25-041 (BS) Cisco Network Switch Equipment and Installation for 3K Series Replacement (E-Rate)

The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) is seeking proposals for Cisco Network Switch Equipment and Installation to replace its existing 3000 Series switches through RFP #25-041(BS). The procurement is specifically focused on acquiring Cisco Catalyst switches, with a preference for Cisco Channel Partners, though equivalent alternatives meeting system compatibility requirements will be considered. The project involves procuring 24-port and 48-port switches with various PoE+ configurations, including installation, configuration, testing, and removal of existing equipment. Proposal submissions must be uploaded to the Bonfire Portal by February 10, 2026, at 1:30 PM CST, with vendor questions due by January 22, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The evaluation criteria totals 100 points, with purchase price weighted at 35 points, quality and district needs at 30 points, reputation at 10 points, and additional factors including past relationships, references, HUB compliance, and value-added incentives comprising the remaining points.

The procurement is contingent upon district and E-Rate funding, with no guaranteed minimum purchase amount. Successful proposers must provide Performance and Payment Bonds or Irrevocable Letters of Credit for 100% of the contract price for contracts exceeding $25,000, and demonstrate comprehensive insurance coverage including $500,000 in general and automobile liability and $1,000,000 in excess liability for larger contracts. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, the RFP indicates consideration for HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) compliance in the evaluation process. The project is anticipated for completion during E-Rate Funding Year 2026 (July 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027), with potential accelerated timelines under separate E-Rate Funding Request Numbers (FRNs). Closeout documentation requirements include photographs, inventory sheets with serial numbers and asset tags, and hostname information. The contract will be valid for one year from Board of Trustees approval, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods, subject to potential price renegotiations.