FCC Weighs Ending $2.5 Billion E-Rate Program as School Districts Mobilize Protests
Updated
Updated · Newsday · Aug 24
FCC Weighs Ending $2.5 Billion E-Rate Program as School Districts Mobilize Protests
3 articles · Updated · Newsday · Aug 24
Summary
More than 96,000 schools and libraries that seek E-Rate aid each year are bracing for an FCC review that could reform, restrict or sunset the 30-year-old broadband subsidy program.
Up to 90% discounts help high-poverty districts fund internet service and network gear; Desert Sands is completing a $1 million upgrade for $200,000 because of the program.
School leaders say the FCC's 70-page inquiry is so broad that districts are turning to Congress, governors and advocacy groups to defend funding before comments close Oct. 13.
The agency has tied the review to claims that E-Rate may have fulfilled its mission and to concerns about student screen time, even though the program does not pay for devices or software.
Cuts would hit districts already dependent on E-Rate for payroll, attendance and classroom connectivity, while advocates argue the debate should focus on effective use and cybersecurity, not access itself.