In order to address technology-planning requirements established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Schools & Libraries Division (SLD) of the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) for the E-rate program, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) is providing a template with instructions to assist Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in updating current technology plans. The updates will include a budget analysis of the telecommunication services, Internet access, and internal connections to be requested on Form 470 for E-rate Funding Year 2005-2006.
The FCC requires that applicants base their E-rate requests for services on their approved technology plan on file with the ADE. Also, the FCC requires that “applicants demonstrate that they have the necessary resources required to utilize E-rate discounts…[and that] technology plans be supplemented by an analysis that indicates that the applicant is aware of and will be able to secure the financial resources it will need to achieve its technology aims, including technology training, software, and other elements outside the coverage of the Commission’s support program.” (FCC, Fifth Report and Order, August 2004)
Therefore, the ADE is requiring all districts to submit the attached certification page stating the intent regarding applying for E-rate discounts for Funding Year 2005-2006. If a district chooses to apply for E-rate discounts, the district MUST submit a Budget Analysis sheet for each E-rate service requested for Funding Year 2005 (except for basic phone services), whether or not it is already mentioned in the original technology plan on file.
In order to assist districts in completing the Budget Analysis Sheet, the ADE has provided a document with instructions and a completed sample Budget Analysis Sheet.
Submission Deadline: Friday, December 3, 2004
Fax to: Dana Koite @ 501-371-5010 or
Mail to: Dana Koite
ADE Technology Center
8221 Ranch Blvd.
Little Rock, AR 72223