Student_Transportation_Vehicle_Services.pdf

Fontana Unified School District

9680 Citrus Avenue

Fontana, CA 92335

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP NO. 25/26-0035

FOR

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION VEHICLE SERVICES

Request For Proposal No. 25/26-0035

Title: Student Transportation Vehicle Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Request for Proposals Notice

II. Introduction

III. Instructions to Proposers

IV. General Terms and Conditions

V. General Proposal Instructions & Contract Conditions

VI. Scope of Services/Specifications

VII. Questions, Possible Addenda and Withdrawal of Proposal

VIII. Evaluation & Award - Basis for Selection

IX. Evaluation Criteria

X. Pricing Proposal

XI. Vendor Questionnaire

1. Request for Proposals Notice

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Fontana Unified School District (“District”), hereinafter referred to as the

District, will receive up to, but no later than 2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 through the Procurement

Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/fusd, proposals for the award of a contract for:

RFP No. 25/26-0035 Student Transportation Vehicle Services

All proposals shall be made and presented through the Procurement Portal. The RFP documents are available through the Procurement Portal beginning Monday, February 2, 2026. Proposals must be accompanied by forms referred to in the contract documents to avoid disqualification.

NO FAXED, EMAILED OR MAILED PROPOSALS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

It is each bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure its bid is timely delivered and received at the location designated as specified above.

Proposers are responsible for monitoring the portal for updates. The deadline to request for clarifications regarding the RFP is: 2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Requests for Clarification must be submitted through the

Procurement Portal.

In order to provide all vendors to have a fair and equitable opportunity, vendors may not contact the District staff, or the Board of Education for any questions regarding this proposal. If a vendor contacts another District representative, the vendor may be deemed non-responsive. The District may request interviews from the top vendors.

The District reserves the right to accept, reject or waive any irregularities in the proposals, to be sole judge as to the merit, quality and acceptability of materials proposed and its compliance to the specifications.

No proposer may withdraw their proposal for a period of ninety days (90) after the date set for the opening of proposals. Refer to the proposal documents for additional information, terms and conditions. The complete proposal documents and terms and conditions are considered one complete proposal component and cannot be altered in any way.

Fontana Unified School District Board of Education

Publication Dates: 2/2/26 and 2/9/26

2. Introduction

INTRODUCTION

The Fontana Unified School District is a public school district located in San Bernardino County and services the needs of approximately thirty-four thousand (32,000) students from preschool through adult education in a diverse urban/suburban environment. The District operates thirty (30) elementary schools, seven (7) middle schools, five

(5) comprehensive high schools, one (1) continuation high school, and one (1) adult education center and ancillary offices/departments.

The Respondent shall provide safe, reliable, and developmentally appropriate non-bus transportation services in support of District departments serving students and families. Services shall include transportation for

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten (K) students from District school sites to designated Expanded

Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) locations or approved third-party partner sites on scheduled school days.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/fusd

Transportation services shall be provided in accordance with TK dismissal times and the District instructional calendar. The Respondent shall coordinate services with school site administrators and ELOP partners to ensure continuity of supervision and program access.

RFP Release Date: February 2, 2026

Deadline for Vendor Questions: February 11, 2026, 2:00pm

Proposal Due: February 18, 2026, 2:00pm

Governing Board Meeting, Tentative Award of

Contract:

March 4, 2026

3. Instructions to Proposers

See also the General Proposal Instructions and Contract Conditions.

A. Proposals should provide a straightforward, concise description of the Vendor’s qualifications and capabilities to satisfy the requirements of this RFP. Emphasis should be on completeness and clarity of content.

B. Even after the award of contracts, the Fontana Unified School District may or may not proceed with the services under this RFP, in whole or in part.

C. The Fontana Unified School District is not liable or responsible for any costs, loss, fees, or expenses, of any kind, associated with bid and/or a decision not to proceed with the services under this RFP, even after award of the contracts. By submitting a bid, each Vendor agrees to bear all of its own costs, fees, expense, and losses, of any and all kind, should the Fontana Unified School District cancel the services or this RFP.

D. The District reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals and to waive any informalities or irregularities in any Proposal or the RFP process.

E. The Proposal and accompanying documentation submitted by the Vendors are the property of FUSD and will not be returned. Vendor must notify FUSD of any specific portions of Proposals considered confidential. FUSD will take reasonable efforts to protect the confidentiality of such material but makes no guarantees that such material may be protected. Entire Proposals or large portions of the Proposal designated as confidential may be rejected.

F. RIGHTS AND OPTIONS

The Fontana Unified School District reserves the right to postpone selection for its own convenience, to withdraw this Request for Proposals at any time, and to reject any and all Proposals without indicating any reason for rejection; or to negotiate with any, all, or none of the respondents to the RFP. This RFP does not obligate the Fontana Unified School District to negotiate a contract. Proposals will not be returned. No compensation shall be paid for any work related to preparation of any Proposals.

4. General Terms and Conditions

4.1. PROPOSAL ACCEPTANCE

Proposals are subject to acceptance by the signing of a contract and issuance of an appropriate purchase order at any time within ninety (90) days after receipt unless otherwise stipulated. The District reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals and reserves the right to waive any informality.

4.2. CONTRACT RENEWAL

District will issue a contract that will have rates firm for the Initial Term of the Contract. Pricing changes may be considered by District for additional contract terms; however, District may cancel the contract if a requested price change is not acceptable. All Contract renewals must be done in writing and amendment to contract will be issued.

4.3. EXECUTION OF THE CONTRACT

District will issue a contract that will have rates firm for the Initial Term of the Contract. Pricing changes may be considered by District for additional contract terms; however, District may cancel the contract if a requested price change is not acceptable. All Contract renewals must be done in writing and amendment to contract will be issued.

4.4. FAILURE TO EXECUTE THE PROPOSER

Failure to execute the contract and provide all required documents within the time frame identified above shall be sufficient cause for voiding the award. Failure to comply with other requirements within the set time shall constitute failure to execute the contract. If the successful Proposer refuses or fails to execute the contract, District may award the contract to the next best qualified highest ranked Proposer and the Proposer’s bid security (if applicable) shall be forfeited.

4.5. PERFORMANCE FAILURE

If the Proposer fails or neglects to furnish any of the services listed herein at the prices quoted and at the time and places stated or persistently fails to furnish safe and satisfactory equipment or otherwise does not comply with the terms of the contract District may, upon written notice to the Proposer, cancel the entire contract or cancel or rescind any or all items affected by such default; and may, regardless of the type of cancellation, procure services elsewhere without notice to the Proposer. The prices paid by District at the time such services are procured shall be considered the prevailing market prices.

4.6. INVENTORY OF VEHICLES

Inventory list of vehicles and equipment to be used for the purpose of the Agreement will be provided to the

District. This listing shall include the make of the vehicle, body type, year of the vehicle’s manufacture, capacity, present mileage, condition for each vehicle, and license plate number.

4.7. PROPOSER PERSONNEL

All personnel assigned to perform under this Agreement shall be subject to continuous approval by the District. All drivers employed by the Proposer to provide services in this Agreement shall have and maintain a valid California

Driver License. All drivers shall be subject to a background check prior to the beginning of this Agreement and once every year thereafter to the extent allowed by law. Any driver who fails their background check will be immediately removed from servicing the contract.

4.8. CONFIDENTIALITY

Any and all Confidential Information given to the Vendor regarding pupils is to be considered confidential and under no conditions shall this information be used or shared to invade privacy rights of the pupils, their parents, guardians or care givers. Any breach of confidentiality may result in termination for cause. “Confidential

Information” means all student data, pupil records, or other information that is privileged, confidential, not publicly available, which is covered by federal or state privacy laws, rules, and regulations, or which is otherwise considered confidential and protected from disclosure by the policies and procedures of District. Vendor understands and agrees that all Confidential Information shall be preserved and protected as privileged or confidential, that

Confidential Information shall be held strictly in accordance with applicable law and the District’s policies and procedures, and that Confidential Information shall not be shared with any third party without the expressed written authorization of District. IF VENDOR BECOMES AWARE OF A POSSIBLE UNAUTHORIZED RELEASE OR

DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, VENDOR SHALL IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE

DISTRICT IN WRITING.

4.9. ANTI-DISCRIMINATION

It is the policy of the Fontana Unified School District Board of Education that in connection with all work performed under contracted services, construction and purchasing contracts, there is to be no discrimination against any employee engaged in the work because of race, color, sex, ancestry, national origin, or religious creed, and therefore the Proposer agrees to comply with the applicable Federal and California laws, including, but not limited to the

California Fair Employment Practice Act, beginning with Labor Code, Section 1410 and Labor Code, Section 1735.

4.10. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

4.11. NO ATTORNEYS’ FEES

If any action is brought by either party against the other party hereunder, each party shall be responsible for their respective attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses incurred in connection with the prosecution or defense of such action.

4.12. NO ORAL MODIFICATION

Any waiver, amendment, modification, consent or acquiescence with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement or with respect to any failure to perform in accordance therewith shall be set forth in writing and duly executed by or on behalf of the party to be bound thereby.

4.13. PROVISIONS REQUIRED BY LAW DEEMED INSERTED

Each and every provision of law and clause required by law to be inserted in this Agreement shall be deemed to be inserted herein and this Agreement shall be read and enforced as though it were included therein.

5. General Proposal Instructions & Contract Conditions

5.1. FEE SCHEDULE (PRICING)

FUSD is seeking a clear and comprehensive understanding of all costs associated with provided services listed in the SCOPE OF SERVICES/SPECIFICATIONS section. Prices on Proposals shall be firm prices not subject to escalation. In the event the specifications provide for escalation, the maximum limit shall be shown, or the Proposal shall not be considered.

5.2. ERRORS AND CORRECTIONS

No erasures permitted. Mistakes may be crossed out and corrections may be made adjacent but must be initialed in ink by the person signing the Proposal. Verify your Proposals before submission as they cannot be withdrawn or corrected after being opened, or withdrawn after the specified time period has elapsed.

5.3. ACCEPTANCE OF PROPOSALS

Proposals may be rejected on the grounds of non-responsiveness or non-responsibility. Proposals are subject to acceptance at any time within ninety (90) days after opening of same unless otherwise stipulated.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/fusd/projects/215751/document?section=2026067

5.4. FAILURE TO FULFILL CONTRACT

When any Vendor shall fail to deliver any article or service or shall deliver any article or service which does not conform to the specifications, the District may, at its sole discretion, annul and set aside the contract entered into with said Vendor, either in whole or in part, and make and enter into a new contract for the same items in such manner as seems to the Board of Education to be to the best advantage of the Fontana Unified School District. Any failure to furnish such articles or services by reason of the failure of the Vendor, as above stated, shall be a liability against such Vendor. The Board of Education, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to cancel any articles or services which the successful Vendor may be unable to furnish because of economic conditions, governmental regulations or other similar causes beyond the control of the Vendor provided satisfactory proof is furnished to the

Board or Education, if requested.

5.5. PROPOSAL SIGNATURES

All Proposals must show the firm name and must be signed by a legally authorized officer or employee fully authorized to bind the organization to the terms and conditions herein. Obligations assumed by such signature must be fulfilled.

5.6. CANCELLATION FOR INSUFFICIENT OR NON-APPROPRIATED FUNDS

The Vendor hereby agrees and acknowledges that monies utilized by the District to purchase the services is public money appropriated by the State of California or acquired by the District from similar public sources and is subject to variation. The District fully reserves the right to cancel this RFP at any time and/or to limit quantities of items due to non- availability or non-appropriation of sufficient funds.

5.7. CONFLICT OF INTEREST

No FUSD employee or elected or appointed member of FUSD, or member of employee’s immediate family, may participate directly or indirectly in the procurement process pertaining to this RFP if they:

A. Have a financial interest or other personal interest that is compatible with the proper discharge of their official duties in the public interest or would tend to impair their independence, judgment, or action in the performance of their official duties.

B. Are negotiating for or have an arrangement concerning prospective employment with Vendor. The Vendor warrants to the best of his knowledge that the submission of the Proposal will not create such conflict of interest. In the event such a conflict occurs, the Vendor is to report it immediately to the Chief Business

Officer. For breach or violation of this warranty, FUSD shall have the right to annul or terminate this

Agreement without liability at its discretion, and Vendor may be subject to damages and/or debarment or suspension.

C. Vendor warrants and covenants that Vendor presently has no interest in, nor shall any interest be hereinafter acquired in, any matter which will render any contract with the District a violation of any applicable state, local, or federal law, or District policy, regarding conflicts of interest, including, but not limited to, Government Code § 1090. Vendor shall comply with all provisions of the Political Reform Act and implementing regulations, as applicable, and in accordance with any District board policies or administrative regulations. If any principal provider of the services is a “consultant” for the purposes of the Fair Political Practices Act (Gov. Code § 81000 et seq.), each such person shall comply with Form 721

Statement of Economic Interests filing requirements in accordance with any applicable state or city local

Conflict of Interest Code. If any conflict of interest should hereinafter arise, Vendor shall promptly notify

District of the existence of such conflict of interest in writing. The existence of a conflict of interest which violates any applicable state, local, or federal law, or District policy shall be cause for immediate termination of the Agreement.

5.8. PAYMENT AND BILLING/ INVOICING

Payment for services shall be invoiced in accordance with the service agreement. Proposers shall submit pricing on a per-route and/or hourly basis and clearly identify any add-on rates for transportation aides, accessibility accommodations, or other supplemental services. The Vendor shall submit itemized monthly invoices detailing services provided, applicable rates, and add-on charges, with supporting documentation as required. Invoices are subject to District approval and shall be paid within thirty (30) days of receipt of an approved invoice.

The District shall not be billed for overtime or holiday rates unless mutually agreed upon in writing prior to the scheduling of such overtime or holiday work and in accordance with the approved fee schedule. Any additional hours must receive prior written approval from the District Representative.

5.9. AWARD OF CONTRACT

Award will be made to the Vendor or Vendors whose Proposal conforms to the RFP and whose Proposal is considered to be most advantageous to and in the best interest of the FUSD. The District also reserves the right to make multiple awards or no award at all and further reserves the right to reject any and all Proposals and to waive any irregularity or discrepancy associated with this RFP or the RFP process.

5.10. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

The Proposer shall submit with its Proposal an Evidence of Insurance Certificate that it has or can obtain issuance prior to the award of a contract. The Proposer will maintain commercial general liability insurance, automobile coverage, professional liability (errors and omissions), cyber security, workers’ compensation coverage in amounts specified by the District herein. The Fontana Unified School District, its Board of Education, officials, agents, employees, volunteers, officers, and representatives (collectively, “Indemnitees”) shall be named as additional insured on a separate endorsement with respect to liability coverages. Additionally, Vendor shall waive all rights of subrogation. Furthermore, the Proposer agrees to provide copies of the required policies of insurance to the

District as requested.

A certificate of insurance or letter is required from the Proposer’s insurance broker indicating compliance or ability to comply with the insurance requirements stated below shall be provided as part of the response to the RFP.

The Proposer shall maintain such commercial general liability insurance as will protect it from any claims for damages for personal injury, including death, and damage to property, which may arise from operations under the

Agreement. Such commercial general liability & automobile insurance shall be issued by insurance Proposers satisfactory to the Board of Education and shall be maintained in the minimum limits noted below.

Acceptability Of Insurers

Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a current A.M. Best's rating of no less than A-VII, unless otherwise acceptable by District. Insurance companies must be lawfully authorized to do business in California as admitted carriers. The District will not accept any surplus line insurance carriers. Providing excess or umbrella insurance policies to meet or supplement the required primary limits of any insurance required herein is not allowed. All required insurance limits must be met by the primary policy and not through an excess or umbrella policy.

Vendor shall procure and maintain from the Effective Date of the Agreement and at all times until final payment is made to the Vendor, and shall require all subcontractors to so procure and maintain for all periods during which such subcontractors are providing any Services, the insurance described below in the coverage amounts described below. Lack of insurance coverage does not negate the Vendor’s obligations under the Agreement.

A. Commercial General Liability Insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000.00 combined single limit per occurrence for bodily injury, death, personal injury and property damage, including coverage for contractual liability, personal injury, and independent contractors, $2,000,000.00 aggregate.

B. Comprehensive or Business Automobile Liability Insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000.00 combined single limit per accident for bodily injury, death, personal injury and property damage, including coverage for owned, non-owned, and hired automobiles and contractual liability. Such insurance shall include coverage for persons who occupy the status of passengers, whether being picked up at home, school, or other point designated by the District, and until time as status of passenger is terminated, $1,000,000.00 aggregate.

C. Professional (Errors & Omissions) Liability Insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence, $2,000,000.00 aggregate. Such insurance shall be maintained during the entire term of the

Agreement and renewed for a period of at least five (5) years thereafter and/or at rates consistent with the time of execution of Agreement adjusted for inflation. In the event that Proposer subcontracts any portion of its duties, Proposer shall require any such subcontractor to purchase and maintain the same insurance coverage as provided in this paragraph.

D. Cyber Liability Insurance with limits not less than $2,000,000.00 per occurrence, $2,000,000.00 aggregate. Coverage shall include, at a minimum, claims involving privacy violations, information theft, damage to or destruction of electronic data, intentional and/or unintentional release of private data, alteration of electronic data, extortion and network security.

E. Workers’ Compensation and Employers Liability Insurance for any and all claims under workers’ compensation acts and other employee benefit acts with respect to Proposer’s employees or any employee of any entity hired or directed by Proposer to provide services pursuant to this Agreement with statutory limits as required by the Labor Code of the State of California and Employers Liability limits of not less than $1,000,000 per accident. During the term of the Agreement, and in case where any of the Proposer’s services are subcontracted as approved by the District, the Proposer shall require any subcontractor to provide workers’ compensation insurance for all of subcontractor’s employees engaged in work under the subcontract. Any class of employee or employees not covered by any subcontractor’s insurance shall be covered by the Proposer’s insurance. In case any class of employees engaged in work under the Agreement is not protected under the workers’ compensation laws, the Proposer shall provide or cause any subcontractor to provide adequate insurance coverage for the protection of those employees not otherwise protected. The Proposer shall file with the District certificates of insurance as required herein and in compliance with Labor Code section 3700.

F. Sexual Abuse & Molestation Insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence, $2,000,000.00 aggregate covering, at a minimum, bodily injury, emotional distress, or mental anguish related to any claim, cause of action, or liability associated with child molestation or sexual abuse. Indemnitees must be named as additional insureds by way of an endorsement. The coverage must contain a severability of interests/cross liability clause or language stating that Proposer’s insurance shall apply separately to each insured against whom claim is made or suit is brought.

G. Required commercial general and automobile liability insurance shall be extended to include Indemnitees as an additional insured. Copies of all required policies, certificates of insurance, and endorsements shall be provided to the District prior to commencing any services under the Agreement. Commercial general liability insurance or other form where a general aggregate limit is used, either the general aggregate limit shall apply separately to the services under the Agreement or the general aggregate limit shall be not less than twice the required occurrence limit.

H. All insurance policies required herein shall state that the policies required herein shall not be cancelled or subject to a reduction of coverage by the insurer until the Fontana Unified School District has received not less than thirty (30) days’ written notice as evidenced by return receipt of a certified letter which shall be filed with the Procurement and Contracts Department of the Division of Business Services.

I. The Proposer shall require its and any subcontractor to take out and maintain similar commercial general liability insurance and property damage insurance, in a company or companies lawfully authorized to do business in California as admitted insurers with a financial rating of at least A+, Class XII status as rated in the most recent edition of Best’s Insurance Reports, in like amounts and scope of coverage.

J. For any claims related to any services provided by the Proposer, the Proposer’s insurance coverage shall be primary as respect to the Indemnitees. No other insurance affected by the Indemnitees will be called upon to contribute to a loss under this coverage.

K. All insurance coverage amounts specified above shall be specific to Services to be provided under the

Agreement, and all such insurance shall cover only risks relating to or arising out of the Services to be provided under the Agreement. The insurance and required amounts of insurance specified above shall not be reduced or encumbered on account of other work contracted for or being performed by Vendor.

L. If Vendor, for any reason, fails to maintain insurance coverage which is required pursuant to the

Agreement, the same shall be deemed a material breach of the Agreement. The District, at its sole option, may terminate the Agreement and obtain damages from the Vendor resulting from said breach.

Alternatively, the District may purchase such coverage (but has no special obligation to do so), and without further notice to the Vendor, District may deduct from sums due to the Vendor any premium costs advanced by the District for such insurance.

M. Verification of Coverage, Vendor shall furnish the District with original certificates and amendatory endorsements effecting coverage required by this Section. The certificates and endorsements for each policy are to be signed by a person authorized by the insurer to bind coverage on its behalf. The certificates and endorsements should be on forms that conform to the requirements. All certificates and endorsements are to be received and approved by the District before work commences.

N. The District reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements affecting the coverage required by these specifications at any time.

5.11. PROPOSAL PROTEST PROCEDURES

Any proposal protest by any proposer regarding any other proposal must be received within five (5) calendar days after receipt of a written notice of the District’s intent to award to another proposer. The District shall not be obligated to consider protests received after the above specified deadlines. All protests must be submitted in writing to the Sr. Director of Purchasing at Shamica.Nance@fusd.net and must meet the following requirements:

A. The protest must contain a complete statement of any and all basis for the protest.

B. The protest must refer to the specific portions of all documents that form the basis for the protest.

C. The protest must include the name, address, email address and telephone number of the person representing the protesting party.

D. The party filing the protest must concurrently transmit a copy of the protest and any attached documentation to all other parties with a direct financial interest that may be adversely affected by the outcome of the protest. Such parties shall include all other bidders or proposers who appear to have a reasonable prospect of receiving an award depending upon the outcome of the protest.

The procedure and time limits set forth in this section are mandatory and are each proposer’s sole and exclusively remedy in the event of proposal protest. Failure to comply with these procedures shall constitute a waiver of any right to further pursue the proposal protest, including filing a Government Code claim, any administrative remedies or legal proceedings.

6. Scope of Services/Specifications

6.1. Summary

The Fontana Unified School District (FUSD) is seeking proposals from qualified proposers to provide safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation services. The selected proposer shall deliver scheduled transportation, including daily routes and other District needs, and provide door-to-door service from District-designated school site staging areas to approved Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) or Partner sites using District-approved routes and schedules. Services shall operate on all instructional and non-instructional days in accordance with the District calendar, with pick-up times aligned to Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and

Kindergarten (K) dismissal schedules.

The Respondent shall ensure age-appropriate supervision of Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten (K) students, release students only to authorized Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) or Partner site personnel with photo identification and signature capture, and demonstrate experience in early childhood transportation, including appropriate staffing, fleet capacity, and a strong safety record. All drivers shall comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of students during transportation.

6.2. Proposer Requirements

The District expects that all proposers, by the act of submitting a proposal, own or lease the vehicles that will be provided to transport students. Drivers may be employees of the proposing company or employees of approved subcontractors, provided that all subcontracted services comply with the requirements of this contract and all applicable laws and regulations.

Subcontracting is permitted, subject to the following conditions:

A. Approval Requirement Proposers must obtain prior written approval from the District before engaging any subcontractor to perform services under this contract.

B. Responsibility and Accountability The proposing company shall remain fully responsible for the performance of all subcontractors, including compliance with safety requirements, licensing, training, background checks, and customer service standards.

C. Driver and Equipment Requirements All drivers—whether employed directly or through a subcontractor—must meet all District and State of California requirements, including holding valid licenses and certifications. All equipment used by the proposer or its subcontractors must meet all applicable safety regulations and be maintained in safe operating condition.

D. Emergency Contact Information Proposers shall provide direct contact phone numbers for all drivers assigned—including subcontractor drivers—for emergency communication.

Submission of a proposal will be considered a declaration that all equipment and personnel, whether supplied directly or through subcontractors, meet all safety and legal requirements and will continue to do so for the duration of the contract.

6.3. Minimum Vehicle Requirements

The proposers shall adhere to the following specifications, which align with the standards established by the

California Department of Education EC Section 39877, California Highway Patrol, and other relevant organizations.

At minimum all passenger vehicles are required to be equipped with the following options as applicable based on vehicle size and options:

1. All vehicles used for student transportation must be in compliance with California Vehicle Code regulations.

2. Vehicles must be equipped with safety features, including but not limited to, seat belts, safety alarms, and functioning emergency exits.

3. Air Conditioned

4. Vehicles must be regularly inspected and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.

5. First aid kit and a fire extinguisher

6. All vehicles must have a capacity not exceeding the manufacturer's recommended occupancy, including adults and drivers.

Optional requirements:

A. GPS Tracking

B. Cameras

C. Charging stations

D. Reclining chairs

E. Wi-Fi

6.4. Driver Qualifications and Responsibilities

The proposers shall adhere to the following specifications, which align with the standards established by the

California Department of Education EC Section 39877, California Highway Patrol, and other relevant organizations.

Drivers' specifications, but not limited to:

A. Hold a valid California driver’s license for the appropriate class of vehicle.

B. Be at least 18 years of age.

C. Pass a criminal background check, including fingerprint clearance consistent with Section45125 for employees and Section 45125.1 for all other compensated drivers.

D. Submit and clear a tuberculosis risk assessment consistent with Section 49406.

E. Completed a first aid training.

F. Be subjected to and comply with drug and alcohol testing consistent with Section 34520.3of the Vehicle

Code, subject to the cannabis discrimination limitations described in Section12954 of the Government

Code.

G. Have a satisfactory driving record.

H. The District designated trip coordinator(s), and the driver must work in unison on any trip. However, when a safety or driving-related issue is concerned, the driver has the final authority and ultimate responsibility.

I. The driver will arrive at the pickup point a minimum of the time coordinated prior to the scheduled departure time for the loading of students. Pickup and discharge of students shall be made at designated points only.

J. Proposer shall have their drivers wear an identifying badge, shirt, and/or jacket during the time the driver is driving for the District.

K. Notification mechanisms must be in place for parents or guardians regarding any changes to routes, delays, or pertinent updates.

6.5. Communication and Safety

1. Establishment of a 24/7 communication hotline for addressing emergencies, inquiries, or concerns related to transportation.

2. Regular updates to FUSD regarding service performance and potential areas for improvement.

3. Immediate reporting of accidents or incidents involving transportation services.

4. Implementation of safety measures and training programs for drivers to ensure the highest standard of care.

5. Protocol for managing student behavior in vehicles and addressing any incidents appropriately.

6.6. Approved Passengers

Only District-approved students, parents, and staff may be transported.

6.7. Trips

The District shall provide the trip itinerary to the proposer at least twenty-four (24) hours after the trip is booked.

Most trips will be short and will not require restroom stops; however, should a restroom stop be necessary, the

District shall not incur additional charges beyond the original trip cost.

The Respondent shall meet the following service performance standards: maintain an on-time performance rate of at least ninety-five percent (95%); complete all scheduled trips with zero missed trips unless prior approval is obtained; respond to dispatch communications within two (2) minutes; and report all incidents to the District within twenty-four (24) hours of occurrence. The Respondent shall coordinate with District school sites and partner sites regarding staging locations, authorized receiver lists, and shall conduct route dry runs prior to the commencement of services to ensure readiness and continuity of operations.

6.8. Gratuity

No gratuity charges will be allowed under this contract.

6.9. Authorized Order Process

Upon the District’s Transportation Department submitting a request for services to the proposer, the proposer shall respond within two business day with both a response of acceptance or denial of the trip and the proposal pertaining to the said trip.

6.10. Suspension by the District

The District’s Director of Transportation, or its designee, reserves the right to suspend a proposer and not use the proposer for services due to excessive equipment failure and/or breakdowns, excessive trip refusals, non-responsiveness to trip requests, and if any certifications are expired or non-existent.

6.11. No Maximum or Minimum Requirements

The District does not guarantee a minimum or maximum number of trips, miles, and/or hours to be requested or committed to. The Respondent shall design transportation routes to minimize ride time. Student enrollment, number of routes, and partner site locations may be modified at the District’s discretion based on operational needs.

6.12. Agreement and Pricing

The term of the Agreement shall be for one year with two (2) additional years, not to exceed three (3) years total.

Prices may increase from year to year by 5% or CPI (Consumer Price Index) for San Bernardino County, whichever is lower. Any proposed price increases must be submitted in writing at least ninety (90) days prior to the contract anniversary date for consideration and approval.

6.13. Cancellations and Postponed Trips

District Cancellations:

A. If trip is postponed for a later time no fees shall be imposed to the District.

B. All cancellations must be in writing by the District’s Transportation Director or its designee. No other fees, fines, or percentages will be applied.

C. Cancellations by the proposer or failure to complete the trip after confirmation will result in the District issuing the contract to another awarded proposer and may lead to suspension of future services

6.14. Credit Available to the District

Proposer will be required to offer the following credits to the District based on the following scenarios:

A. Vehicle breakdown: Credit entire trip cost

B. Proposer cancellation of trip with less than 48 hours notice: Credit entire trip cost

C. Vehicle amenity malfunction (heater or air conditioning not operational for any duration of trip): 50% of trip cost

6.15. Default

If the successful proposer fails or neglects to furnish and/or deliver the services at the prices quoted or at the times and places agreed upon or otherwise fails to comply with the terms, conditions, or specifications of this proposal document in its entirety, the District reserves the right to cancel existing services affected by such default, and procure services from other sources and deduct from any unpaid balance due to the successful proposer.

6.16. Governing Law

The laws of the State of California and San Bernardino County shall govern all aspects of the proposal.

1. All services must meet the standards set forth in “California Title 5, Section 14030 Student

Transportation Services.”

2. The proposer must comply with all federal MC-24 and FMCSA regulations concerning student transportation.

3. Services should align with the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures.

6.17. Damage to District Property

The successful proposer shall be fully responsible for any damage to the District property caused by its employees. Repairs or replacement, at the option of the District, shall be made by the successful proposer or by the District and charged to the proposer.

6.18. Criminal Records Check

Education Code Section 45125.1 provides that if the employees of any entity that has a contract with a school

District may have any contact with students, those employees shall submit or have submitted their fingerprints in a manner authorized by the Department of Justice together with a fee determined by the Department of Justice to be sufficient to reimburse the Department for its costs incurred in processing the application. The successful proposer shall not permit an employee to encounter the District’s students until the Department of Justice has ascertained that the employee has not been convicted of a violent or serious felony. The successful proposer shall certify in writing to the District that none of its employees who may encounter students have been convicted of a violent or serious felony. The successful proposer shall keep a record of said information and shall provide such information to the District upon request.

6.19. Drug and Alcohol Testing

The successful proposer shall require that all drivers and other individuals who may encounter students be subject to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with the requirements of any federal, state, and local laws. The successful proposer shall keep a record of said information and shall provide such information to the District upon request. The successful proposer shall notify the District immediately and in writing whenever any driver has tested positive for drugs or alcohol and shall immediately dismiss the driver from providing services to the

District.

6.20. California SB 88 (2023)

Proposer agrees to comply with Senate Bill 88 (2023) and California Educational Code 39875 – 39882 during contract term.

6.21. Records and Audit

The successful proposer shall maintain books, records, documents, trip logs, student manifests, and other evidence, including accounting procedures and practices, sufficient to properly reflect all costs claimed to have been incurred or anticipated to be incurred in the performance of the Agreement. All records containing student information shall be maintained in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and applicable privacy laws.

The successful proposer shall preserve and make available such records to the District and/or other representative agencies having a financial interest in the Agreement, including designees of the interested parties, for a period of seven (7) years from the date of expiration of the Agreement, or until released in writing from this obligation by the District. The proposer shall support secure data exchange and transmission of required information with

District systems in a manner approved by the District.

The successful proposer shall be responsible for any audit discrepancies resulting from deviations from the terms of the Agreement and for any commitments or expenditures in excess of amounts authorized by the District.

7. Questions, Possible Addenda and Withdrawal of Proposal

For questions or comments regarding this Request for Proposal (RFP) process or the RFP documents, please submit your questions or comments through the Procurement Portal. Entities responding to this RFP “Vendor(s)” or

“Proposer(s)” may submit requests for information and/or clarification through the Procurement Portal no later than

2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The Fontana Unified School District (“District” or “FUSD”) shall not be obligated to provide responses to any questions received after the above- specified deadline or respond to any questions submitted in a manner other than as instructed above. FUSD will respond through the Procurement Portal

Question & Answer section, or via an Addendum.

It is the Proposers responsibility to obtain any and all addenda issued relating to this RFP. All addenda issued shall become part of the RFP. Furthermore, it shall be the responsibility of the Proposers to inquire as to whether any addenda were issued.

The District shall not be responsible for, nor accept as a valid excuse for late question submission, any delay or malfunction in transmittal or any other method of delivery used by the proposer.

If it becomes necessary for the District to revise any part of this RFP, or to provide clarification or additional information after the RFP is released, a written addendum will be issued.

FUSD shall not, under any circumstance, be liable for any pre-contractual expenses incurred by potential Vendors shall not include any such expenses as part of their responses to the RFP (“Proposal(s)”). Pre-contractual expenses are defined as any expenses incurred by a potential Vendor including, but not limited to: (1) preparing its Proposal in response to this RFP; (2) submitting that Proposal to FUSD; (3) negotiating with FUSD any matter related to this

RFP, including a possible contract; or (4) engaging in any other activity prior to the effective date of award, if any, of a contract resulting from this RFP.

Withdrawal of Proposal: Any proposer may withdraw a Proposal, through the Procurement Portal, at any time prior to the scheduled closing time.

8. Evaluation & Award - Basis for Selection

The method used for evaluating and awarding this RFP will involve a two (2) step process:

Step 1: The evaluation committee will review submitted Proposals. Only Proposals that are deemed to be compliant, capable of meeting the District’s needs, and scores the highest points based on the evaluation criteria in the EVALUATION CRITERIA section will be approved to move forward to step two. The District reserves the right to conduct virtual Microsoft Teams, or live interviews of some or all of the RFP respondents. If necessary, the https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/fusd/projects/215751/document?section=2026059 interviews will occur according to the timeline, and will be by invitation only. Once all requested interviews are complete the selection committee will select the winning firm.

Step 2: If the District elects to enter into negotiations, then negotiations will be with the highest ranked Proposer(s).

If a mutually acceptable agreement cannot be reached, negotiations with that Proposer(s) will be formally closed and negotiations will be opened with the next best qualified highest ranked Proposer, and so on until an agreement can be reached.

9. Evaluation Criteria

EVALUATION CRITERIA: This RFP will be evaluated on the following factors to determine responsiveness and responsibility of bidder: price, competency, credibility, and compliance with all aspects of the specifications, exceptions that may be noted, and any other factors that may arise during the review process after bid opening. Bids that are deemed to be nonresponsive or bidders that are found to be non-responsible will be rejected in accordance with Public Contract Code and due process procedures.

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Technical Approach Points Based 10 (10% of Total)

2. Safety Points Based 60 (60% of Total)

3. Cost Points Based 20 (20% of Total)

4. Experience Points Based 10 (10% of Total)

10. Pricing Proposal

TRANSPORTATION FEES

Required Regulatory Fees will be included, such as taxes, fees, surcharges, or other charges required by local, state, or federal regulations. A current list of regulatory fees can be found at http://bit.ly/regulatory-fees. Any Toll

Fees (if applicable) will be bill at market fare.

Line Item Description Unit of

Measure Unit Cost No Bid Additional

Description of Services

1 Base Fair/Minimum Trip Fee (fixed cost per trip) Per Trip

2 Per Mile Fee (based on distance) Per Mile

3 Consistent Driver for students that require the same driver (Example:

Primary Care Driver Plus)

Per Trip

Line Item Description Unit of

Measure Unit Cost No Bid Additional

Description of Services

4 No Show or Late Cancel (Rider has not shown up to pickup location within 10 minutes of schedule pick up time) or (Late Cancel less than 2-hour notice)

Per Trip

5 Wait time Fees (billed after 10 mins) Per Trip

6 Gas Price Adjustment Per Mile

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

The following additional services (“Additional Services”), may be requested by the District. Fees for Additional

Services are in addition to the fees listed above. *Forward-Facing Carseat, Seatbelt Buckle Guard, Safety Vest and/or Car Harness are collectively referred to as (“Equipment”). Provider is responsible for ensuring that each such request is consistent with applicable state, local, or federal guidelines, including, but not limited to, restrictions on height, weight, and/or age for the usage of any Equipment.

Line Item Description Unit of

Measure Unit Cost No Bid Additional

Description of Services

7 Mini-Van (Example: Drivers whose vehicles are designed to transport up to seven passengers in two or three rows.)

Each

8 Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

(Example: Drivers whose vehicles are capable of transporting motorized wheelchairs.)

Each

9 Rider Assistant (Example: Drivers who are accompanied by another adult in the vehicle.)

Each

10 Para- Professional (Example: Drivers who are accompanied by a trained paraprofessional.)

Each

Line Item Description Unit of

Measure Unit Cost No Bid Additional

Description of Services

11 Audio and/or Video Recording

(Example: Drivers whose vehicles are equipped with a camera capable of recording audio and/or video footage of the interior and/or exterior of the vehicle during a ride.)

Each

12 Forward- Facing Carseat* Each

13 Seatbelt Buckle Guard* Each

14 Safety Vest and/or Car Harness* Each

OTHER ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Provide additional services offered below. Include name of service, description, and unit of measure for the additional service.

Line Item Description of Services # Additional

Services

Details

Unit Cost No Bid

15 Additional Services 1

16 Additional Services 2

17 Additional Services 3

18…