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 Fund E-Rate @ Sharyland I.S.D.

2. Agenda What is E-Rate? Why is E-Rate Important? E-Rate Funding Categories The E-Rate Application Process Sharyland ISD Technology Plan Overview

3. What is E-Rate? Another name for the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund Administered 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 technologies Benefits of services and technologies provided extend in and out of the classroom Schools in rural areas use the program to provide distance learning for students and teachers Unemployed us Internet in libraries to search for jobs or learn new skills

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

6. The E-Rate Application Process To receive funding, schools and libraries must take the following steps: Step 1 Determine Eligibility Step 2 Develop a Technology Plan Step 3 Open a Competitive Bidding Process Step 4 Select a Service Provider Step 5 Calculate the Discount Level

7. The E-Rate Application Process (Continued) Step 5 Calculate the Discount Level Step 6 Determine Your Eligible Services Step 7 Submit Your Application for Program Support Step 8 Undergo Application Review Step 9 Receive Your Funding Decision Step 10 Begin Receipt of Services Step 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 Vision The Sharyland ISD Technology Plan

9. Sharyland ISD Technology Plan Overview District has experienced a boom in it’s technology growth Made possible by investment of local monies into technology and curriculum The plan will prepare the students to be technology-ready today and in the future

10. Technology Plan Goals The plan identifies 9 goals to achieve our technology vision: Provide the most current secure technology to meet the changing needs of the district Expand and advance technical and instructional support throughout the district To 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 education Provide initial training and certification, along with continuing and advanced certification opportunities

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

13. E-Rate Summary E-Rate provides discounts to schools and libraries to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access Without funding schools and libraries might not be able to afford basic internet access Funding is requested under four categories of service: telecommunications services Internet access internal connections basic maintenance of internal connections

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