How to bid on E-Rate network hardware for Chula Vista Elementary School District

What the district is buying

Chula Vista Elementary School District is seeking layer 2 and layer 3 network switches and UPS units to replace end-of-life equipment at Cook, Palomar, Lauderbach, and Valle Lindo schools. The UPS units are intended to support and protect the network equipment.

The district plans to apply for E-Rate funding to help pay for part of the equipment cost. It may also use the bid for additional projects, including projects not subsidized by E-Rate, and does not guarantee it will purchase any particular quantity. The contract term is July 1, 2027 through September 30, 2028.

Key dates and deadlines

The bid was advertised October 16 and October 23, 2026. Questions, including substitution requests, are due November 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. PST. The deadline for the final addendum is November 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PST.

Bids are due November 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PST. The district lists a preliminary notice of intent to award for November 23 at 4:00 p.m. PST, an anticipated board award meeting on December 16, subject to change, and a December 28 deadline for the proposed awardee to return the contract.

Who this opportunity may suit

This IFB may suit vendors that supply network switches and UPS equipment for schools or other institutional networks. Relevant capabilities include providing layer 2 and layer 3 switches and UPS units for network infrastructure replacement.

How to access and submit the bid

Solicitation 26/27-5 is posted on PlanetBids. Use the provided “View original source” option to open the district’s listing. The scope, dates, and document list are public; PlanetBids may ask you to complete a human-verification check before the page loads.

To download documents, receive addenda, and bid electronically, register for a free PlanetBids vendor account with the district and submit your bid through the portal before the deadline.

Prepare a complete, competitive response

Read the full solicitation and all posted addenda before preparing your bid. Check the equipment requirements carefully and make sure your response clearly addresses the switches and UPS units requested for the listed school sites.

Submit questions or substitution requests by the stated deadline, and check the portal for the district’s final addendum. Allow time to complete portal registration and electronic submission, and do not assume the district will order a fixed quantity.