RFP-27019 Community Schools - Lead Agency Services.pdf

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

200 EAST NORTH AVENUE

BALTIMORE, MD 21202

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP-27019

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS – LEAD AGENCY SERVICES

ISSUED BY: Procurement Office Baltimore City Public Schools 200 East North Avenue, Room 401 Baltimore, MD 21202 Attention: Crystal Price

RFP NUMBER: RFP-27019

RELEASE DATE: Thursday, October 22nd 2026

PRE-PROPOSAL

MEETING: Tuesday, November 3, 2026 @ 11:00 a.m., via

Teams

QUESTIONS DUE: Friday, November 6, 2026 @ 5:00p.m.

PROPOSAL DUE DATE: Thursday, November 12, 2026 @ 11:00 a.m., DIRECT INQUIRIES TO: Crystal Price, CMPO

PH: 443-642-3844

FX: 410-545-6977

E-mail: cprice01@bcps.k12.md.us

Entities are cautioned not to make changes to any of the terms and conditions in this solicitation. Doing so may render an Entity’s Proposal unacceptable and subject to rejection. Questions and inquiries may be addressed as outlined in Part II, Item 4 of this solicitation. Any exceptions to the Baltimore City Public Schools’ (“City Schools’”) terms and conditions are not binding unless they are negotiated and affirmatively deemed mutually agreeable by the Entity and City Schools in an executed Contract. City Schools is not required to negotiate changes to its terms and conditions.

mailto:cprice01@bcps.k12.md.us

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I: SCOPE OF WORK

1.0 INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITIONS

2.0 BACKGROUND

3.0 SCOPE OF SERVICES

4.0 EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (“ESSA”)

PART II: GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1.0 STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY

2.0 TERM OF AGREEMENT

3.0 PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING

4.0 QUESTIONS AND INQUIRIES

5.0 POINT OF CONTACT

6.0 CITY SCHOOLS PROJECT MONITOR/CITY SCHOOLS SUPERVISION

7.0 CONTRACT TYPE

8.0 PAYMENT TERMS

9.0 TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT

10.0 ELECTRONIC PAYMENT

11.0 RFP REVISIONS

12.0 SUBMISSION DEADLINE

13.0 PROPOSAL OPENING

14.0 DURATION OF OFFER

15.0 MINORITY & WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

16.0 E-MARYLAND MARKETPLACE ADVANTAGE

17.0 INSURANCE

18.0 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES

19.0 CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK/FINGERPRINTING/PHOTO IDENTIFICATION BADGE

20.0 LIVING WAGE

21.0 BONDING 14

22.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

23.0 STATE OF MARYLAND CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING

24.0 UNNECESSARILY ELABORATE BROCHURES

25.0 SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT

PART III: PROPOSAL FORMAT

1.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION FORMAT

2.0 VOLUME I: TECHNICAL PROPOSAL FORMAT

3.0 VOLUME II: FINANCIAL PROPOSAL

PART IV: EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCEDURE

1.0 EVALUATION COMMITTEE

2.0 EVALUATION PROCESS

3.0 EVALUATION CRITERIA

PART V: APPENDICES

APPENDIX A - SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR RFP’S

APPENDIX B - CITY SCHOOLS GENERAL ARTICLES

APPENDIX C - REFERENCES

APPENDIX D - NON-COLLUSION CERTIFICATE

APPENDIX E - DEBARMENT AFFIDAVIT

APPENDIX F - ANTI-BRIBERY AFFIDAVIT

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

APPENDIX G - ETHICS CERTIFICATION

APPENDIX H – EDGAR

APPENDIX I - FINANCIAL PROPOSAL FORM

EXHIBIT A- Sample Data Sharing and Infinite Campus Modules

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

PART I: SCOPE OF WORK

1.0 INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITIONS

This Request for Proposals (“RFP” or “solicitation”) is soliciting Proposals from qualified Entities for community school lead agency services.

For the purposes of this RFP, the following definitions apply: “City Schools” refers to the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, which operates a system of public schools commonly known as the Baltimore City Public School System or Baltimore City Public Schools; “Entity” means any qualified, reliable, and interested broker, vendor, bidder, consultant, contractor, manufacturer, and/or other entity that responds to this RFP, as well as the entity awarded a Contract or otherwise duly authorized by City Schools to provide Services in accordance with applicable Laws; “Contract” or “Agreement” refers to the legally enforceable contract or agreement between City Schools and the Entity that is the successful respondent to this RFP; “Services” or “Work” refers to the work, deliverables, products, goods, materials, equipment, and/or services required to be provided or performed by the Entity under the terms of the Agreement; “Law” or “Laws” refers to any applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations and rules, as well as Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners policies and administrative regulations, which are available at this link: www.baltimorecityschools.org/board-policies; and “Proposal” means a bid or submission to City Schools in response to this RFP.

Board policy ADH provides the following community school definitions:

• Community School - An individual school site where the Community School Strategy is implemented with fidelity. Consistent with the state law, a Community School establishes a set of strategic partnerships between the school and other community resources that leverages shared accountability, collaborative leadership, capacity building, and authentic family and community engagement, using a student-centered framework to promote inclusive student achievement, positive learning conditions, and the well-being of students, families, educators, and the community through a variety of engaging practices, including the provision of wraparound services. In City Schools, a Community School functions as a physical hub that provides students, families, and community members with access to social and health supports, powerful learning, and out-of-school-time opportunities, and where students, families, and communities are meaningfully engaged and participate in collaborative decision-making and leadership. A Community School may be a traditional school, a public charter school, or another operator-led school.

• Lead Agency - A community-based organization that may be chosen by a Community School principal, teachers, families, and other key stakeholders to co-lead the work of developing and sustaining the Community School Strategy at a Community School. The Community School Coordinator will be a considered a representative of the Lead Agency at the Community School.

• Community School Coordinator - An individual employed by the Board or Lead Agency, fully dedicated to facilitating the Community School Strategy in partnership with the Community School principal and the larger school community, including coordinating wraparound services and support programs that address out-of-school learning barriers for students and families. Community School Coordinators employed by a Lead Agency may be approved, pursuant to Board http://www.baltimorecityschools.org/board-policies https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=AHBLGP52C637

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

Policy LCA (Conducting Research and Surveys, and Data Sharing), as school officials, and as such, will receive required access to data in which they have a legitimate educational interest, per that policy.

Additional definitions and information about community schools can be found in our policy and administrative regulations: Board Policy ADH and Administrative Regulation ADH-RA.

The general Scope of Work shall consist of:

• Implementing the Community School Strategy at eligible schools, to include the hiring and employment of at least one (1), full-time Community School Coordinator (CSC) per school (Job description should align with City Schools Site Specialist essential functions), and providing supervision for the CSC as they implement community school activities;

• Completing a needs assessment and resource mapping;

• Completing an action plan;

• Participate in district training and evaluation activities; and

• Data collection and reporting.

2.0 BACKGROUND

City Schools serves the needs of public education in Baltimore City, covering approximately 77 square miles, with a residential population of more than 585,000. It is the fifth largest public school system in the State of Maryland. City Schools operates 162 schools and programs, which include Pre-K, Elementary, Middle, and High schools as well as special education centers, charter, and alternative schools. The Central Administration headquarters is located at 200 East North Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland.

City Schools is governed by the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners which has 12 members (including a partially voting student member). Nine members of the Board are appointed by the Mayor of Baltimore City and two members are elected in a citywide election every four years along with the student commissioner who is elected by fellow high school students every year. The Chief Executive Officer reports directly to the Board.

City Schools currently has approximately 75,811 students, 8,961 employees and an annual operating budget of $1.39 billion.

Please visit the district’s website at www.baltimorecityschools.org for more information about the district.

There are currently over one hundred fifty (150) City Schools implementing the Community Schools Strategy in Baltimore City. The Community School Strategy is a researched-based student success strategy that includes providing integrated student support through partnerships with community organizations, community members, and families. In Baltimore, Community Schools are schools that establish a set of strategic partnerships between the school and other community resources to promote student achievement, positive conditions for learning, and the wellbeing of families and communities. Each Community School has a full-time Community School Coordinator (CSC) who is hired by a Lead Agency or the district. The CSC identifies community resources and links those resources to schools, students, families and the community, based on identified needs.

CSCs are twelve (12)-month employees, working to develop partnerships and identify services for the school throughout the entire year.

https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=AHBLGP52C637 https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=AHBLMJ52F061 https://cityschools2013-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/hegonzales_bcps_k12_md_us/IQAqdw_DeKsORqMc7NuQT6SBAT1DWHGj2FW7zkaVqd7pMjE?e=azTbvV https://cityschools2013-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/hegonzales_bcps_k12_md_us/IQAqdw_DeKsORqMc7NuQT6SBAT1DWHGj2FW7zkaVqd7pMjE?e=azTbvV https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.baltimorecityschools.org%2F&data=05%7C02%7CTMHutley%40bcps.k12.md.us%7Cf54d8c7de87d4700622408dd680c36ab%7C065bb2f46fe3414fa910f2886305c814%7C0%7C0%7C638781123841924294%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=wY8N25Y3qjvhwX9B%2BhtLTvgMN%2BxT2wGjOOpEajXjGww%3D&reserved=0

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

The Community School Strategy has been implemented in Baltimore for more than fifteen

(15) years. In 2019, SB1030 established the Concentrations of Poverty School Grant Program (CPG) which provides grants to schools with high concentrations of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals for a variety of services, including Community Schools. School Year 2026/2027 is the eighth year of this funding. The Office of Communications and External Affairs, (OCEA) manages the community school strategy for the district and serves as the point of contact for Community School Lead Agencies.

For School Year 2027/2028, it is anticipated that up to one hundred fifty-one (151) Community Schools may identify a Lead Agency partner from the pool resulting from this RFP. The Community School’s management type may be traditional, alternative placement, charter, or contract schools, representing grades K-12.

3.0 SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. Entity Minimum Requirements:

The Entity shall:

1. Qualify as a nonprofit corporation with 501c3 status, a for-profit corporation, a public entity, or an organization partnering with a fiscal agent.

2. Have a minimum two (2) years’ demonstrated experience successfully supporting, children, youth, families, and community members or neighborhoods in Baltimore City or other large urban school systems. Entity’s proposal shall, at minimum, demonstrate the Entity’s experience in:

a. The delivery of youth support services (e.g. mentoring, tutoring, career support) and/or out-of-school time programming;

b. Services/partnerships coordination in the community/neighborhoods and/or with City Schools; and/or

c. Serving as a community school lead agency in Baltimore or other large urban school systems; and

3. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the Community School Strategy and City Schools.

Note: Proposal submissions that fail to clearly exhibit all of the above minimum qualifications shall be deemed non-responsive and will not be evaluated.

B. Entity Minimum Requirements: The Lead Agency shall:

1. Hire & Supervise the Community School Coordinator (CSC) – this is a full-time, 12-month, position that is responsible for partnership coordination and community school implementation. Though hired by the Lead Agency, the CSC will be placed at the school. The Lead Agency is responsible for co-supervising the CSC with the Principal and checking-in regularly with school leadership about the Community School Strategy. Due to the nature of the work the CSC may work outside of traditional 9am to 5pm work hours. Additionally, the Lead Agency must:

a. Align their job description with that of City Schools’, including providing a minimum base salary of $69,000 for the CSC.

b. Share CSC job postings with the OCEA to ensure alignment with the

Community School strategy and candidate Desired Qualifications;

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

c. Engage the Community school(s) leader and his/her designated team in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of the CSC for their school;

d. Monitor CSC job performance and CSC relationship with school staff to include:

i. Ensuring CSC works within the attendance guidelines of the school staff;

ii. Tracking and maintaining documentation of CSC attendance and performance;

iii. Reporting any grievances to the OCEA Community School Staff

2. Complete & Submit a Community School Assets & Needs Assessment as needed

– Through this process, Community Schools will engage students, school staff, families, partners, and community members and track their feedback and recommendations using tools supplied or approved by the OCEA. Needs assessments are completed every three (3) years and needs should be updated annually.

3. Create & Submit a Community School Implementation Plan as needed – Once the needs assessment is completed, the Lead Agency shall support School Leadership and the CSC to work with students, families, staff, partners, and community members to prioritize needs identified through the assessment and create a plan to address them. OCEA will provide guidance on implementation, plan development and submission.

4. Participate in Professional Development Activities – Professional development opportunities will be available to CSC throughout the year, and the schedule will be shared with Lead Agencies as the opportunities are finalized.

5. Attend a mandatory Post-Award Conference with the OCEA and Project Monitor.

Lead Agencies may also need to attend additional meetings as appropriate.

6. Participate in Evaluation Activities as needed – Lead Agencies and CSC may be asked to participate in evaluation activities throughout the year.

7. Support District Efforts and Initiatives to Engage Students, Families, and Community – Community School Lead Agencies will support the community school coordinator in implementing Policy ADH – Community Schools, Policy KCA – Family and Community Engagement, and KCB – Volunteer Policy as appropriate.

8. Ensure Completion of Required Data Collection and Reports – Community School Lead Agencies are responsible for ensuring all required data collection and tracking related to the implementation of the Community School Strategy is completed and submitted to the district. This includes documenting the work that happens at their community schools and completing reports required by City Schools.

a. Adhere to District policies with regards to the use of District Data (see Article

15 of the City Schools General Articles); (See Exhibit A - Sample Data Sharing and Infinite Campus Modules for sample Data to be provided).

b. Complete and submit all reports required by the OCEA in a timely manner; and

c. Demonstrate an understanding of, and remain in compliance with, the

Baltimore City Schools Policy on Equity).

9. Maintain two-way communication with the Office of Communications and External

Affairs.

10. Utilize Microsoft Office Suite products in the delivery of services under this Scope of Work, including Microsoft Word.

https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=87UHRG7D7054 https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=87UHRG7D7054 https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=87UHRJ7D7071 https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/bcpss/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BLQTCN76BED4

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

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4.0 EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (“ESSA”)

Signed into law December 10, 2015, the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (“ESSA”) requires that any activity, service, or strategy implemented that utilizes federal funds must be evidence-based. Under ESSA, evidence-based interventions are defined as practices, strategies, activities, or programs that have been proven effective and have evidence to show that they produce results. ESSA advances that all students from pre-kindergarten to postsecondary, including low-income students, students of color, students with disabilities, English Learners, and other historically marginalized students, must have access to a world-class education that prepares them for college, career, and life.

Most schools in City Schools (as well as the district office) utilize Title I and other federal dollars. To comply with ESSA, City Schools is collecting and documenting the evidence and effectiveness of entities that provide Services to City Schools and our students. It is in the Entity’s interest to meet ESSA's evidence standards for its Services so that schools utilizing federal funds have the option of purchasing the Entity’s Services. If a school is using federal funds to secure a program and the Entity does not meet ESSA’s evidence standards, the Entity’s Services cannot be purchased.

To learn more about how to meet ESSA’s evidence based standards, please visit https://www.baltimorecityschools.org/procurement-federal-funds or contact the Office of Achievement and Accountability at essaevidence@bcps.k12.md.us.

If an Entity has an ESSA level determination from City Schools, please include a copy of the ESSA Evidence Review Confirmation from essaevidence@bcps.k12.md.us with the Entity’s Proposal as outlined in Part III: Proposal Format, Tab F: Forms.

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY.

https://www.baltimorecityschools.org/procurement-federal-funds mailto:essaevidence@bcps.k12.md.us mailto:essaevidence@bcps.k12.md.us

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

PART II: GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1.0 STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY

It is understood and agreed that all information pertinent to this solicitation may contain trade secrets, which are confidential and proprietary. The selected Entity agrees not to disclose or knowingly use any confidential or proprietary information of the Baltimore City Schools and/or third-party participant.

Entities are notified that City Schools has unlimited data rights regarding Proposals submitted in response to this solicitation. “Unlimited data rights” means that City Schools has the right to use, disclose, reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, or perform publicly and display publicly any information submitted by the Entity in response to this or any solicitation issued by City Schools. City Schools will exempt information that is confidential commercial or financial information of an Entity, as defined by the Maryland Public Information Act (“MPIA”), Title 4 of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code. It is the responsibility of the Entity to clearly identify each part of its Proposal that is confidential commercial or financial information by stamping the bottom right-hand corner of each pertinent page with one-inch, bold face letters stating the words “confidential” or “proprietary”. The Entity agrees that any portion of the Proposal that is not stamped as proprietary or confidential is not proprietary or confidential. As a condition for City Schools keeping the information confidential, the Entity must agree to defend and hold City Schools harmless if any information is inadvertently released. Each Entity must submit a proprietary and confidential redacted copy of its Proposal to be used in responding to MPIA requests. However, and in accordance with the MPIA, Entities are hereby notified that every portion of the Proposal may still be subject to disclosure under the MPIA.

2.0 TERM OF AGREEMENT

The anticipated term of the Contract that City Schools intends to award pursuant to this RFP shall be for three (3) years from the date after Board approval with two (2), one-year renewal options to be exercised at the sole discretion of City Schools, and subject to the termination provisions set forth in the attached City Schools General Articles (Appendix B).

3.0 PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING

Entities are strongly encouraged to attend a virtual pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3rd, 2026 @ 11:00 a.m. EST. While attendance at the pre-proposal meeting is not mandatory, the information presented is informative. Additionally, interested Entities are strongly encouraged to submit questions prior to this meeting. All interested Entities are encouraged to attend in order to be better able to prepare an acceptable Proposal.

The pre-proposal meeting will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. Call-in details are below:

Microsoft Teams meeting Join:https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/226727064393220?p=vSFtYwLuvLNIDZQSOU

Meeting ID: 226 727 064 393 220 Passcode: FJ68TX6E https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/226727064393220?p=vSFtYwLuvLNIDZQSOU

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

Or Dial in by phone +1 443-961-1488,,107492827# United States, Baltimore Find a local number Phone conference ID: 107 492 827#

While attendance at the pre-proposal meeting is not mandatory, the information presented is informative. All interested entities are encouraged to attend in order to be better able to prepare an acceptable proposal.

4.0 QUESTIONS AND INQUIRIES

No interpretation of the meaning of the specifications or other documents will be made to any Entity orally. Questions shall be submitted in writing to the Point of Contact (see Part II, § 5.0). If the Entity is allowed to submit the Proposal in hard copy, the word "INQUIRY” and the RFP name and number must be noted on the envelope. Alternatively, inquiries may be e-mailed to the Point of Contact. The subject field of the e-mail must include "INQUIRY” and the RFP name and number.

To be given consideration, the questions must be received Friday, November 6, 2026, NO LATER THAN at 5:00 p.m. EST. Questions that are deemed to be substantive in nature will be answered only in writing, with both the question(s) and answer(s) posted on https://emma.maryland.gov. Unless expressly authorized by the Point of Contact, contact by Entities with any other City Schools employee regarding this solicitation until the Contract is awarded by the Board will be considered by City Schools as an attempt to obtain an unfair advantage and result in non-consideration of the Entity’s Proposal.

5.0 POINT OF CONTACT

Crystal Price, CMPO Baltimore City Public Schools Office of Procurement 200 E. North Avenue Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone: 443-642-3844 E-mail: cprice01@bcps.k12.md.us

6.0 CITY SCHOOLS PROJECT MONITOR/CITY SCHOOLS SUPERVISION

For purposes of the Contract awarded pursuant to this RFP, the City Schools Project Monitor is Holly Gonzales, Manager, Community Schools.

The Entity’s performance will be under the technical direction of the City Schools Project Monitor, who will be responsible for ensuring the Entity’s compliance with the requirements of the Contract to include managing the daily activities of the Contract, providing technical guidance to the Entity, and overall project scheduling and coordination. The Entity shall be accountable to the City Schools Project Monitor on all matters relating to the scope of Work.

7.0 CONTRACT TYPE

The Contract resulting from this solicitation will be a Requirements Contract.

tel:+14439611488,,107492827 https://dialin.teams.cloud.microsoft/086aed28-7d04-4f8c-bdbb-89c4ddddf66e?id=107492827 mailto:cprice01@bcps.k12.md.us

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8.0 PAYMENT TERMS

The prices, rates, and other compensation for Services performed is as described in the Agreement. When transportation or freight charges are billed to City Schools, a paid freight bill must accompany the invoice. Invoices received unaccompanied by such evidence will be paid only upon acceptance by City Schools. Cartage, handling, packaging, or boxing charges will not be allowed unless specifically so stated in the purchase order.

The Parties acknowledge and agree that the Entity’s invoices are to be submitted to City Schools in a timely manner, per the terms of a purchase order, after the Services have been provided to City Schools. If invoices are submitted more than one calendar year after the last date the Entity’s Services have been rendered or the last date when Services were accepted by City Schools, then City Schools shall have no obligation to pay for the stale invoices. City Schools shall have no obligation to pay for Services performed before City Schools approves the Agreement or after it terminates, in excess of the monetary amount of the Agreement, or prior to the issuance of a purchase order. The Entity shall comply with additional City Schools guidance regarding invoices, proposals, and quotes, available on the City Schools website (Quote and Invoice Guidance Document Link).

The Entity’s invoices shall be approved for payment by the City Schools Project Monitor only after the City Schools Project Monitor is satisfied that the Entity is performing the Services and has prepared the invoice as required by the Agreement. Prior to approving any Entity invoices for payment, City Schools, through any authorized representative, has the right at all reasonable times to inspect, or otherwise evaluate, the Services performed or being performed at the premises on which it is being performed. If any inspection or evaluation is made by City Schools on the premises of the Entity or any of its subcontractors, the Entity shall provide and shall require its subcontractors to provide all reasonable facilities and assistance for the safety and convenience of City Schools representatives in the performance of their duties. All inspections and evaluations shall be performed so that they will not unduly delay the Services.

Within thirty (30) days after receipt of each invoice and accepting the Services, City Schools shall, except as provided in the Agreement, pay for the Services performed when approved by the City Schools Project Monitor. A payment schedule will be jointly developed between City Schools and the Entity. City Schools reserves the right to submit payment using an electronic payment method, such as credit card, Single Use Account, or Automated Clearing House. The Entity shall not assess City Schools with any additional charge, fee, or price for the use of these electronic payment methods.

Regardless of any other provisions of the Agreement, failure of the Entity to submit required reports when due or failure to perform or deliver acceptable Services will result in City Schools withholding or limiting payments under the Agreement until such time as City Schools determines that the Entity has met the performance terms as established by this Agreement, unless such failure arises pursuant to Article 7 (“Force Majeure”) of the City Schools General Articles and without the fault or negligence of the Entity. City Schools shall promptly notify the Entity of its intention to withhold or limit payment of any invoice submitted.

If at any time City Schools determines that a cost for which payment has been made is a disallowed cost, such as overpayment, City Schools shall notify the Entity in writing of the disallowance or claim for unallowable costs. City Schools shall also state the means of correction, which may be, but shall not be limited to, adjustment of any future claim submitted by the Entity by the amount of the disallowance, or to require repayment of the https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3843/BCPS/3989723/City_Schools_Quote_and_Invoice_Guidance_09.15.23.pdf

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The Entity shall fully comply with any bid, payment, performance bond and/or other bonding or surety obligations as set forth in this RFP.

9.0 TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT

Hotel and meal expenses are limited to the U.S. General Services Administration (“GSA”) Per Diem Rate http://www.gsa.gov/Per Diem. In no event will meals totaling more than the GSA Per Diem Rate be reimbursed. A detailed receipt for all meals must be submitted on the Entity’s or other suitable Expense Account Form upon return. The receipt should include the date, name of the restaurant, and an itemized listing of what was purchased. Meals charged to the room must also include a detailed receipt. City Schools will not reimburse an individual for the purchase of alcoholic beverages, which are the sole responsibility of the traveler. The traveler must also include a copy of the conference agenda when applicable. The cost of transportation, including air and ground transportation, should be loaded into the hourly rates for personnel.

10.0 ELECTRONIC PAYMENT

City Schools has the ability to process payments to contractors electronically using the CTX+ (“Corporate Trade Exchange”) payment format. The payment format will contain summarized information and will not provide details concerning each invoice amount included in the check total if the depositing bank does not accept CTX+ format. Entities must contact their bank in order to receive the CTX+ format and the depositing bank may charge a fee for this format. Entities need to discuss potential charges with their bank.

Please complete and submit the Authorization for Entity Payment - ACH form. Forms can be obtained by visiting the City Schools procurement website at https://www.baltimorecityschools.org/procurement City Schools will only process ACH forms for awarded Entities.

11.0 RFP REVISIONS

Should it become necessary to revise any part of this RFP, addenda will be posted on https://emma.maryland.gov. All addenda, amendments or changes issued shall be deemed received by the Entity, provided they are posted to eMaryland Marketplace Advantage or the City Schools website. Failure of any Entity to receive or acknowledge receipt of such addenda or interpretation shall not relieve any Entity from any obligations under this RFP as amended by all addenda. All addenda so issued shall become part of the Contract award.

12.0 SUBMISSION DEADLINE

Proposals for this solicitation are being accepted solely online through eMaryland Marketplace Advantage https://emma.maryland.gov.

The Proposal due date is Thursday, November 12, 2026 by 11:00 a.m. Proposals will be opened electronically in Emma as soon as practicable after the deadline for the receipt of bids in the solicitation. Proposal results will not be given by phone.

Bidders’ response shall be submitted as TWO (2) separate PDF documents (one technical file and one financial file online to eMaryland Marketplace Advantage. Proposals will not be accepted by fax, by postal mail, by electronic mail, or by hand delivery.

http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/104877?utm_source=OCM&utm_medium=print-radio&utm_term=HP_01_Requested_perdiem&utm_campaign=shortcuts https://www.baltimorecityschools.org/procurement https://emma.maryland.gov/

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A late Proposal, late request for modification, or late request for withdrawal shall not be accepted or considered. Any request for withdrawal or request for modification received at the place designated in the solicitation after the time and date set for receipt of Proposals is late.

Hard copy submissions will not be accepted. All Proposals Volumes must be submitted electronically as combined pdf documents. City Schools is not responsible for any technical problems that result from or that are related to electronic submission or the transmission of data through an electronic submission format.

13.0 PROPOSAL OPENING

RFP Proposals are not opened publicly, but in the presence of at least two City Schools employees. Once the Proposals are opened, the Office of Procurement will prepare a document that summarizes the Proposals received. This document will be available for inspection after the Intent to Award letter is issued.

14.0 DURATION OF OFFER

A Proposal submitted in response to this solicitation is binding upon the Entity and is considered irrevocable for a minimum of 180 days following the closing date for receipt of initial Proposals or the closing date for receipt of a best and final offer, if applicable.

An Entity shall not be allowed to withdraw its Proposal after the Submission Deadline and if applicable, shall forfeit its Proposal security.

15.0 MINORITY & WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

During the MBE/WBE goal determination process, this solicitation was not assigned M/WBE goals pursuant to City Schools Administrative Regulation DJA-RA, Procurement, pertaining to Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (MBE/WBE Requirements).

16.0 E-MARYLAND MARKETPLACE ADVANTAGE

eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (https://emma.maryland.gov) is the primary site for

City Schools to transmit solicitations over $100,000. This website also serves to publish any addenda, associated materials, Entity/ questions and City Schools’ responses, and other solicitation related information.

Notices of solicitations are also posted on our website www.baltimorecityschools.org in accordance with the Maryland Annotated Code, State Finance and Procurement Article § 13-103 Competitive Sealed Bids, Article § 13-104 Competitive Sealed Proposals, and Article § 13-107 Sole Source Procurements.

The eMaryland Marketplace Advantage law became effective on June 1, 2008 and requires units of State government, including those otherwise exempt from State procurement law, and all local government entities, to publish notices of procurement and procurement awards on the State’s e-commerce website eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (“eMMA”). All Entities are required to register with eMaryland Marketplace Advantage, so that the award notice can be properly published.

http://www.baltimorecityschools.org/

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

17.0 INSURANCE

Insurance requirements are set forth in Article 20 of the attached City Schools General Articles (Appendix B). The Entity shall submit with their Proposal a Certificate of Insurance that complies with § 19-116 of the Insurance Article, Maryland Annotated Code. The Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners should be named as Additional Insured on the Entity’s insurance and named as Certificate Holder. The Entity’s insurance shall be effective at time that the Entity submits its Proposal. If the Certificate of Insurance contains a minor irregularity, the Entity will be allowed five (5) business days to cure the minor irregularity or be determined non-responsive. The Insurance Certificate shall meet the insurance coverage required by Article 20 of the attached City Schools General Articles.

18.0 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES

NOT APPLICABLE

19.0 CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK/FINGERPRINTING/PHOTO IDENTIFICATION

BADGE

Depending upon the type of services that the Entity performs and the Entity’s access to students and/or student records, the Entity’s (and its subcontractor’s) employees may be required to submit to a criminal background check and fingerprinting. Also, such employees may be required to obtain a photo identification badge. A full statement of these requirements is set forth in Article 18 (“Obligations Regarding Criminal Records of Individuals Assigned to Work in City Schools Facilities”) of the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B).

20.0 LIVING WAGE

21.0 BONDING

22.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

City Schools plan to enter into a contractual agreement with the Entity, subject to these RFP General Terms and Conditions and the Special Conditions for this RFP (Appendix A). The Contract between City Schools and the Entity shall include the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B), unless modified in writing by City Schools.

In the event of conflict between the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B) and these General Terms and Conditions or the Special Conditions (Appendix A), the City Schools General Articles shall take precedence.

In the event of a conflict between this RFP and any of the terms and conditions proposed by any Entity or incorporated in any acknowledgement of Contract awarded to the successful Entity, then, and in such event, the terms and conditions stated herein shall take precedence, unless modified in writing by the Director of Procurement.

Any exceptions to City Schools’ terms and conditions are not binding unless they are: (i) negotiated and deemed mutually agreeable by the successful Entity and City Schools;

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026 and (ii) memorialized in a binding agreement between the successful Entity and City Schools. Proposals must clearly identify any variances from, or exceptions or objections to: (i) the specifications in this RFP; (ii) each term and condition of the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B); (iii) these General Terms and Conditions; and (iv) the Special Terms and Conditions (Appendix A). In the absence of any response to the contrary, City Schools will conclude that the Entity agrees to and will hold the Entity strictly accountable to City Schools for: (i) the specifications in this RFP; (ii) each term and condition of the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B); (iii) these General Terms and Conditions; and (iv) the Special Terms and Conditions (Appendix A). City Schools is not required to negotiate changes to their terms and conditions, and Entities should note that any variance from the aforementioned terms and conditions may provide the basis for City Schools to reject the Entity’s Proposal. In particular, the following provisions are non-negotiable: (i) the Special Terms and Conditions (Appendix A); and (ii) the provisions set forth in the following Articles in the City Schools General Articles (Appendix B)—Articles 5 (“Entity’s Responsibilities”), 6 (“Subcontractors”), 10 (“Termination”), 11 (“Non- Appropriation”), 12 (“Disputes”), 13 (“Integrity, Ethics, and Conflicts of Interest”), 14 (“Publication and Publicity”), 15 (“Data Collection and Confidential Information”), 16 (“Intellectual Property”), 18 (“Obligations Regarding Criminal Records of Individuals Assigned to Work in City Schools Facilities”), 19 (“Indemnification and Liability”), 20 (“Insurance”), 21 (“Order of Precedence”), 23 (“Governing Law and Jurisdiction”), 24 (“Entire Agreement”), 25 (“Successors and Assigns”), 26 (“Guarantee”), and 27 (“Notice”).

In addition, any deviation by the awarded Entity, without prior documented approval, will be grounds for rejection of the Services or of any goods, and/or equipment when delivered.

23.0 STATE OF MARYLAND CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING

Entities shall submit a State of Maryland Certificate of Good Standing or other State of Maryland issued documentation verifying the Entity is in Good Standing with the Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland and/or registered to do business in the State of Maryland. The Maryland Certificate of Good Standing must be issued no later than sixty (60) days prior to the Proposal Due Date. If the Certificate of Good Standing contains a minor irregularity, the Entity will be allowed five (5) business days to cure the minor irregularity or be determined non-responsive. Certificates of Status may be obtained online by visiting the following website: https://egov.maryland.gov/BusinessExpress/

This requirement applies to both Domestic and Foreign (out of state) Entities. Foreign entities should contact the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 at 888-246-5941, to determine and apply for the appropriate documentation.

24.0 UNNECESSARILY ELABORATE BROCHURES

Unnecessarily elaborate brochures or other presentations beyond those sufficient to present a complete and effective Proposal are not desired and may be construed as an indication of the Entity’s lack of cost consciousness. Elaborate artwork and expensive visual and other presentation aids are neither necessary nor wanted.

25.0 SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT

https://egov.maryland.gov/BusinessExpress/

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

PART III: PROPOSAL FORMAT

1.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION FORMAT – TWO-PART SUBMISSION

The Entity’s Proposal shall be submitted as two (2) individual files in the file format shown below electronically via eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (https://emma.maryland.gov).

Entities shall submit in separate attachments the following:

• Volume I - Technical Proposal

• Volume II - Financial Proposal

2.0 VOLUME I: TECHNICAL PROPOSAL FORMAT

Each Proposal must include a table of contents, and all pages in the Technical Proposal must be numbered consecutively from beginning to end and separated by tabs as described below:

TAB A. TRANSMITTAL LETTER

Technical Proposals are to be accompanied by a brief transmittal letter prepared on the Entity’s letterhead and signed by an individual who is authorized to commit the Entity to the Services and requirements in the RFP and Proposal. This transmittal letter shall identify the RFP Number and Name and shall include:

1. The name, title, address, telephone number, and electronic mail address of the person authorized to bind the Entity to the Contract, and who will receive all official notices concerning this RFP.

2. The Entity’s Federal Tax Identification Number or Social Security Number.

3. A brief statement of the Entity’s understanding of the Work to be done, the commitment to perform the Work within the time period, and a statement of why the firm believes it is best qualified to perform the engagement.

4. A statement that the Proposal is a firm and irrevocable offer for a period of one-hundred eighty (180) days.

5. Acknowledgement of all Addenda to this RFP.

TAB B. TABLE OF CONTENTS

TAB C. EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITIES

Entity shall provide information on past and current experience with rendering services similar in size and scope to those in this RFP. This description shall include:

1. Summary of the services offered, including: the number of years the Entity provided these services; the number of clients and geographic locations the Entity currently serves, etc. and has served; and, if a past customer, why the Entity is no longer providing services.

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

2. Organizational chart of the Entity showing: the major components of the unit(s) that will be performing the requirements of the Contract; where the management of the Contract will fall within the organization; and what resources will be available to support this Contract in primary, secondary, and back-up roles.

3. Name all key personnel who will perform Work under the Contract and include each individual’s resume. Include work history, educational background and indicate the proposed role/function of each individual.

4. At least five (5) recent references from its customers who are capable of documenting the following: a) the Entity’s ability to manage similar Contracts, b) the quality and breadth of Services provided by the Entity under similar Contracts (see Appendix C).

TAB D. FISCAL INTEGRITY/FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. The Entity shall include in its Proposal completed audited financial statements including the auditor’s notes, for its last two fiscal years. If the Entity has not had its financial statements audited by an independent accounting firm, the Entity must submit such un-audited financial statements as it has. Some acceptable methods include but are not limited to one or more of the following:

a. Recently audited (or best available) financial statements

b. Dunn and Bradstreet Report and Rating

c. Standard and Poor’s Report and Rating

d. Lines of credit

e. Evidence of a successful financial track record

f. Evidence of adequate working capital

2. Entity shall identify any claims filed by or against the Entity during the past five (5) years. For each claim, please provide: case caption including case number, court in which the matter was filed, a summary of the allegations, and resolution, if applicable. The failure to provide accurate information may be determined to be a material breach of any future agreement or Contract with City Schools.

TAB E. TECHNICAL RESPONSE TO RFP SCOPE OF WORK

The Entity shall address each major requirement of Part I (Scope of Work).

TAB F. FORMS

Entity shall provide and execute all of the following or their Proposal may be found non-responsive:

1. Certificate of Status (State of Maryland Certificate of Good Standing issued by the Department of Assessments and Taxation);

2. Completed W9 (a blank form is available at: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdf;

3. Certificate of Insurance that complies with §19-116 of the Insurance Article, Maryland Annotated Code;

4. ESSA Evidence Review Confirmation from City Schools (if applicable);

5. Completed Non-Collusion Certificate (Notarized) (Appendix D);

6. Completed Debarment Affidavit (Notarized) (Appendix E);

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Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

7. Completed Anti-Bribery Affidavit (Notarized) (Appendix F);

8. Completed Ethics Certification (Notarized) (Appendix G); and

9. Completed Education Department General Administrative Regulations (“EDGAR”)

Certifications (Appendix H).

3.0 VOLUME II: FINANCIAL PROPOSAL (See Appendix I)

A. Entities shall enter all price information on Appendix I using the form provided and submit it electronically in PDF format to eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (https://emma.maryland.gov).

B. The file name should indicate the RFP number and name, as well as the name of the Entity and words Volume II: Financial Proposal.

Failure to provide any of the requested information or documents in this solicitation may render the Proposal non-responsive.

RFP-27019 RFP Template Effective Date:

Community Schools – Lead Agency Services 08/17/2026

PART IV: EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCEDURE

1.0 EVALUATION COMMITTEE

A. Evaluation of the Proposals will be performed by a committee established for that purpose and will be based on the criteria set forth below. The Contract resulting from this RFP will be awarded to the Entity whose Proposals is the most advantageous to City Schools, considering price and technical factors set forth herein.

B. The committee will make the final determination about acceptability of Proposals.

2.0 EVALUATION PROCESS

A. The committee will evaluate each Technical Proposal using the evaluation criteria set forth below. As part of this evaluation, the committee may hold discussions with all qualified Entities. Discussions may be conducted via teleconference or may take the form of questions to be answered by the Entities and conducted by mail, E-mail, or facsimile transmission at the discretion of City Schools. During the evaluation process, the committee may request technical assistance from any source.

B. Following the completion of the technical evaluation of all Entities’ Technical

Proposals, including any discussions, the committee will rank each qualified Entity's Technical Proposal.

C. The Financial Proposal for each qualified Proposal will be distributed to the committee following the completion of the technical evaluation. The Financial Proposal will not be distributed to the committee until the evaluation of the Technical Proposal is completed. The committee will determine total costs of the Proposals in order to establish a financial ranking of the Proposals from lowest to highest.

D. The committee may reject in whole or in part any and all Proposals, waive minor irregularities, and conduct discussions with all responsible Entities in any manner deemed necessary to serve the best interests of City Schools.

E. Entities may be asked to make an oral presentation to the committee. The purpose of the oral presentation is to provide an opportunity for the Entity to clarify its Proposal submission and substantiate Proposal representation. The oral presentation is a part of the technical evaluation. The committee may request an oral presentation in its discretion. No Entity is entitled to make an oral presentation.

F. If it is determined to be in the best interest of City Schools, City Schools may invite

Entities to make final revisions to their technical and/or financial proposals through submission of a Best and Final Offer.

G. The committee will recommend the Entity whose overall Proposal provides the most advantageous offer…