above, the proposal must address the following:

1. Three (3) to Five (5) client references (see attached form) from school districts to show evidence of past Governmental Relations Services. References must include the complete name of the district and individual contact name, title, phone and email information.

2. A summary of any litigation filed against your company or any of its employees in the past three (3) years which is related to the service that the company…