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. Beginning with FY2011, technology plans are required only for Priority 2 services (Internal Connections and Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections). 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 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
- Ongoing evaluation process
- [Beginning with FY2011, this element is not required] Budget resources
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.
