E-rate

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.

E-rate applications must be submitted by midnight on March 25, and there are several things to keep in mind while applying this year.

The E-rate program, formally called The Universal Service Schools and Libraries Program, helps eligible U.S. schools to obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access.

The new cap proposed might cause recurring funding shortfalls for the E-rate program and disrupt long-term district broadband infrastructure planning.

Results reveal that the E-rate program remains critical in establishing broadband connectivity for schools and libraries.