Jazz residency program services

LEAD Public Schools in Tennessee is requesting proposals for a comprehensive jazz residency program serving middle school students at two campuses — LEAD Cameron College Prep Middle School and LEAD Neely's Bend Middle School — with proposals due July 16, 2026 by 3:00 PM CDT. The selected provider will deliver a turnkey program including instructional services, curriculum, instruments, and performance coordination for up to 17 students per site.

The scope requires qualified lead instructors and support personnel, all necessary instruments and equipment, comprehensive curriculum materials, and administration across both sites. Minimum performance requirements include at least one public performance per academic year per site with a minimum of three jazz selections. Annual end-of-year reports documenting student enrollment, attendance, instructional activities, performance outcomes, and improvement recommendations are mandatory deliverables.

The contract term is one year with options to renew for up to two additional one-year terms under a firm fixed price structure. Year 1 pricing must include all costs for staffing, instruction, instruments, curriculum, materials, travel, and program administration. Years 2 and 3 pricing must include a clearly stated annual escalation rate applied consistently across both sites.

Evaluation is three-stage: Stage 1 reviews administrative and mandatory requirements compliance; Stage 2 evaluates technical merit on seven criteria weighted at 85 points (Program Design and Instructional Approach at 35 points, Organizational Experience and Past Performance at 20 points, Instructor Qualifications and Staffing Plan at 15 points, Implementation and Program Management Plan at 10 points, and Student Performance Opportunities and Outcomes at 5 points); Stage 3 scores cost proposals at 15 points using lowest-cost methodology.

Prior to award, the selected proposer must complete criminal background checks for all student-contact personnel, provide proof of required insurance with LEAD named as additional insured, submit business licensing compliance documentation, W-9, and conflict of interest disclosure. Questions are due June 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM CDT, with responses distributed July 8, 2026. Proposals must be submitted through LEAD's Bonfire Portal. The contract is subject to funding availability and may be terminated for convenience with 30 days' written notice or immediately for cause.