Early Childcare Provider

The Commonwealth of Kentucky's Personnel Cabinet is seeking a qualified Early Childcare Provider through Request for Proposal (RFP) 790 2500000252 to operate a comprehensive childcare program at the Rosenwald School Building on the Kentucky State University campus in Elliott County. The program will serve children ages 1-5, with potential future expansion to include infant care, and is expected to operate five days per week, 52 weeks per year from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., excluding Commonwealth Executive Branch holidays. The selected provider must obtain an active childcare license, participate in the Kentucky All Stars program, and aim to achieve a three-star rating within two years. Evaluation criteria will be comprehensive, with 1,500 points allocated to the technical proposal, 500 points for the cost proposal, and an additional potential 750 points for oral presentations. The solicitation was issued on 02/27/2025, with a facility walk-through conducted on 3/19/2025, and proposals are due by 04/30/2025 at 4:00 p.m. EST. The initial contract term is anticipated from September 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, with options to renew for up to three additional two-year periods.

The procurement appears open to various childcare providers, with no specific set-aside designations mentioned. The Commonwealth will provide the leased space, major building maintenance, utilities, and fixed playground equipment, while the provider is responsible for furnishings, kitchen supplies, janitorial services, pest control, and general operational expenses. The provider must be capable of accepting both Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and private pay families, with an expectation of offering childcare rates lower than the average cost in Franklin County, Kentucky. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the cost proposal attachment includes detailed tuition rate structures for different age groups, with weekly rates multiplied by 52 weeks annually. The provider will need to demonstrate financial capability to manage the program, including potential additional fees such as registration, activity, and late payment fees. The contract emphasizes a comprehensive approach to early childhood education, requiring providers to meet rigorous operational and educational standards while maintaining affordable pricing for state employees and local families.