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 budget analysis of telecommunication services, Internet access and internal connections to be requested on Form 470 for E-rate Funding Year 2006-2007.
The FCC requires applicants to base E-rate requests for services on the applicant's approved technology plans on file with the ADE. Also, the FCC requires that “applicants demonstrate 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.”
Therefore, the ADE is requiring all districts to submit the attached E-rate budget form and demographics form stating the intent regarding applying for E-rate discounts for Funding Year 2006-2007. If a district chooses to apply for E-rate discounts, the district MUST submit a Budget Analysis Sheet and an E-rate Demographics form for each E-rate service requested for Funding Year 2006. Except for basic phone services, all of the services must be contained in the technology plan. Instructions have been provided to assist districts in completing the Budget Analysis Sheet.
Submission Deadline: Friday, December 8, 2006 at 4:00 pm.
Fax To: Belinda Kittrell
@ 501-371-1942