How Do Schools Pay for Connectivity?An overview of E-Rate funding and the NSCISD Technology Plan

IntroductionWhat is E-Rate? Useful E-Rate Links

How does E-Rate work? E-Rate Application Process Flow Chart

Nixon-Smiley CISD Technology Plan

Where are we at in the plan?

Summary

What is E-Rate?Commonly know name for the The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund

Administered under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access.

Useful E-Rate Links

Texas Technology Planning and E-Rate Support Center http://tpesc.esc12.net/default.html

Universal Service Administration Company http://www.universalservice.org/sl/

How Does E-Rate Work?

There are four steps in the application process Preparing a technology plan Seek competitive bids from approved vendors Seek discounts on eligible services Confirm receipt of services Invoice for services received

NSCISD Technology Plan

District Profile

1,051 Students

3 Main Campuses and 2 Alternative settings

74% Economically Disadvantaged

Serves 7 small communities surrounding the communities of Nixon and Smiley

Needs Assessment

Assessment Process: The district technology plan was developed along with the district improvement plan. The purpose of these plans are to improve student performance within all student groups to achieve state standards.

Existing Conditions: 3 T-1 lines (2 between Austin and 1 between Nixon and Smiley); 2:1 Student to Computer ratio; 100% of teachers have at least high speed-internet connected computer; MS PITSCO Lab; necessary software in all areas.

Technology Needs: With the increasing cost of service, continuing to maintain the level of technology access we have enjoyed; professional development is also and ongoing need; maintenance and a three-year replacement cycle is also a challenge.

GoalsEnsure access and equity for all students

Provide appropriate and effective professional development

Ensure integration of appropriate technologies to maximize learning and teaching

Provide opportunities for community and family involvement

Provide necessary infrastructure to support learning and administrative functions

Summary

E-Rate funding is available to offset the cost of connectivity

Nixon-Smiley CISD has working technology plan in place

Nixon-Smiley CISD is eligible for E-Rate funding

Resources

http://www.nixonsmiley.net

http://www.universalservice.org/sl/

http://tpesc.esc12.net

Nixon-Smiley CISD Technology Plan for E-Rate Year 13

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