Early Childcare Provider

The Commonwealth of Kentucky's Personnel Cabinet is seeking a qualified Early Childcare Provider to operate a year-round childcare program at the Rosenwald School Building on the Kentucky State University campus. The program will serve children ages 1-5, with potential expansion to infants, operating Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., excluding Commonwealth Executive Branch holidays. The 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. The solicitation was released on 06/24/2025, with proposals due by 08/08/2025 at 4:00 p.m. EST. The evaluation will be comprehensive, with a total of 2,750 possible points: 1,500 points for technical proposals, 500 points for cost proposals, and 750 points potentially allocated for oral presentations. Key evaluation criteria include qualifications, experience, service description, staffing plans, and timeline. The initial contract term is anticipated from September 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, with potential renewal options for up to three additional two-year periods.

The Commonwealth will provide the leased space, major building maintenance, utilities, and a furniture/fixture allowance, while the selected provider will be responsible for all operational expenses, including staffing, food service, janitorial services, and required insurance. There are no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond mentioned in the documentation. The facility will include commercial kitchen equipment, a playground, and security features, with an expectation that the childcare program will offer rates lower than the average cost in Franklin County. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the attached cost proposal spreadsheet provides a framework for weekly tuition rates for children aged one to five years, calculated on an annual basis. The provider will be expected to serve Commonwealth employees and maintain a competitive pricing structure. The goal is to establish a convenient, high-quality, and affordable childcare option for state employees, with the potential for future expansion and long-term contract renewal.