179-2627-282-SCH_PSYCH

Durham Public Schools is requesting proposals for in-person school psychology services for a three-year term beginning with the 2026-2027 school year through the end of 2028-2029, with proposals due September 15, 2026 at 1:00 PM EST. DPS intends to award contracts to multiple vendors rather than a single awardee, based on qualifications, service capacity, and alignment with district needs.

All contracted personnel must hold active North Carolina licensure from either the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction or the North Carolina Psychology Board and meet the state definition of "qualified personnel" under 34 CFR 300.156(b). The RFP welcomes proposals from traditional staffing agencies and managed service providers, including agencies that recruit and place licensed professionals onsite and managed service providers that may subcontract with multiple agencies.

Services address staffing shortages and ensure students with Individualized Education Programs receive timely and legally compliant services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and North Carolina policies. Each assigned provider will work a 37.5-hour week with approximately 20–25 hours dedicated to completing evaluations; remaining time covers documentation, collaboration, meetings, and planning. All services must be delivered in person at DPS school sites; virtual or remote services are not accepted. Vendors must complete background checks at their own expense, including North Carolina DCDEE Criminal Background Checks if assigned to serve students under age five.

Vendors must provide at least three references for similar services and demonstrate experience with public or private sector clients of comparable size and complexity. Pricing proposals must constitute the total cost for complete performance including all applicable charges, handling, and administrative fees. Payment is made net thirty days after invoice approval by DPS.

DPS retains the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms. Questions are due August 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST. Sealed proposals in three hard copies and one flash drive copy are due at Durham Public Schools Purchasing Department, 511 Cleveland Street, Durham, NC 27701, with public bid opening at 2:00 PM EST the same day. Proposal offers must remain valid for at least 120 days from proposal opening.