What is E-Rate?

Based on the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the FCC created the E-Rate program to provide schools and libraries affordable access to advanced telecommunications services. This program provides discounts ranging from 20% to 90% on Telecommunications Services, Internet Access, Internal Connections, and Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections to eligible schools and libraries subject to a $2.25 billion annual cap.

In order to receive E-Rate discounts, schools and libraries must competitively bid all eligible services on the SLD website and after a minimum of 28 days, select the most cost effective proposal. E-Rate discounts are then requested by applying to the SLD and if discounts are approved, they are provided to schools and libraries via directly discounted bills, or reimbursement process after services have been provided.

Texas schools and libraries have received over $19 1/2 billion since the program began in 1998 and the program continues to support all schools and libraries throughout the United States. For official E-Rate guidance, visit the SLD's website at www.usac.org/sl/. For Texas specific and unofficial advice, visit the helpful links embedded in this website.

The information in this website provides information for schools in regard to program descriptions, training opportunities, unofficial funding data analysis, detailed guides, and much more. If you are a Texas school applicant, you can find out about an E-Rate manual by contacting us at erate@esc12.net. This manual is updated annually and available for purchase to Texas applicants.

Raw Teacher Data 2006-2007