The Everlasting Importance of E-Rate
eSchool News
DECEMBER 21, 2021
COVID-19 Update Featured on eSchool News Getting There: Innovation in Education IT Management Adobe districts E-Rate Education leaders learning online resources trends
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7 reasons E-rate funding is critical for schools and libraries
eSchool News
DECEMBER 17, 2021
In its annual E-rate Trends Survey , E-rate compliance services firm Funds For Learning takes a look at the federal E-rate funding landscape and analyzes how the funding stream supports learning in schools and libraries.
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3 reasons E-rate funding remains critical for school internet access
eSchool News
DECEMBER 9, 2021
The federal E-rate program remains a vital and trusted funding source to bring “mission-critical” internet access to schools and libraries, according to an annual report tracking trends and developments related to the federal funding stream.
Potential E-Rate Changes: Cybersecurity and New Competitive Bidding
techlearning
JANUARY 26, 2022
John Harrington of Funds For Learning says districts should be permitted to apply E-rate funding to cybersecurity but that proposed changes to the discount’s competitive bidding process are not necessary
Archived: E?rate Modernization Progress Report (Jan 2017)
Doug Levin
FEBRUARY 6, 2017
On February 3, 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rescinded a report issued two weeks earlier that examined the progress of E‐rate since the modernization orders of 2014 were passed. To that end, and in the public interest, I am making the January 2017 E-rate Modernization Progress Report ( DOC-343099A1.pdf ) available on this site in its entirety. Blog Broadband Policy Research Insights ALA E-rate FCC
On Altering the Public Record on E-Rate
Doug Levin
FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Under New Leadership, FCC Quashes Report on E-rate Program’s Success.” Blog News Policy Ajit Pai E-rate FCCAs quoted in: Herold, Benjamin. Education Week. 8 February 2017. It’s common for a federal agency to switch policy directions after a change in leadership, especially following a presidential election, said Douglas A. Levin, a consultant with EdTech Strategies and the former head of the State Educational Technology Directors Association.
E-rate support during COVID-19
Education Superhighway
MARCH 24, 2020
Despite the challenges ahead, we are here to provide connectivity and E-rate support during COVID-19. Here are a few ways the E-rate and broadband community is working to help connect your students during the crisis. The FCC took two steps to support schools in light of the COVID-19 pandemic: They extended the E-rate Form 471 deadline to April 29, 2020. State E-rate Coordinators Alliance (SECA).
Eyeing Major Shake-Up, FCC Weighs Revamping E-Rate Competitive Bids
Marketplace K-12
JANUARY 25, 2022
The post Eyeing Major Shake-Up, FCC Weighs Revamping E-Rate Competitive Bids appeared first on Market Brief. Marketplace K-12 E-rate Educational Technology/Ed-Tech Federal / State Policy Internet Internet Connectivity Online / Virtual Learning Procurement / Purchasing / RFPs
E-rate report reveals dire need for off-campus internet
eSchool News
NOVEMBER 5, 2020
While E-rate remains a crucial program for schools and libraries to ensure connectivity, the COVID-19 pandemic brought attention to the need for increased flexibility and funds for off-campus learning.
Funding Year 2021 E-rate Application Window is Now Open
eSchool News
JANUARY 19, 2021
Funds For Learning announces that the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) opened the E-rate filing window on January 15, 2021, and will accept applications until March 25, 2021. For updates regarding this year’s E-rate filing window, please visit [link].
Digital Promise Supports E-rate Modernization
Digital Promise
DECEMBER 11, 2014
billion for the federal E-rate program that connects schools and libraries around the country. Digital Promise applauds the Federal Communications Commission's vote today to increase the funding cap by $1.5 Demand for these services far exceeds previous funding levels and approving this increase – which amounts to an additional $2 per year on Americans' phone bills – will help thousands of schools improve the opportunity to learn for students.
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E-Rate Survival FAQs
eSchool News
OCTOBER 31, 2017
What (and who) is E-rate? E-rate is a US Federal Program for funding telecom and technology in K-12 schools and Libraries. A division of USAC responsible for the day-to-day implementation of the E-rate Program. Where do I go to apply for E-rate? Riverbed Xirrus provides a step-by-step guide to the E-rate funding process at [link] under the Start Here menu. Is my district or facility eligible for E-rate?
Feds Change E-Rate Rules
techlearning
DECEMBER 4, 2019
On Monday, December 3, the FCC issued a Report and Order making significant changes to E-rate rules for Category 2* funding applications.
How is the E-rate impacting learning?
eSchool News
OCTOBER 31, 2017
In the beginning, E-rate focused principally on telephone service, which was the most basic and universal way individuals communicated 20 years ago. During this period, E-rate adapted by broadening the range of eligible services to include mobile phones, pagers, voicemail, email, school websites and basic collaboration tools. It became clear that E-rate was in need of a refresh.
The State Of E-Rate
techlearning
OCTOBER 25, 2019
An excerpt from COSN’s K12 Cybersecurity cost report, released in September, argues that E-rate funds should not only make the Internet accessible to all students, but also make it safe
The E-Rate Aftermath
Gaggle Speaks
APRIL 6, 2015
What Good is E-Rate Modernization if Schools Can’t Pay for What’s Connected to Broadband? The dust is starting to settle from the recent changes to the federal E-Rate program. Bandwidth is valuable, but bandwidth without safe communication and collaboration tools—which accounted for less than 5% of E-Rate funds—drastically diminishes the value of increased connection speeds.
E-rate Sparks Low-Cost Connectivity, Better Digital Learning
EdTech Magazine
OCTOBER 2, 2017
By EdTech Staff Once schools receive E-rate funding, innovating learning can develop. Access Points Classroom Digital Content Funding Management Networking Personalized Learning
Here’s a must-do for E-rate applicants
eSchool News
OCTOBER 26, 2018
Calling all E-rate coordinators–there is one important step you can take now to ensure a smooth process when the E-rate filing window opens in 2019. The FY2019 application filing window for the E-rate Program doesn’t open until January, but schools and libraries must ensure their data in the E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) is current.
E-rate Tips: 5 Key Elements for Special Construction RFPs
Education Superhighway
NOVEMBER 12, 2018
Each E-rate cycle, we receive questions from E-rate Consultants about navigating the latest USAC rule changes and best practices for Form 470/RFP filings. In this post, Mighty River Chief Operating Officer Joe Freddoso and our team at EducationSuperHighway break down five key elements of Special Construction RFPs that can help you maximize the likelihood of receiving quality bids and getting your projects approved during E-rate PIA review : 1.
What You Need to Know About E-rate
Digital Promise
JANUARY 13, 2015
One of those programs is the Universal Service Program for Schools and Libraries, better known as E-rate. E-rate helps schools and libraries get affordable Internet access by discounting the cost of service based on the school’s location – urban or rural – and the percentage of low-income students served. Meanwhile, Riverside used their $9 million E-rate subsidy to purchase mobile learning devices equipped with 4G data connectivity.
Getting started: Your E-rate cheat sheet
eSchool News
NOVEMBER 1, 2017
It’s that time of year again–the federal E-rate program is getting underway, and with program updates and refreshes in recent years, you might need a primer on this year’s program. The E-rate program helps schools and libraries access high-speed internet and telecommunications at prices that won’t break the bank. At the end of 2014, the Federal Communications Commission voted to increase funding to the federal E-rate program by $1.5
E-Rate Improvements Support Easier and Faster IT Upgrades
EdTech Magazine
JUNE 24, 2019
E-Rate Improvements Support Easier and Faster IT Upgrades. With support from the Universal Service Schools and Libraries Program, commonly known as E-rate , TCSD was able to upgrade the entire district in two years — and with an 85 percent equipment discount. “We We couldn’t have the bandwidth that we currently provide to students without E-rate,” says Daryl Shelton , information systems director for the California district. “It How E-Rate 2.0
Most districts say E-rate is critical for internet access
eSchool News
AUGUST 9, 2017
A large majority of E-rate applicants (87 percent) said the federally funded program is vital to their internet connectivity goals, according to an annual survey that tracks program applicants’ perspectives on the program. According to initial feedback from Funds For Learning’s annual E-rate applicant survey, E-rate recipients continue to rely on E-rate funding to provide connectivity for schools and libraries across the nation.
Funding Edtech with the E-Rate Program and Grants
edWeb.net
NOVEMBER 13, 2019
During a recent edWebinar , edtech experts provided an overview of the E-Rate program, state matching funds, and ways to obtain grants for technological development. Accessing the E-Rate and Matching State Funds. Investment in these areas and a strategy for obtaining E-Rate discounts should be part of every district’s five- or ten-year technology plan, so that schools can continue to have reliable service that accommodates changing needs.
This E-rate trick can help schools combat net neutrality
eSchool News
FEBRUARY 16, 2018
With concerns about school internet access buzzing in the wake of the FCC’s vote to repeal net neutrality, anxiety over school internet access might transfer to the federal E-rate program–but there’s no need to worry, according to E-rate experts. Schools should build that concern directly into their E-rate requests for proposals. Next page: Language in E-rate RFPs can help combat net neutrality’s impact.
CoSN 2019: Complexity and Logistics Remain E-Rate Challenges
EdTech Magazine
APRIL 3, 2019
CoSN 2019: Complexity and Logistics Remain E-Rate Challenges. The E-rate program can be a challenge for K–12 districts to navigate, even as it allows many schools to achieve technology initiatives that otherwise might not be possible. As the Federal Communications Commission considers recommended changes to the E-rate program, Eric Chambers of the Northwest Council for Computer Education says that one potential change may be increased funding for small districts.
Streamlining the E-Rate 2.0 Application Process
EdTech Magazine
JUNE 8, 2015
By EdTech Staff Recent changes to E-Rate help to speed your school’s review process. Classroom Digital Content Funding Internet Management Mobile Broadband Mobility Wi-Fi
E-Rate Funding Will Continue During Government Shutdown
EdTech Magazine
JANUARY 16, 2019
E-Rate Funding Will Continue During Government Shutdown. The E-rate program will continue to run as scheduled regardless of whether parts or all of the Federal Communications Commission are shut down, Funds For Learning reports. . On January 3rd, the FCC suspended operations as part of a partial government shutdown , however officials say schools applying for E-rate funds should continue to follow the application process.
4 Tips for Successful E-rate Planning
EdTech Magazine
OCTOBER 17, 2017
By EdTech Staff By creating a plan, K–12 IT administrators can make the most of the federal funds. Access Points Funding Management Networking Wi-Fi
Innovative district expands access like never before using E-rate
eSchool News
NOVEMBER 22, 2016
The FCC’s historic E-rate modernization in 2014 paved the way for districts to expand their high-speed broadband and wi-fi and increase digital learning opportunities for students. Working with Funds for Learning regarding E-rate processes, Dickerson and her team have updated the district’s phone system, implemented a student information system, improved financial payroll processes, and incorporated tools and resources that empower teaching and learning.
SETDA and CoSN commend the FCC’s Emergency E-rate Filing Window
SETDA Says
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
SETDA and CoSN commend the Wireline Bureau for opening an emergency E-rate filing window to help schools address their higher than expected on campus bandwidth demands. E-Rate Equity of Access FCC In the News Policy StatementThe Bureau’s decision will help schools support their students during a very challenging period and we appreciate the agency’s swift recognition of this on campus digital learning need. […].
E–Rate Updates Free Up Resources for New Classroom Technology Projects
EdTech Magazine
JULY 16, 2019
E–Rate Updates Free Up Resources for New Classroom Technology Projects. Recent updates to E-rate, which put more focus on funding high-speed internet and network protection tools , have helped K–12 schools reallocate resources to improve other focus areas. . When E-rate 2.0 MORE FROM EDTECH: Check out everything you need to know about E-rate. E-Rate Opens Local Resources for Other K–12 Projects.
Districts say E-rate is critical to their learning goals
eSchool News
NOVEMBER 1, 2017
A large majority of E-rate applicants (87 percent) said the federally funded program is vital to their internet connectivity goals, according to an annual survey that tracks program applicants’ perspectives on the program. According to initial feedback from Funds For Learning’s annual E-rate applicant survey, E-rate recipients continue to rely on E-rate funding to provide connectivity for schools and libraries across the nation.
4 questions to ask about E-rate funding
eSchool News
JANUARY 23, 2018
The E-rate program was developed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and its subsidiary, the Universal Services Administrative Committee (USAC), to provide federal funding to K-12 schools and public libraries across the country. E-rate gives schools access to necessary technology they otherwise may not be able to afford. In fact, 87 percent of E-rate applicants report that this funding is vital to meeting their connectivity goals.
E-rate Category 2 NPRM Update
Education Superhighway
SEPTEMBER 19, 2019
EducationSuperHighway enthusiastically agrees with the Commission’s statement that the E-Rate Category 2 Rules implemented via the 2014 Modernization Orders have resulted in “more equitable and predictable” Category 2 funding, and fully supports the Commission’s intent to make these rules permanent. . The E-rate Category 2 program has been a real game-changer for school districts across America looking to upgrade their internal networks.
SNAPSHOT OF E-RATE PROGRAM
techlearning
OCTOBER 27, 2016
Funds For Learning has released its 2016 E-Rate Trends Report. Notable findings include: Techlearning Resources
Getting started: Your E-rate cheat sheet
eSchool News
OCTOBER 31, 2017
It’s that time of year again–the federal E-rate program is getting underway, and with program updates and refreshes in recent years, you might need a primer on this year’s program. The E-rate program helps schools and libraries access high-speed internet and telecommunications at prices that won’t break the bank. At the end of 2014, the Federal Communications Commission voted to increase funding to the federal E-rate program by $1.5
TCEA 2019: 5 Ways to Improve Your E-Rate Process
EdTech Magazine
FEBRUARY 6, 2019
TCEA 2019: 5 Ways to Improve Your E-Rate Process. As the Federal Communications Commission weighs potential changes to the E-rate program, consultant Deborah Sovereign shared some of her predictions about its likely course of action at the Texas Computer Education Association Convention & Exposition in San Antonio on Tuesday. . Sovereign and Martinez presented several best practices that can guide districts to E-rate success.
20 Years Strong: How E-rate Has Impacted Educational Equity
Education Superhighway
JANUARY 23, 2018
And although there are many mechanisms in place to accomplish that goal, none has been nearly as instrumental as the FCC’s E-rate program. This month, we join fellow advocates to commemorate the 20th anniversary of E-rate with the National Coalition for Technology in Education & Training. Since 1998, E-rate has made that belief an attainable, affordable goal for school districts. “E-rate is a huge part of our budgeting.
Making a Plan for E-Rate Funding
EdTech Magazine
JANUARY 8, 2016
By David Hutchins Technology creates increasing demands on networks, so districts should plan now for E-Rate help for the coming year. Compliance Funding Leadership Management
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