E-Rate (library and community connectivity)
Background
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This Federal Government annual program has Telecommunications service providers pay for E-Rate.
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Intent
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Enacted to ensure that schools and libraries, particularly those in low-income or rural areas, have affordable access to affordable telecommunication services and high-speed Internet access.
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Usage
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The are two categories of E-rate funding usage:
Category 1
Category 1 services are defined by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) as “services that provide the basic conduit access to the Internet.”
Category 2
Category 2 services are those “needed to enable high-speed broadband connectivity and broadband internal connections components.” Schools and districts can subscribe to broadband services from internet service providers and purchase lit fiber services. The FCC’s modernization effort now allows applicants to use E-rate funds to lease dark fiber or build their own high-speed broadband facilities if that’s the most cost-effective option. Fundable examples
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Eligibility
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The percentage of FTE students who receive a subsidized school lunch/meals is used to calculate the district’s E-rate amount.
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Filing
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Annual filing windows are January 15 – March 25.
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Payment
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Resources
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< Smart School Bond Act (SSBA)
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School Violence Prevention Program (SVVP) >
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Note that New York State Education Dept. (NYSED) is still issuing guidelines for use of NYS's $7.9 billion allocated in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) passed by U.S. Congress in March 2021. Currently, available district funds must be spent by Sept. 30, 2024, although a deadline extension is possible. Sign up to be notified when significant content updates are posted.