DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos. Various
March 28, 2024 Page 1 of 24
J DeKalb County Board of Education
Operations Division
Sam A. Moss Service Center
1780 Montreal Road
Tucker, GA 30084-6705
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQu) No. 24-752-025
for
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
Group 1 Security Vestibules
Project: GROUP 1 SECURITY VESTIBULES
DCSD Project Nos.: Various
Owner: DeKalb County Board of Education (the “Board”)
Solicitation Timeline Summary (Subject to Change)
EVENT DATE(S) TIME LOCATION
Solicitation Opens March 28, 2024 http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net
Virtual Mandatory Pre-
April 11, 2024 11:00 AM Via TEAMS
Submittal Conference
Optional Site Visit Upon Request TBD TBD
Final Questions Due April 17, 2024 2:00 PM dcsd-op-bidquestion@dekalbschoolsga.org
Final Addendum April 24, 2024 2:00 PM http://www.dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net
Statement of Qualifications
May 2, 2024 2:00 PM http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net
Due Date & Time
http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net
Public Acknowledgement May 6, 2024 5:00 PM
Selection Committee
May 6 -10, 2024
Evaluation
Shortlist Finalist Notified Public Notice of Short List will be posted to the
N/A
(If Interviews are Conducted DCSD website by close of business
Anticipated Interviews
Conducted N/A
(If Requested)
Anticipated Board Review and
July 8, 2024
Approval
Anticipated Notice of Award July 22, 2024
Anticipated Notice to Proceed August 1, 2024
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 2 of 24
Request for Qualifications
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
GROUP 1 SECURITY VESTIBULES
Qualifications will be received electronically on the DeKalb County School District website at
https://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net for ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR GROUP 1
SECURITY VESTIBULES, until 2:00 p.m. EST, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Qualifications received after the
specified time will not be considered. All potential respondents must register as a vendor at
http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net. NOTE: A virtual mandatory pre-submittal conference will be held on
Thursday April 11, 2024, 11:00 a.m., EST, via TEAMS. Attendees must provide the following information by
5:00 p.m., EST on Wednesday, April 10, 2024:
1. Individual Name and Title
2. Company Name
3. Telephone Number
4. Email Address
This information must be sent to dcsd-op-solicitation@dekalbschoolsga.org. A meeting link will be sent to all
registered attendees no later than 9:30 a.m., EST on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
This document shall serve to provide interested parties with specific information as to the Procedures for
Selection of Professional Architectural and Engineering Services for the DeKalb County School District.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 3 of 24
Table of Contents
Section Description
PAGE
Request for Qualifications:
1.0 Project Description ............................................................................................... 6
2.0 General Scope of Work........................................................................................ 7
3.0 Requirements ...................................................................................................... 11
4.0 Statement of Qualifications .................................................................................. 11
5.0 Initial Screening Criteria ....................................................................................... 13
6.0 Interview and Presentation................................................................................... 16
7.0 Selection Process ................................................................................................ 18
8.0 Schedule .............................................................................................................. 19
9.0 General Instructions ............................................................................................. 19
10.0 Terms and Conditions .......................................................................................... 20
11.0 Protest Process ................................................................................................... 21
RFQu Advertisement ........................................................................................... 24
Attachments (separate file from RFQu)
Attachment A A/E Checklist and Certification
Attachment B1 Corporate Certificate
Attachment B2 Partnership Certificate
Attachment B3 Entity Certificate
Attachment C1 Design Fee Form - Avondale Elementary School
Attachment C2 Design Fee Form - Avondale High School/DeKalb School of the Arts
Attachment C3 Design Fee Form - Brockett Elementary School
Attachment C4 Design Fee Form - Browns Mill Elementary School
Attachment C5 Design Fee Form - Canby Lane Elementary School
Attachment C6 Design Fee Form - Cedar Grove High School
Attachment C7 Design Fee Form - Chamblee Middle School
Attachment C8 Design Fee Form - Chamblee High School
Attachment C9 Design Fee Form - Coralwood Education Center
Attachment C10 Design Fee Form - Dunaire Elementary School
Attachment C11 Design Fee Form - Dunwoody High School
Attachment C12 Design Fee Form - Flat Shoals Elementary School
Attachment C13 Design Fee Form - Hightower Elementary School
Attachment C14 Design Fee Form - Jolly Elementary School
Attachment C15 Design Fee Form - Kinglsey Elementary School
Attachment C16 Design Fee Form - Lithonia High School
Attachment C17 Design Fee Form - Margaret Harris Comprehensive School
Attachment C18 Design Fee Form - McLendon Elementary School
Attachment C19 Design Fee Form - Panola Way Elementary School
Attachment C20 Design Fee Form - Robert Shaw Theme School
Attachment C21 Design Fee Form – Columbia High School
Attachment C22 Design Fee Form - Salem Middle School
Attachment C23 Design Fee Form-Stone Mountain Middle School
Attachment C24 Design Fee Form-Tucker Middle School
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 4 of 24
Attachment C25 Design Fee Form-Woodward Elementary School
Attachment D Offeror’s and Individuals’ Affidavit of Non collusion
Attachment E Conflict of Interest Disclosure Affidavit
Attachment F Consent to Release Information
Attachment G Immigration and Security Certification
Attachment H No Submittal Response
Appendices (separate file from RFQu)
Appendix A1 2021 Facility Condition Assessment - Avondale Elementary School
Appendix A2 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Avondale High School/DeKalb School of the Arts
Appendix A3 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Brockett Elementary School
Appendix A4 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Browns Mill Elementary School
Appendix A5 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Canby Lane Elementary School
Appendix A6 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Cedar Grove High School
Appendix A7 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Chamblee Middle School
Appendix A8 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Chamblee High School
Appendix A9 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Coralwood Education Center
Appendix A10 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Dunaire Elementary School
Appendix A11 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Dunwoody High School
Appendix A12 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Flat Shoals Elementary School
Appendix A13 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Hightower Elementary School
Appendix A14 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Jolly Elementary School
Appendix A15 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Kinglsey Elementary School
Appendix A16 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Lithonia High School
Appendix A17 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Margaret Harris Comprehensive School
Appendix A18 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – McLendon Elementary School
Appendix A19 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Panola Way Elementary School
Appendix A20 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Robert Shaw Theme School
Appendix A21 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Columbia High School
Appendix A22 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Salem Middle School
Appendix A23 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Stone Mountain Middle School
Appendix A24 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Tucker Middle School
Appendix A25 2021 Facility Condition Assessment – Woodward Elementary School
Appendix B Design Review-Minimum Submittal Requirements (SCL >$2M)
Appendix C DCSD Guidelines For Security Glazing
Appendix D DCSD Design Guidelines for Facility Construction
Appendix E1 Aerial Image – Avondale Elementary School
Appendix E2 Aerial Image – Avondale High School/DeKalb School of the Arts
Appendix E3 Aerial Image – Brockett Elementary School
Appendix E4 Aerial Image – Browns Mill Elementary School
Appendix E5 Aerial Image – Canby Lane Elementary School
Appendix E6 Aerial Image – Cedar Grove High School
Appendix E7 Aerial Image – Chamblee Middle School
Appendix E8 Aerial Image – Chamblee High School
Appendix E9 Aerial Image – Coralwood Education Center
Appendix E10 Aerial Image – Dunaire Elementary School
Appendix E11 Aerial Image – Dunwoody High School
Appendix E12 Aerial Image – Flat Shoals Elementary School
Appendix E13 Aerial Image – Hightower Elementary School
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 5 of 24
Appendix E14 Aerial Image – Jolly Elementary School
Appendix E15 Aerial Image – Kinglsey Elementary School
Appendix E16 Aerial Image – Lithonia High School
Appendix E17 Aerial Image – Margaret Harris Comprehensive School
Appendix E18 Aerial Image – McLendon Elementary School
Appendix E19 Aerial Image – Panola Way Elementary School
Appendix E20 Aerial Image – Robert Shaw Theme School
Appendix E21 Aerial Image – Columbia High School
Appendix E22 Aerial Image – Salem Middle School
Appendix E23 Aerial Image – Stone Mountain Middle School
Appendix E24 Aerial Image – Tucker Middle School
Appendix E25 Aerial Image – Woodward Elementary School
Appendix F1 Floor Plan – Avondale Elementary School
Appendix F2 Floor Plan – Avondale High School/DeKalb School of the Arts
Appendix F3 Floor Plan – Brockett Elementary School
Appendix F4 Floor Plan – Browns Mill Elementary School
Appendix F5 Floor Plan – Canby Lane Elementary School
Appendix F6 Floor Plan – Cedar Grove High School
Appendix F7 Floor Plan – Chamblee Middle School
Appendix F8 Floor Plan – Chamblee High School
Appendix F9 Floor Plan – Coralwood Education Center
Appendix F10 Floor Plan – Dunaire Elementary School
Appendix F11 Floor Plan – Dunwoody High School
Appendix F12 Floor Plan – Flat Shoals Elementary School
Appendix F13 Floor Plan – Hightower Elementary School
Appendix F14 Floor Plan – Jolly Elementary School
Appendix F15 Floor Plan – Kinglsey Elementary School
Appendix F16 Floor Plan – Lithonia High School
Appendix F17 Floor Plan – Margaret Harris Comprehensive School
Appendix F18 Floor Plan – McLendon Elementary School
Appendix F19 Floor Plan – Panola Way Elementary School
Appendix F20 Floor Plan – Robert Shaw Theme School
Appendix F21 Floor Plan – Columbia High School
Appendix F22 Floor Plan – Salem Middle School
Appendix F23 Floor Plan – Stone Mountain Middle School
Appendix F24 Floor Plan – Tucker Middle School
Appendix F25 Floor Plan – Woodward Elementary School
Appendix G Owner’s Master Schedule
Appendix H Standard Form of Contract for Architectural Services
Appendix I 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 School Calendar
Exhibits (separate file from RFQu)
Exhibit A – Proposal Evaluation Form
Exhibit B – DCSD Projects List
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 6 of 24
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
GROUP 1 SECURITY VESTIBULES
BACKGROUND
As the third largest school district in Georgia, the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) has more than 14,000 full-time
employees and serves over 93,000 students throughout DeKalb County. DCSD has approximately 138 schools and centers,
including 77 elementary, 19 middle schools and 22 high schools; 8 start-up charter schools, 13 specialized centers, 6
administrative centers and 5 athletic stadiums. Most facilities were constructed in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Almost all facilities
have had some form of renovation, repair, or addition over the years.
Since 1997, the Owner has utilized Education SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funds as the primary
funding source for its capital improvement programs (CIP). On November 22, 2021, the DeKalb County voters approved the
Owner’s sixth E-SPLOST program. It is anticipated that approximately $700 million will be available to fund the District’s 2022-
2027 Capital Improvement Program through the utilization of the approved SPLOST funds, in conjunction with the State of
Georgia’s Capital Outlay Program.
A copy of the CIP Summary and more detailed information regarding the CIP can be obtained on the District’s website at
www.dekalbschoolsga.org/e-splost/
PURPOSE
The purpose of this RFQu is to solicit proposals from qualified Architect/Engineer firms to provide professional design services
for K-12 educational facilities. This solicitation is specifically for the design of a fully functional security vestibule at 25 facilities
throughout the district. Final documents will become the property of DCSD.
The scope of work for the RFQu includes the full professional architectural and engineering services for DCSD Projects listed
in Exhibit B.
The anticipated construction delivery method for this project is CM at Risk. The selected Architect/Engineer shall provide
professional services for the project as described below in Section 2 of this RFQu.
The total Stated Cost Limitation (SCL) for these projects is $12,600,000. DCSD has determined that the stipulated fee the
Architect will receive for this project scope will be 7.5% of the Stated Cost Limitation for a maximum total fee of $945,000.
This fee is all inclusive and incorporates all reimbursable expenses for this project. This fee will be divided between each
facility per Exhibit B.
1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Avondale Elementary 8 Lakeshore Dr Avondale Estates, GA, 30002
Avondale High/DeKalb School of the Arts 1192 Clarendon Rd Decatur, GA, 30032
Brockett Elementary 1855 Brockett Road Tucker, GA, 30084
Browns Mill Elementary 4863 Browns Mill Road Stonecrest, GA, 30038
Canby Lane Elementary 4150 Green Hawk Trail Decatur, GA, 30035
Cedar Grove High 2360 River Road Ellenwood, GA, 30294
Chamblee Middle 3601 Sexton Woods Dr Chamblee, GA, 30341
Chamblee High 3688 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd Chamblee, GA, 30341
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 7 of 24
Coralwood Education 2477 Coralwood Drive Decatur, GA, 30033
Dunaire Elementary 651 South Indian Creek Drive Stone Mountain, GA, 30083
Dunwoody High 5035 Vermack Road Dunwoody, GA, 30338
Flat Shoals Elementary 3226 Flat Shoals Road Decatur, GA, 30034
Hightower Elementary 4236 Tilly Mill Road Doraville, GA, 30360
Jolly Elementary 1070 Otello Avenue Clarkston, GA, 30021
Kingsley Elementary 2051 Brendon Drive Dunwoody, GA, 30338
Lithonia High 2440 Phillips Rd Lithonia, GA, 30058
Margaret Harris Comprehensive 1634 Knob Hill Dr., N.E. Atlanta, GA, 30329
McLendon Elementary 3169 Hollywood Drive Decatur, GA, 30033
Panola Way Elementary 2170 Panola Way Court Lithonia, GA, 30058
Robert Shaw Theme Elementary 385 Glendale Road Scottdale, GA, 30079
Columbia High School 2106 Columbia Drive Decatur, GA 30032
Salem Middle 5333 Salem Road Stonecrest, GA, 30038
Stone Mountain Middle 4293 Sarr Parkway Stone Mountain, GA, 30083
Tucker Middle 2160 Idlewood Road Tucker, GA, 30084
Woodward Elementary 3034 Curtis Dr. NE Atlanta, GA, 30319
At a minimum the project should meet the DCSD Guidelines for Security Glazing (Appendix C), and the DCSD
Design Guidelines for Facility Construction, (Appendix D).
2.0 GENERAL SCOPE OF WORK
The anticipated scope of this project is to include but is not limited to the design of the following:
• Provide design and construction administration services to create a fully functional security vestibule at the
main entry of each facility listed in Exhibit B. The security vestibules shall comply with DCSD’s Security
Vestibule Design Guidelines/Specs included as Appendix C.
This is not intended to be an all‐inclusive list of the scope of work. The selected Architect/Engineer shall confirm and
obtain DCSD approval of full scope of work prior to the start of design.
A formal Notice to Proceed (NTP) shall be provided by the Owner or its designated representative prior to proceeding
with each design milestone. The Architect/Engineer will be responsible for confirming the need for these elements
and for making recommendations if an element is deemed unnecessary or if a more pressing element is discovered.
For more details on what is expected of the Architect, see the General Services section below.
2.1 General Services
The following generally highlights the services that the Architect and its subconsultants will be required to
perform:
A. Design Services
1. Prior to starting Schematic Design, the Architect will perform a preliminary consultation with the Owner
including, but not limited to, reviewing the Owner’s policies, concepts, objectives, design criteria,
schedule, budget, and operational needs for these projects. The Architect will submit within 10 days of
NTP, a written report with their proposed recommendations, solutions to problems, etc.
2. The Architect will prepare and submit a Design Schedule that fits within the parameters of Appendix G:
Owner’s Master Schedule.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 8 of 24
3. The Architect will prepare and submit schematic design documents per the requirements of Appendix
B: Design Review- Minimum Submittal Requirements and the Architect’s Detailed Design Schedule.
4. The Architect will prepare and submit a construction estimate based on the Schematic Design
documents. This estimate will be compared with the stated cost limitation (SCL) for this project. If the
estimate is more than 5% over the SCL, then the Architect will prepare new schematic design documents
and prepare a recovery schedule.
5. The design scope shall be based upon a construction Stated Cost Limitation (SCL) of $12,500,000.00 at
$400,000 per elementary school, $500,000 per middle school and $750,000 per high school.
6. The Architect will submit documents as outlined below for review by DCSD and the Program Manager.
7. Once Schematic Design Documents are reviewed and approved and upon written direction to proceed,
the Architect will proceed with the 30% Construction Document phase per Appendix B: Design Review-
Minimum Submittal Requirements and the Architect’s Detailed Design Schedule.
8. The process used for Schematic Design Phase as outlined in items #3 – 7 above will be performed for
the 80% and 100% CD Phases.
9. The Architect will submit to DCSD and the Project Manager reports, drawings, specifications, and
estimates for review according to the chart below:
Reports Drawings Specifications Estimates
Preliminary Consultation ✓
Schematic Design ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Design Development Phase ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Construction Documents – 30% ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Construction Documents – 80% ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Construction Documents – 100% ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Others as required ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
This information will be submitted to the GaDOE for review, comment, and approval.
10. The Architect will visit each school site. All areas of the existing facility will be made available to the Architect,
and it is expected that the Architect will study these areas to fully understand any and all accessible existing
conditions. The Architect shall investigate and document any limitations to be resolved during the design
process.
11. Coordination with DCSD’s Technology Department is critical during the Design Phase. DCSD’s Technology
Department will design the Technology components and the Architect/Engineer will incorporate this design
into the contract documents. The DCSD Technology Department will be responsible for the installation of
the IT equipment, cabling, and wiring. The General Contractor (GC) will be responsible for the supporting
infrastructure (conduit, boxes, etc.).
12. Provide complete construction contract documents with professional seals and signatures in accordance with
the requirements of the Georgia Department of Education Facilities Services Unit.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 9 of 24
13. Assure that the construction contract documents are in conformance with generally accepted architectural
and engineering practices and comply fully with all applicable DCSD and GaDOE criteria, along with all
federal, state, and local codes and laws.
14. Provide full and complete specifications including Division 1- General Conditions, reflecting current DCSD
and GaDOE requirements. Specify materials and equipment that are readily available, to avoid delivery
concerns during construction.
15. Provide phasing plans, as appropriate, for construction. Include submission to and approval by DCSD and
the Fire Marshal for the phased exiting of the facility.
16. Provide design for on-site swing space (modular) as appropriate for the improvement activities, i.e. phasing.
17. Provide design drawings and specifications for demolition of areas, as appropriate.
18. Provide design drawings and specifications for security system (cameras, alarm, card access, motion
detectors, recording devices, etc.), and MIS conduit/raceways, as needed. Equipment and cabling design
and installation will be provided by approved DCSD vendors, as appropriate.
19. Coordinate entrance design with and obtain approval from the agencies having jurisdiction as appropriate.
Provide renderings when exterior modifications to the building are made.
20. Coordinate and design all utility connections (gas, electrical, plumbing, sewer) with local utility provider and
obtain necessary approvals. Deposits will be paid for by the district. The Architect will coordinate this effort.
21. Represent DeKalb County School District by presenting necessary oral and/or graphic presentations to state
and county agencies, or any other group having interest in the projects per the direction of DCSD.
22. Complete all forms and documents in formats required by GaDOE and any other state or county agency.
23. Each design phase submittal must include a detailed cost estimate confirming that the cost of the design is
below the construction SCL for the respective project. Design estimates will be reviewed by the program
manager. If the estimate shows a cost more than 5% greater than the SCL, the Architect must
redesign the project to be below the construction SCL at no additional cost to the owner. The
Architect will also be required to develop a recovery schedule to complete the design in the original
timeframe.
24. DCSD has adopted and implemented Kahua’s Project Management Information System (PMIS) software as
the District’s project management software. All Contractors with a project’s construction value exceeding a
Stated Cost Limitation of $1 million will be required to use Kahua for that project, and the Architect of Record
will have to be versed in Kahua in order to review and comment on the contractor’s schedule. For
construction contracts with values under $1 million, the Architect will be responsible for posting all project
documents from the GC into Kahua.
25. The Architect shall also comply with all activities and terms as outlined in the Standard Form of Contract for
Architectural Services (State Capital Outlay Projects) between the DeKalb County Board of Education and
the Architect. (See Appendix H).
26. Provide the selected GC with three (3) copies of the construction contract documents (specifications and
drawings) at the Preconstruction Conference.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 10 of 24
27. The Architect will develop the list of required shop drawings, product data, samples, etc. and issue it to the
selected GC. The selected GC will take the list and incorporate it into their project construction schedule.
28. The Architect is responsible for providing and submitting all permit packages to the proper authorities. The
Architect is responsible for pursuing the issuance of the permits until the permit is ready to be issued to the
contractor or until the contractor receives a Notice to Proceed (NTP). Once the NTP is received, the Architect
will hold a formal meeting to transfer the permit responsibilities to the contractor. The Architect is still
responsible for assisting the contractor and for responding to any questions or issues documented by the
permitting authorities.
29. The Architect will update DCSD’s state inventory plans at the end of construction.
30. The Architect will perform Contact Administration for these projects.
31. The Architect will provide FF&E services for this project as outlined in the Standard Form of Contract for
Architectural Services.
B. Kahua Project Management Information System Software
DCSD has adopted and implemented Kahua’s Project Management Information System (PMIS) software as the
District’s project management software. DCSD will issue one license to the successful Architect and expects the
Architect to participate in the management of these projects within the Kahua guidelines. This management will
be performed in conjunction with DCSD and the Program Manager. This includes but is not limited to:
1. General
• All project documentation shall be made available to DCSD in a format compatible with industry
standards and able to be uploaded and stored electronically in the District’s PMIS software.
• All invoicing – architect’s, contractor’s, vendors’, etc. will be recorded in the District’s PMIS software
2. Schematic Design Phases
• All drawings will be posted in Kahua as one package for each phase (one file for SD)
• The detailed estimate will be posted in Kahua for each phase
• All reports will be posted individually in Kahua
• All project documentation (meeting minutes, photographs, etc.) will be posted in Kahua
3. Construction Document Submittals (50%, 100%)
• All drawings for the 50% CD submittals will be posted in Kahua as one package
• The detailed estimate will be posted in Kahua for the 50% submittals
• All reports will be posted individually in Kahua
• All project documentation (meeting minutes, photographs, etc.) will be posted in Kahua
• A detailed estimate is not required at 100% drawings
• Each individual drawing will be posted to Kahua (as individual files) at the 100% drawing submittal
4. Contract Administration
• RFIs, Submittals, and Shop Drawings will be documented in Kahua
• Samples (color boards, brick, etc.) will be processed outside of Kahua, but will be tracked by a
transmittal inside Kahua
• Invoices will be recorded in Kahua
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 11 of 24
3.0 REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Firms must meet the following requirements:
3.1.1 Requirements of the Request for Qualifications (RFQu).
3.1.2 It is preferable that the Firm has experience providing A / E services for K-12 public school
programs.
3.1.3 Firm must be authorized to do business in the State of Georgia and must possess professional
service registrations in accordance with applicable statutes, regulations, and rules.
3.1.4 Firms must be knowledgeable of the requirements of Georgia Code.
3.1.5 Firms must be able to demonstrate financial strength appropriate to the scale of Project to be
managed.
3.1.6 Statements of Qualifications must be submitted electronically to the School District on or before the
time and date indicated in the RFQu.
3.1.7 Statements of Qualifications should be limited to not more than 30 electronic pages. Submissions
in excess of 30 electronic pages will not be disqualified; however, clarity, conciseness, and brevity
of this document will be part of the evaluation criteria.
3.1.8 Statements of Qualification which have not been received by the DeKalb County School
District on or before the scheduled receipt time as set forth in the RFQu will not be considered.
3.1.9 The selected firm and its sub consultants will be required to meet the insurance
requirements of DCSD.
3.1.10 Costs of participating in the selection process, including presentations to the Selection
Committee, are solely those of the firm; DCSD will assume no responsibility for any costs.
3.1.11 DCSD reserves the right to waive informalities and to terminate the selection process.
4.0 STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS
Required Information and Format
Statements of Qualifications must provide the required information in the following order and format:
4.1 Letter of introduction and interest signed by an officer or partner of the responding firm. Letter shall include
specific reason(s) why firm would be the best choice for the project listed. Letter shall include name of
entity submitting, contact name, phone number, e-mail address, fax number and address of firm submitting.
4.2 Table of Contents
4.3 Compliance Information
This is a compliance section and carries no evaluation points. Firms must meet minimum criteria as
specified to receive further consideration. Submittals shall include the following:
4.3.1 The Firm must be properly certified by the Georgia Secretary of State to do business in Georgia
at the time of submission.
4.3.1.1 State the legal name of the entity submitting and if Firm submitting is a corporation, joint
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 12 of 24
venture, or partnership. Note: It is understood that if selected for this project the stated
entity name will be used in all legal contracting documents derived from this selection.
4.3.1.2 Provide a copy of certification for proper incorporation or registration from Georgia
Secretary of State. In the alternative, joint ventures and partnerships should provide a
copy of their joint venture or partnership agreement and certification from the Georgia
Secretary of State establishing that each joint venture partner or partner is authorized to
do business in Georgia.
4.3.2 The Firm must be properly registered, licensed, and certified at the time of submission:
4.3.2.1 Firms and sub consultants must be property licensed. Provide copy of current Georgia
Professional Registration for Architect/Engineer.
4.3.2.2 If Firm is a joint venture, provide copy of the joint venture agreement and either:
a. Copy of current Georgia Professional Registration of the joint venture; or
b. A copy of the current Georgia Professional Registration of one of the joint
venture partners.
4.3.3 The Firm must have been in continuous business for a minimum of five years. Note: If Firm
is a joint venture, at least one of the companies comprising the joint venture or partnership
must have been in continuous business for a minimum of five years.
4.3.3.1 State number of years in business. If the Firm is a joint venture, state both the number
of years that the joint venture has been in business, as well as the number of
years that each joint venture partners has been in business.
4.3.3.2 State the location, address, and telephone number of Firm’s offices. If the
Firm is a joint venture or partnership, identify the location, address, and
telephone number of the principal place of business of the joint venture or
partnership designated with the Georgia Division of Corporations.
4.3.3.3 Submit the names of owners, officers or principals in charge.
4.3.4 The Firm must identify any existing or potential conflicts of interest and disclose any
representation of parties or other relationships that might be considered a conflict of interest with
regard to this selection. "Conflict" or "conflict of interest" means a situation in which regard for a
private interest tends to lead to disregard of a public duty or interest.
4.3.4.1 If any conflicts of interest issues are identified, provide a detailed plan of action on how
any existing or potential conflicts of interest will be mitigated in the case your firm is
recommended for this project. DCSD at its sole discretion shall determine the adequacy
of the plan and whether the conflict will disqualify the firm from consideration for the
RFQu. If DCSD determines that the firm will be disqualified due to the conflict, the firm’s
proposal will not be evaluated or considered by the Selection Committee.
4.3.5 The Firm must demonstrate they have the necessary financial resources to complete the
project and show their history of working proactively to avoid litigation with Owners.
4.3.5.1 Financial Statement: The Firm’s financial capability is to be expressed in the financial
statement (audited financial current within the past twelve months, such as a balance
sheet and statement of operations) and should indicate the resources and the necessary
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 13 of 24
working capital to assure financial stability through the completion of the project. A
certified audit is preferred; however, the Firm’s most recent tax return and balance sheet
will be accepted. If the Firm is a joint venture or partnership all firms comprising the
submitting entity will be required to submit the previously requested documentation.
4.3.5.2 Insurance Capacity: Firms must provide evidence that they have all insurance
coverage’s as specified in A/E contract included with this RFQu (See Appendix H).
4.3.5.3 Litigation: Submit all litigation of any kind involving firm, its officers, or directors with a
project owner where the total amount in controversy exceeds $100,000.00 within the last
five years. If the firm is a joint venture or partnership submit litigation involving all firms
comprising the submitting entity. State the court and location of the litigation.
4.3.5.4 Insurance Claims: Submit all Errors & Omissions and/or Professional Liability claims
filed against the firms’ policy in the last two years for the proposal submittal date. The
information should include amount and nature of the claim(s).
5.0 INITIAL SCREENING CRITERIA
5.1 Individual Review: Proposal Evaluation Committee (“PEC”) members shall use the Proposal Evaluation
Form (Exhibit A) for the RFQu to document their review and evaluation of each Proposal in accordance
with the criteria listed below, within their respective areas of experience and knowledge.
5.1.1 Successful Related Architectural Experience (30 points):
Major consideration will be given to the successful completion of previous projects
comparable in design, scope, and complexity. This will include e valuating the firm’s
performance and quality of work on previous projects.
5.1.1.1 List the projects which best illustrate the experience of the firm which utilized the current
staff which is being assigned to this Project. (List no more than 10 projects and do not list
projects which were not completed by your firm or completed more than ten years
ago). Include the following for each project:
a. Name and location of the project.
b. The nature of the firm's responsibility on the project.
c. Project owner's representative name, address, telephone, and
facsimile number.
d. Project user's representative name, address and
telephone number.
e. Date project construction was completed.
f. Size of project (construction gross square feet).
g. Cost of project (construction cost).
h. Work for which firm's staff was responsible.
i. Present status of the project.
j. Firm's key professionals involved on the project and who of that staff
would be assigned to the Project covered by this RFQu.
5.1.2 Proposed Project Staff and their Functions (30 points):
The quality, experience and quantity of staff and their functions will be evaluated by the
Committee. The Committee will also evaluate the firm’s capabilities to provide service.
5.1.2.1 Organization Chart: Develop an organization chart as it relates to the Project indicating
key personnel, their relationship, and all consultants to be used on this project.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 14 of 24
5.1.2.2 The firm shall name the actual staff to be assigned to this Project, describe their ability,
and experience, and indicate the function of each within their organization and their
proposed role on this Project. It is the intent that the proposed staff shall be
assigned to this Project unless otherwise approved by Owner. The staff shall be
present at the time of interview.
5.1.2.3 Give brief resumes of key persons to be assigned to the Project including, but not
limited to, the following:
a. Name and title.
b. Job assignment for other projects.
c. How many years with this firm. For sub-consultants, list prior projects your
firm has worked with sub-consultant.
d. How many years with other firms.
e. Experience including types of projects, size of projects (dollar value and
square footage of project), and specific project involvement.
f. Education.
g. Active registrations (if any).
h. If submitting as a joint venture or partnership, include the assigned staff for
the joint venture or partnership and indicate which of the joint ventures or
partners employs the staff member.
5.1.3 Workload (15 points):
As part of the evaluation criteria, the Committee will review the firms and their sub-consultants current
workload. If the submitting firm is a joint venture, the Committee will review the current workload of each of
the firms comprising the submitting entity. A maximum of ten points will be awarded based on an
evaluation of the firm’s total workload and capacity to perform the work.
5.1.3.1 Firms and their sub-consultant(s) shall provide a list of outstanding projects, client
names, status of completion, anticipated completion date, and dollars committed on
open project workload. Furthermore, if the submitting firm is a joint venture, they shall
also include projects for each firm comprising the joint venture.
Definition of sub-consultant as it relates to this selection process: An individual and/or
firm contracted or to be contracted by the submitting entity to provide services related to
or part of those which this will be required as part of this selection process.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 15 of 24
5.1.4 Equitable Distribution (10 points):
In an effort to consider the equitable distribution of work, the Committee shall evaluate data showing
dollar amounts of contracts and projects awarded by DCSD to the submitting firm(s). In the case of
submittals received by joint ventures the contracts and projects awarded to each of the firms
comprising the joint venture will be included in the calculation of the projects currently under contract
and those awarded by DCSD. Furthermore, this calculation will include all contracts and projects
awarded to the submitting firm either as a joint venture or as a separate entity, whereby the
submitting firm(s) was one of the entities included in the award and contract. The chart below will be
used to award a maximum of 10 points based on the combined dollar amount of projects currently
under contract, as well as those awarded by DCSD, but not yet under contract. For those projects
already under contract, the contract amount will reflect the dollar amount of the contract value, not
including amendments. The projects taken into account in the calculation will be those awarded by
the Owner within two (2) years prior to this solicitation opening. For projects recommended but not
yet awarded, the contract value will reflect the estimated fee based on the budget listed within the
RFQu for which the firm was selected. This single score will be allocated to each firm by the
Selection Process Facilitator and added to the cumulative score the committee members.
Contract Value Awarded/ Recommended by DCSD Point Value
Up to $100,000 10 points
$100,001 to $500,000 8 points
$500,001 to $1,000,000 6 points
$1,000,000 to $2,000,000 4 points
Greater than $2,000,000 0 points
5.1.5 DESIGN FEE (O POINTS):
Design fee is NOT included in the Selection Criteria.
5.1.5.1 Indicate your proposed Design Fee for the Services and Work as required by the Proposal
Documents and the Owner’s Agreement. Use Owner’s Design Fee Form (Attachment C)
included in this Request for Qualifications.
5.1.5.2 Indicate any breakdown of the proposed Design Fee as required by the attached form.
5.1.5.3 Acknowledge receipt of addendum, if any.
5.1.5.4 All blanks shall be filled in and shall be filled in by typewriter or manually and legibly, in
ink. Interlineations, alterations, and erasures must be initialed by the signer of the
Proposal.
5.1.6 References (15 points):
The Firm must demonstrate a positive relationship with prior clients on similar projects.
5.1.6.1 The firm shall submit a minimum of three (3) written recommendations from previous
owners and discuss their strategy to provide a positive working relationship with
DCSD. This strategy must include actual examples of how the firm has demonstrated
their cooperation with other Owners. DCSD reserves the option of contacting any of
the references provided to confirm information provided.
5.1.6.2 DCSD staff will provide input on a firm’s past work performance, this information
includes but is not limited to the number of warranty requests and responsiveness,
contract and process compliance, and information from the DCSD contractor evaluation
process if available.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 16 of 24
5.2 Group Review. The PEC members shall meet and discuss the Proposals. The goal of this review is to
allow each PEC member the opportunity to fully discuss the Proposals and to identify any information
in the proposals deemed by the PEC member to be significant to the evaluation. At the conclusion
of this meeting, each PEC member shall render his or her final scores for each proposal and submit his
or her Proposal Evaluation Form to the Selection Process Facilitator.
5.2.1 The Selection Process Facilitator shall combine the evaluation scores submitted by all PEC
members and shall determine the five (5) highest scoring firms (unless otherwise determined)
based on the total evaluation scores received. In the event of a tied score for fifth place, all such
tied firms shall be included in the short list.
5.2.2 Short List Recommendation. The Selection Process Facilitator shall forward the PEC’s short list
recommendation to the Chief Operating Officer (“the COO”). The COO, in his or her sole
discretion, can either accept the short list recommendation or reject the short list recommendation.
If the COO accepts the recommendation, the selection process proceeds as noted below. If the
COO rejects the short list recommendation, he or she, in his or her sole discretion, can proceed
in any of the following methods: directing the Selection Process Facilitator to recommence the
selection process at whatever stage the COO deems appropriate (including the Individual
Review stage or the Group Review stage); pursuing the project by any other alternative method
permitted under Georgia law; or abandoning the project all together. If the COO elects to pursue
the project by an alternative method or abandon the project, DCSD shall provide public notice of
this decision.
5.2.3 Notice of Short List. Once the PEC’s short list recommendation has been accepted by the COO, the
Selection Process Facilitator will notify all submitting firms of whether or not they appear on the short
list and shall provide public notice of the short-listed firms.
5.2.4 The short-listed firms shall then be invited for interviews before the PEC, which will be scheduled
within three (3) business days of notification.
6.0 INTERVIEWS AND PRESENTATION
6.1 At the time of its scheduled interview, each short-listed firm shall provide additional information about
its firm and operations as may be required by DCSD. This additional information shall include, but is not
limited to, the following:
6.1.2 Overall Approach, Methodology, & Knowledge of the Site (30 points):
6.1.2.1 The firm shall provide information regarding its knowledge of local codes and
ordinances, as an indication of its ability to deliver quality workmanship in an effective
and timely manner.
6.1.2.2 The firm shall demonstrate verbally and graphically its plan for performing the
Architectural/Engineering Services, documenting the services to be provided and showing
the interrelationship of all parties.
6.1.2.3 The firm shall present their quality assurance program. The program shall illustrate how
they will assure professional quality, technical accuracy, and coordination of all services
require under their contract.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 17 of 24
6.1.3 Project Team (25 points):
The firm shall express the general and specific project related experience and
capability of in-house staff and sub consultants and
their functions as it relates to this project.
6.1.3.1 Organization Chart: Develop an organization chart as it relates to the Project
indicating key personnel and their relationship. It shall be understood that it is the
intent of the District to insist that those key personnel indicated as the project
team in this RFQu response actually executes the Project.
6.1.3.2 If a joint venture, or prime subcontractor arrangement of two (or more) firms, indicate how
the work shall be distributed between the associated firms. Describe how the
organizational structure will ensure orderly communications, distribution of information,
effective coordination of activities and accountability.
6.1.4 Cost Control (25 points):
6.1.4.1 Describe how you develop cost estimates, and how they are updated, providing specific
examples of successful recommendations implemented and cost containment strategies
utilized to maintain project budgets without sacrificing quality. Describe and explain the
benefits to the Owner.
6.1.5 Project Scheduling (20 points):
6.1.5.1 As part of the project approach, the firm shall propose a process for scheduling
multiple projects and effectively managing and executing the work in the optimum
time. Provide a sample schedule and describe any major milestones for achieving
the schedule and any other recommendations that may directly impact the schedule.
6.1.5.2 The firm shall describe any representative current projects and the projected versus the
actual schedule for each.
6.2 Interview
6.2.1 The short-listed firms shall be invited for interviews before the PEC. At the time of its scheduled
interview, each short-listed firm shall provide additional information about its firm and operations
as may be required by DCSD. This additional information shall be identified in the RFQu.
6.2.2 The PEC shall schedule a separate interview for each short-listed firm. As part of its interview,
and at the Selection Process Facilitator’s discretion, each firm shall make a short oral
presentation.
6.2.3 After the PEC has interviewed all the short-listed firms, the PEC shall reconvene for the PEC
members to discuss the interviews and review each presentation. At the end of this
discussion, PEC members shall use the Presentation Evaluation Forms to record their
evaluation of each short-listed firm, and then submit the Presentation Evaluation Forms to
the Selection Process Facilitator.
6.2.4 The Selection Process Facilitator shall combine the evaluation scores submitted by all PEC
members and determine the PEC’s ranking of the short-listed firms based upon the total
scores assigned to each firm for the presentation stage. If the ranking results in a tied score
for the number one or number two ranked firms, additional information shall be requested from
the tied firms and presented to the committee. The committee will score the firms based on the
responses to the additional information.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 18 of 24
6.3 Submittal of recommended highest ranked firm. The Selection Process Facilitator shall submit the
highest ranked firm recommended by the PEC to the COO for approval. The COO, in his or her sole
discretion, shall either accept the results of the PEC’s ranking recommendation and forward it to the Board
of Education for approval or reject the results of the ranking recommendation. If the COO accepts the
ranking recommendation, the approval process continues as noted below. If the COO rejects the results
of the ranking recommendation, he or she, in his or her sole discretion, shall proceed with any of the
following methods: directing the PEC Selection Process Facilitator to recommence the selection and
ranking process at whatever stage the COO deems appropriate (including the Individual Review
stage, the Group Review stage, or the Interview process); pursuing the project by any other alternative
method permitted under Georgia law; or abandoning the project all together. If the COO elects to pursue
the project through an alternative method or abandon the project all together, DCSD shall provide public
notice of that decision.
. Upon the COO’s approval of the PEC’s recommendation, an agenda item shall be prepared and put on
the next available agenda for the Board of Education review and approval.
7.0 SELECTION PROCESS:
7.1 The Proposal Evaluation Committee (“PEC”) shall be established by the COO. The COO, or his
designee, shall approve the members of the PEC, to include the following:
7.1.1 At least three (3) DCSD staff persons with expertise in facilities design, construction, operation,
and/or maintenance, property, surveying and environmental, as recommended by the Chief
Operating Officer from their respective divisions, for the purpose of evaluating and scoring only
those elements of the responses that relate to facilities design, construction, operation, and
maintenance proposals, and on an as needed basis, those that include property, surveying and
environmental.
7.1.2 At least one (1) member of the SPLOST CIP staff with expertise in facilities design, construction,
operation, and/or maintenance, property, surveying and environmental, as recommended by the
Chief Operating Officer, for the purpose of evaluating and scoring only those elements of the
responses that relate to facilities design, construction, operation, and maintenance proposals.
7.1.3 Such other staff person(s) as deemed appropriate by the COO, or his designee, in order to
ensure that the PEC includes persons with experience and knowledge in the contractual services
being sought, for the purpose of evaluating and scoring only those elements of the responses
that relate to the person(s)’ area of experience and knowledge.
7.1.4 Membership of the PEC may include representation from other public or private entities or
others deemed appropriate as recommended by the Chief Operating Officer. The
recommendation may be based on project complexity, project cost and staff capacity.
7.1.5 All voting members of the PEC are required to comply with the provisions of Board Policy DJE
and the provisions of the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees. No member shall
solicit or knowingly accept any gift, gratuity, loan, special discount, entertainment, transportation,
lodging, meals, favor or promise of future employment, based upon any understanding that the
vote, official action, or judgment of the member would be influenced thereby.
7.2 The Chief Operating Officer, or his designee, shall select a Procurement representative who shall
serve as the Selection Process Facilitator to monitor the selection process, ensure compliance with all
applicable procedural requirements, limiting discussion which facilitates the procurement process, the
facts of the procurement and documentation on file, and will always maintain objectivity.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 19 of 24
7.3 The Selection Process Facilitator shall be responsible for ensuring that each member is provided information on
the project, directs discussion as necessary and determines when the committee may need to vote on any
compliance related issues.
7.4 The final rankings as approved by the Board of Education will rank all proposers from highest to lowest
scores based on the selection criteria described in the RFQu.
8.0 SCHEDULE
8.1 Virtual Pre-submittal conference attendance (mandatory). It is the firm’s responsibility to become fully
informed as to the nature and extent of the services required. The virtual pre-submittal conference will be held
at 11:00 A.M., EST Tuesday, April 11, 2024, via TEAMS. The RFQu will be reviewed, and questions will be
addressed.
8.2 Statements of Qualifications must be received electronically at the DeKalb County School District website
https://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net not later than date and time set forth in the “Advertisement for RFQu for
Professional Architectural and Engineering Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules”. Based on evaluations of
Statements of Qualifications, a maximum of five firms may be interviewed, at times and location to be determined
at a later time. The order of presentation will be determined at DCSD’s sole discretion, and the firms so
notified.
8.3 The dates and times identified in this RFQu are subject to change. All changes will be posted to the DeKalb
County School District solicitation website via addendum as it becomes available for all phases of this project.
9.0 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
9.1 Firms are required to register as a supplier using the IONWAVE portal and obtain a username and
password.
9.2 The response shall contain manual signature of an authorized representative of the responding firm.
9.3 Responses received after the receipt time noted in the RFQu will not be accepted.
9.4 Firms responding to the RFQu shall be available for presentations and interviews to the DCSD PEC
Selection Committee.
9.5 The contents of the proposal of a successful firm may become part of its contractual obligations.
9.6 Excluding items 5.1.4 and 5.2, Proposals shall respond to each item noted in sections 4.0 and 5.0 in the
order noted. Identify responses with the same paragraph notation as contained in this RFQu.
9.7 Submittals shall be typed. All corrections made by the proposer prior to the opening shall be initialed
and dated by the proposer. No changes or corrections will be allowed after proposals have been
unsealed.
9.8 Questions: Any questions concerning the RFQu should be submitted electronically via email to the
Senior Procurement Manager at dcsd-op-bidquestion@dekalbschoolsga.org. Questions submitted
to any other email address will not be considered. The deadline for receipt of vendor questions is
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. EST. Questions received after the deadline time will not be
considered. Questions received by the deadline time will be answered in writing and posted to the
DCSD solicitation website http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net no later than Wednesday, April 24,
2024 by 2:00 p.m. EST. No response other than written by the Senior Procurement Manager, will
be binding upon DCSD. All supplemental instructions will be in the form of written Addenda to the
RFQu.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 20 of 24
9.9 Selection committee members, school board members and school board personnel are not to
be contacted prior to the Board of Education’s decision to approve or reject the final
recommendation presented to it by the Chief Operating Officer. At the discretion of DCSD,
failure to comply with this requirement will be grounds for disqualification.
9.10 Specifically, this NO-CONTACT PERIOD shall commence on the initial date of the advertisement for
Request for Qualifications and continue through and include the date the DeKalb County Board of
Education makes its determination to approve or reject the final recommendations.
9.11 The assigned contact persons for this RFQu are Belinda Quillet, Senior Procurement Manager and
Tijauna Naylor-Simth, Procurement Manager. Mrs. Quillet can be reached at (678) 676-1373 or by
email at dcsd-op-bidquestion@dekalbschoolsga.org. Dr. Naylor-Smith can be reached at (678) 676-
1313 or by email at tijauna_naylor_smith@dekalbschoolsga.org. Prospective Respondents must
limit their contact regarding this RFQu to the assigned contact persons.
9.12 Failure to meet any of these requirements may disqualify your firm from consideration.
10.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
10.1. DCSD reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals in the best interest of DCSD.
DeKalb County School District reserves the right to waive any formalities in the selection process.
10.2 It is mutually understood and agreed that the nature, amount, and frequency of the Services shall be
determined solely by Owner and that Owner does not represent or guarantee unto firm that any
specific amount of services will be requested or required of firm pursuant to this RFQu.
10.3 Proposals which do not comply with these instructions or that do not include the requested data may
not be considered.
10.4 The successful firm shall not discriminate against any person in accordance with Federal, State or
Local law.
10.5 It is the sole responsibility of the submitting firm to ensure proposals are received on or before
the time and date required, and in the format stated.
10.6 By submission of a response to this RFQu, the Respondent certifies that he/she and his/her employees
shall not engage in the unlawful manufacture, sale, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of
controlled substance or drugs during the performance of the contract.
10.7 By submission of a response to this RFQu, the Respondent certifies that he/she and his/her employees
shall not use tobacco products on DCSD property at any time during the performance of this contract.
10.8 Respondents shall fully certify that they, as individuals or as officials of a business entity, have not
entered into any agreement, participated in collusion, or otherwise taken any action in restraint of free
and competitive responses to this RFQu. Further, Respondents guarantee that their response is not
made in conjunction with or on behalf of another party and that they have not been directly or indirectly
induced in any manner or taken any action to result in a restriction of trade or in an unfair advantage.
10.9 By responding to this RFQu, the offeror certifies that the proposing company and/or its principals have
not been suspended, excluded, disqualified, debarred, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible or
voluntarily excluded from participation in any transaction by any Federal or State department or agency
and that the bidder complies with all applicable orders, rules and regulations related thereto. Further,
by responding to this RFQu, the offeror certifies that all lower tier participating individuals and/or
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 21 of 24
company(s) and all respective principals of lower tier participants have not been suspended, excluded,
disqualified, debarred, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded from
participation in any transaction by any Federal or State department or agency and that the bidder
complies with all applicable orders, rules and regulations related thereto.
10.10 DeKalb County School District, Georgia, does not discriminate in admission or access to, or
treatment or employment in its programs and activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, age,
sex, national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity
or expression, or any other reason prohibited by law.
10.11 By making a submission, it is understood and agreed that the submitting entity consents to DCSD
contacting any parties referenced in the entities response including, but not limited to, all project
owners and references herein.
10.12 Submitters acknowledge and agree that the contracting entity will be the Firm name identified in the
response to 4.3.1.1.
10.13 Appendix H is the most current version of the DCSD Standard Form of Contract for Architectural
Services. By submitting a response to this RFQu, submitters acknowledge and agree that they have
reviewed the contract and have no objection to it. All responders should thoroughly review the
documents prior to submitting a proposal. Any proposed revisions to the terms or language of these
documents must be submitted in writing during the question-and-answer period of the solicitation. All
requests must be submitted in writing prior to the close of the final questions. Requests for revisions
will be reviewed and approved or rejected by legal and legal rulings are final. If submitted or proposed
thereafter, such proposed revisions to the terms or language of these documents shall not be
considered by the Owner and the Architect/Engineer submittal shall be rejected. No alterations can
be made in the contract after award by DCSD.
11.0 PROTEST PROCESS:
Any person who is adversely affected by a decision of the DeKalb County School District concerning this
procurement, shall adhere to the following Protest Procedures:
11.1 Protests. A bidder may file a written protest challenging DCSD’s compliance with applicable
procurement procedures subject to the bidder’s compliance with the provisions outlined below. Any
such written protest will be resolved in accordance with these provisions.
11.2 Types of Challenges. Any bidder interested in and capable of responding to a competitive solicitation
may file a protest with respect to the competitive solicitation process including, but not limited to, a
challenge to specifications or any events or facts arising during the solicitation process. Any bidder
submitting a timely bid/proposal in response to a competitive solicitation may file a protest with respect
to DCSD’s intended or actual contract award including, but not limited to, events or facts arising during
the evaluation and/or negotiation process.
11.3 Form of Protest. At a minimum, the written protest must include the following:
a. the name and address of the protestor;
b. appropriate identification of the solicitation;
c. a statement of reasons for the protest;
d. supporting exhibits, evidence, or documents to substantiate any claims unless not
available within the filing time (in which case the offeror must proceed to file the protest
during the filing period identified below but state the expected availability of the material);
and
e. the desired remedy.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 22 of 24
DCSD, at its discretion, may deem issues not raised in the initial protest as waived with prejudice
by the protesting offeror.
11.4 Filing Protests. A protest is considered to be properly filed when it is in writing, signed by a company
officer authorized to sign contracts on behalf of the offeror, and is received by the Design and
Construction Department. The protest may be sent by any of the following means:
MAIL: Attention: Mr. Erick Hofstetter
Chief Operating Officer
DeKalb County School District
Sam A. Moss Service Center
1780 Montreal Road
Tucker, Georgia 30084
Email: erick_hofstetter@dekalbschoolsga.org
11.5 Type of Protests. A challenge to the competitive solicitation process must be filed within two (2)
business days prior to the closing date and time of the solicitation as identified on the RFQu.
A challenge to an intended or actual contract award must be filed within ten (10) calendar days of
the date the Notice of Intent to Award (NOIA) is posted by DCSD. In the event DCSD does not post
a NOIA, the protest must be filed within ten (10 calendar days of the date the Notice of Award (NOA)
is posted.
If a protest is not filed by the applicable deadline, such failure shall be deemed as a waiver
with prejudice of any grounds the bidder may have for protest.
11.6 Stay of Procurement During Protest Review. When a protest challenging the competitive
solicitation process has been timely filed at least two (2) business days prior to the closing date and
time, the solicitation shall not close until a final decision resolving the protest has been issued, unless
the Facilities Management Department makes a written determination that the closing of the
solicitation without delay is necessary to protect the interests of DCSD.
When a protest challenging an intended contract award has been timely filed, DCSD shall not
proceed to actual contract award unless the Design and Construction Department makes a written
determination that the issuance of a contract or performance of the contract without delay is
necessary to protect the interests of DCSD. If it is determined that it is necessary to proceed with
contract performance without delay, the bidder/offeror with this contingent contract may proceed with
performance and receive payment for work performed in strict accordance with the terms of the
contract. The provisions of this paragraph are not applicable to a protest pertaining to events or facts
arising during the solicitation process.
11.7 Protest Resolution. The Facilities Management Department shall review and issue a written
decision on the protest within seven (7) business days. This decision shall be deemed final.
Available remedies for sustained protests are as follows:
• If a protest is sustained prior to the closing date and time of the solicitation, available remedies may
include, but are not limited to, the following: modification of the solicitation document including, but
not limited to, specifications and terms and conditions; extension of the solicitation closing date and
time (as appropriate); and cancellation of the solicitation.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 23 of 24
• If a protest of the intended/actual contract award is sustained available remedies may include but
are not limited to, the following: revision or cancellation of the NOIA/NOA, re-evaluation and re-
award, or re-solicitation with appropriate changes to the new solicitation.
11.8 Costs. In no event shall a bidder be entitled to recover any costs incurred in connection with the
solicitation or protest process, including, but not limited to, the costs of preparing a bid/proposal,
the costs of participating in the protest process, or any attorney fees.
DeKalb County School District RFQu No. 24-752-025
A/E Services for Group 1 Security Vestibules Project Nos Various
March 28, 2024 Page 24 of 24
NOTICE
FOR PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES
FOR GROUP 1 SECURITY VESTIBULES
DeKalb County Board of Education announces that Professional Architectural and Engineering Services are required for the
project listed below.
PROJECT AND NUMBER: Group 1 Security Vestibules at Various Sites
RFQu No. 24-752-025
SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED: Professional Architectural and Engineering Design Services for Group 1
Security Vestibules
VIRTUAL PRE-SUBMITTAL MEETING: April 11, 2024, 11:00 a.m. EST, via TEAMS
Attendees must provide the following information by Wednesday,
April 10, 2024, 5:00 p.m. EST:
1. Individual Name and Title
2. Company Name
3. Telephone Number
4. Email Address
Information must be sent to dcsd-op-solicitation@dekalbschoolsga.org
A meeting link will be sent to all registered attendees.
Attendance is mandatory.
DCSD CONTACT: Belinda Quillet, Senior Procurement Manager
Tijauna Naylor-Smith, Procurement Manager
SUBMIT QUALIFICATIONS TO: http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net
QUALIFICATIONS DUE DATE AND TIME: May 2, 2024, 2:00 p.m. EST
Requirements: Interested firms are required to comply with all requirements of the Request for Qualification (RFQu). A
copy of the RFQu and all clarifications issued shall be obtained from the DeKalb County School District web site
http://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net. Furthermore, all Notices concerning this solicitation and award shall be posted to
the aforementioned web site. These Notices shall include but are not limited to short list meeting dates and times,
presentation meeting dates and times, intended decision and decision information.
End of RFQu Document Consisting of 24 Pages
(See Attachments and Appendices Package)