SP-27-061-IFB Internet for K12 Schools

The State of Arkansas, through the Office of State Technology, is soliciting bids under solicitation SP-27-061-IFB to provide high-capacity internet and broadband services for K12 schools. The primary goal is to implement the latest industry technology to ensure students and staff have concurrent access to world-class educational content. The scope of work includes the installation and monthly provision of customer service sites, Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN) for school district hubs, backbone transport, and DDoS services. Performance standards are rigorous, requiring a 99.95% availability rate for thirty consecutive calendar days before the service is officially accepted by the state. The contract is designed for an initial four-year term starting July 1, 2027, with the possibility of three one-year renewals, totaling a maximum of seven years. Awards are determined based on the lowest average cost per Mbps for each location, calculated using factors such as installation, monthly port and transport fees, and surcharges. Bidders must submit their proposals via the SAP Business Network by January 13, 2027, including a signed bid signature page, a completed price sheet, an equal opportunity policy, and a proposed subcontractors form. Payments are handled exclusively through ACH direct deposit or p-card, and contractors must be registered as vendors with the state to receive payment.