The Schools and Libraries of the Universal Service

Fund

“E-Rate”

Agenda

What is E-Rate?

Who is eligible?

Application Process Information

Summary

What is E-Rate?"E-Rate" is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) as part of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The program provides discounts for schools and libraries in the U.S. to help gain telecommunications and Internet access.

It is one of four programs funded through a Universal Service fee.

Schools must provide elementary or secondary education as determined under state law.

Schools may be public or private institutional day or residential schools, or public charter schools.

Schools must operate as non-profit businesses.

Schools cannot have an endowment exceeding $50 million.

Who is eligible?

Apply online at theUniversal Service Administrative Company’s website.

Application ProcessStep 1 •Prepare a technology plan

Step 2 •Open the competitive process

Step 3 •Seek discounts on eligible services

Step 4 •Confirm the receipt of services

Step 5 •Invoice for services

•Support the use of current technology as a seamless tool to promote a rigorous curriculum with technology embedded throughout the content areas. •Support student achievement and enhance life-long learning which extends beyond the traditional boundaries of the learning environment. 

HPISD Technology Plan Summary

Support the use technology as a tool to enhance teaching, learning, and student achievements to prepare our youth for the 21st century in a safe, positive, technology-rich environment.  Connect students to an international learning community.

HPISD Technology Plan Summary (continued)

E-Rate supports telecommunications connectivity for use of the Internet.

Funding is applied for by districts under four groups of service:

telecommunications services Internet access internal connections basic maintenance of internal connections.

Summary

Discounts for support depends on: level of poverty urban/rural status of the population served

Eligible schools, school districts and libraries may apply individually or as a group.

Summary (continued)