ESBD_420408_1747341623639_RFP 2025-018- Childcare Materials.pdf

Workforce Solutions Alamo is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Relay Texas (800) 735-2989 (TDD) or (800)735-2988 Voice.

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSALS

RFP 2025-018

Purchase of: Early Childhood Classroom Furniture and

Materials

Date of Release: May 15, 2025

RFP Submission Deadline: June 11, 2025, By 2:00 PM CST

A pre-proposal conference has been scheduled for 9:00 AM CST on May 20, 2025

All questions related to this Request for Proposal must be emailed to Jennifer

Ledford, Contract Manager, jledford@wsalamo.org with copy to procurement@wsalamo.org.

mailto:krodriguez@wsalamo.org mailto:procurement@wsalamo.org

Table of Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION

PART 1 – INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of Request for Proposals (RFP)

1.2 Procurement Standards

1.3 Applicable Authorities

1.4 RFP Schedule

1.5 Issuance and Availability of RFP

1.6 Response Deadline

1.7 Open Records

1.8 Type of Contract

1.9 Contract Period

1.10 Eligible Offerors

1.11 Governing Provisions and Limitations

1.12 Administrative Requirements and Other Limitations

PART 2 – SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Services

2.2 Fees/Charges

PART 3 – PROPOSAL REVIEW AND EVALUATION PROCESS

3.1 Proposal Review and Evaluation

3.2 Proposal Evaluation Criteria

PART 4 – PROPOSAL PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION

ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A – Proposal Cover Sheet.

ATTACHMENT B – Bid Sheet

ATTACHMENT C – Certification Regarding Debarment

ATTACHMENT D – Certification Regarding Non-Discrimination & Equal Opportunity

ATTACHMENT E – Certification Texas Corporate Franchise

ATTACHMENT F – State Assessment Certification

ATTACHMENT G – Undocumented Worker Certification

ATTACHMENT H – Certificate Conflict of Interest

ATTACHMENT I – Certificate of Applicant

ATTACHMENT J – References

General Information

The Workforce Solutions Alamo (WSA) Board serves as the governing board for the regional workforce system, a network of service providers and contractors that bring people and jobs together. We represent the taxpayers of the 13-county Alamo region. Our membership reflects the diverse constituencies of the regional community: business, economic development, education, labor, community organizations and government.

Workforce Solutions Alamo serves Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, McMullen, Medina and Wilson counties.

Mission

Strengthen the Alamo Regional economy by growing and connecting talent pipeline to employers.

Vision

To lead the most integrated community workforce network in the nation.

Sector Base Model

It is the intent of the Workforce Solutions Alamo to collaborate with the Contractors to contribute innovative strategies in the performance of relevant products and services related to design, implementation, coordination, oversight, and reporting of activities/services to support WSA Sector Base

Model.

• Targets a specific industry or cluster of occupations, developing a deep understanding of the interrelationships between business competitiveness and the workforce needs of the targeted industry.

• Intervenes through credible organization, or set of organizations, crafting workforce solutions tailored to that industry and its region.

• Supports workers in improving their range of employment-related skills, improving their ability to compete for work opportunities of higher quality.

• Meets the needs of employers, improving their ability to compete within the marketplace.

• Creates lasting change in the labor market system to the benefit of both workers and employers.

PART 1 - INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

WSA is seeking to contract for the purchase and services of delivery of early childhood indoor and outdoor classroom material and/or furnishings to early childhood programs in the Alamo area which include the following counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, McMullen and Wilson for the purpose of creating and enhancing early childhood indoor and outdoor environments.

1.2 Procurement Standards

This Request for Proposals (RFP) provides a uniform method for the procurement of specified goods/services, allowing for full and open competition. It contains the necessary background, requirements, technical specifications, information, and instructions for responding to the RFP. The services solicited under this RFP are procured under the competitive negotiation method of procurement, as described in the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) Financial Manual for Grants and Contracts (FMGC).

1.3 Applicable Authorities

• All applicable federal statues, regulations, policies, and guidance as presently in effect and as they may become effective during the term of this Award.

• Office of Management and Budget’s Uniform Guidance at 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Uniform

Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements and 2 C.F.R. Part 2900, Department of Labor (DOL) exceptions to 2 C.F.R. Part 200; and

• Approved Local Workforce Development Board Plan including modifications and amendments including: § 38.25 A grant applicant's obligation to provide a written assurance, and defined in §

38.4

1.4 RFP Schedule

The following schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the Board. Offerors should regularly check the WSA’s Board website (www.workforcesolutionsalamo.org) for posted updates. All updates and changes will be posted to BonFire. All times shown are Central Standard Time (CST).

Activity Date

Issuance of RFP May 15, 2025

Pre-Submittal Conference May 20, 2025, at 9:00 AM CST see link below

RFP Questions due by May 21, 2025, by 4:00 PM CST

Issue Q&A Addendum May 23, 2025

Proposals due by June 11, 2025, by 2 PM CST

Contract Start Date TBD

Pre-Submittal Conference Link:

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 260 808 094 603

Passcode: wJ9w8ck7 https://www.twc.texas.gov/agency/financial-manual-grants-contracts https://www.twc.texas.gov/agency/financial-manual-grants-contracts https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-A/part-38/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFRc266e303d57dec5/section-38.25 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-A/part-38/subpart-A/section-38.4 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-A/part-38/subpart-A/section-38.4 https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_M2EzMDU4MzUtMzkyYi00MGY0LTg3ZDktMTk4ZjMwYWZkNjhm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2233ddac6d-ae28-4609-8792-5bc7d9153f37%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22bd41dab2-fa9b-4179-9acd-ef68dd89f6af%22%7d

1.5 Issuance and Availability of RFP

This RFP is issued by the Workforce Solutions Alamo Board, under the direction of the Chief Executive

Officer, 100 N. Santa Rosa, Suite 120, San Antonio, Texas 78207. WSA utilizes BonFire eBid Software for RFP distribution and electronic submission of proposals. To access the portal, Offerors are encouraged to register online workforcesolutionsalamo.bonfirehub.com/portal.

Questions to this RFP will be accepted in writing only. You may submit questions no later than seven days prior to the RFP deadline. All questions received will be responded to by formal addendum. The addendum will be posted on BonFire to view.

Note: All Workforce Solutions Board members, officers, staff, or authorized representatives are precluded from answering questions concerning this RFP or the procurement process. Offerors are asked to respect this condition by not asking questions or making requests for assistance, except to the authorized contact person. Violations may result in disqualification.

1.6 Response Deadline

Proposals must be submitted no later than June 13, 2025, By 2:00 PM CST. Offerors may provide electronic, or physical submissions of proposal responses as follows:

• If Electronic: Offeror must register on BonFire to access the proposal request and to submit required documents: workforcesolutionsalamo.bonfire.com

• If Physical: Submit signed sealed proposal in an envelope to include one (1) printed original and one (1) electronic copy on USB thumb drive of the proposal and mark with

RFP/RFQ solicitation Number and Title indicated on the top of the envelope, to:

Workforce Solutions Alamo

Procurement Department

100 N. Santa Rosa, Suite 120

San Antonio, Texas 78207

The timely delivery of proposals is the sole responsibility of the Offeror. Workforce Solutions Alamo is not responsible for any failures and/or errors of omission. Disputes concerning late or non-delivered proposals cannot be appealed. Any proposals or amendments received after the specified deadline will not be considered and will be deemed as late and non-responsive – NO EXCEPTIONS.

1.7 Open Records

Proposals submitted in response to this RFP are subject to the Texas Public Information Act, Government

Code, Chapter 552, and may be disclosed to the public upon request. Therefore, any confidential, privileged, or proprietary information contained within a proposal must be clearly identified by the

Offeror in the proposal itself (each applicable page clearly marked). Such information will be kept confidential by Workforce Solutions Alamo to the extent permitted by State law.

1.8 Type of Contract

Workforce Solutions Alamo intends to negotiate a contract as a result of this RFP. Any contract resulting from this RFP/RFQ shall be contingent upon the receipt of sufficient funding from the Texas Workforce

Commission (TWC) and other sources. Negotiated contract amounts will be contingent upon funding http://www.workforcesolutionsalamo.bonfirehub.com/portal https://workforcesolutionsalamo.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities received and available. The final contract will be subject to any changes in legislation, regulations, rules, or policies promulgated by the funding sources, including the U.S. Department of Labor and the Texas

Workforce Commission. General and administrative provisions contained in this RFP will be incorporated into the resulting contract.

Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to vary or change the terms of any contract resulting from this RFP, including funding levels, scope of work, performance measures, adding other related programs or services and funding sources, and shortening or extending the contract period, as it deems necessary and in the best interests of Workforce Solutions Alamo.

1.9 Contract Period

It is the intent of WSA to award multiple contracts for the purchase of Early Childhood Classroom Furniture and Materials. The duration of the contract shall be for a 12-month period with the option of two one-year renewals. WSA reserves the right to terminate a contract at any time for convenience or based on contractor performance, matters of noncompliance or insufficient funds.

1.10 Who is eligible to Submit

All Offerors of the requested goods/services are eligible to respond to this. Historically Underutilized

Businesses are encouraged to respond to this RFP.

Entities that are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, voluntarily excluded from participation or the receipt of funds from any federal department or agency are not eligible to respond to this RFP or receive a contract.

1.11 Governing Provisions

1. All proposals submitted to Workforce Solutions Alamo in response to this RFP will become the exclusive property of Workforce Solutions.

2. Proposal, if accepted, will become the basis for the contract scope of work.

3. The purpose of the RFP is to ensure uniform standards and information in the solicitation of proposals for requested goods/services. This RFP is not to be construed as a purchase agreement or contract or as a commitment of any kind; nor does it commit Workforce Solutions Alamo to pay for any costs incurred in the preparation of a proposal or any other costs incurred prior to the execution of a formal contract unless such costs are specifically authorized in writing by Workforce Solutions Alamo.

4. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals received, to cancel and/or reissue this RFP in part or its entirety.

5. This is a negotiated procurement utilizing the Request for Proposal/Bid method, and as such, the selection and award of a contract does not have to be made to the Offeror with the lowest priced, but rather to the Offeror submitting the best value proposal that satisfies Workforce Solutions Alamo and its Board requirements and is determined to be in the Board’s best interests.

6. There is no guaranteed purchase commitment. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to award a contract(s) for any services solicited in this RFP on an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Order quantity, IDIQ basis.

7. Workforce Solutions Alamo is a steward of public funds and is subject to all requirements under

Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and must act with reasonableness as a prudent person when making a decision with public funds.

8. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to extend, shorten, increase, or decrease any contract awarded as a result of this RFP.

9. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to waive any defect in the procurement or to correct any error(s) and/or make changes to this solicitation as it deems necessary. Workforce Solutions Alamo will provide notification of any changes to all known Offerors.

10. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to request additional information, clarification, or explanation of any aspect of a proposal submitted in response to this RFP.

11. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to negotiate the final terms of all contracts or agreements with selected Offerors. Any contract terms negotiated as a result of this RFP may be renegotiated and/or amended in order to meet the needs of Workforce Solutions Alamo.

12. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to contact any individuals, agency, employer, or grantee listed in a proposal, or to contact others who may have experience or knowledge of the Offeror’s relevant performance and/or qualifications; and to request additional information from all Offerors to this

RFP.

13. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to conduct reviews of records, systems, procedures, including credit and background checks, etc. of any entity selected for a contract award. This may occur prior to, or after the award or execution of a contract. Any misrepresentation of the Offeror’s ability to perform as stated in the proposal may result in the disqualification of the Offeror or the cancellation of any contract awarded as a result of this RFP.

14. The Offeror selected for contract award must meet the requirements of Workforce Solutions’ key control certification system to ensure the financial integrity of the entity prior to the execution of a contract. Workforce Solutions, or its designee reserves the right to conduct a pre-award review of the selected Offeror prior to the execution of a final contract.

15. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to withdraw or reduce the amount of any award or to cancel any contract resulting from this procurement if adequate funding is not available or due to legislative changes.

16. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to impose additional requirements and refinements to the terms and conditions, scope of work, performance measures, and funding amounts or sources during the contract term.

17. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to negotiate with the next highest ranked offer if unable to execute an agreement with the awarded offeror.

18. Offerors shall not engage in any activity which would restrict or eliminate competition under this procurement. Violation of this provision may cause an Offeror to be disqualified. This does not preclude joint ventures, partnerships, collaborations, or subcontracts.

19. Offerors shall not, under penalty of law, offer or provide any gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value to any board member, officer, employee, proposal evaluator, authorized agent of the

Board, or elected official for the purpose of having an influencing effect on this procurement.

20. Offerors shall not attempt in any manner to advocate for lobby, or otherwise attempt to influence any board member, officer, employee, proposal evaluator, authorized agent of the Board, or elected official for purposes of having an influencing effect on this procurement.

21. No Board member, officer, employee, or authorized agent of Workforce Solutions Alamo shall participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by Board funds if a conflict of interest, real or apparent, is involved.

22. All proposals submitted must be an original work product of the proposing entity. The copying, paraphrasing or other use of substantial portions of the work product of others and submitted hereunder as original work of the Offeror without written authorization and proper citation, is prohibited. Failure to adhere to this requirement may cause the proposal to be disqualified. All proposals and accompanying attachments will become the property of Workforce Solutions Alamo after submission and will not be returned.

23. The contents of a successful proposal may become a contractual obligation and be incorporated by reference into a contract. Offerors must intend to fulfill all the representations in their proposal. Failure of a Offeror to accept this obligation may result in the cancellation of an award or contract. No pricing error or mistake shall be available to a successful Offeror as a basis for release from proposed services.

Any damages incurred by Workforce Solutions Alamo because of a successful Offeror’s failure to contract may be recovered from the proposing entity.

24. A contract with the selected Offeror may be withheld, at the sole discretion of the Board, if issue of contract or regulatory compliance or questioned/disallowed costs, audit or monitoring findings, or legal issues exist until such issues are resolved to the satisfaction of the Board.

25. Workforce Solutions Alamo reserves the right to deem as non-responsive or to disqualify any proposal that, in its sole discretion, does not comply with or conform to the terms, conditions, specifications, and/or requirements contained in this RFP.

1.12 Administrative Requirements and Other Limitations

1. Workforce Solutions Alamo will provide any training and/or technical assistance needed by the selected contractor regarding Board policies, documents, procedures, etc. that are specific to Workforce

Solutions Alamo.

2. Employees of the contractor are subject to the exclusive control and supervision of the contractor. The

Contractor is solely responsible for personnel matters including hiring, discipline, termination, supervision, criminal background checks, training, evaluation, etc. for its employees.

3. Proof of insurance is not a requirement for the submission of a proposal, but the selected Offeror will be required to obtain and provide proof for all insurances specified in this RFP and provide

Workforce Solutions Alamo with proper certificates or policies prior to commencing work under a contract resulting from this RFP. Workforce Solutions Alamo must be listed as an additional insured on the Certificate of Insurance. Policies must remain in full force for the duration of a contract. Any changes in insurers, coverage, deductibles, modifications, alterations, or cancellations of coverage during the term of the contract must be immediately communicated to the Board. The following insurances/bonding are required:

a. General Liability – Contractor must carry general liability insurance coverage sufficient to cover any liability that may arise from the performance of a contract resulting from this RFP.

General liability must cover bodily injury and property damage to a third party and personal injury; $500,000 each occurrence or

$1,000,000 aggregate is required. A reasonable deductible is allowed, but not to exceed $5,000 per occurrence. A consultant must be able to cover the cost of any deductible.

b. Errors and Omissions – Contractor must, at its own expense, must carry “errors and omissions” insurance or the equivalent. Contract funds cannot be used to pay for Errors and Omissions insurance.

c. Motor Vehicle – if the Contractor or its employees use motor vehicles in the conduct of business under a contract resulting from this RFP, liability insurance covering bodily injury and property damage must be provided through a commercial insurance policy. Such insurance shall provide for a minimum coverage of

$100,000 liability per occurrence; $300,000 aggregate liability; $100,000 property damage;

personal injury protection; uninsured motorist protection, and a maximum deductible of $1000.

Contractor must be able to cover the cost of any deductible.

d. Workers’ Compensation – Contractor must ensure that all employees are covered by worker’s compensation insurance. If self-insured, the contractor must warrant that it will maintain coverage sufficient to cover any liability that may arise from performance under a contract resulting from this RFP.

4. Contractor, including all its employees, must comply with all Information Technology access and user policies and requirements of the Board and/or Texas Workforce Commission.

5. Appeal Process and Procedures for Opportunity to Protest

Workforce Solutions Alamo has the authority to settle or resolve any claim of an alleged deficiency or protest. The procedures for notifying WSA of an alleged deficiency or filing a protest are listed on our website. If you fail to comply with any of these requirements, Workforce Solutions Alamo may dismiss your complaint or protest.

https://www.workforcesolutionsalamo.org/wp-content/uploads/WSA-Bid-Challenge-Procedures.pdf

PART 2 – SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Services

The Workforce Solutions Alamo (WSA) is seeking to contract for the purchase and services of delivery of early childhood indoor and outdoor classroom material and/or furnishings to early childhood programs in the Alamo area which include the following counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, McMullen and Wilson for the purpose of creating and enhancing early childhood indoor and outdoor environments. WSA seeks to contract with vendors of early childhood materials and equipment, to include systems for timely delivery of the material and furnishings. Classroom material and furniture should be developmentally appropriate for infants (0-18 months), toddlers (18-36 months), preschool (3 years), pre-k (4 years) and school age children (5-11 years).

Agency shall demonstrate written evidence of past performance and business endeavors that align with the purpose, values, and vision of WSA, to provide exemplary cost-effective service solutions consistent with the requirements and specifications of the RFP.

The Awarded Contractor will perform in accordance with the Statement of Work, provisions of this contract agreement and its attachments found herein, and all Applicable Law and WSA Policies and

Procedures, attached.

1. Minimum Qualifications

The respondents to this RFP must have the following minimum qualifications. Workforce

Alamo Solutions reserves the right to reject proposals which fail to include this information with the Offerors proposal submission.

a. Offeror must affirm in writing and provide evidence with their proposal submission:

To having provided similar service in scope and size within the past three years for a

Non-Profit, Municipal, or Government Agency.

b. Ability to provide services of delivery of early childhood indoor and outdoor classroom material and/or furnishings to early childhood programs.

c. Offeror must have an online platform for individual ordering with an approval workflow.

2. Statement of Work:

Workforce Solutions Alamo is seeking to contract for the purchase and services of delivery of early childhood indoor and outdoor classroom material and/or furnishings to early childhood programs in the Alamo area which include the following counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, McMullen and Wilson for the purpose of creating and enhancing early childhood indoor and outdoor environments. WSA seeks to contract with vendors of early childhood materials and equipment, to include systems for timely delivery of the material and furnishings. Classroom material and furniture should be developmentally appropriate for infants (0-

18 months), toddlers (18-36 months), preschool (3 years), pre-k (4 years) and school age children (5-

11 years).

WSA plans to purchase curriculum materials and furnishings over a three-year period for an estimated 700 classrooms, serving the specified age groups. These classrooms will be part of child care programs, which include both child care centers and homes. Each program may consist of anywhere from 1 to 30 classrooms.

Please note that the estimated number of classrooms is subject to change based on contract developments or guidance from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Additionally, WSA may request customized kits designed to align with Texas Rising Star standards for both child care centers and homes.

Early Childhood Indoor and Outdoor Material and/or Furnishings

Materials and furnishings should include a wide variety of developmentally appropriate classroom material and furnishings that will enhance early childhood indoor and outdoor environments such as but not limited to:

• Adaptive and Special Education equipment

• Computer software

• Art & crafts materials (Easel, canvas, paintbrushes, palettes, smocks, aprons, crayons, colored pencils, play dough, cookie cutters, etc.)

• Dramatic Arts Materials (Dress-up clothes, costumes, playsets)

• Early childhood curriculum & assessment materials

• Early childhood furniture (cribs, cots, changing tables, organizers, feeding chairs, etc.)

• Early childhood ESL instructional materials

• Fine Motor Activities: Toys, interactive games, puzzles (blocks, figurines, beads)

• First-aid, healthcare & safety supplies

• Manipulatives

• Math/ Science Activity Supplies (measuring tools, rulers, tapes, cups, clocks, kitchen timer, magnets, kaleidoscopes, etc.)

• Music supplies (audio player, headphones, audiobooks, musical instruments - kazoo, tambourine, recorder, drums, toy piano)

• Nap supplies, cots & mats, linens

• Reading Area Materials: Books, DVD's

• Rugs, carpets, mats, floor padding

• Physical education equipment (Early childhood)

• Ride-On, Push/Walk Behind Toys (Scooters, Tricycles, Walkers, etc.)

• Stroller, Buggy

• Toys, interactive games, puzzles

Specific Learning Areas/Categories

Materials and furnishings should include a wide variety of categories to support, enhance and create early childhood environments to include but not limited to:

• Active Play

• Afterschool

• Assessments & Evaluations

• Arts & Crafts

• Blocks/Construction Play

• Books

• Classroom Furniture

• Dramatic Play

• Family Engagement

• Fine Motor/ Manipulatives

• Games

• Infants & Toddlers

• Language & Literacy

• Math

• Music

• Outdoor Learning

• Sand & Water

• Science

• Sensory Exploration

• Social Studies

• Special Needs & Inclusion

• STEM

• Teacher Resource

Professional Development

Professional development associated with the implementation of the classroom materials provided by the vendor.

Delivery

The vendor will be responsible for delivery of furniture and classroom material for early learning programs receiving the items. Delivery of items will be to the early learning programs, which will be different addresses that are in Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Kerr, Kendall, Karnes, Medina, McMullen, and Wilson. The vendor is also responsible for providing tracking, proof of delivery and packing slips for each program to WSA.

Time

The vendor will be responsible for delivering the items by the time frame set by WSA in a professional and timely manner. Items that the vendor has identified to be out of stock or in back order must be communicated to WSA for approval prior to substitutions. WSA will reserve the right to cancel items that are in back order or out of stock if the replacement will be received after the timeframe.

2.2 Fees/Charges

Respondent(s) must Submit proposed prices, in Attachment B, for the services offered and provide an explanation of the Proposer’s price breakdown for services to be performed. The prices offered will be fixed for each term of the contract. Itemize all applicable fees, detailing all elements including your company’s fee for service for the following: WSA will only consider price/fees or mark-up adjustments upon each renewal term.

Offeror may propose an annual escalation in prices but must keep in mind that the competitiveness of prices will be part of the evaluation criteria. Please use Attachment B as part of your reply

PART 3 – PROPOSAL REVIEW AND EVALUATION

PROCESS

3.1 Proposal Review and Evaluation

The evaluation process may consist of:

1. An initial review of responsiveness and compliance with the technical specifications and other criteria specified in the RFP by WSA staff.

2. WSA will evaluate and score all responsive proposals based on the evaluation criteria. The selection and award may be made on the basis of the Proposals initially submitted, without discussion, clarification, or modification. Respondent(s) who submit a Proposal may be required to make an oral presentation(s) of their Proposal to WSA.

3. Scoring and recommendations presented to executive staff.

4. Possible Discussion and appropriate action by the WSA Board of Directors in selecting proposed contractor for contract negotiations, as applicable.

5. WSA reserves the right to negotiate price and terms with all bidders, to accept or reject all or any part of an offer, waive minor technicalities, to request Best and Final Offers from all or any bidders, and make an award that represents best value to WSA. The final price and terms may be determined during Best and Final Offer negotiations. Performance and expenditure information on other contracts or grants may be considered by WSA in awarding funds under this RFP.

3.2 Proposal Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated to determine if the respondent has the organizational capability, demonstrated experience, and reasonableness in cost to perform the scope of work in this RFP. A proposal must achieve an overall score of at least 70 points (excluding HUB bonus points) to be considered for selection and contract award. WSA will base the review and evaluation of proposals upon the following criteria:

Evaluation Criteria:

Item # Description Point Value

1 Background and Experience

➢ Background and Experience

➢ Proposal Responsiveness

➢ References

2 ➢ Qualifications 55

3 Price

➢ Complete Attachment B

4 HUB 5

Maximum Point Total 100

Provide a detailed description to each of the evaluation items listed below:

ITEM 1 – BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE

WSA is interested in the Offerors` background & experience in meeting the RFP specifications.

➢ Offeror’s Background and Experience (About the Company) o Provide detail of previous experience with engagements of similar scope and range as the engagement specified in this RFP.

o Provide length of time that the Proposer has provided the services it provides.

➢ Proposal Responsiveness

➢ Please provide a list of clients you have served in the past year, besides Workforce Solutions

Alamo, and include if they are a non-profit organization or work with the Texas Rising Star or

Early Head Start/Head Start Programs.

➢ Describe the project, the total amount of the project, if the vendor met the clients’ needs and timeline, and provide the number of schools/centers in the project.

➢ Describe Vendor’s service procedure and state the proposed time frame from customer request to product or service delivery and completed.

➢ Describe how Vendor deals with shipping delays. How does Vendor notify its customers of delays?

ITEM 2 - QUALIFICATIONS

➢ Provide a full description of the proposed solution and describe how it meets the requirements of this RFP.

➢ Please provide a link for a review of products being offered to comply with the specifications

➢ Ability to comply with providing a curriculum based on the Texas Rising Star (TRS), Early Head

Start (EHS), and Head Start (HS) Program.

➢ Proven experience working with early childhood materials and furniture.

➢ A track record of successfully fulfilling orders

➢ Service available in the required geographical area.

➢ Describe how your company would provide training to assist childcare providers with implementation of materials and furniture.

➢ Access to high-quality, age-appropriate materials.

➢ Who will be the point of contact for purchases as well as training should your company be selected as a vendor?

➢ Ability to meet delivery deadlines

➢ Capacity to handle multiple delivery locations, if required

➢ Clear communications, customer service, and after-sales support

➢ How are back order, warranties, and return policies managed?

➢ Detail Vendor’s average percentage of on-time delivery

➢ Does the vendor allow for items to be made available for individual ordering, and what does the process look like once the approval process has been completed by WSA?

ITEM 3 -PRICE

WSA is interested in an explanation of the Proposer’s fee structure with price breakdown for all markups for the services to be performed.

➢ Complete Attachment B

➢ Specify all other anticipated or foreseeable costs for the (2) additional one-year options, including projected updates, or any foreseeable maintenance fees, required training/trainer costs, etc.

ITEM 4 - HUB

“Historically Underutilized Business” (HUB) is an entity at least fifty-one percent (51%) owned and operated by minority group members as defined by State law, including female-owned businesses.

➢ A copy of current certification certificate is required, as recognized by the State of Texas HUB Program and/or The South Central Texas Regional Certifying

Authority.

https://texashub.gob2g.com/ https://sctrca.org/ https://sctrca.org/

PART 4 – PROPOSAL PREPARATION AND

SUBMISSION

4.1 General Instructions for Submitting a Proposal

FORMAT – Proposals must be typed, single spaced, using a minimum of 12 fonts for readability. Pages must be numbered. Promotional materials are discouraged. Emphasis must be placed on addressing all the requirements and specifications of this RFP in a clear and concise manner. Any proposal lacking the required items/materials will be deemed non-responsive and may not be considered for review under this procurement.

PROPOSAL LABELING AND SUBMISSION – Proposals must be properly labeled with your firm’s information and submitted in accordance with the instructions and regarding response deadline specified in Part 1 of this RFP. Proposals that are submitted/received after the specified date and time will not be accepted.

Note: Proposals are subject to the Texas Public Information Act, Government Code, Chapter 552, and may be disclosed upon request. Proprietary information will be kept confidential by Workforce

Solutions to the extent permitted by State law. Offerors are reminded to identify and clearly mark all information in their proposal considered to be confidential, privileged, or proprietary (each applicable page must be clearly marked/labeled).

4.2 Sequence of Submission

The proposal must be submitted with all required documents and in the following order:

➢ Proposal Cover Sheet

➢ Table of Contents

➢ Executive Summary

➢ Proposal Narrative

➢ Budget

➢ Proposed Schedule

➢ Business References

➢ Attachments A-J

4.3 Proposal Cover Sheet

Identify a liaison or primary contact person for the proposal, as well as the Signatory Authority (i.e., person who has the legal authority to negotiate and execute a contract on behalf of the proposing entity).

This is also the person who must sign the required Certification forms included as Attachments to this

RFP. Proposers who are certified as a Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) must provide the certification number on the Proposal Cover Sheet and attach a copy of the current notice of certification.

4.4 Table of Contents

Proposals must include a Table of Contents that lists each item of the proposal, including attachments, with corresponding page numbers. Items must be in the order as specified in 4.2 above.

4.5 Executive Summary

Provide a brief (not to exceed 1 page) executive summary highlighting your organization’s history;

qualifications and competence; demonstrated performance; overall approach to providing human resources consulting services solicited in this RFP; expected outcomes (goals and objectives); and any unique or innovative aspects of your service delivery.

4.6 Proposal Narrative

The proposal should provide a complete description of services described/requested in this RFP in narrative form according to these instructions. Narrative responses for each item should be clear, concise, and relevant. Be sure to include all required attachments. If selected and approved for the award of a contract, this section will be used as the basis for the Statement of Work in an executed contract.

ATTACHMENT

A RESPONSE

FORM

SUBMIT TO:

Workforce Solutions Alamo

Purchasing

100 N Santa Rosa

San Antonio, TX 78207

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

(RFP)

Title: RFP for Early Childhood Classroom Furniture and Materials

Number: 2025-018 Closing Date & Time: June 11, 2025, by 2 PM CST

NAME OF PARTNERSHIP, CORPORATION OR INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

MAILING ADDRESS NO RESPONSE: If not submitting a response, state reason below and return one copy of this form

CITY, STATE ZIP

PHONE EMAIL

FAX WEB ADDRESS

TOTAL RESPONSE AMOUNT DELIVERY: Calendar days after receipt of Purchase Order:

days (ARO)

RESPONSES ARE FIRM FOR ACCEPTANCE FOR 120 DAYS

YES NO OTHER

PAYMENT TERMS

% / Net

I certify that this response is made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a response for the same materials, supplies, or equipment and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. I agree to all conditions of this response and certify that I am authorized to sign this response for the responder. In submitting a response to WSA, the responder offers and agrees that if the response is accepted, the responder will convey, sell, assign or transfer to WSA all rights, titles and interest in and to all causes to action it may now or hereafter acquire under the Anti-trust laws of the United States and the State of TX for price fixing relating to the particular commodities or services purchased or acquired by WSA. At WSA’s discretion, such assignment shall be made and become effective at the time WSA tenders final payment to the responder.

AUTHORIZED SIGNAGURE DATE PRINTED NAME/TITLE

Please initial by all that apply. I acknowledge receipt of the following addendum.

Addendum #1 Addendum #2 Addendum #3 Addendum # 4 _

Please Note:

• This page must be completed and returned with your response

• Responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope, marked with response number.

ATTACHMENT B

Early Childhood Curriculum

Proposer: __________________________________________________

Price(s) must include the cost of profit, labor, materials, tools, equipment, freight permits, packaging, insurance, overhead, training, support, maintenance, etc. No additional charges will be accepted.

If the price is “$0.00” or the item is “not offered,” or “included” within another item, it must be stated as such in the corresponding space below. A “blank” or anything other than the format requested in the space below, may be considered a “no bid.” This information will be used in evaluating the Offeror’s proposal.

Item # Description Price

1 Catalog Discount ____%

• The WSA reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities during/ and after as needed without changing unit prices.

• The price of materials and furniture should include all component pieces to complete a unit.

• Vendors may submit additional items for consideration; please list these on a separate sheet for review.

Do not include any items priced over $4,999 including but not limited to any associated fees such as shipping, installation, and/or professional development. Items exceeding this amount require a separate approval process by WSA.

• All orders would be estimated individually on an as needed basis based on the rates provided in response to RFP and MUST obtain written approval from WSA prior to

Proceeding.

ATTACHMENT C

CERTIFICATON REGARDING LOBBYING, DEBARMENT,

SUSPENSION

AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS, AND DRUG-•‐FREE WORKPLACE

REQUIREMENTS

Lobbying: This certification is required by the Federal Regulations, implementing Section 1352 of the

Program Fraud and Civil Remedies Acts, Title 31 U.S. Code, for the Department of Agriculture (7 CFR part

3018), Department of Labor (20 CFR Part 93), Department of Education (34 CFR Part 82), Department of

Health and Human Services (45 CFR Part 93).

The undersigned contractor states that:

No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of Congress, or any employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any federal grant, the making of any federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any federal contract, grant, loan or cooperative agreement.

If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, and officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this federal contract, grant, loan or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form- LLL, “Disclosure Form to

Report Lobbying”, in accordance with its instructions.

The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all sub-awards at all tiers (including subcontracts, sub-grants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub-recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.

Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters: This certification is required by the Federal

Regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Government-wide Debarment and Suspension, for the

Department of Agriculture (7 CFR Part 3017), Department of Labor (29 CFR Part 98), Department of Education

(34 CFR Parts 85, 668 and 682), and Department of Health and Human Services (45 CFR Part 76).

The undersigned contractor certifies that it or its principals:

Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any Federal department or agency.

Have not within a three-•year period preceding this proposal been convicted or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (federal, state, or local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of federal or state antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property;

Are not presently indicted or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a government entity (federal, state, or local) with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph 2 of this certification; and

Have not within a three-year period preceding this contract had one or more public transactions (federal, state, or local) terminated for cause or default.

Where the prospective recipient of Federal assistance funds is unable to certify any of the statements in this certification, such prospective participant shall attach an explanation to this proposal.

Drug-‐‐Free Workplace: This certification is required by the Federal Regulations, implementing Sections 5151-

5160 of the Drug-Free Workplace Act, 41 U.S.C. 701; for the Department of Agriculture (7 CFR Part 3017), Department of Labor (29 CFR Part 98), Department of Education (34 CFR parts 85, 668 and 682) and

Department of Health and Human Services (45 CFR Part 76).

The undersigned contractor certifies that it shall provide a drug-•free workplace by:

Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violation of such prohibition.

Establishing an on-going drug-free awareness program to inform employees of the dangers of drugs in the workplace, the Contractor’s policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace, the availability of drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs; and the penalties that may be imposed on employees for drug abuse violations occurring in the workplace.

Providing each employee with a copy of the Contractor’s policy statement.

Notifying the employees in the Contractor’s policy statement that, as a condition of employment under the grant, employees will abide by the terms of the policy statement and notifying the Contractor in writing within five

(5) days after any conviction for a violation by the employee of a criminal drug statute in the workplace.

Notifying the grantor agency, Workforce Solutions Alamo in writing, within ten (10) calendar days of the

Contractor’s receipt of a notice of conviction of an employee.

Taking appropriate personnel action against an employee convicted of violating a criminal drug statute or requires such employee to participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.

These certifications are a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction.

Name of Applicant/Organization Name and Title of Authorized Representative

Signature of Authorized Representative Date

ATTACHMENT D

Certification Regarding Implementation of the Non-‐‐Discrimination & Equal

Opportunity

Provisions and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

As a condition to the award of financial assistance from the Department of Labor (DOL) under Title I of the

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the Offeror assures that it will comply fully with the nondiscrimination and equal opportunity provisions of the following laws:

Section 188 prohibits discrimination against all individuals in the United States on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation or belief, and against beneficiaries on the basis of either citizenship/status as a lawfully admitted immigrant authorized to work in the United

States or participation in any WIOA Title I—financially assisted program or activity;

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the bases of race, color and national origin;

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities;

The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age; and

Title IX of the Education A m e n d m e n t s of 1972, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs.

The Offeror also assures that it will comply with 29 CFR part 38 and all other regulations implementing the laws listed above. This assurance applies to the Offeror’s operation of the WIOA Title I -•financially assisted program or activity, and to all agreements the grant applicant makes to carry out the WIOA Title I-•financially assisted program or activity. The Offeror understands that the United States has the right to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance.

Applicant’s s i g n a t u r e below indicates organization is agreeing to comply fully with the assurance and certifications as part of its responsibilities as a successful contractor.

Signature of Authorized Representative Date

Name and Title of Authorized Representative

ATTACHMENT E

TEXAS CORPORATE FRANCHISE TAX

CERTIFICATION

Pursuant to Article 2.45, Texas Business Corporation Act, state agencies may not contract with for-•profit corporations that are delinquent in making state franchise tax payments. The following certification that the corporation making this contract is current in its franchise taxes must be signed by the individual authorized on

Form 2031, Corporate Board of Directors Resolution, to sign the contract for the corporation.

The undersigned certifies that the following statement is true and correct and that the undersigned understands making a false statement will prevent Workforce Solutions Alamo from contracting with the proposing organization.

Indicate the certification that applies to your corporation by checking the appropriate box:

The corporation is for a profit corporation and certifies that it is not delinquent in its franchise tax payments to the State of Texas.

The corporation is a not-for-profit corporation or is otherwise not subject to payment of franchise taxes to the State of Texas for the following reason(s):

Not applicable. The applicant is not a corporation.

Signature of Authorized Representative Name of Applicant’s Organization

Name and Title of Authorized Representative Date

ATTACHMENT F

STATE ASSESSMENT CERTIFICATION

Applicants must certify that they are current in all Unemployment Insu rance taxes, Payday and Child Labor

Law monetary obligations, and Proprietary School fees and assessments payable to the State of Texas.

Applicants must also certify that they have not outstanding Unemployment Insurance overpayment balances due to the State of Texas.

The undersigned authorized representative of the Applicant certifies that the following statements are true and correct and that the undersigned understands that making a false statement will prevent Workforce Solutions

Alamo from contracting with the organization.

The corporation certifies, by checking the boxes below, that:

It is current in Unemployment Insurance taxes, Payday and Child Labor Law monetary…