Single Source Provider for Reading Horizons proprietary software

The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is proceeding with a sole-source procurement to acquire the Reading Horizons Discover and Elevate software suite for fiscal year 2026–2027, with a not-to-exceed budget of $6,000.00. The acquisition is justified under Florida Statutes §287.057(3), §120.57(3), and Rule 60A-1.045, F.A.C., because HEC Software, Inc., doing business as Reading Horizons, is the exclusive copyright holder, author, and sole source for this proprietary software, with no alternative vendors capable of providing the same product. This is a non-competitive action, and no formal solicitation, evaluation criteria, or competitive bidding process is involved. The software will be delivered and licensed for use at FSDB locations throughout Florida, though no specific delivery schedule, performance metrics, or technical implementation details are outlined. The procurement notice, identified as SS-26-145, was posted on May 6, 2026, with responses due by May 28, 2026, and all inquiries must be directed via email to Kim Whitwam, Director of Purchasing. No packaging, marking, barcoding, preservation, or inspection requirements are specified, as the transaction involves digital licensing rather than physical goods. The agency is not required to seek other sources due to the unique and proprietary nature of the software, and no representations, certifications, socioeconomic status, or contract clauses are included in the documentation beyond the legal justification for sole-source award. The place of performance is Florida, and payment, invoicing, and accounting details are not provided in the notice.