Communication, P R, and Career Pathway Services

Christina School District is requesting proposals for comprehensive Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Career Pathway Development Services under RFP CHR26019, with proposals due October 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST and written questions due September 15, 2026.

The District seeks a single prime vendor to deliver two integrated service components: Component A covers professional communications and public relations including strategic planning, media relations, crisis communications, brand management, multilingual community engagement, digital and social media management, and measurement and reporting; Component B encompasses career pathway training and professional development for students and staff, including curriculum design, industry-led workshops, mentorship pairings, job shadowing, and project-based learning integrated with the District's actual communications work. The District serves approximately 14,000 students across more than 30 schools and programs in the Newark, Christiana, Bear, and Wilmington areas.

Vendors must hold a Delaware business license and provide comprehensive insurance (workers compensation, $1 million commercial general liability minimum, and $1 million professional liability minimum). Background clearance is required for personnel working directly with students. Pricing submissions must include annual retainer fees for both components and hourly rate cards for optional as-needed services; pricing must remain firm through June 30, 2027. One paper copy with original signatures and one electronic copy on USB Flash Drive must be submitted to the Procurement Department at 1899 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19702.

Evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: firm experience and qualifications (20%), understanding of the District and proposed approach (20%), career pathway and training capability (20%), account team and key personnel (10%), cost (15%), public-sector/K-12/Delaware experience (10%), and references and past performance (5%).

The contract term runs three years beginning December 1, 2026, with two optional one-year renewal periods contingent on satisfactory performance and Board approval. The anticipated award date is December 1, 2026. The District reserves the right to award to multiple vendors, make partial awards, and reject any or all proposals.