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Stockton Unified School District, CA

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP No. 26-27-11

WALTON SPECIAL CENTER – SEVERE SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION

SERVICES

RELEASE DATE: October 1, 2026

RESPONSE DEADLINE: October 30, 2026, 2:00 pm

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

Request For Proposal #RFP No. 26-27-11 Title: Walton Special Center – Severe Special Needs 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. 26-27-11;Walton Special Center – Severe Special Needs Transportation Services

SCOPE OF SERVICES:

The District is seeking proposals from qualified transportation providers to provide specialized pupil transportation services for students attending Walton Special Center. Services shall support students with severe disabilities and individualized transportation needs, including students who may require wheelchair-accessible transportation, specialized restraint systems, Bus Attendant support, medical or behavioral accommodation, and other transportation accommodations identified by the District or a student's Individualized Education Program

(IEP). The successful Contractor shall provide qualified personnel, appropriately equipped vehicles, and reliable transportation services in accordance with the requirements of this RFP.

OBTAINING RFP DOCUMENTS AND ADDENDA:

RFP documents, addenda, and other solicitation information are 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

Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

DEADLINE:

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

Friday, October 30, 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: October 1, 2026

Second Publication: October 8, 2026

Advertisement: The Stockton Record

2. INTRODUCTION

2.1. Summary

Stockton Unified School District is committed to ensuring all students have safe and equitable access to educational programs and services. For students with significant disabilities, transportation is an essential part of providing consistent access to their educational program.

Walton Special Center serves students with severe disabilities who may have significant physical, medical, behavioral, developmental, sensory, communication, and mobility needs. These students may require individualized transportation accommodations, specialized equipment, additional supervision, and coordination with District and school personnel.

Because of these unique needs, transportation services require a high level of safety, consistency, training, coordination, and care. Transportation to and from Walton Special Center serves as an extension of the student's educational and support program, helping ensure students can safely and reliably access the specialized services and educational opportunities available to them.

2.2. Background

Stockton Unified School District is committed to ensuring that all students have safe and equitable access to educational programs and services. For students with significant disabilities, transportation is an essential component of providing consistent access to their educational program.

Walton Special Center serves students with severe disabilities who may have significant physical, developmental, medical, behavioral, sensory, communication, and mobility needs. Students may require individualized transportation accommodations, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, specialized restraint systems, Bus Attendant support, medical or behavioral precautions, and other accommodations identified through a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Given the specialized needs of the students served, transportation requires a high level of safety, consistency, coordination, and care. The District seeks a qualified provider capable of delivering reliable, individualized transportation services that prioritize student safety, dignity, continuity of care, and access to education.

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 mailto:rvalderrama@stocktonusd.net tel:(209)938-5183 mailto:sheikiawilson@stocktonusd.net tel:(209)933-7095

2.4. Timeline

1ST PUBLICATION/ISSUANCE October 1, 2026

2ND PUBLICATION October 8, 2026

REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATION October 20, 2026, 3:00pm

ADDENDUM ISSUED October 22, 2026, 2:00pm

PROPOSAL DUE DATE October 30, 2026, 2:00pm

INTERVIEWS (if applicable) 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.

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.

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3.10. Cost of Proposal Preparation:

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

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

Provide a signed cover letter that includes the Proposer's legal name, business address, primary contact information, and a brief statement of interest in providing the required services.

B. Firm Qualifications and Experience

Provide an overview of the Proposer's qualifications and experience providing pupil transportation services, including experience transporting students with severe disabilities and specialized transportation needs.

Include relevant experience with California public school districts or similar educational agencies and demonstrate sufficient organizational capacity to perform the required services.

C. Approach to Services

Describe the Proposer's approach to providing safe, reliable, and individualized transportation services for students attending Walton Special Center.

The response should address service delivery, student-specific transportation needs, route continuity, communication with the District, backup coverage, and response to service disruptions or emergencies.

D. Staffing, Vehicles, and Safety

Describe the personnel, vehicles, equipment, training, and safety measures that will be used to perform the services.

The response should demonstrate the Proposer's ability to provide qualified drivers and Bus Attendants, appropriately equipped vehicles, backup personnel and vehicles, and the specialized training and equipment necessary to meet student transportation needs.

4.4. 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.

4.5. 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

Firm Qualifications and Experience 30

Approach to Services 25

Staffing, Vehicles, and Safety 25

Cost Proposal 20

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 and Experience – 30 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer’s qualifications, organizational capabilities, relevant industry experience, experience providing comparable services, past performance, and references. Experience serving K-12 school districts or other public agencies may be considered when relevant to the services requested.

Proposed Team Qualifications & Experience – 25 Points

Evaluation of the qualifications, relevant experience, roles, and capabilities of the key personnel proposed to perform the services, including subcontractors, if applicable.

Understanding & Approach to Scope of Services – 25 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer’s demonstrated understanding of the District’s requirements and the quality, feasibility, and effectiveness of the proposed approach, methodology, and work plan.

Cost Proposal / Fee Schedule – 20 Points

Evaluation of the Proposer’s proposed fees, rates, and overall cost to the District in accordance with the pricing requirements of this RFP.

The District may verify information provided in a proposal, conduct reference checks, and request clarification as necessary to complete the evaluation.

The District may invite one or more Proposers to participate in interviews, presentations, or demonstrations. If an additional evaluation phase will be separately scored, the applicable criteria and point values will be identified in this RFP.

4.6. 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 11-point font and margins of no less than ¾ inch. Proposals shall not exceed 40 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. Background:

The Stockton Unified School District (“District”) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide specialized pupil transportation services for students attending Walton Special Center. Services shall support students with severe disabilities and individualized transportation needs, including students who may require wheelchair-accessible transportation, specialized restraint systems, Bus Attendant support, medical or behavioral accommodation, and other transportation accommodations identified by the District or a student's

Individualized Education Program (IEP). The successful Contractor shall provide qualified personnel, appropriately equipped vehicles, and reliable transportation 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.

5.2. PURPOSE

Stockton Unified School District (“District”) is seeking a qualified transportation contractor to provide safe, reliable, compassionate, and highly specialized pupil transportation services for students attending Walton

Special Center.

Walton Special Center provides special education services to eligible students with severe disabilities from approximately ages 3 through 22, including preschool, elementary, secondary, young adult, and other specialized programs. Walton also provides early intervention services supporting infants and toddlers with special needs and their families.

Transportation provided under this Scope of Work shall recognize that Walton Special Center serves a student population whose physical, medical, behavioral, developmental, sensory, communication, and mobility needs may be significantly greater than those of students transported on conventional school bus routes.

Transportation shall be treated as an extension of the student's educational and support program. The Contractor shall provide services in a manner that emphasizes:

• Student safety;

• Dignity and respect;

• Individualized service;

• Continuity of care;

• Appropriate supervision;

• Reliable and timely transportation;

• Effective communication;

• Medical and emergency preparedness; and

• Compliance with each student's Individualized Education Program (“IEP”) and transportation accommodations, when applicable.

5.3. Walton Special Center:

Transportation provided under this Scope of Work shall recognize that Walton Special Center serves a student population whose physical, medical, behavioral, developmental, sensory, communication, and mobility needs may be significantly greater than those of students transported on conventional school bus routes.

Transportation shall be treated as an extension of the student's educational and support program. The Contractor shall provide services in a manner that emphasizes:

• Student safety;

• Dignity and respect;

• Individualized service;

• Continuity of care;

• Appropriate supervision;

• Reliable and timely transportation;

• Effective communication;

• Medical and emergency preparedness; and

• Compliance with each student's Individualized Education Program (“IEP”) and transportation accommodations, when applicable.

Walton Special Center provides specialized educational programming for students with severe disabilities and is designed to address the individualized needs of each student.

Programs and services available at Walton may include:

• Preschool programs;

• Elementary programs;

• Secondary and high school-age programs;

• Young adult programs;

• Early intervention services;

• Psychological services;

• Speech and language services;

• Physical therapy;

• Feeding therapy;

• Aquatics;

• Nursing services;

• Community-based instruction;

• Field trips;

• Off-campus educational experiences; and

• Summer educational programs.

Because transportation may support participation in any of these programs, the Contractor must be capable of providing transportation beyond traditional home-to-school service when requested by the District.

5.4. Student Population:

Students transported under this contract may have one or more significant disabilities or conditions requiring specialized transportation accommodations.

Examples may include, but are not limited to:

• Significant developmental disabilities;

• Intellectual disabilities;

• Multiple disabilities;

• Physical disabilities;

• Limited mobility;

• Students utilizing wheelchairs or other mobility devices;

• Students requiring specialized child safety restraint systems;

• Students requiring positioning equipment;

• Nonverbal students;

• Students with limited communication abilities;

• Students with significant sensory needs;

• Students with autism or autism-related support needs;

• Students with behavioral support plans;

• Students susceptible to seizures or other medical events;

• Students requiring respiratory or other medical equipment;

• Students requiring feeding-related precautions;

• Students with limited awareness of personal safety;

• Students requiring continuous adult supervision; and

• Students whose disabilities make it unsafe for them to be left unattended.

The Contractor shall recognize that the level of support required may vary significantly from student to student.

5.5. Individualized Transportation Requirements:

The Contractor shall comply with all transportation accommodations identified by the District for each student.

Student-specific transportation requirements may include, but are not limited to:

• Wheelchair transportation;

• Wheelchair securement;

• Specialized seating;

• Child safety restraint systems;

• Safety vests;

• Car seats;

• Harnesses;

• Integrated child restraints;

• Specialized positioning;

• Bus Attendant support;

• Assigned seating;

• Climate-controlled vehicles;

• Reduced ride times;

• Reduced student loads;

• Specialized loading or unloading procedures;

• Curb-to-curb service;

• Door-to-door service;

• Hand-to-hand transfer to an authorized adult;

• Specific behavioral interventions;

• Sensory accommodations;

• Medical precautions;

• Communication accommodations;

• Emergency health protocols; and

• Other accommodations identified by the student's IEP or District.

The Contractor shall not modify or discontinue a student's required accommodation without prior District authorization.

5.6. Vehicle Requirements:

Vehicles used for Walton Special Center transportation shall be appropriate for the individual needs of the students assigned to the vehicle.

All vehicles shall:

• Meet all applicable California laws and regulations governing pupil transportation;

• Be maintained in safe and reliable operating condition;

• Successfully complete all inspections required by applicable law;

• Be properly licensed and insured;

• Have functioning heating and air-conditioning systems;

• Be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

• Be free from unsecured equipment or objects;

• Provide adequate space for required mobility and medical equipment;

• Have appropriate emergency equipment;

• Have operable communication equipment; and

• Be equipped with all required student restraint and securement systems.

Vehicles transporting students using wheelchairs shall be appropriately equipped with:

• ADA-compliant or otherwise legally required wheelchair lifts or ramps;

• Wheelchair securement systems;

• Occupant restraint systems;

• Appropriate lift safety barriers;

• Adequate wheelchair positioning space; and

• Securement locations appropriate for the student's wheelchair or mobility device.

A wheelchair shall never be transported without being properly secured.

5.7. Air-Conditioning and Climate Control:

Due to the medical and physical vulnerability of students served by Walton Special Center, functioning climate control shall be considered an essential vehicle requirement.

The Contractor shall:

• Ensure air-conditioning and heating systems are operational prior to dispatch;

• Immediately report a climate-control failure to District Transportation;

• Avoid prolonged exposure of students to excessive heat or cold;

• Provide a replacement vehicle when continued operation could adversely affect student health or safety;

and

• Prioritize students with medically documented temperature sensitivities when responding to equipment failures.

5.8. School Bus Drivers:

Drivers assigned to Walton Special Center routes shall possess all licenses, certificates, medical clearances, training, and qualifications required by applicable federal and California law.

In addition to normal school bus driver qualifications, Walton drivers shall receive specialized training addressing the population they will transport.

Training shall include, as applicable:

• Transporting students with severe disabilities;

• Disability awareness;

• Student dignity and respectful interaction;

• Wheelchair lift operation;

• Wheelchair securement;

• Child safety restraint systems;

• Safety vest and harness procedures;

• Emergency evacuation of students with limited mobility;

• Seizure awareness;

• Basic recognition of medical emergencies;

• Behavioral support and de-escalation;

• Autism and sensory awareness;

• Communication with nonverbal students;

• Confidentiality;

• Student-specific transportation plans;

• Mandated reporting responsibilities;

• Emergency procedures;

• First aid and CPR;

• Bloodborne pathogen precautions; and

• Procedures for contacting District personnel during an emergency.

The District may require additional training when necessary to safely transport a particular student.

5.9. Bus Attendants:

The Contractor shall provide a qualified Bus Attendant when required by the District or a student's IEP.

Bus Attendants shall be trained to support students with severe disabilities and shall assist the driver with student supervision and safety.

Bus Attendant responsibilities may include:

• Monitoring students throughout transportation;

• Assisting students during boarding and exiting;

• Assisting with wheelchair loading;

• Monitoring wheelchair securements;

• Assisting with child safety restraint systems;

• Monitoring student behavior;

• Implementing District-approved behavioral support strategies;

• Observing students for signs of medical distress;

• Supporting emergency evacuation;

• Maintaining appropriate seating and positioning;

• Monitoring students who cannot independently communicate distress;

• Providing reassurance and appropriate sensory support;

• Maintaining student confidentiality; and

• Immediately communicating safety or medical concerns to the driver.

The primary responsibility of the Bus Attendant shall be student safety and supervision.

Bus Attendants shall not perform duties that distract them from monitoring students while the vehicle is in motion.

5.10. Medical and Health Considerations:

Some Walton students may have significant medical or health-related needs.

The Contractor shall establish procedures for drivers and attendants to respond appropriately to medical emergencies while remaining within the scope of their training and authorization.

The Contractor may be required to accommodate students with:

• Seizure disorders;

• Respiratory conditions;

• Feeding precautions;

• Mobility limitations;

• Medical devices;

• Oxygen or respiratory equipment;

• Emergency medication protocols;

• Temperature sensitivities;

• Significant allergies;

• Specialized positioning requirements; or

• Other medically related accommodations.

Drivers and attendants shall receive any student-specific health or emergency information determined necessary by the District before transporting the student.

Nothing in this Scope of Work shall require transportation personnel to perform medical procedures for which they are not properly trained or legally authorized.

5.11. Nursing and School Coordination:

Walton Special Center maintains nursing and specialized support services on site.

The Contractor shall cooperate with Walton administrators, nursing staff, teachers, therapists, and District

Transportation personnel when transportation concerns affect student safety.

When necessary, District personnel may provide transportation staff with student-specific information regarding:

• Medical risks;

• Emergency procedures;

• Mobility restrictions;

• Loading procedures;

• Behavioral considerations;

• Communication methods;

• Safety precautions; or

• Transportation accommodations.

Transportation employees shall follow the instructions provided by authorized District personnel.

5.12. Student Loading and Unloading:

Students shall never be rushed during loading or unloading.

Drivers and attendants shall provide sufficient time for:

• Wheelchair lift operation;

• Wheelchair positioning;

• Securement;

• Specialized restraint installation;

• Student transfers;

• Student communication;

• Behavioral transition;

• Verification of authorized receiving adults; and

• Other student-specific procedures.

A final safety check shall be completed prior to vehicle movement.

5.13. Wheelchair Transportation:

For students utilizing wheelchairs or mobility devices, the Contractor shall ensure:

A. The wheelchair or mobility device is compatible with safe vehicle transportation.

B. The wheelchair is secured using an approved securement system.

C. The student is secured using the required occupant restraint system.

D. Securements are checked prior to vehicle movement.

E. Wheelchair brakes are applied as appropriate during loading and securement.

F. Lift procedures are followed at all times.

G. Students are never left unattended while positioned on an operating wheelchair lift.

H. Equipment does not obstruct aisles or emergency exits.

I. Wheelchairs and mobility devices remain properly positioned during transportation.

Drivers and attendants responsible for wheelchair transportation shall demonstrate proficiency in wheelchair securement procedures.

5.14. Child Safety Restraint Systems:

The Contractor shall properly install and use all child safety restraint systems required by the District.

These may include:

• Conventional car seats;

• Safety vests;

• Specialized harnesses;

• Integrated seats;

• Booster-style systems;

• Specialized positioning systems; or

• Other approved restraints.

Only employees trained in the proper use of the specific restraint shall secure a student using that equipment.

The Contractor shall routinely inspect restraints and immediately remove damaged or defective equipment from service.

5.15. Student Behavior and Supervision:

Drivers and attendants shall manage student behavior using safe, respectful, and District-approved methods.

Transportation personnel shall not:

• Use corporal punishment;

• Humiliate or ridicule students;

• Threaten students;

• Use inappropriate physical restraint;

• Leave a student unsupervised as punishment;

• Remove a student from the vehicle at an unauthorized location; or

• Deny transportation without District authorization.

Behavior concerns shall be documented and reported to District Transportation and appropriate school personnel.

The District shall retain responsibility for determining appropriate student disciplinary or behavioral interventions.

5.16. Communication with Non-Verbal and Limited-Verbal Students:

The Contractor shall recognize that some students may have limited ability to communicate discomfort, illness, fear, or distress.

Drivers and attendants shall be trained to observe changes in:

• Behavior;

• Breathing;

• Skin color;

• Body positioning;

• Facial expression;

• Vocalizations;

• Movement;

• Responsiveness; and

• Other indicators of possible distress.

Student communication devices shall remain accessible when required and shall be transported safely.

5.17. Adult Present / Safe Transfer Requirement:

Students identified by the District as requiring adult supervision shall never be left unattended at a residence, bus stop, school, or other location.

When an authorized adult is required to receive the student and no authorized adult is present, the Contractor shall:

A. Keep the student safely supervised aboard the vehicle.

B. Attempt to contact the parent, guardian, or authorized responsible adult.

C. Notify District Transportation.

D. Follow District instructions regarding additional delivery attempts.

E. Notify school administration when directed.

F. Return the student to an approved District location when directed.

The Contractor shall not release a student to an unauthorized individual.

There shall be no driver or contractor discretion to waive this requirement.

5.18. Ride Time:

Because of the physical, developmental, behavioral, and medical needs of students attending Walton Special

Center, routes shall be designed to minimize student ride time whenever reasonably possible.

The Contractor shall cooperate with the District to:

• Avoid unnecessarily lengthy routes;

• Limit excessive numbers of stops;

• Minimize student transfers;

• Avoid unnecessary vehicle changes;

• Reduce prolonged waiting aboard vehicles;

• Comply with IEP transportation limitations; and

• Prioritize student health, safety, and comfort when designing routes.

5.19. Route Continuity:

Consistency is particularly important for students with severe disabilities.

The Contractor shall make reasonable efforts to maintain consistent:

• Drivers;

• Bus Attendants;

• Vehicles;

• Pickup times;

• Drop-off times;

• Seating assignments; and

• Transportation routines.

Frequent unnecessary changes in assigned personnel are discouraged.

When substitutions are necessary, substitute personnel shall have access to all information and training necessary to safely perform the assignment.

5.20. Route Familiarization:

Prior to independently operating a Walton Special Center route, assigned drivers shall become familiar with:

• The route;

• Pickup and drop-off locations;

• School loading areas;

• Student-specific loading requirements;

• Wheelchair-accessible loading locations;

• Known transportation hazards;

• Authorized receiving procedures; and

• Student-specific transportation accommodations.

The District may require route dry runs or orientation before service begins.

5.21. Absence of Assigned Personnel:

The Contractor shall maintain sufficient substitute drivers and Bus Attendants to ensure uninterrupted service.

The absence of a regularly assigned:

• Driver;

• Bus Attendant;

• Dispatcher; or

• Other Contractor employee shall not relieve the Contractor of its obligation to provide service.

Substitute staff assigned to Walton routes shall meet the same qualification and training requirements applicable to regularly assigned employees.

5.22. Breakdowns and Replacement Vehicles:

The Contractor shall give Walton transportation requests priority when a vehicle becomes disabled due to the vulnerability of the student population.

When a breakdown occurs:

• Students shall remain appropriately supervised;

• District Transportation shall be notified immediately;

• Parents or schools shall be notified as directed by the District;

• A suitable replacement vehicle shall be dispatched promptly;

• The replacement vehicle shall accommodate all student mobility and restraint needs; and

• Required Bus Attendant coverage shall continue.

A standard vehicle shall not be substituted when it cannot accommodate the students assigned to the route.

5.23. Delays:

The Contractor shall immediately notify District Transportation of significant delays.

The Contractor shall provide:

• Route number;

• Vehicle number;

• Reason for delay;

• Current location;

• Estimated arrival time; and

• Any student safety concerns.

When directed by the District, the Contractor shall also provide parent/guardian notifications.

5.24. Emergency and Evacuation Planning:

The Contractor shall maintain emergency procedures specifically addressing students who may be unable to independently evacuate a vehicle.

Procedures shall address:

• Wheelchair users;

• Nonambulatory students;

• Students using specialized restraints;

• Students with significant cognitive disabilities;

• Students who may resist evacuation;

• Students with sensory sensitivities;

• Students dependent upon medical or mobility equipment; and

• Students requiring continuous adult assistance.

Drivers and attendants shall receive hands-on training regarding emergency evacuation.

Emergency planning shall prioritize life safety while recognizing the unique needs of individual students.

5.25. Accidents and Safety Incidents:

Any accident, injury, medical emergency, student elopement, restraint failure, wheelchair securement failure, unauthorized student release, or other significant safety event shall be reported immediately to District

Transportation.

The Contractor shall:

A. Protect students from additional injury.

B. Contact emergency services when appropriate.

C. Notify the District immediately.

D. Follow all required accident-reporting procedures.

E. Preserve relevant video and electronic data.

F. Submit written documentation within the timeframe established by the District.

G. Cooperate fully with District, law enforcement, CHP, Risk Management, and regulatory investigations.

5.26. Student Left on Vehicle Prevention:

The Contractor shall maintain strict procedures designed to prevent a student from being left unattended aboard a vehicle.

At the conclusion of every route or trip, the driver shall physically inspect:

• Every passenger seating area;

• Wheelchair positions;

• Floor areas;

• Areas behind seats; and

• The rear of the vehicle.

Any required electronic child-check system shall be properly utilized.

Leaving a student unattended aboard a vehicle shall constitute a serious safety violation and shall be immediately reported to the District.

5.27. Video and Vehicle Safety Technology:

Vehicles shall be equipped with technology capable of supporting student safety and incident review.

Technology shall include:

• GPS/AVL tracking;

• Interior video;

• Exterior video;

• Driver tablets;

• Electronic route manifests;

• Real-time vehicle tracking;

• Electronic student ridership systems;

• RFID or student identification systems;

• Parent notifications mobile application; and

• District transportation dashboards.

Video and electronic records shall be preserved upon District request.

5.28. Student Ridership Accountability:

The Contractor shall maintain accurate records identifying which students board and exit each vehicle.

When required by the District, the transportation system shall record:

• Student name or identification number;

• Vehicle;

• Route;

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