The document discusses the E-Rate program, which provides telecommunications and internet discounts to schools and libraries. It explains that E-Rate can help fund internet connections for rural schools. To apply, applicants must create a technology plan with goals, needs assessment, budget, and evaluation process. The document also summarizes Northwest ISD's technology plan, which includes providing NetBooks to students, implementing instructional software, and maintaining wireless and local area networks according to a five-year replacement cycle.

1. The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund “ E-Rate”

2. Agenda What is E-Rate Why is E-Rate Important How do you Apply for E-Rate Northwest ISD Technology Plan Overview

3. What is “E-Rate” What the School and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund is also known as Provides telecommunications and Internet discounts for school and libraries in the USA Is one of the four support programs funded by the Universal Service fee The Schools and Library Program

4. Why is E-Rate Important By using E-rate we may be able to fund internet connections and access for many of our rural schools in our district. Discounts on Internet Access Provide Additional Resources Utilize the connectivity fund

5. Staff Development We have applied for grants

6. Telecommunications & Internet Access We have not applied for E-rate

7. How do you Apply for E-Rate Create a technology plan Verify your plan as the 5 elements Goals Professional Development Needs Assessment Budget Evaluation Process

8. How do you Apply for E-Rate (cont.) Technology plan covers the upcoming funding year Update your contact information at the Client Service Bureau USAC has approved your Technology Plan Applicant Check off list

9. Northwest ISD Technology Plan Overview and Updates 2009-2010 Updates

10. Technology Plan Implement Instructional Software with curriculum Professional Development for Instructors’ Sufficient Technology Support Maintain and enhance (WANS and LANS) Five-year Replacement cycle of computer systems

11. Technology Plan (cont.) Staff will be proficient in using Technology Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Help desk will be available to staff and students. Northwest Long Term Plan

12. Technology Updates 2009-2010 All High school students will receive NetBooks 2010-2011 All Middle school students will receive NetBooks Email was set-up for all students and staff NetSchool was implement for curriculum

13. Summary E-Rate is a way Schools and Library’s can obtain Telecommunications and Internet Using the correct steps our district can apply for “E-Rate” The Long-Range Plan of Northwest ISD Technology Updates: NetBooks & NetSchool