Schools and Libraries
About the Schools and Libraries Program:
- Overview of the Program
- Overview of the Process
- Outreach and Training
- HATS Outreach
- Filing Appeals
- Understanding Audits
Schools and Libraries Tools:
Step 2: Develop a Technology Plan
The application process for Schools and Libraries support begins with a technology assessment and a technology plan.
Schools, school districts, and libraries that want to apply for Schools and Libraries support, commonly referred to as "E-rate," must first prepare a technology plan. An approved technology plan sets out how information technology and telecommunications infrastructure will be used to achieve educational goals, specific curriculum reforms, or library service improvements.
A technology plan designed to improve education or library services should cover the entire funding year (July 1 to June 30) but not more than three years. The plan must contain the following five elements:
- Goals and realistic strategy for using telecommunications and information technology
- A professional development strategy
- An assessment of telecommunication services, hardware, software, and other services needed
- Budget resources
- Ongoing evaluation process
The technology plan must be approved by a USAC-certified technology plan approver before discounted services can begin. The state is the certified technology plan approver for libraries and public schools. Non-public schools and other entities that do not secure approval of their technology plan from their states may locate a USAC-certified technology plan approver here.
Applicants that seek Schools and Libraries Program support only for basic telephone service do not need a technology plan.
