Supplemental_Transportation_Services.pdf

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Stockton Unified School District, CA

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP NO. 26-27-10

SUPPLEMENTAL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

RELEASE DATE: September 23, 2026

RESPONSE DEADLINE: October 16, 2026, 2:00 pm

Please refer to the project timeline in this document for all important deadlines.

Request For Proposal #RFP NO. 26-27-10 Title: Supplemental Transportation Services

Table Of Contents

1. NOTICE INVITING PROPOSALS

2. INTRODUCTION

3. SECTION 3 - INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

4. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

5. SCOPE OF SERVICES

6. EVALUATION PHASES

7. COST PROPOSAL

8. PROPOSER QUESTIONNAIRE

9. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

10. ATTACHMENTS

1. NOTICE INVITING PROPOSALS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Stockton Unified School District of Joaquin County, State of California, acting by and through its Governing Board, hereafter referred to, as the District, is soliciting proposals from qualified proposers for:

RFP NO. 26-27-10;Supplemental Transportation Services

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

The District is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide [brief one- or two-sentence description of services].

OBTAINING RFP DOCUMENTS AND ADDENDA:

RFP documents, addenda, and other solicitation information are available at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd.

QUESTIONS:

All questions regarding this RFP must be submitted through the District’s e-Procurement Portal by 3:00 pm on

Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

DEADLINE:

Proposals must be electronically submitted through the District’s e-Procurement Portal no later than 2:00 pmon

Friday, October 16, 2026. Late proposals will not be accepted.

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive minor irregularities or informalities, and cancel this RFP in whole or in part.

By: Sheikia Wilson, Director of Purchasing

Publication Dates:

First Publication: September 23, 2026

Second Publication: September 30, 2026

Advertisement: The Stockton Record

2. INTRODUCTION

2.1. Summary

Stockton Unified School District is seeking a qualified transportation provider to deliver comprehensive supplemental student transportation services for general education, special education, homeless, foster, disabled, medically fragile, and other identified students. The District is looking for a provider capable of supplying properly maintained and compliant vehicles, qualified and appropriately cleared personnel, specialized student accommodations, reliable dispatch and management support, standby vehicles, and consistent route and https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/psusd schedule performance. The successful contractor must demonstrate a strong commitment to student safety, regulatory compliance, service continuity, data privacy and security, and operational accountability. In addition, SUSD is seeking an integrated transportation technology solution that supports routing, GPS/AVL tracking, parent and school applications, student ridership tracking, RFID capabilities, driver tablets, GIS integration, reporting, and invoice verification. The District intends to partner with a provider that can deliver safe, reliable, efficient, transparent, and responsive transportation services while supporting SUSD’s operational, technological, environmental, and student-centered transportation goals.

2.2. Background

Stockton Unified School District traces its roots to 1852, making it one of California’s oldest public school systems. Since its early beginnings, the District has grown from serving a small number of students in central

Stockton to a large and diverse urban school system serving communities throughout the city.

As Stockton expanded, so did the need to provide students with safe and equitable access to education.

Transportation became an increasingly important part of that responsibility, connecting students to neighborhood schools, specialized programs, magnet schools, special education services, and secondary campuses across the District.

SUSD’s history of growth, changing attendance patterns, and the development of specialized educational programs has made student transportation an essential component of District operations. Today, transportation continues that long-standing mission by helping ensure students can safely and reliably access the educational opportunities available to them, regardless of where they live or the individual transportation needs they may have.

In many ways, the Transportation Department represents the physical connection between Stockton’s communities and its schools—supporting the District’s commitment to providing every student with access to education, every school day.

2.3. Contact Information

Project Contact:

Rudy Valderrama

Transportation Manager

2963 Sanguinetti Lane, Stockton, CA

Stockton, CA 95205

Email: rvalderrama@stocktonusd.net

Phone: (209) 938-5183

Procurement Contact:

Sheikia Wilson

Director of Purchasing

2141 Robindale Ave

Stockton, CA 95202

Email: sheikiawilson@stocktonusd.net

Phone: (209) 933-7095

Department:

Transportation Services

Department Head:

Katherine Baggese

Director, Transportation

2.4. Timeline

1ST PUBLICATION September 23, 2026 mailto:rvalderrama@stocktonusd.net tel:(209)938-5183 mailto:sheikiawilson@stocktonusd.net tel:(209)933-7095

2ND PUBLICATION September 30, 2026

REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATION October 7, 2026, 3:00pm

ADDENDUM ISSUED October 9, 2026, 3:00pm

PROPOSAL DUE DATE October 16, 2026, 2:00pm

INTERVIEWS (if applicable) DATE & TIME: TBD

3. SECTION 3 - INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

3.1. Minimum Requirements:

EXPERIENCE: The Proposer must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience providing student transportation services similar in scope and complexity to those requested in this RFP. Experience shall include the management and operation of student transportation services involving drivers, vehicles, routing, dispatch, and related transportation operations. Experience providing transportation services to California K-12 public school districts or other public agencies is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE: The Proposer must demonstrate knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, safety requirements, industry standards, and best practices governing pupil transportation, including the transportation of general education and special education students and students requiring specialized transportation accommodations.

Proposers shall outline this experience and knowledge in Section 4 - Proposal Submission, sub-section -

Organization Content and Organization.

3.2. Examination of RFP Documents

Each Proposer is responsible for carefully reviewing the entire Request for Proposals (“RFP”), including all instructions, requirements, specifications, exhibits, attachments, forms, and addenda issued by the Stockton

Unified School District (“District”). Submission of a proposal constitutes acknowledgment that the Proposer has reviewed and understands the requirements of the RFP.

Proposers are responsible for obtaining all information necessary to prepare and submit a complete and responsive proposal.

3.3. Questions and Requests for Clarification:

All questions, requests for clarification, and inquiries regarding this RFP must be submitted through the

Question and Answer section of the District’s e-Procurement Portal by the deadline specified in the RFP

Schedule.

Proposers shall not rely upon oral interpretations, representations, or statements concerning the RFP. Any interpretation, clarification, or modification determined by the District to materially affect the RFP will be communicated in writing through the e-Procurement Portal.

Questions submitted after the established deadline may not receive a response.

Proposers shall submit all inquiries regarding this bid via the District's e-Procurement Portal, located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd.

All answers to inquiries will be posted on the District's e-Procurement Portal.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/psusd

Proposers may also click “Follow” on this RFP to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the proposer to check the website for answers to inquiries.

3.4. Addenda:

The District reserves the right to modify or clarify the RFP by written addendum at any time prior to the proposal submission deadline.

All addenda will be posted through the District’s e-Procurement Portal and shall become part of the RFP.

Proposers are responsible for reviewing and acknowledging all addenda prior to submitting a proposal.

Acknowledgement of all addenda must be submitted with bid response.

Failure to acknowledge an addendum may result in the proposal being deemed nonresponsive.

Ultimately, it is sole responsibility of each proposer to periodically check the site for any addenda at http://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd.

3.5. Proposal Preparation:

Proposals shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements and format established in this RFP. Proposals must be complete, responsive, and provide all information requested by the District.

Proposers are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their proposals. The District is not responsible for errors or omissions made by a Proposer.

Proposals should be clear, concise, and sufficiently detailed to permit the District to evaluate the Proposer’s qualifications, approach, experience, and ability to perform the requested services.

3.6. Electronic Submission:

Proposals must be submitted electronically through the District’s e-Procurement Portal http://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd in accordance with the instructions provided in the RFP.

The Proposer is solely responsible for ensuring that its complete proposal is successfully submitted through the e-Procurement Portal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

Proposals submitted by email, facsimile, mail, or any other method will not be accepted unless expressly authorized by the District in writing.

3.7. Late Proposals:

Proposals must be received through the District’s e-Procurement Portal by the date and time specified in the

RFP Schedule.

Late proposals will not be accepted.

The date and time recorded by the District’s e-Procurement Portal shall govern the determination of whether a proposal was timely submitted. Proposers are encouraged to allow sufficient time to complete the electronic submission process before the deadline.

3.8. Modification or Withdrawal of Proposal:

A Proposer may modify or withdraw its proposal through the District’s e-Procurement Portal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

Following the submission deadline, proposals may not be modified or withdrawn except as permitted by the

District and applicable law. The District may request clarification of a proposal; however, such clarification shall not provide a Proposer an opportunity to materially alter its proposal.

3.9. Proposal Validity:

Proposals shall remain valid and binding for a period of ninety (90) calendar days following the proposal submission deadline, unless a different period is specified in this RFP.

During this period, a Proposer may not withdraw its proposal without the written consent of the District.

3.10. Cost of Proposal Preparation:

All costs associated with the preparation and submission of a proposal shall be borne solely by the Proposer.

http://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd http://procurement.opengov.com/portal/psusd http://procurement.opengov.com/portal/stocktonusd

The District shall not be responsible for any costs incurred by a Proposer in connection with this RFP, including, but not limited to, proposal preparation, interviews, presentations, demonstrations, negotiations, travel, or other activities related to the solicitation process.

3.11. Exceptions and Deviations:

Proposers shall review all requirements of this RFP, including the District’s proposed Agreement, insurance requirements, and other contractual requirements, prior to submitting a Proposal.

Any request to modify, clarify, or take exception to a requirement of the RFP or the District’s proposed

Agreement shall be submitted through the District’s question and clarification process by the deadline identified in the RFP Schedule. The request shall clearly identify the provision at issue and the requested modification or alternative language.

If the District determines that a modification to the RFP or proposed Agreement is appropriate, the modification will be issued by written Addendum and made available to all prospective Proposers.

Unless modified by written Addendum, submission of a Proposal constitutes the Proposer’s acceptance of the requirements, terms, and conditions of the RFP and proposed Agreement. Exceptions or modifications submitted with a Proposal that were not timely raised through the question and clarification process may result in the Proposal being deemed nonresponsive.

3.12. Communications and No Contact:

All communications concerning this RFP shall be directed through the District’s e-Procurement Portal or to the

District’s designated Purchasing representative as expressly provided in the RFP.

During the solicitation and evaluation process, Proposers shall not contact members of the Governing Board, evaluation committee members, District administrators, employees, or consultants regarding this RFP except as authorized by the District.

Unauthorized communications regarding the solicitation may be considered in determining a Proposer’s eligibility for award.

3.13. Award of Contract:

Following completion of the evaluation process, the District may recommend the Proposer(s) determined to best meet the requirements of this RFP for award.

The District reserves the right to negotiate final contract terms with the selected Proposer(s), provided such negotiations are consistent with the requirements and intent of the RFP.

Any award is subject to all required District approvals, including Governing Board approval when required. The selected Proposer shall execute the District’s Agreement and provide all required documentation, including evidence of required insurance, within the timeframe established by the District.

If a selected Proposer fails or refuses to execute the Agreement or satisfy the requirements necessary for contract execution, the District may withdraw the award recommendation and proceed with another Proposer, re-solicit the services, or take other action permitted by applicable law.

No contract shall be binding upon the District until the Agreement has been fully executed by authorized representatives of the District and the selected Proposer.

3.14. Evidence of Responsibility:

The District reserves the right to determine whether a Proposer is responsible and qualified to perform the services required by this RFP. In determining responsibility, the District may consider the Proposer’s experience, qualifications, past performance, financial capacity, reliability, licenses and certifications, personnel, resources, and ability to successfully perform the contract requirements.

The District may request additional information necessary to determine a Proposer’s responsibility and may independently verify information provided in the proposal, including references and past performance.

The District may also request information regarding material litigation, regulatory actions, investigations, debarment, suspension, fraud, or other legal proceedings involving the Proposer when reasonably related to the

Proposer’s qualifications, responsibility, or ability to perform the required services.

The District may determine a Proposer to be non-responsible based on factors including, but not limited to:

• Failure to possess required licenses, certifications, registrations, or legal authority;

• Submission of materially false, misleading, or inaccurate information;

• Documented unsatisfactory performance on current or prior contracts;

• Insufficient financial, operational, or organizational capacity to perform the required services;

• Debarment, suspension, or other applicable restrictions imposed by a governmental entity; or

• Other documented circumstances that materially affect the Proposer’s ability to successfully perform the contract.

A proposal submitted by a Proposer determined to be non-responsible may be rejected.

3.15. Public Records:

Proposals and other records submitted in response to this RFP may be subject to disclosure under the California

Public Records Act (Government Code section 7920.000 et seq.).

If a Proposer believes that specific information contained in its Proposal is exempt from public disclosure, the

Proposer must clearly identify the information as “Confidential” or “Proprietary” and identify the legal basis for the claimed exemption. Blanket designations of an entire Proposal as confidential or proprietary are not acceptable.

The District will determine whether requested records are subject to disclosure in accordance with applicable law. The District does not guarantee that information identified by a Proposer as confidential or proprietary will be exempt from disclosure.

If the District receives a request for records containing information identified by a Proposer as confidential or proprietary, the District may notify the Proposer and provide an opportunity to identify the basis for withholding the information from disclosure. The Proposer shall be responsible for taking any action it deems necessary to protect its claimed interests.

3.16. Interviews:

The District reserves the right to invite one or more of the highest-ranked Proposers to participate in an interview and/or presentation as part of the evaluation and selection process. If conducted, the interview and/or presentation may be awarded up to 25 additional points in accordance with the evaluation criteria identified in this RFP.

Invited Proposers will be notified by the District and provided with applicable instructions and scheduling information. The District may make a recommendation for award without conducting interviews or presentations.

3.17. District's Rights:

The District reserves the right, to the extent permitted by applicable law, to:

• Reject any or all proposals;

• Cancel, amend, postpone, or reissue this RFP;

• Waive minor informalities or irregularities that do not materially affect the responsiveness of a proposal or provide a competitive advantage;

• Request clarification or additional information from a Proposer, provided such clarification does not materially alter the proposal;

• Verify information provided in a proposal and conduct reference checks;

• Conduct interviews, presentations, or demonstrations, if applicable;

• Negotiate with one or more Proposers when permitted and appropriate;

• Make an award to one or more Proposers, when contemplated by the RFP;

• Make no award; and

• Take any other action determined appropriate in accordance with the requirements of this RFP and applicable law.

The District's waiver of a minor informality or irregularity shall not modify the material requirements of the

RFP or provide a Proposer with an unfair competitive advantage.

3.18. No Commitment to Award:

Issuance of this RFP, receipt of proposals, or participation in the evaluation process does not obligate the

District to award a contract.

No Proposer shall acquire any legal or equitable right, claim, or expectation of award as a result of submitting a proposal or participating in the RFP process.

A contract shall exist only after all required approvals have been obtained and an agreement has been fully executed by the District and the selected Proposer.

3.19. Protest Procedures:

Any protest concerning the RFP requirements must be submitted in writing to the Director of Purchasing no later than the deadline for questions and clarifications.

Any protest concerning a proposed award must be submitted in writing no later than 4:00 p.m. on the third (3rd) business day following issuance of the Notice of Intent to Award. Only a Proposer that submitted a timely proposal and could reasonably be eligible for award may submit an award protest.

The protest must identify the RFP, state the specific grounds for protest, provide supporting facts and documentation, and identify the requested remedy. Protests based solely on disagreement with evaluation scores or evaluator judgment will not be considered without evidence of a material error in the evaluation or procurement process.

Untimely protests or protests that fail to comply with these requirements may be rejected. The District’s written determination shall be final.

4. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

4.1. Proposal Submission:

Proposals must be submitted electronically through the District’s e-Procurement Portal by the date and time specified in the RFP Schedule. Proposers are responsible for ensuring that all required information, documents, and attachments are successfully submitted prior to the deadline.

Proposals submitted by email, mail, facsimile, or other means will not be accepted unless otherwise expressly authorized by the District.

4.2. Authorized Signature:

The Proposal and all required certifications shall be completed and submitted by an individual authorized to bind the Proposer. Submission of the Proposal constitutes the Proposer’s certification that the information provided is true and correct and that the individual submitting the Proposal is authorized to act on behalf of the

Proposer.

4.3. Proposal Content and Organization:

Proposals shall be clear, concise, and provide sufficient information to demonstrate the Proposer’s qualifications, experience, and ability to successfully perform the services described in this RFP. At a minimum, proposals shall include the following, as applicable:

A. Cover Letter and Executive Summary

Provide a brief introduction to the Proposer and an overview of the firm's qualifications and ability to provide the requested supplemental student transportation services. The cover letter shall be signed by an individual authorized to bind the Proposer.

B. Company Qualifications, Experience, and References

Provide information regarding the Proposer's organizational background, years in business, experience providing student transportation services, and experience serving public school districts or similar educational agencies.

Describe the Proposer's experience providing transportation for general education and special education students, including students with exceptional needs and students requiring specialized transportation accommodations.

Provide references for contracts of similar size, scope, and complexity, preferably involving California public school districts or other public educational agencies. For each reference, identify the agency, services provided, contract period, approximate scope of services, and current contact information.

C. Operational Approach and Service Delivery

Describe the Proposer's approach to providing the services required under this RFP, including:

• Route implementation and management;

• Driver and attendant staffing;

• Dispatch and daily operational support;

• Procedures for maintaining service continuity;

• Management of late, missed, or interrupted routes;

• Ability to accommodate changes in routes, schedules, and student assignments;

• Extended School Year (ESY) transportation;

• Emergency and backup transportation coverage; and

• Communication and coordination with District Transportation staff.

The response should demonstrate the Proposer's ability to meet the District's operational requirements and provide reliable and timely transportation services.

D. Personnel, Training, and Safety

Describe the Proposer's driver recruitment, qualification, training, supervision, and retention practices.

Identify procedures for ensuring that drivers, attendants, supervisors, trainers, and other personnel maintain all required licenses, certifications, endorsements, clearances, and training.

Describe the Proposer's student safety program, accident and incident response procedures, driver monitoring, pupil management practices, and procedures for transporting students requiring specialized accommodations.

E. Personnel, Training, and Safety

Provide complete pricing in the format required by the District. Pricing shall include all costs necessary to perform the proposed services unless otherwise specified in this RFP.

F. Fleet and Equipment Capacity

Describe the Proposer's available fleet and its ability to provide the quantity and types of vehicles necessary to meet District requirements.

Include information regarding vehicle age and condition, passenger capacities, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, air conditioning, specialized equipment, preventive maintenance, replacement vehicles, backup fleet capacity, and procedures for responding to vehicle breakdowns or other service disruptions.

G. Management, Dispatch, and Operational Capacity

Identify the proposed management and supervisory structure for the District's contract, including management, dispatch operations, driver training/safety personnel, and fleet maintenance oversight.

Describe the Proposer's ability to provide the required dispatch coverage, emergency communications, operational supervision, and coordination with District personnel.

H. Transportation Technology and Reporting

Describe the technology proposed to support transportation operations, including, as applicable:

• Routing and scheduling;

• GPS/AVL vehicle tracking;

• Parent and school tracking/notification capabilities;

• Student ridership and RFID capabilities;

• Driver tablets and navigation;

• Incident reporting;

• Vehicle and driver monitoring;

• GIS capabilities;

• Data integration;

• Operational reporting; and

• Invoice verification.

Clearly identify any required hardware, software, licenses, subscriptions, implementation services, or other components and associated costs.

4.4. Cost Proposal:

The Cost Proposal shall be submitted separately from the Technical Proposal. Pricing information shall not be included within the Technical Proposal.

Proposers shall complete and submit the District's Cost Proposal Form and provide all requested rates, fees, charges, and other costs associated with providing the services required under this RFP.

4.5. Required Forms and Certifications:

Proposers shall complete and submit all forms, certifications, acknowledgments, and other documents identified as required by the District.

Failure to submit a required document may result in the proposal being deemed nonresponsive when the omitted document is material to the requirements of the RFP.

Proposers are responsible for ensuring that all required forms are complete, accurate, properly executed, and submitted with the proposal.

4.6. Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals meeting the minimum requirements of this RFP will be evaluated by a District Evaluation Committee based on the criteria and maximum point values identified below. Evaluation will be based on the information submitted in response to this RFP and the Proposer’s demonstrated ability to successfully perform the required services.

Evaluation Criteria Maximum Points

Minimum Requirements Pass/Fail

Qualifications, Experience & References 20

Operational Approach and Service Delivery 25

Personnel, Training, and Safety 15

Fleet and Equipment Capacity 15

Management, Dispatch, and Operational Capacity 10

Transportation Technology and Reporting 5

Cost Proposal 10

TOTAL 100

Minimum Requirements – Pass/Fail

Proposer must demonstrate compliance with all minimum qualifications and mandatory requirements identified in this RFP. Failure to satisfy a material minimum requirement may result in the proposal being deemed nonresponsive and excluded from further evaluation.

Firm Qualifications, Experience & References – 20 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's qualifications and demonstrated experience providing student transportation services of similar size, scope, and complexity. Consideration will be given to experience serving public school districts or similar educational agencies; experience transporting general education and special education students, including students requiring specialized transportation accommodations; organizational experience;

and the quality and relevance of references provided.

Operational Approach and Service Delivery – 25 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's understanding of the District's transportation requirements and proposed approach to route implementation and management, staffing, daily operations, service continuity, route and schedule changes, ESY transportation, backup coverage, emergency response, and coordination with District

Transportation staff.

Personnel, Training, and Safety – 15 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's ability to recruit, qualify, train, supervise, and retain sufficient drivers, attendants, and other required personnel. Consideration will be given to driver and attendant qualifications, required licenses and certifications, training programs, student safety practices, accident and incident response, pupil management, and procedures for transporting students requiring specialized accommodations.

Fleet and Equipment Capacity – 15 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's available fleet, vehicle types and capacities, vehicle condition, specialized transportation equipment, wheelchair accessibility, preventive maintenance practices, replacement and backup vehicle capacity, and ability to provide sufficient vehicles to meet District transportation requirements.

Management, Dispatch, and Operational Capacity - 10 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's proposed management and supervisory structure, dispatch capabilities, emergency communications, operational oversight, fleet maintenance management, and ability to provide responsive and effective coordination with District personnel.

Transportation Technology and Reporting - 5 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's proposed technology and reporting capabilities, including routing and scheduling, GPS/AVL tracking, parent and school communications, student ridership tracking, driver navigation, data integration, operational reporting, and invoice verification.

Cost Proposal - 10 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer's separately submitted Cost Proposal, including proposed hourly rates, additional charges, technology costs, and other applicable costs associated with providing the required services.

Consideration will be given to the completeness and transparency of the proposed pricing and overall cost to the

District.

Total Possible Points: 100 Points

4.7. Proposal Format:

Proposals shall be organized so that responses correspond directly to the proposal requirements and evaluation criteria identified in this RFP.

Proposals shall be submitted in 8½" × 11" format, using a minimum 12-point font and margins of no less than ¾ inch. Proposals shall not exceed 50 pages, unless otherwise specified in this RFP.

The page limit includes the cover letter, qualifications, organizational information, resumes, technical approach/work plan, references, and other supporting information submitted as part of the technical proposal.

The following are excluded from the page limit:

• Cover page and table of contents;

• District-required forms and certifications;

• Addenda acknowledgments;

• Cost Proposal / Fee Schedule; and

• District-requested attachments or exhibits.

Pages exceeding the stated page limitation may not be considered during evaluation.

Proposers are encouraged to submit clear, concise, and relevant information and avoid unnecessary promotional or duplicative materials.

Questionnaire and Supplemental Documentation: In addition, to the Proposer is required to respond and upload all pertinent documents requested in PROPOSER QUESTIONNAIRE section of the e-Procurement

Portal.

5. SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Stockton Unified School District (“District”) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide [insert description of services] in accordance with the requirements set forth in this Request for Proposals (“RFP”).

The Scope of Services describes the District’s requirements, expectations, and desired outcomes for the services to be provided. Proposers shall review the Scope of Services in its entirety and submit a proposal demonstrating their qualifications, experience, approach, and ability to successfully meet the District’s requirements.

5.1. Scope of services

1. PURPOSE AND INTENT

Stockton Unified School District (“District” or “SUSD”) is seeking proposals for supplemental student transportation services for general education students, students with special needs, homeless students, foster youth, students with disabilities, medically fragile students, and students with other identified transportation needs to and from Stockton Unified School District schools.

It is the intent of the District to obtain supplemental student transportation services. This contract is not intended to replace the District’s existing student transportation operation.

The District intends to enter into a contract with a single transportation provider utilizing privately owned carriers to meet the District’s supplemental student transportation requirements.

The contract shall include transportation for general education students and students receiving special education services, including students with exceptional needs as identified in their Individualized Education Programs

(IEPs).

Transportation shall be provided in accordance with routes, schedules, service requirements, and other instructions established or approved by the District.

5.2. 2. CONTRACT SERVICE LEVELS

2.1 Traditional School Year

For each traditional school year, the Contractor shall be provided no fewer than thirty-five (35) routes.

Routes will be finalized and provided following completion of the District collective bargaining unit's route bid process and prior to the beginning of the school year.

Contractor services are anticipated to be provided for approximately one hundred eighty (180) instructional days per traditional school year.

The District reserves the right during the contract period to order the services of more or fewer vehicles, each with a driver, than the estimated number identified in the RFP. The District may also revise the number of students assigned to each vehicle and the schools to be served as operational conditions require.

When additional vehicles are requested, the Contractor shall make every reasonable effort to secure the requested additional vehicles within fifteen (15) calendar days.

2.2 Extended School Year (ESY)

An undetermined number of routes may be required for Extended School Year (ESY), traditionally known as summer school.

ESY routes shall be assigned according to the same general process used for the traditional school year.

The District does not guarantee a minimum number of ESY routes. If ESY transportation services are required, the Contractor shall provide sufficient personnel and equipment to fully meet the District’s transportation requirements.

5.3. 3. TYPES OF TRANSPORTATION SERVICE REQUIRED

3.1 Basic Transportation Service

Basic Service shall consist of regularly scheduled routes and may include assistance with daily route coverage for District-operated routes.

Regularly scheduled routes may include both:

A. General education transportation; and

B. Special education transportation.

Most students will be transported on a round-trip basis. Exceptions may include situations in which:

A. A student becomes ill while at school; or

B. A parent or guardian transports the student to or from school.

C. Student has a different AM pick-up or PM drop-off.

The District will attempt to notify the Contractor of these situations as they occur.

3.2 Supply of Drivers

Under certain circumstances, when operationally necessary, the District may request additional qualified drivers from the Vendor’s pool of driving personnel to operate District-owned school buses and/or other District vehicles for the transportation of pupils.

The Vendor shall include, as part of its proposal, the applicable pricing for providing additional drivers under this provision. Pricing shall include the hourly rate per driver and any other applicable charges associated with providing the requested personnel.

Upon authorization by the District and performance of the requested services, the approved driver rates shall be applied to the next applicable billing cycle for services rendered.

All drivers provided under this provision shall possess all licenses, certificates, endorsements, medical clearances, training, and other qualifications required by applicable federal and California laws and regulations for the vehicle and pupil transportation services being performed.

3.3 General Education Transportation

General education transportation for all grade levels shall require the use of Type D school buses, unless otherwise specifically authorized by the District.

3.4 Students with Exceptional Needs

The Contractor shall provide transportation services for students with exceptional needs in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Required accommodations may include, but are not limited to:

• Assignment of a School Bus Attendant;

• Alternative passenger restraint systems, including safety vests and car seats;

• Transportation of students utilizing wheelchairs;

• Accommodation of sensory devices;

• Climate-controlled school buses; and

• Compliance with ride-time limitations or other transportation requirements specified in a student's IEP.

The Contractor shall ensure that all equipment, personnel, training, and operating procedures necessary to provide these accommodations are available and comply with applicable federal and state regulations and

District policies.

The size and type of vehicle used for special education transportation shall be determined based upon the number of students transported and the individual accommodations required.

The Contractor shall maintain sufficient quantities and appropriate types of vehicles to meet all assigned student transportation requirements.

3.5 Residential Pickups

Most students receiving special education transportation will be picked up at their residence or another District-authorized location.

To maintain route schedules, the Contractor shall wait no more than three (3) minutes beyond the established pickup time for a late student.

The Contractor shall maintain consistent pickup times.

When appropriate and operationally feasible, a second attempt may be made to pick up a student. If late pickup situations become recurring, the District and/or Contractor may provide the parent or guardian with a notice or reminder regarding established school bus stop times and the need for students to be ready for transportation.

3.6 School Sites

Stockton Unified School District (“District”) operates and oversees fifty-five (54) school sites within its jurisdiction. Some schools site that are listed would may not require transportation services.

41 Elementary / K–8 Schools

• Adams Elementary

• August Elementary

• Bush Elementary

• Cleveland Elementary

• Commodore Stockton Skills

• El Dorado Elementary

• Elmwood Elementary

• Fillmore Elementary

• Flora Arca Mata School

• Fremont Elementary

• Grunsky Elementary

• Hamilton Elementary

• Harrison Elementary

• Hazelton Elementary

• Henry Elementary

• Hong-Kingston/Valenzuela

• Hoover Elementary

• Huerta Elementary

• Kennedy Elementary

• King Elementary

• Kohl Elementary

• Madison Elementary

• Marshall Elementary

• McKinley Elementary

• Monroe Elementary School

• Montezuma Elementary

• Nightingale Elementary

• Peyton Elementary

• Pittman Elementary

• Primary Years Academy

• Pulliam Elementary

• Rio Calaveras Elementary

• Roosevelt Elementary

• San Joaquin Elementary

• Spanos Elementary

• Taft Elementary

• Taylor Elementary

• Van Buren Elementary

• Victory Elementary

• Washington Elementary

• Wilson Elementary

13 High Schools / Secondary / Specialty Programs

• Chavez High School

• Edison High School

• Franklin High School

• Health Careers Academy

• Merlo Institute of Environmental Tech

• Jane Frederick High School

• Pacific Law Academy

• School for Adults

• Stagg High School

• Stockton Early College Academy

• Stockton High

• Weber Institute of Applied Sciences & Technology

• Young Adult Program

5.4. 4. DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY

The District retains authority over the establishment, assignment, modification, and administration of student transportation services.

The District may:

A. Assign students or other authorized passengers to routes.

B. Establish the approximate order of student pickup and drop-off.

C. Establish arrival and departure times at schools.

D. Determine required vehicle capacity for assigned routes.

E. Provide information regarding minimum-day and modified school schedules.

F. Provide special transportation instructions for students requiring special handling, treatment, medication, or accommodations.

G. Adjust student pickup and delivery times when operationally necessary.

H. Increase or decrease the number of routes or vehicles required.

I. Revise the number of students assigned to a vehicle.

J. Revise the schools or programs served.

K. Observe drivers and attendants while performing contracted services.

L. Inspect Contractor vehicles, records, credentials, and other transportation-related documentation as permitted under this Scope of Work.

When a student is newly added to the transportation list, the Contractor shall begin providing transportation no later than three (3) school days following notification.

When the District modifies a pickup or delivery time, the Contractor shall implement the change no later than the second business day following notification when the adjustment is necessary to comply with an IEP or another need identified by the District.

5.5. 5. CONTRACTOR GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1 Furnishing Equipment and Personnel

The Contractor shall furnish all personnel, vehicles, equipment, technology, supervision, and other resources necessary to fulfill the transportation requirements established under this Contract and its specifications.

The Contractor shall maintain sufficient operational capacity to provide all assigned transportation services.

5.2 Road and Route Conditions

The Contractor shall report to the District current information regarding changes in highway, street, road, construction, or other conditions that may affect assigned transportation routes.

If the Contractor determines that an established route requires modification beyond routine daily changes instituted by the District, and the proposed modification would change the time, place, or manner of pickup or delivery of a student, the Contractor shall:

A. Immediately notify the District verbally; and

B. Provide written notification within twenty-four (24) hours.

The Contractor shall not independently implement substantive modifications to an established route without

District authorization.

5.3 Route Dry Runs

The driver assigned to each route shall conduct a dry run of the assigned route and schedule at least one time no later than five (5) days before the beginning of school each year.

The Contractor shall report the results of the dry run and any identified problems to the District.

As directed by the District, the driver shall provide parents or guardians with the applicable Route Notice containing pickup and/or delivery information.

5.6. 6. SCHOOL BUS AND VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS

6.1 Vehicle Type and Capacity

Type D school buses are required for general education transportation for all grade levels unless the District provides specific authorization for another vehicle type.

Vehicles assigned to special education routes shall be of a size and configuration appropriate for the number of students transported and their individual transportation accommodations.

The Contractor shall maintain an adequate fleet, including sufficient spare and standby vehicles, to ensure continuity of service.

6.2 Air Conditioning

All school buses utilized to transport District students shall be equipped with fully functional air conditioning.

Air conditioning equipment shall be maintained in proper operating condition at all times to provide a safe and comfortable environment for students, particularly during periods of high temperatures.

If a vehicle's air conditioning system becomes inoperative, the Contractor shall immediately notify the District

Transportation Department.

The Contractor shall communicate any required route adjustments and request District assistance when necessary to ensure students are not left aboard a vehicle experiencing excessive heat for an extended period.

6.3 Passenger Safety Equipment

The Contractor shall provide all required passenger safety devices and specialized transportation equipment.

Drivers shall personally verify that required passenger safety devices are properly secured before transporting students.

All drivers responsible for transporting students using car seats or other specialized restraint systems shall receive installation and securement instruction from a qualified person.

6.4 Breakdowns and Standby Vehicles

The Contractor shall maintain a sufficient number of operational standby vehicles and qualified standby drivers to ensure continuity of service in the event of a vehicle breakdown, mechanical failure, equipment failure, accident, or other condition that prevents an assigned vehicle from being safely or legally operated.

If an assigned vehicle breaks down or otherwise cannot be safely or legally operated during normal transportation service hours:

A. The Contractor shall immediately notify the Stockton Unified School District Transportation

Department and other appropriate District personnel.

B. A properly equipped standby vehicle and qualified driver shall be dispatched immediately.

C. The standby vehicle and driver shall be positioned and available in a manner that allows the replacement vehicle to arrive at the affected location within fifteen (15) minutes.

D. The replacement vehicle shall meet all requirements applicable to the original assignment, including required student accommodations, passenger restraints, wheelchair equipment, climate control, and other specialized equipment.

E. The Contractor shall take all reasonable measures to minimize disruption to student transportation service and prevent students from remaining aboard or awaiting transportation for an unreasonable period.

The Contractor shall maintain records of vehicle breakdowns, standby vehicle deployments, response times, and resulting service delays. Such information shall be made available to the District upon request.

5.7. 7. CONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT, STAFFING, AND DISPATCH

7.1 Local Operations

To efficiently serve District students, the Contractor shall maintain an office and/or transportation terminal within the San Joaquin County area.

7.2 Dispatch Operations

A. The Contractor shall maintain sufficient dispatch personnel to manage and control assigned routes and schedules.

B. Dispatch services shall be available during normal transportation operating hours of 5:30 a.m.

through 5:30 p.m., or until the final assigned vehicle has returned to the terminal, whichever is later.

C. Telephone and communication equipment shall remain operational and provide reliable communication between the Contractor and District.

D. Cell phone numbers for appropriate members of the Contractor's management team shall be provided to identified District personnel to facilitate twenty-four-hour emergency communications.

E. Whenever a Contractor driver is on duty, an appropriate Contractor management, supervisory, or dispatch contact shall be available.

7.3 Minimum Management and Supervisory Staffing

At a minimum, the Contractor shall maintain the following management and supervisory structure:

A. General Manager - Responsible for dealing directly with the District Transportation Department on matters involving implementation and operation of the contract.

B. Dispatcher(s) - Provided in sufficient numbers to dispatch, monitor, and control assigned routes and schedules in accordance with District requirements.

C. Driver Trainer and Safety Program Specialist - Qualified to the satisfaction of the District to provide required classroom and behind-the-wheel training to Contractor drivers in accordance with applicable laws and practical transportation operating procedures.

D. Fleet Maintenance Supervisor - Responsible to the Contractor's General Manager for the safety and mechanical condition of all Contractor vehicles. The Fleet Maintenance Supervisor shall establish and maintain a complete preventive maintenance program and accurate vehicle maintenance and cost records.

Such records shall be made available for District inspection upon request.

7.4 Criminal Background Checks and Employee Eligibility

A. The Contractor shall not permit any employee, driver, school bus attendant, aide, monitor, subcontractor, contractor, agent, or other individual to perform services under this Contract if the individual's criminal history, employment eligibility, licensing status, or other background would prohibit that individual from working with children or within a California public school environment under applicable law.

B. The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all individuals assigned to perform services under this Contract have completed all criminal background checks, fingerprinting, licensing reviews, and other clearances required by applicable federal law, California law, regulations, and District requirements before performing services involving District students.

C. The Contractor shall not assign an individual whose criminal convictions or other legally relevant conduct would prohibit the individual from performing the assigned duties or otherwise render the individual unsuitable to work in the vicinity of children under applicable law.

D. At least annually, and more frequently if required by applicable law or District policy, the Contractor shall verify that employees and agents assigned to this Contract are not identified on applicable sex offender registries or other legally required exclusion databases.

E. The Contractor shall immediately notify the District of any adverse finding that could affect an individual's eligibility or suitability to perform services under this Contract and shall immediately remove any…