77-20250424131124 DCS

DeSoto County Schools (DCS) is seeking sealed bids for a comprehensive Apple hardware, software, and accessories procurement for Fiscal Year 2026, with Bid Number #356-APPLE-DCS26. The procurement covers a wide range of Apple products including iPads, MacBook Airs, MacBook Pros, Mac minis, Mac Studios, iMacs, Apple Studio Displays, Apple Pencils, Magic Keyboards, and related accessories, targeting 45 instructional locations and 3 office buildings serving over 35,000 students and 3,500 employees. The bid solicitation was released on April 24, 2025, with a submission deadline of May 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM CST, and anticipated board approval on June 6, 2025. The contract will be for a one-year term from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, with a total cost not to exceed $3,000,000. Vendors must provide U.S. Educational Pricing that will not increase during the contract term, and must warrant that all devices will be delivered new, unused, and not rebuilt or reinstalled. The procurement includes comprehensive AppleCare+ warranty options ranging from 2 to 4 years, and requires vendors to provide standard pricing that does not vary based on quantity, order frequency, or delivery location.

The bid opportunity appears open to all qualified vendors who can meet the district's stringent requirements, with no explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned. Vendors must complete a comprehensive vendor registration packet, including forms such as a new vendor registration form, conflict of interest disclosure, and a W-9. Vendors working on school campuses must undergo background checks every two years, with specific requirements varying by service category. Insurance requirements include a minimum of $1,000,000 in general liability insurance and $500,000 in workers' compensation coverage. The district reserves the right to reduce, increase, or retract quantities based on fund availability. While no incumbent vendors are specifically identified, the bid suggests a strategic technology refresh approach with flexible purchasing options, including individual device purchases and multi-pack configurations for various Apple products. The maximum budget for this procurement is $3,000,000, with pricing based on U.S. Educational Pricing that may potentially decrease but not increase during the contract term.