The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund (E-Rate) provides discounts to help most schools and libraries in the United States obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company under FCC direction, the program was established by the 1996 Telecommunications Act to help eligible schools, school districts, and libraries apply individually or as consortiums for funding support ranging from 20% to 90% depending on poverty levels and rurality.

1. The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund(E-Rate)StephanieChavez-Mesquite ISD

2. Introduction-The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

3. It provides discounts to help most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access.

4. Was part of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.

5. The National Education Technology Plan 2010 (NETP) urges schools to hold accountablity on progress.