Advertising, Marketing, Media and Related Products and Services (Round 1

The McAllen Independent School District issued Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 2024-1014 seeking advertising, marketing, media, and related products and services, with contract performance extending through June 30, 2027, and options for renewal. The solicitation invites qualified vendors to submit proposals electronically via the IonWave portal by June 30, 2026. Proposals received after this deadline or submitted by fax or email will be rejected. Vendors must refrain from direct communications with District employees or Trustees regarding the RFP and instead submit all questions through the IonWave system by the specified deadline. The scope encompasses a broad range of services including traditional and digital advertising (billboards, TV, radio, digital media), social media management, marketing consulting, and the production of media assets such as photography, logos, and animations. The contract is non-exclusive and intended to provide flexible, on-demand marketing support aligned with the District’s objectives. The evaluation process follows a best-value, trade-off approach considering factors such as price, vendor reputation, quality, alignment with District needs, and impact on compliance with laws regarding historically underutilized businesses. The District expressly states that the lowest price proposal may not be awarded and reserves sole discretion to determine best interests. Contract terms include strict compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including disclosures related to conflicts of interest, criminal background certifications, and certifications regarding business practices such as non-participation in boycotts of Israel or energy companies and non-discrimination against firearm-related industries. Vendors must provide a completed IRS Form W-9 and comply with data protection obligations outlined in a Data Sharing Agreement that governs confidentiality, breach notification, and security of student and teacher data consistent with FERPA and HIPAA. Contractual requirements specify delivery to the District at 2000 N. 23rd Street, McAllen, TX, with FOB destination terms and comprehensive inspection and acceptance procedures. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the quality, timeliness, and conformity of deliverables, which will be inspected upon arrival by District personnel who retain final acceptance authority. The contract includes provisions for insurance coverage, indemnification, record retention, audit access, and adherence to workforce regulations including equal employment and occupational safety standards. Amendments require mutual consent and assignment is prohibited without District approval. Proposal submissions must avoid inclusion of catalog materials and emphasize clear, complete responses with required certifications. Administrative contacts are designated for Purchasing and Accounting, and invoicing is submitted in duplicate to the District’s accounting department according to outlined procedures. The District emphasizes transparency, ethics