Local Food for Washington Schools

The Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is procuring locally sourced, minimally processed agricultural and fisheries products for use in Washington state schools participating in the USDA National School Lunch Program. OSPI seeks bids from farmers, ranchers, fishers, producers, processors, and distributors for a variety of products such as bison, salmon, whole wheat flour, lentils, and frozen/dried fruits and vegetables. The RFP outlines the approximate product quantities and specifications, as well as delivery locations. Proposals are due by November 12, 2024, and OSPI plans to award one or more contracts with a performance period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, with potential extensions up to June 30, 2028. OSPI will evaluate proposals based on factors like organizational capacity, relevant experience, product specifications, and pricing, with the goal of establishing sustainable partnerships that increase the use of local foods in school meals.

The total estimated budget for all contracts awarded is up to $2.5 million, to be funded by reimbursements from participating school districts' non-profit food service accounts. Bidders must be licensed to do business in Washington and meet other minimum qualifications. OSPI does not require specific food safety certifications, but encourages vendors to include any relevant certifications in their proposals. The RFP is open to all qualified vendors, and OSPI plans to award multiple contracts to ensure sufficient product availability, with no revenue caps for individual vendors. OSPI is hopeful that additional USDA funding may become available to expand the program in the future.