External Audit Services

Topeka Public Schools is soliciting bids for External Audit Services under solicitation number GS 26-047, with proposals due by June 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM CST. The contract requires a firm to perform a single integrated audit engagement across four tiers each fiscal year: financial audit, single audit under Uniform Guidance, agreed-upon procedures for activity funds, and attestation on bond and capital projects, including compliance with SEC Rule 15c2-12 and review of PR-76 exemption certificates. The initial contract term is one year, covering the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, with the option to extend for up to four additional one-year terms through 2030, subject to written notice by December 31 of the preceding year. Proposals must demonstrate responsiveness and responsibility, with mandatory certifications including debarment status, non-collusion, immigration compliance, and adherence to independence standards under GAGAS, AICPA, Kansas State Board of Accountancy rules, and 2 CFR 200.509. The firm must maintain written standards of conduct for conflicts of interest as required by 2 CFR 200.318(c) and must not be suspended or debarred under 2 CFR Part 180. Proposed fees must be structured by fiscal year for the initial three years and two potential renewal years, with a clearly stated annual not-to-exceed amount and hourly rates for partner, manager, senior, and staff roles. All expenses including travel, lodging, meals, and copying must be included in the proposed fee; separate reimbursement is prohibited unless pre-approved. The District will evaluate proposals based on cost (20%), firm qualifications and experience with K-12 and public-sector audits (15%), understanding of scope and technical approach (15%), and references and past performance (10%), using a relative scoring model where the lowest fee receives full points. The audit must be substantially completed by December 1 following the fiscal year end, with entrance and exit conferences required, and findings presented publicly to the Board of Education at no extra cost. The firm must have completed a recent AICPA peer review with a pass rating and comply with Kansas Prompt Payment Act limits on fees and penalties. The District will not pay attorney fees, liquidated damages, or agree to binding arbitration. Proposals are limited to 40 pages, with required attachments including