294-20251112105836 tcsd

The Tate County School District Technology Department in Mississippi has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a comprehensive network upgrade project targeting E-Rate Funding Year 26-27. The procurement seeks qualified vendors to provide a turnkey solution involving the installation and configuration of network access points, specifically HPE Aruba AP-735 or equivalent, across instructional areas including classrooms and labs. Vendors must complete copper drops, equipment labeling, documentation, and seamless integration with the district's existing network infrastructure. A mandatory vendor site visit is scheduled for December 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, where potential bidders will receive detailed equipment specifications and campus maps. Sealed proposals must be submitted by December 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM to the district central office in Coldwater, Mississippi, with submissions requiring one original and two paper copies plus electronic files on a jump drive. Evaluation criteria will weight pricing at 25%, with additional points allocated to prior district experience (15%), personnel qualifications (10%), network management integration (15%), service provision without subcontractors (15%), documentation (10%), and preference for Mississippi-based companies attending the site visit (10%).

Vendor qualifications include possessing a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) and maintaining at least one full-time Aruba Certified Professional on staff. The contract will run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, contingent upon E-Rate funding approval from USAC and receipt of a Funding Commitment Decision Letter. Vendors must provide three references from school districts and ensure all equipment is new, out-of-box, with full warranty and support—no refurbished or gray market equipment will be accepted. Successful vendors must warrant materials and workmanship for one year for installation items and five years for access points, with all worker personnel required to undergo background checks and display company badges. While no specific set-aside designations were mentioned, the district shows a preference for Mississippi-based companies. The contract value is not explicitly stated, but funding is directly tied to E-Rate approval, with the district retaining the right to terminate the contract if funding is not appropriated. The district also reserves the discretionary authority to award to a single vendor, reject any or all proposals, and waive formalities and technicalities.