- Title
- STRATEGIC PLAN REFRESH
- Contact
- Email
- sbellow@nolapublicschools.com
- Phone
- 504-359-6981
- Address
- 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite #5055, New Orleans, LA 70114
- Section
- Purchasing
- Department
- Non State - Orleans Parish School Board
- Contact Name
- Dr. Shawan Bellow
- Excerpt
- ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Procurement Department
2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055
New Orleans, LA 70114
Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043
STRATEGIC PLAN REFRESH
ELECTRONIC PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DEADLINE:
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M.
VIRTUAL PRE - PROPOSAL MEETING: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2026@ 10:00 A.M.
PROPOSER:
SIGNATURE:
NAME (PRINT OR TYPE):
ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
TELEPHONE:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
TERMS:1
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Procurement Department
2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055
New Orleans, Louisiana 70114
ADVERTISEMENT
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043
STRATEGIC PLAN REFRESH
Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal relative to the above will be received via email
submission to the Procurement Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the
District”) at 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 10:00 A.M.
(CST) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
Specifications and qualifications are found in the RFP documents and may be obtained by visiting the
District’s website at www.nolapublicschools.com. All questions regarding this RFP shall be directed
to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nolapublicschools.com.
The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00
A.M. (CST). The Virtual link can be found below:
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/TKLhmpj4Q_e7LHCCzbzB_Q
The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such
rejection is in its best interest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this
advertisement shall not be waived.
- Pdf Text
- ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Procurement Department
2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055
New Orleans, LA 70114
Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043
STRATEGIC PLAN REFRESH
ELECTRONIC PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DEADLINE:
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M.
VIRTUAL PRE - PROPOSAL MEETING: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2026@ 10:00 A.M.
PROPOSER:
SIGNATURE:
NAME (PRINT OR TYPE):
ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
TELEPHONE:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
TERMS:1
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Procurement Department
2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055
New Orleans, Louisiana 70114
ADVERTISEMENT
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043
STRATEGIC PLAN REFRESH
Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal relative to the above will be received via email
submission to the Procurement Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the
District”) at 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 10:00 A.M.
(CST) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
Specifications and qualifications are found in the RFP documents and may be obtained by visiting the
District’s website at www.nolapublicschools.com. All questions regarding this RFP shall be directed
to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nolapublicschools.com.
The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00
A.M. (CST). The Virtual link can be found below:
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/TKLhmpj4Q_e7LHCCzbzB_Q
The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such
rejection is in its best interest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this
advertisement shall not be waived.
NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable accommodations for persons
with disabilities. The requests for any reasonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing
to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings.
Paul A. Lucius
Executive Director of Procurement
FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026
THIRD INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 20262
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Request for Proposal / Invitation to Bid Instructions
1.0 Overview
1.1 Instructions to Proposers
1.2 Purpose
1.3 School District Profile
2.0 Scope of Services
3.0 General Terms & Conditions
4.0 Specifications
5.0 Special Terms & Conditions
6.0 Evaluation Criteria / Process
7.0 Proposal Forms/Submissions Requirements & Specifications
7.1 Proposal Submission Requirements
7.2 Submittal Requirements/Specifications
Appendix A – NOLA-PS Required Documents
8.0 Authority to Contract on Behalf of Company
9.0 Cost Form
10.0 References
11.0 Indemnity and Insurance
12.0 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility & Voluntary Exclusion
13.0 Certification Regarding Lobbying Form
14.0 Proposer’s Certification Form
15.0 Non-Collusion Statement Form
16.0 Vendor Registration and W-9 Form Link
17.0 Conflict of Interest Form
18.0 Proposer Guaranties and Warranties
19.0 EDGAR Contract Form
Appendix B – Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Required Documents
20.0 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program – Policy & Provisions3
OVERVIEW
1.1 Instructions to Proposers
One signed original proposal shall be submitted electronically and clearly marked: REQUEST
FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043 ON Tuesday October 27, 2026 AT 10:00 A.M. to Mr. Paul Lucius,
Executive Director of Procurement: procurement@nolapublicschools.com.
The Orleans Parish School Board will not be responsible for the opening of, post-opening of, or failure
to open a Proposal not properly addressed or identified.
The Orleans Parish School Board will not assume the responsibility for any delay as a result of failure
of any entity to deliver Proposals on time.
The Proposal Submission Checklist is provided in Appendix A of this RFP. The checklist contains the
required documents needed to be submitted with vendor proposal. All vendors shall refer to the
checklist while preparing their proposals to ensure all required documents are submitted (See
Appendices A & B). Failure to submit required documents shall result in rejection and proposals will
not be reviewed by the Evaluation Committee.
No Proposal will be accepted after Tuesday October 27, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M. under any conditions
unless in the best interest of NOLA-PS by an addendum notification.
Pre-Proposal Meeting (via Virtual) Friday October 9, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M.
Last Day for Questions@ 4:00 P.M. (CST) Monday October 12, 2026
Last Day for Addendum Friday October 16, 2026
PROPOSAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE no later than 10:00 A.M. October 27, 2026
Oral Presentations (if applicable) November 5 – 6, 2026
Evaluation Committee Meeting November 5 – 6, 2026
Award Notification (approximate) TBD
Execution of Agreement (approximate) TBD
CODE OF SILENCE
From the date the RFP is issued; through the time the Agreement is finally awarded by NOLA-PS
Elected Officials, Proposers shall not contact any Representatives of NOLA-PS, nor the District Staff,
nor their Advisors or Consultants with respect to this RFP, or RFP process, other than to submit
questions or protest in accordance with the Instructions to Proposers therein. This prohibition does not
apply to questions or comments sent in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, or questions
made at Pre-Proposal conferences, in presentations before evaluation committees, or during contract
negotiations. Proposers who violate this Code of Silence may be deemed non-responsive, and their
proposal may be rejected for cause.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS: A complete set of Request for Proposal documents
shall be used in preparing proposals; neither the Orleans Parish School Board nor its representatives4
assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of
Request for Proposal Documents.
The forms furnished as part of the specifications MUST be used for filing of Request for
PROPOSALS and must be signed by the proposer. No proposals will be considered unless made on
the forms provided and must not be detached from the proposal document of which it forms a part.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in your proposal being disqualified.
OBJECTION TO AWARD
Any Proposer that has submitted a proposal and wishes to object to the award of a contract to the
Selected Proposer must submit a written protest to the Executive Director of Procurement, or designee,
within ten (10) Business Days of receiving the notification of non-award. No action on the award of
the proposal shall be calendared until the ten (10) business day protest window has closed. The written
protest shall clearly state the grounds for the objection, provide all relevant supporting information,
and request a determination pursuant to this section of the Instructions to Proposers.
Upon receipt of a timely protest, the Executive Director of Procurement, or designee, shall review the
protest and any relevant documentation, facts, and circumstances deemed necessary to evaluate the
matter. Following completion of the review, the Executive Director of Procurement, or designee, shall
prepare written findings and recommendations and submit them to the Superintendent and/or Chief
Financial Officer for further consideration. The Superintendent and/or Chief Financial Officer shall
review the matter and may affirm, modify, or reject the recommendations based on the information
presented and any additional review deemed appropriate.
If the protest raises legal issues, challenges the interpretation of procurement requirements, or
otherwise warrants legal review, NOLA Public Schools' General Counsel shall review the protest,
supporting documentation, and any findings or recommendations generated during the procurement
review process. General Counsel may provide a legal opinion or recommendation regarding the
disposition of the protest to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, Board policies, and
procurement procedures.
Following completion of all applicable reviews and receipt of authorization from the Superintendent
or their designee, the Executive Director of Procurement, or designee, shall issue a written
determination to the protesting Proposer and any other affected Proposers. The written determination
shall state the basis for the decision and shall constitute the final administrative action of NOLA Public
Schools. The decision shall be final and binding on all parties involved.
WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSAL: Any proposal may be withdrawn if clear and convincing sworn,
written evidence of obvious mechanical, clerical or mathematical error is furnished by the proposer to
the Executive Director of Procurement within 48 hours of proposal receipt.
SUPPLIER PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION: The proposer, vendor, service provider
and/or supplier performance process will involve evaluating the proposer, vendor, service provider
and/or supplier’s overall quality status, as well as evaluating the quality of each material or service the
NOLA-PS wishes to purchase. Prior to the invoice submission, the proposer, vendor, service provider
and/or supplier, shall meet with a purchasing representative to discuss and review deliverables and
timeline events for said services. Contract with automatic renewals will be based upon the NOLA-PS
evaluating and analyzing proposer, vendor, service provider, and/or supplier performance.5
DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION: To ensure that the Orleans Parish School Board does not enter
into a contract with a debarred or suspended company or individual, each responsive proposer must
include a certification statement with each bid. By signing the certification statement, the proposer
certifies that neither it nor any of its principals (e.g., key employees) have been proposed for
debarment, debarred or suspended by a Federal Agency. It is the responsibility of each proposer to
sign the attached certification statement and submit it with the bid. Failure to comply with this
requirement will cause your bid to be disqualified and declared non-responsive.
BACKGROUND CHECK: Contractor will not employ any person to provide services who has been
convicted, or pled nolo contendere to, any one of the crimes listed in the Louisiana Child Protection
Act. La R.S. 15:587.1 (C). Criminal History Record must be obtained by contractor for all employees
to be hired and shall be retained during the duration of the employment. Records are to be updated on
an annual basis.
PERFORMANCE INVESTIGATIONS: As part of the proposal evaluation process, the NOLA-PS
may make inquiries and investigations, including verbal or written references from the firm’s
customers, to determine the ability of the firm to provide service.
EMPLOYMENT: It is understood that all employees will be employees of the successful firm(s),
including but not limited to the successful firm’s subcontractors, partners, etc.
NOTICE TO OFFEROR: The NOLA-PS shall consider the intentional employment by the selected
firm of unauthorized aliens in violation of U.S. immigration laws cause for unilateral cancellation of
the contract resulting from this RFP.
PROPOSAL FORMAT: Proposals should be prepared simply but completely, providing a
straightforward, concise description of capabilities to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. Please
carefully read Sections as outlines within the Table of Contents. Emphasis should be on completeness
and clarity of content.
SELECTION: Selection shall be made of one or multiple firm(s) deemed to be fully qualified and best
suited among those submitting proposals on the basis of the evaluation factors contained in this RFP.
Fee structure/pricing will be considered, but will be one among many determining factors. The NOLA-
PS may cancel this RFP, reject proposals or any portion thereof at any time prior to an award, and is
not required to furnish a statement of the reason why a particular qualification was not deemed to be
the most advantageous. Should the NOLA-PS determine in writing and in its sole discretion the firm(s)
that is fully qualified, or that one firm is clearly more highly qualified than the others under
consideration, a contract may be awarded to that firm.
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) PROGRAM:
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is race & gender-neutral, and open to all
business owners regardless of race, ethnicity or gender. DBE firms currently certified with the
Louisiana Unified Certification Program (LAUCP), or the State & Local Disadvantaged Business
Enterprise (SLDBE) Program must submit a copy of the DBE Verification Form for eligibility with the
offer/response to this solicitation.
The Proposer shall submit the following forms below: (Appendix B)
• DBE Responsiveness Form 16
• DBE Responsiveness Form 2
• DBE Professional Services Compliance Certification Checklist (must be notarized)
• Verification of DBE Certification Form
DBE Provisions (Attached), which is hereby made a part of this RFP. Failure to include DBE
participation; including all signatures and notary, shall cause a firm’s proposal to be non-responsive
and cause for rejection. All DBE forms must be properly completed whether or not they are
applicable to Proposer. Proposers without DBE participation should so indicate on the forms and are
not required to submit a certification letter.
COMPUTED COST SCORE:
The cost evaluation shall constitute fifteen percent (15%) of the total points assigned and will be based
upon standard cost rates submitted by the proposers. The proposer with the lowest cost shall receive
the highest cost evaluation score. Other proposers will receive a cost score computed as follows:
CSF = (LPC/PC*X)
CSF = Cost Scoring Formula
LPC = Lowest proposed cost
PC = Proposer's cost
X= n% of the total number of points assigned
PURCHASES USING FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS (2 C.F.R. 200).
When NOLA-PS seeks to procure goods and services using funds under a federal grant or contract,
specific federal laws, regulations, and requirements may apply in addition to those under state law.
This includes, but is not limited to, the procurement standards of the Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, 2C.F.R. 200 (sometimes
referred to as the “Uniform Guidance” or new “EDGAR”). (EDGAR FORM ATTACHED)
All Vendors awarded a contract under this proposal must complete the NOLA-PS EDGAR Contract
Addendum before a purchase order can be entered as proof of their willingness and ability to comply
with certain requirements which may be applicable to specific NOLA-PS purchases using federal grant
funds.
This information will be made available to the NOLA-PS for its use while considering their
purchasing options when using federal grant funds.
1.2 Purpose
NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to facilitate a focused
refresh of the District's Strategic Plan of Action, NOLA-PS Evolve. Adopted in 2023, Evolve
established a five-year roadmap centered on four strategic commitments. NOLA-PS has made
significant progress toward the plan's goals and now seeks to assess that progress, identify priorities
that should continue or evolve, and establish a clear strategic direction for January 2027 through June
2030. The selected consultant will work with the Orleans Parish School Board, Superintendent,
Executive Leadership Team, and designated District staff to produce a concise, measurable, and7
actionable refreshed plan that reflects current Board and administration priorities and the changing
educational landscape.
1.3 School District Profile
OPSB currently oversees 65 charter schools and a school with two educational programs for students
in secure-care facilities
One of the District’s core responsibilities, as a charter school authorizer, is to hold these schools
accountable to a set of performance expectations that help ensure every student is provided with a
high-quality education.
The vision of the OPSB is as follows: every student receives a high-quality education that fosters their
individual capabilities, while ensuring that they thrive and are prepared for civic, social, and economic
success.
The District’s geographical boundaries are concurrent with those of the City of New Orleans. The
District, however, is a separate entity, independent of the City of New Orleans. The District’s
governing body is a seven-member elected board.
The District serves more than 41,822 students across Orleans Parish. As of February 2025, the student
population was approximately 74.1% African American, 13.2% Hispanic, 8.2% White, 1.4% Asian,
2.8% Multi-Racial, and 0.3% American Indian.
PROPOSAL REJECTION: NOLA-PS shall have the right to reject any or all proposals and in
particular to reject a proposal not accompanied by data required by the RFP or in any way incomplete
or irregular, including omission of cost and budget information, i.e. in the best interest of NOLA-PS.
Conditional proposals will not be accepted.
CONTRACT AWARD: Award shall be made to the Most Advantageous Proposal whose proposal
is determined to be the most advantageous; thus, when taking into consideration the evaluation factors
set forth in the sections that follow, including overall long-term value to the NOLA-PS. Fees/pricing
consideration will not be the sole determining factor. There is no obligation on the part of the NOLA-
PS to award a contract.
CONTRACT TERM AND RENEWAL: Contract term will be for a period of September 2026
through February 2027. If warranted terms and conditions for an amendment to the contract will be
in writing, negotiable and subject to NOLA-PS approval.
ERRORS: NOLA-PS is not liable for any errors or misinterpretations made in responding to this
Request for Proposal.
PROPOSAL SUBMISSION: One electronic original Proposal document to be submitted as per date
and time established/set within this Request for Proposal.
INQUIRIES: NOLA-PS will not give verbal answers to inquiries regarding the Request for Proposals,
or verbal instructions prior to the award of a contract. A verbal statement regarding same by any person
shall be non-binding. The NOLA-PS is not liable for any increased costs resulting from the acceptance
of verbal direction. Cost or problems associated with misinterpretation of the intent of the NOLA-PS
will be the responsibility of the proposing firm.8
All inquiries must be in writing and addressed to: Paul A. Lucius, Executive Director of Procurement
at procurement@nolapublicschools.com. All inquiries will be answered in the form of an addendum
after the pre-proposal meeting. No contact in any form or manner is to be made with any employee of
the District except through the Executive Director of Procurement. Violation of this provision shall
be considered grounds for disqualification.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS: A complete set of Request for Proposals documents
shall be used in preparing proposals. Neither the Orleans Parish School Board, nor its representatives
assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of
Request for Proposal Documents.
OPEN COMPETITION: NOLA-PS encourages free and open competition. Whenever possible,
specifications and proposal terms and conditions are designed to accomplish this objective, consistent
with the necessity to satisfy the needs of the NOLA-PS and to guarantee an economically sound
solution. The signature on this proposal guarantees that the prices quoted have been established without
collusion with other firms and without effort to preclude the NOLA-PS from obtaining the best possible
competitive value. The firm certifies that neither its officers nor its employees have bribed or attempted
to bribe or influence in any improper manner any officer, employee or agent of the NOLA-PS.
PREPARATION EXPENSE: All proposals submitted in response to this RFP must be submitted at
the sole expense of the proposing firm, irrespective of the final decision of the NOLA-PS as to contract
award.
TITLE VI SOLICITATION NOTICE:
NOLA-PS, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252,
42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all Proposers that it will
affirmatively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged
business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this
invitation, and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in
consideration for an award.
EVALUATION PROCEDURES:
All proposals will be evaluated by the RFP Evaluation Committee that will conduct an independent,
objective evaluation of proposals for Strategic Plan Refresh. The Evaluation Committee may be
comprised of 3-5 members, representing Administrators, department staff, non-public personnel, and
subject matter experts, and other qualified experts as determined by the District. All members of the
Evaluation Committee must execute a disclosure certifying they do not possess a conflict of interest
with any of the proposers. Before beginning the evaluation process, the Evaluation Committee must
review the RFP, concerning not only the scope of work but also the qualifications and the evaluation
criteria. See Evaluation criteria – Section 6.0.
The purpose of the Evaluation Committee is to conduct an independent, objective evaluation of Request
for Proposals for Strategic Plan Refresh Services.
REVIEW AND EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS:
A Procurement Department representative shall serve as the Evaluation Committee coordinator and is
solely responsible for disseminating all information received during the RFP evaluation process. After9
completion and tallying of the technical evaluation scores, each Evaluation Committee member shall
sign and date his/her individual score sheet.
NOLA-PS will evaluate proposals on a qualitative basis. This includes our review of the firm(s)
proposal and related materials for evidence of prior experience, value-added services beyond the scope
of work, qualifications of staff to be assigned to the project, cost effectiveness, and the Proposer’s
completeness and timeliness in its response, etc.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the
meeting. ALL NOLA Public Schools solicitations and addenda can be found on NOLA-PS website at:
www.nolapublicschools.com. Click Community/business resources/solicitations.
ADDENDUM TO REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: NOLA-PS reserves the right to revise and amend
the specifications prior to the date set for the opening. Proposers are requested to clarify any ambiguity,
conflict, discrepancy, omission or other error(s) in this RFP in writing and request the modification or
clarification desired. NOLA-PS will issue an addendum to evidence any revisions or amendments made
to this RFP. As a courtesy, every effort will be made to send an issued addendum to the parties known
to have been furnished a complete copy of this RFP. Addenda are made available on the NOLA-PS
website under community/business resources/solicitations. Please acknowledge receipt of addendum
on Signature Page. Failure to acknowledge all Addenda shall result in the proposal being rejected.
Failure to acknowledge the correct date of all addenda shall result in the proposal being rejected.
All questions must be in writing and electronically submitted to the Executive Director of Procurement
at procurement@nolapublicschools.com no later than 4:00 P.M. on Monday, October 12, 2026. No
addendum will be issued later than Friday, October 16, 2026 or 72 hours prior to proposal due date,
except an addendum withdrawing the proposal or postponing the opening of the proposal. It is the
responsibility of each Proposer, prior to submitting the qualifications response, to determine if addenda
were issued and, if so, to acknowledge the addendum on the applicable form.
Times and dates are final unless there is an unexpected “emergency” beyond NOLA-PS’s control.10
ORAL PRESENTATIONS via ZOOM: (Optional)
PRESENTATION DATES: November 5-6, 2026
NOLA-PS, at its sole discretion may invite the top two to four (2-4) Proposers to provide oral
presentations and justify how they propose to meet the Districts’ objectives with RFP No. 27-0043.
Commitments, if any, made by the Proposer at the oral presentation will be considered binding. The
evaluation committee has the option to conduct initial reviews of proposals and only host oral
presentations of the top 2 to 4 firms in the best interest of the District.
Each firm selected should be prepared to conduct a presentation to the NOLA-PS Evaluation
Committee. The presentations must be shown that the firm clearly understands the requirements of the
solicitation and possesses the knowledge, skills, and capacity to complete the work. Firms presenting
for the oral presentation process will be notified of their allotted presentation time with the District on
Thursday and/or Friday, November 5-6, 2026. The time frame for the presentations will follow the
schedule provided below:
• 10 minutes for vendor set-up and brief Introductions
• 20 minutes for presentations to NOLA-PS Evaluation Committee demonstrating firms’
Qualifications and Expertise with the requirements as it relates to the RFP services
• 15 minutes for question/answer session
• 5 minutes for closing
NOLA-PS is requesting firms respectfully adhere to the assigned time allotted for presentations. Oral
presentations are for informational and clarification purposes only. No additional points shall be
awarded or weighted based on oral presentations, and the scoring rubric established in Section 6.0 will
not be modified as a result of oral presentations.11
2.0 SCOPE OF WORK/SERVICES
SCOPE OF SERVICES:
The selected consultant will lead a focused strategic planning process that builds upon, rather than
recreates, NOLA-PS Evolve. The work will include review of the current plan and available progress
data; structured engagement with the Orleans Parish School Board, Superintendent, Executive
Leadership Team, and designated District staff; assessment of completed, continuing, and emerging
priorities; refinement of the District's strategic framework; development of measurable goals and key
performance indicators; and preparation of an implementation roadmap. The consultant will also
prepare and facilitate key planning sessions, synthesize stakeholder feedback, present
recommendations to District leadership and the Board, and deliver a professionally designed,
publication-ready Strategic Plan of Action for 2027-2030, including editable source files and launch-
ready communications materials.
• Required Methodology: NOLA-PS is seeking a practical, facilitated methodology that moves the
District from assessment to decisions to implementation within the project timeline. At a minimum,
the proposed methodology must address four phases.
o Phase 1: Discovery and Assessment: review Evolve, implementation progress, relevant
performance data, Board and Superintendent priorities, and other District-provided materials; identify
goals and strategies that are complete, should continue, require revision, or should be retired.
o Phase 2: Leadership Engagement and Direction Setting: conduct targeted interviews, focus
groups, surveys, and/or facilitated planning sessions with the Board, Superintendent, Executive
Leadership Team, and designated staff to identify strengths, challenges, emerging priorities, and
areas of alignment.
o Phase 3: Strategic Framework and Measures: translate findings into a recommended 2027-2030
framework, including any recommended refinements to the vision, mission, guiding principles,
commitments, priorities, goals, strategies, and measurable KPIs.
o Phase 4: Finalization and Implementation: develop an implementation roadmap with timelines,
responsible owners, milestones, monitoring and reporting recommendations; facilitate review and
revision with District leadership and the Board; and produce the final designed plan and launch
materials. Proposers may recommend refinements to this sequence, but must clearly explain how
their approach will produce the required outcomes within the contract period.12
3.0 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
3.1 SPECIFICATIONS:
3.1.1 NOLA-PS SPECIFICATIONS have been developed by the Using Department to show
minimal standards as the usage, materials, services, and contents based on their needs.
3.1.2 MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS (DESIGN GUIDE). Whenever an article in
this proposal is defined by description as either a proprietary product or by using the
name of a manufacturer, the Proposer is encouraged to offer an item which is equal in
quality, durability and in full compliance with our Specifications. If the term equivalent,
alternate, or equal is not inserted, it shall be implied. The specified article or material
shall be understood as descriptive, not restrictive.
3.2 RESPONSIBLE VENDOR. A responsible vendor is a vendor who has adequate financial
resources (or the ability to obtain such resources), can comply with the delivery requirements,
and is a qualified and established firm regularly engaged in the type of business that provides
the items listed herein.
3.3 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. NOLA-PS assumes no financial responsibility for any
costs incurred by Proposers in developing and submitting a proposal or any amendments or
addenda, participating in pre-proposal meetings, participating in any negotiation sessions or
discussions, or any other costs incurred by Proposers pursuant to this RFP.
3.4 BEST AND FINAL OFFERS must be received by the date and time provided during
discussions and/or negotiations, or the originally submitted proposal will be used for further
evaluation and award recommendation. NOLA-PS may, at its sole discretion, invite one or
more proposers within the competitive range to submit a written Best and Final Offer following
discussions, clarifications, oral presentations, or negotiations. The request will identify the
applicable submission deadline, delivery instructions, and the matters that may be revised. Best
and Final Offers must be received by the date and time specified by NOLA-PS. A timely
submitted Best and Final Offer will supersede the proposer’s original proposal only to the extent
expressly revised and will become part of the proposer’s binding offer. If a proposer does not
submit a Best and Final Offer by the stated deadline, NOLA-PS may continue its evaluation
and award recommendation using the Proposer’s originally submitted proposal. Statements or
proposed revisions made during discussions or negotiations will not modify the original
proposal unless incorporated into a timely written Best and Final Offer. NOLA-PS is not
obligated to request Best and Final Offers and may make an award based on the proposals
initially submitted.
3.5 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS takes into account the following considerations: price,
quality, suitability for the intended use, probability of continuous availability, proposer’s
service, safety record, and date of proposed delivery and placement. It is not the policy of
NOLA-PS to purchase on the basis of low proposals alone. (See 6.0 Evaluation and Award of
Proposal(s))
3.6 WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS will not be allowed for a period of 120 days following the
proposal opening. Rejection or withdrawal after offer is accepted shall constitute a breach of
contract.13
3.7 RETENTION OF PROPOSAL DOCUMENTATION. All proposal materials and supporting
documentation that are submitted in response to this proposal becomes the permanent property
of NOLA-PS.
3.8 REBID. NOLA-PS may elect to rebid this project if NOLA-PS believes that, in its sole
discretion, it is in the best interest of NOLA-PS to do so.
3.9 MULTIPLE CONTRACT AWARDS. NOLA-PS reserves the right to award multiple contracts
under this RFP, including multiple contracts for each product/service category.
Product/Service categories are established at the sole discretion of NOLA-PS. The decision to
award multiple contracts, award only one contract, or to make no awards rests solely with
NOLA-PS. These facts should be taken into consideration by each Proposer.
3.10 OPEN RECORDS POLICY. NOLA-PS is a governmental entity subject to the Louisiana Public
Information Act. Proposals submitted to NOLA-PS as ab result of this RFP may be subject to
release as public information after contracts are executed or the procurement is terminated. If a
Proposer believes that its response, or parts of its response, may be exempted from disclosure
under Louisiana law, the Proposer must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the
response that it believes are exempt. In addition, the Proposer must specify which exception(s)
to the Louisiana Public Information Act are applicable and provide detailed reasons to
substantiate the exception(s). Vague or general claims to confidentiality will not be
accepted. NOLA-PS assumes no obligation or responsibility relating to the disclosure or
nondisclosure of information submitted by Proposers.
3.11 NOLA-PS RESERVATIONS reserves the right to:
1. Cancel this solicitation in whole or in part, at the sole discretion of NOLA-PS.
2. Accept, reject, or negotiate modifications in any terms of the Proposer's proposal or any
parts thereof.
3. Conduct oral interviews/discussions or presentations necessary to select the best value
Proposer and/or to obtain request for pricing.
4. Reject and/or disqualify any or all proposals received.
5. To award contracts for individual products or services as may appear advantageous.
6. To negotiate separately in any manner necessary to serve the best interest of NOLA-PS.
7. Waive any formalities, technicalities, or other defects if deemed in the best interest of
NOLA-PS.
8. Request clarification and/or correction by Proposer(s) to eliminate minor errors, clerical
errors, and/or non-substantive irregularities.
9. Be the sole judge of quality and equality.
10. Award one or more contracts, in part or in whole, to a single or multiple Proposers, in
NOLA-PS’s sole discretion.
11. Make all decisions regarding this RFP, including, without limitation, the right to decide
whether a proposal substantially complies with the requirements of this RFP.
3.12 DEFAULT CONDITIONS. If the Proposer breaches any provision of the proposal stipulations,
becomes insolvent, enters voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy, or receivership proceedings, or
makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors, NOLA-PS will have the right (without limiting14
any other rights or remedies that it may have in the contract or by law) to terminate this contract
with five (5) days written notice to the Proposer.
NOLA-PS will then be relieved of all obligations, except to pay the value of the Proposer’s
prior performance (at a cost not exceeding the contract rate). The Proposer will be liable to
NOLA-PS for all costs exceeding the contract price that NOLA-PS incurs in completing or
procuring the service as described in the proposal. NOLA-PS’s right to acquire strict
performance of any obligation in this contract will not be affected by any previous waiver,
forbearance, or course of dealing.
3.13 QUANTITIES REQUIRED are substantially correct. The NOLA-PS reserves the right to
purchase additional quantities above that stated at the same unit price unless otherwise
specified by the Proposer.
3.14 NO GUARANTEE OF QUANTITIES. NOLA-PS makes no guarantee or commitment of any
kind concerning quantities that will actually be purchased under this RFP and the resulting
contract, if any. NOLA-PS makes no guarantee or commitment of any kind regarding usage
of any contracts resulting from this RFP.
3.15 DELIVERIES required in this proposal shall be freight prepaid F.O.B. destination and
proposal prices shall include all freight and delivery charges. For shipments (if applicable)
designated on the purchase order to the NOLA-PS, 2401 Westbend Parkway, New Orleans,
LA. 70114, delivery hours are 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. NO
DELIVERIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER 4:00 P.M.
3.16 OTHER REQUIREMENTS. Any problems or discrepancies that are not covered by the
above requirements should be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement, Mr. Paul
Lucius at procurment@nolapublicschools.com for a determination or clarification prior to any
action taken on said problem or discrepancy. If the Proposer fails to make such request, no
excuse will thereafter be entertained for failure to carry out the work in a satisfactory manner.
3.17 FUNDING OUT CLAUSE. The term of this Contract is a commitment of the NOLA-PS’s
current revenue only.
3.17.1 The Board retains the continuing right to terminate the contract at the expiration of
each budget period during the term of the contract.
3.17.2 The contract is conditioned on a best effort attempt by the Board to obtain and
appropriate funds for payment of the contract.
3.18 NON-APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS. Renewal of this Contract, if any, will be in accordance
with Applicable LAW concerning non-appropriation of funds for multi-year contracts.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this RFP/Contract or obligation imposed on NOLA-PS
by this Contract, NOLA-PS shall have the right to terminate this applicable Contract or any
Purchase Order without default or liability to Vendor resulting from such termination, effective
as of the expiration of each budget period of NOLA-PS if it is determined by NOLA-PS, at its
sole discretion, that there are insufficient funds to extend this Contract or any Purchase Order.
The parties agree that this RFP/Contract and/or any Purchase Order are commitments of the
current revenue of NOLA-PS only.15
3.19 NO WAIVER OF IMMUNITY. NOLA-PS does not waive or relinquish any immunity or
defense on behalf of itself, its trustees, officers, employees, and agents as a result of its
execution of this Contract and performance of the functions or obligations described herein.
3.20 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Vendor shall comply with all applicable federal, state, local,
and State of Louisiana laws, statutes, ordinances, standards, orders, rules, and regulations,
including, as applicable, workers' compensation laws, minimum and maximum salary and
wage statutes and regulations, prompt payment and licensing laws and regulations, and
building code requirements. For the entire duration of this Contract, Vendor and all
subcontractors shall maintain all required licenses, certifications, permits, and any other
documentation necessary to perform this Contract. Vendor must pay all fees and charges for
connections to outside services and for use of property outside the project site.
3.21 ALL CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS between Merchants and NOLA-PS shall strictly
adhere to the statutes as set forth in the Uniform Commercial Code as last amended by the
American Law Institute in the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State
Laws, if applicable. Reference: Uniform Commercial Code or latest, Official Text.
3.22 GOVERNING LAW AND EXCLUSIVE VENUE. The laws of the State of Louisiana,
without regard to its provisions on conflicts of laws, govern this Contract. Any dispute under
this Contract involving NOLA-PS must be brought exclusively in the state and federal courts
located in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the parties hereby submit to the exclusive jurisdiction
of said courts.
3.23 PURCHASES USING FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS (2 C.F.R. 200). When NOLA-PS seeks
to procure goods and services using funds under a federal grant or contract, specific federal
laws, regulations, and requirements may apply in addition to those under state law. This
includes, but is not limited to, the procurement standards of the Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, 2 C.F.R. 200
(sometimes referred t
- Segment
- 81000000
- Enriched
- Yes
- Open Date
- 10/27/2026 10:00:00 AM CT
- Bid Number
- 654321-27-0043
- Date Issued
- 09/24/2026
Non State - Orleans Parish School BoardIssuing agency·Baton Rouge, LA·via the Louisiana Office of State Procurement