25-045 (BS) Cisco Wireless Equipment and Installation for Cohort Schools (E-Rate)

The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) is seeking proposals for Cisco wireless equipment and installation services for Cohort 1 schools within its Equipment Refresh Cycle, targeting E-Rate Funding Year 2026. The procurement specifically requests Cisco wireless access points (APs), including standard (CW9164I-B Catalyst 9164I), high-density (CW9166I-B Catalyst 9166I), and outdoor (C9124AXI-B-EDU Cisco Catalyst 9124AX) models, with an estimated procurement of 350 standard, 5 high-density, and 8 outdoor access points. Installation services must comprehensively include removing existing APs, installing new equipment, labeling, mounting, integrating with wireless LAN controllers, functional testing, and debris removal. The evaluation will utilize a best-value approach with weighted criteria: purchase price (35 points), quality/district needs alignment (30 points), long-term cost (6 points), vendor reputation (10 points), references (5 points), HUB impact (5 points), past district relationship (5 points), and other relevant factors (4 points). Vendor questions are due by January 22, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., with proposal submissions required through the Bonfire portal by February 10, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. CST.

The solicitation requires vendors to be Cisco Channel Partners, with a preference for those serving educational agencies, particularly K-12 districts. Proposers must submit mandatory forms including Representation and Certification, EDGAR Compliance, HB 89, SB 252 Verification, and a Conflict of Interest Questionnaire. Disadvantaged business enterprises are encouraged, with specific points allocated for HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) impact. The contract will be valid for one year following Board of Trustees approval, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the procurement is contingent upon district and E-Rate funding availability, with no guaranteed minimum purchase volume. The project covers multiple school locations including Beacon Hill Primary, ML King Academy @ Gates, Hirsch Elementary, JT Brackenridge Elementary, and Kelly Academy @ Lowell, with installation planned for June-July 2027. Vendors must provide three non-SAISD references and be prepared to potentially integrate with existing Cisco wireless infrastructure.