[Erate] E-Rate Central News of the Week for October 18, 2010

[Carson, Sabrina]

I have a slightly different perspective on the need to file technology plans. While Oregon does not have any rules that require technology plans outside of the CIP, I strongly suggest that districts consider creating them in order to file P2 applications. While the lower discount bands have little chance of P2 funding, I think that a more accurate snapshot of P2 demand is needed to help the FCC make better decisions. For example, the number one reason that the FCC argued against a significant increase in the funding cap, was that there was “money left over” at the end of each funding year. While this is due to a dozen or so different reasons, one thing we know for sure is that the lower discount applicants were not applying for P2 because they considered it a futile effort. In response to the FCC’s NPRM, many commenter’s stressed the fact that only the highest discount applicants ever get P2 funding, and there was no way to accurately estimate the increase in demand if the lower discount districts were to have a real shot at funding. It is my opinion that data is the only way to prove our point. Therefore, I strongly encourage any district who has a need for eligible P2 equipment or maintenance to update or create their technology plan and apply for P2 this year. I know tech planning isn’t always a fun exercise, but the removal of the budget criterion may make it a little easier for some of you. As always, I’ll be here to help. ☺


See the attached newsletter for articles on:


 *   Funding Status.  Wave 22 for FY 2010 and Wave 70 for FY 2009 will be released this week.   The FY 2011 application window may not open until January nor close until March.
 *   FCC E-Rate Order – Technology Plan Requirements.  Tech plan changes are some of the clearer aspects of the new E-rate rules.  Tech plans will no longer be required for Priority 1 services.  Priority 2 applicants will no longer have to include a budget component in their plans.
 *   E-Rate Updates and Reminders.  The SLD's fall training program is half completed.
 *   Schools and Libraries News Brief dated October 15.  This week's News Brief discusses the two key deadlines later this month for FY 2009 recurring service invoices and FY 2010 Form 486s.

Sabrina Carson
e-Rate and Procurement Customer Support
Willamette Education Service District
2611 Pringle Rd SE
Salem, OR 97302
P: 503.540.4495
F: 503.540.2962
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