E-Rate Services by Integrated Solution Services

Empowering Education with Reliable Technology Solutions

At Integrated Solution Services, we are committed to supporting the educational community by offering cutting-edge technology solutions that qualify for E-rate funding. Our services are designed to enhance learning environments, ensuring students and educators have the tools they need to succeed.

What is E-Rate?

The E-rate program, officially known as the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, is a federal initiative that provides discounted telecommunications, internet access, and internal connections to eligible schools and libraries. Managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), E-rate helps institutions acquire affordable technology to support education.

How Does E-Rate Work?

The E-rate program, also known as the Schools and Libraries Program, is a federal initiative in the United States designed to help schools and libraries obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. Here’s an overview of how E-rate works:

1. Program Overview

E-rate is managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The program provides discounts on eligible services, such as internet access, internal connections, and telecommunications services, to eligible schools and libraries.

2. Eligibility

Who can apply?

• Schools: Public and private K-12 schools, including charter and religious schools, are eligible. Eligibility is determined based on the school’s participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or other poverty measures.
• Libraries: Public libraries and library systems are also eligible. Eligibility is based on the same poverty measures used for schools.

3. Discount Levels

The discount level an applicant can receive is based on two factors:

• Poverty Level: Determined by the percentage of students eligible for the NSLP.
• Location: Whether the school or library is located in an urban or rural area. Rural areas generally receive higher discounts.

Discounts range from 20% to 90%, with higher discounts awarded to schools and libraries with higher poverty levels and those in rural areas.

4. Eligible Services

E-rate funding is available for two categories of services:

• Category 1: Services that provide internet access and telecommunications (e.g., fiber connections, broadband services, and basic phone services).
• Category 2: Internal connections and network equipment (e.g., routers, switches, Wi-Fi access points, cabling) and services like managed internal broadband services and basic maintenance.

5. Application Process

The E-rate application process typically involves the following steps:

1. Planning: Schools and libraries assess their technology needs and develop a plan for the services and equipment they require.
2. Competitive Bidding: Applicants issue a Form 470 to request bids from service providers. The bidding process must be open and fair.
3. Selecting a Service Provider: After receiving bids, the applicant evaluates them and selects the most cost-effective solution, considering both price and other relevant factors.
4. Applying for Funding: The applicant submits a Form 471 to request E-rate funding for the selected services. This form includes details about the services, costs, and the selected provider.
5. Review and Approval: USAC reviews the application, and if approved, issues a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL).
6. Service Delivery and Invoicing: The approved services are delivered, and the applicant either pays the full cost and seeks reimbursement or pays the discounted amount directly to the service provider.

6. Post-Approval Requirements

Once funding is approved, schools and libraries must comply with program rules, including:

• Document Retention: Keeping records of the procurement process, contracts, and communications for 10 years.
• Annual Certifications: Ensuring that the services are being used as intended for educational purposes.
• CIPA Compliance: Schools and libraries receiving E-rate funding for internet access must comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which requires internet safety policies and filtering.

7. Appeals and Audits

If a funding request is denied or reduced, applicants can file an appeal with USAC or the FCC. Additionally, USAC conducts audits to ensure compliance with program rules.

8. Program Cycle

The E-rate program follows an annual funding cycle, with specific deadlines for each phase of the application process. Applicants must be aware of these deadlines to ensure they do not miss out on funding opportunities.

Eligible E-Rate Services

Integrated Solution Services is a trusted partner in delivering E-rate eligible services that meet your educational needs. Our offerings include:

–VoIP and Telecommunications
Upgrade your communication systems with our VoIP solutions, providing cost-effective, scalable, and E-rate eligible telephone services.

–High-Speed Internet Access
Provide your students and staff with fast, reliable internet connectivity that supports digital learning and administrative tasks.

–Internal Connections
Design and implement robust internal network solutions, including Wi-Fi, switches, routers, and cabling, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout your institution.

–Managed Services
Let us manage your network infrastructure with our expert team, offering continuous monitoring, maintenance, and support to keep your systems running smoothly.

–Security and Monitoring Solutions
Safeguard your students and data with our advanced security services, including firewall management, content filtering, and camera monitoring systems.