Searcy School District

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
Speech-Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy Services
Searcy Public Schools

INTRODUCTION

Searcy Public Schools (the "District") is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced providers of Speech-Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy services to contract with the District for the 2025–2026 school year, with the option to renew for up to two additional years. The purpose of this RFP is to secure high-quality therapy services to support students in meeting their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.

BACKGROUND

Searcy Public Schools is a K–12 public school district serving approximately 3900 students across 6 schools. The District is committed to providing comprehensive special education services to support the academic and social-emotional development of students with disabilities.

The District requires contracted Speech-Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy services to meet the needs of students who have been identified as requiring related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

SCOPE OF SERVICES

The selected provider(s) will deliver the following services:

1. Speech-Language Therapy Services

• Conduct comprehensive speech and language evaluations.

• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans in accordance with IEPs.

• Provide direct and indirect therapy services to students, including individual and group sessions.

• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and special education staff to support students’ communication needs in the classroom and other educational settings.

• Monitor and document student progress and adjust therapy plans as necessary.

• Attend IEP meetings and provide input on student progress and recommended goals.

2. Occupational Therapy Services

• Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations.

• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans in accordance with IEPs.

• Provide direct and indirect therapy services to students, including individual and group sessions.

• Address students’ fine motor, sensory integration, and self-care needs to support access to the general education curriculum.

• Monitor and document student progress and adjust therapy plans as necessary.

• Attend IEP meetings and provide input on student progress and recommended goals.

DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

The District will:

• Provide access to necessary student records, IEPs, and assessment data.

• Designate a staff member to serve as a point of contact for contract coordination.

• Provide appropriate therapy space and equipment necessary for the provision of services.

• Facilitate communication between the contracted providers and school staff, parents, and administration.

• Ensure that students receive services as outlined in their IEPs and that all documentation is maintained in accordance with state and federal regulations.

DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE CONTRACTED PROVIDER

The provider will:

• Maintain current professional licensure and certification in the state of Arkansas.

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the provision of special education and related services.

• Develop and implement therapy plans in alignment with students’ IEP goals.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of student progress, attendance, and service delivery.

• Provide detailed progress reports to the District and participate in IEP meetings as needed.

• Supply all materials and equipment necessary for therapy unless otherwise specified by the District.

• Adhere to all confidentiality and student privacy requirements under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

• Maintain liability insurance and provide proof of coverage upon request.

PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Interested providers must submit a proposal that includes the following:

1. Cover Letter – A letter of interest summarizing the provider’s qualifications and experience.

2. Company Profile – A detailed description of the provider’s background, years in operation, and experience working with public school districts.

3. Scope of Services – A detailed description of how services will be delivered, including staffing, scheduling, and service delivery models.

4. Staffing and Qualifications – Resumes and licensure documentation for all proposed staff, including evidence of professional certification.

5. References – At least three references from similar contracts with school districts.

6. Cost Proposal – A clear and detailed fee schedule, including hourly rates, travel expenses (if applicable), and any additional costs.

7. Legal and Insurance Documentation – Proof of liability insurance, professional liability coverage, and any other relevant business licenses.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Proposals must be submitted no later than April 15. Submissions may be delivered electronically or in hard copy to:

Searcy Public Schools
℅ Natalie Gosdin
801 N. Elm St., Searcy, AR
ngosdin@searcyschools.org

TIMELINE

CONTRACT TERMS

• The initial contract will be for the 2025–2026 school year, with the option for renewal for up to two additional years based on satisfactory performance and mutual agreement.

• The District reserves the right to terminate the contract for cause or convenience with a 30-day written notice.

INQUIRIES

All questions regarding this RFP must be submitted in writing to Natalie Gosdin, Special Education Supervisor at ngosdin@searcyschools.org by April 11, 2025.

Searcy Public Schools reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive any irregularities or informalities, and to accept the proposal(s) deemed to be in the best interest of the District.