Network Switch Equipment Upgrade

The School Board of Seminole County, Florida is seeking a network infrastructure upgrade for South Seminole Academy of Career Exploration through Invitation to Bid (ITB) #25260038B-GNM. The procurement involves acquiring new HPE Aruba network switch equipment, specifically including core and edge network switches with detailed specifications. The project requires procuring two 5400R 8-port modules, management modules, multiple 2930M switches in various configurations, stacking modules, and power supplies, with all equipment being new and original manufacturer (OEM) products. A voluntary pre-solicitation meeting was scheduled for November 18, 2025, at 9:30 AM EST via WebEx, with a question deadline of November 21, 2025, before 12:00 PM EST. Bid submissions were due on December 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST, with a public meeting conducted via WebEx. The evaluation criteria focus on selecting the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with the Evaluation Committee recommending award on December 19, 2025, and final Board approval anticipated on January 20, 2026. Vendors must be registered with the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) and provide their Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) and FCC Registration Number.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Nine companies participated in the bidding process, with eight submitting quotes and one declining to bid. The bid values ranged from approximately $16,886 to $142,879 for the complete equipment package, with vPrime Tech Inc recommended as the potential vendor. The contract term is 12 months, beginning December 15, 2025, or upon Board approval, with the School Board retaining the right to cancel with 30 days' notice. Installation and configuration will be performed by SCPS personnel, and the procurement is funded through E-Rate eligible funding. Vendors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including Commercial General Liability and Workers' Compensation, and complete various certifications such as Drug-Free Workplace, Debarment and Suspension, and Conflict of Interest documentation. The existing infrastructure involves an HPE/Aruba 5412R core network switch that will be supplemented with new switch modules, indicating a strategic upgrade to the district's network technology.