Homeless and Foster Care Student Transportation

Red Clay Consolidated School District (Delaware) is requesting proposals for homeless and foster care student transportation services for Pre-K through 12 students, with proposals due August 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and public opening the same date and time.

The scope covers transportation to school of origin for displaced students when the district's own fleet is unavailable or incapable. Services include standard transportation, transportation with an attendant, transportation with attendant and wheelchair accommodation, out-of-state service, sole passenger service, and no-show rates. All pricing must be all-inclusive hourly rates per student. Vendors must work collaboratively with the district's Transportation Department Homeless Liaison on pickups, drop-offs, student discipline, attendance records, and schedule-change communication.

Vendors must demonstrate minimum three years' experience in fleet or mass transportation management, provide three business references, submit current background checks and child protection registry clearances for all drivers and aides, and maintain vehicles no older than 10 years. Drivers must have no more than four motor vehicle record points. Bus aides must complete school attendance and participate in quarterly random drug testing. All staff certificates of insurance must be provided prior to contract commencement.

General liability and professional liability insurance of $1 million is required. Bid deposits and performance bonds are waived. The contract runs from award through August 1, 2027, with an option to renew by mutual agreement. The district reserves the right to award the contract to multiple vendors and may terminate with thirty days' written notice. Vendors must bear all travel expenses and administrative costs with no reimbursement for fuel surcharges during the contract term. Site examinations are the responsibility of bidders; no pre-bid meeting is mandated.