2. Agenda What is “E-Rate”? How does “E-Rate” work? Introduction to Birdville ISD Birdville ISD Technology Plan Conclusion
3. What is “E-Rate”? Established as a result of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 Supports telecommunications and Internet connectivity For schools/libraries across the United States Provides discounts to obtain affordable telecommunications/Internet access 20% to 90% discount for eligible services
4. How does “E-Rate” work? Funded through a Universal Service Fee Schools/Libraries received $1.95 billion in 2009 Depends on level of poverty and population Districts and Libraries must apply Districts and Libraries must have a technology plan Birdville ISD 2011 Budget Telecom $300K (source 30%local/70% E-Rate) Equipment Cost $8.2M (source 1%state/19%local/80%E-Rate)
5. Birdville ISD Serves seven cities in Northeast Tarrant County Dr. Jay Thompson serves as Interim Superintendent Has 32 campuses 21 Elementary 7 Middle Schools 3 High Schools 1 Alternative High School/Career Center Student Population 22,871 52% Economically Disadvantaged
6. Birdville ISD Technology Plan Provides $14,550,000 in technology expenditures Technology Plan 2010-2013 Outlines four main objectives Teaching and Learning Educator Preparation and Development Leadership, Administration and Support Infrastructure for Technology Evaluation Committee assesses progress http://www.birdvilleschools.net/timsnew/resources/other/techplan/
8. Conclusion “E-Rate” continues to provide money to qualifying districts Birdville ISD receives funds from “E-Rate” Birdville’s Technology Plan outlines goals to improve technology Birdville ISD www.birdvilleschools.net Universal Service Administrative Company www.universalservice.org/sl/