There have been significant changes and updates made to the E-rate program just recently. During the past year, the Schools and Libraries Division (SLD) submitted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to propose program changes to make the E-rate program more efficient. The SLD is continuing to work on another Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that will impact entities applying for E-rate discounts in the future years.
In order to keep Arkansas applicants informed of these changes that may affect their application process, the Arkansas E-rate Work Group (AEWG) is offering one-day training workshops to public/private schools and public libraries throughout the state of Arkansas. Representatives from the Arkansas Department of Education, the Department of Information Systems, and the State Library are partnering together to provide the training at six education cooperatives in Arkansas.
The in-depth training will address the recent changes in the E-rate program and how these changes may impact Arkansas applicants. Topics of interest will include the new Eligible Services List, new FCC/SLD requirements for technology plans, competitive procurement and vendor issues, and compliance issues. The session will also include basic information on the E-rate application process, new E-rate Forms, and deadlines.
Many of the new changes may have an effect on the success of funding commitments for Funding Year 04-05 and beyond; therefore, it is strongly recommended that each district/school/library send their technology coordinator and/or E-rate representative to the one-day training provided by the nearest hosting education cooperative.
Each workshop will begin at 9 am and conclude around 4 pm with an hour break for lunch (lunch will not be provided).
E-Rate Training Dates:
Mon., October 20 North Central Co-op, Melbourne
Tues., October 21 Crowley’s Ridge Co-op, Harrisburg
Mon., October 27 Arch Ford Co-op, Plummerville
Tues., October 28 North West Co-op, Springdale
Tues., November 18 South West Co-op, Hope
Wed., November 19 South East Co-op, Monticello
Registration Information:
Please read the attached form to find out how to register for the E-rate workshop at the education cooperative of your choice. Each cooperative may have a different method of registration, so read the information carefully and follow the instructions for the training date/site that you choose to attend.