The document discusses E-Rate, a program that provides discounts for schools and libraries to obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. It is administered by USAC under the FCC. Funding can be requested under four categories: telecommunications services, internet access, internal connections, and basic maintenance. The document also summarizes Sharyland ISD's technology plan, which aims to prepare students for technology needs now and in the future through achieving nine identified goals and maintaining upgraded infrastructure.

1. The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service FundE-Rate @ Sharyland I.S.D.

2. AgendaWhat is E-Rate?Why is E-Rate Important?E-Rate Funding CategoriesThe E-Rate Application ProcessSharyland ISD Technology Plan Overview

3. What is E-Rate?Another name for the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service FundAdministered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)Provides discounts to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access

4. Why is E-Rate Important?Without funding, many schools and libraries would not have basic Internet service and other more advanced technologiesBenefits of services and technologies provided extend in and out of the classroomSchools in rural areas use the program to provide distance learning for students and teachersUnemployed us Internet in libraries to search for jobs or learn new skills

5. E-Rate Funding CategoriesFunding is requested under four categories of service:

6. The E-Rate Application ProcessTo receive funding, schools and libraries must take the following steps:Step 1 Determine EligibilityStep 2 Develop a Technology PlanStep 3 Open a Competitive Bidding ProcessStep 4 Select a Service ProviderStep 5 Calculate the Discount Level

7. The E-Rate Application Process (Continued)Step 5 Calculate the Discount LevelStep 6 Determine Your Eligible ServicesStep 7 Submit Your Application for Program SupportStep 8 Undergo Application ReviewStep 9 Receive Your Funding DecisionStep 10 Begin Receipt of ServicesStep 11 Invoice USAC Additional Details can be found at:http://www.universalservice.org/sl/about/overview-process.aspx

8. Overview and Goals to Achieve Our Technology VisionThe Sharyland ISD Technology Plan

9. Sharyland ISD Technology Plan OverviewDistrict has experienced a boom in it’s technology growthMade possible by investment of local monies into technology and curriculumThe plan will prepare the students to be technology-ready today and in the future

10. Technology Plan GoalsThe plan identifies 9 goals to achieve our technology vision:Provide the most current secure technology to meet the changing needs of the districtExpand and advance technical and instructional support throughout the districtTo provide a safe secure environment for staff and students

11. Technology Plan Goals (Continued)Maintain & upgrade Telecommunications & Infrastructure.Provide software to improve all aspects of educationProvide initial training and certification, along with continuing and advanced certification opportunities

12. Technology Plan Goals (Continued)Integrate technology across the curriculum at all educational levelsIncrease availability, access, understanding and application of a variety of technologies to students at all levelsNew construction to be properly planned for and adhere to applicable federal, state, and local building and safety codes.

13. E-Rate SummaryE-Rate provides discounts to schools and libraries to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet accessWithout funding schools and libraries might not be able to afford basic internet accessFunding is requested under four categories of service:telecommunications servicesInternet accessinternal connectionsbasic maintenance of internal connections

14. Sharyland ISD Technology Plan SummaryThe plan will prepare the students to be technology-ready today and in the futureIdentifies 9 goals to achieve overall vision