California School District Evaluates Health Benefits, Plans Insurance RFP

Jefferson Union High School (“JUHS”), a California state agency, has hired The Volition Group (TVG) to review and improve its employee health insurance. The work started on October 10, 2025, under a Professional Services Agreement. TVG is a fee-only, independent consultant that does not take money from insurance companies or other benefits providers.

The main goal is to help the district run a Request for Proposal (RFP) process to get competitive bids for employee health insurance from large California risk pools. TVG will also guide the district’s Health Benefits Committee (HBC), which includes both management and labor representatives, to make informed decisions.

What TVG Will Do

TVG’s work is divided into phases, but the most important one is the RFP for health insurance.

1. Health Benefits Committee and Preparation

Before the RFP, TVG will help set up the HBC and teach them about health benefits, costs, and options. Key tasks include:

• Collecting and analyzing data about current insurance plans, employee enrollment, and costs.

• Checking which large risk pools can provide competitive quotes.

• Advising the HBC on how to improve the district’s chances of getting good bids.

2. Running the RFP (Main Focus)

If the HBC decides to move forward, TVG will run the formal RFP process for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Tasks include:

• Drafting and issuing the RFP: TVG prepares all documents, sets deadlines, and answers questions from insurance providers.

• Reviewing bids and negotiating: TVG compares proposals, checks they meet district rules, and helps negotiate the best value.

• Presenting results: TVG gives the HBC a clear comparison of current plans versus new options, including cost, coverage, and extra benefits.

• Decision support: TVG meets with the HBC to discuss the results and recommend next steps. They also help explain the process to employees and labor members.

3. Optional Implementation

If the district chooses a new provider, TVG can assist with implementing the new plans, training staff, and guiding employees through the changes.

Timeline (Estimated)

The agreement ends after the bid submission if no bids are received. Later phases happen only if the HBC chooses to move forward.

Contact Obedio for more information and continued monitoring of the RFP issuance process