E-Rate Program
HIGHLIGHTS
- Our Position & Actions on the E-Rate Program
Advocating for legislation to protect schools & llibraries from funding threats. - Guide to Teaching Online Courses
Criteria for creating and assessing online courses, plus key policy issues to be addressed. - Guide to Online High School Courses
A guide for policymakers and others engaged in supporting teachers or in making policy choices affecting online education.
The E-Rate program provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access.
Since its enactment in 1996, the E-Rate program has opened the door for countless students to the 21st century skills they need to compete in the global economy and has had overwhelming success in connecting our nation's schools and classrooms to the Internet. The E-Rate program, a vital resource in enhancing student learning, is the fourth-largest source of non-state or local funding to schools. In fact, more than eight of every 10 public schools rely on E-Rate funding.
In recent years, the E-Rate has been subjected to arcane accounting rules that have threatened to stop the flow of funds. NEA has secured a series of one-year exemptions from the rules, but a permanent solution is needed.
Read more about NEA positions on technology and education.
TAKE ACTION
Protect the E-Rate Program
RELATED ITEMS
- Testimony of NEA Member Don Schulte
Letter to Representatives Rehberg and Markey (CO) supporting their bill to exempt the E-Rate Program permanently from the Anti-deficiency Act.
RELATED WEBSITES
Find detailed information on the E-Rate program, including state-by-state funding totals from 1998-2005.
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