Progressive Communications (PCI) has provided K12 Schools with E-Rate Program funding since E-Rate began in 1997.  We understand the E-Rate process and we can offer assistance to school systems on the entire process from the initial filing dates, deadlines, eligible equipment lists, ineligible equipment and general information in staying within the guidelines of the E-Rate process so they can achieve the funding they are eligible for.

E-Rate has become a critical part of the budget needs for many school systems.  With the increase in bandwidth requirements to accommodate more and more web based software instruction, wireless labs, and video streaming, it is more important than ever to align yourself with a company that can assist you in receiving E-Rate funding within the SLD guidelines.

What is the E-Rate Program?

The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. It is one of four support programs funded through a Universal Service fee charged to companies that provide interstate and/or international telecommunications services.

The Schools and Libraries Program supports connectivity - the conduit or pipeline for communications using telecommunications services and/or the Internet. Funding is requested under four categories of service: telecommunications services, Internet access, internal connections, and basic maintenance of internal connections. Discounts for support depend on the level of poverty and the urban/rural status of the population served and range from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services. The discount percentage rate assigned to each school is based on the percentage of students eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch program. Eligible schools, school districts and libraries may apply individually or as part of a consortium.

Applicants must provide additional resources including end-user equipment (e.g., computers, telephones, etc.), software, professional development, and the other elements that are necessary to utilize the connectivity funded by the Schools and Libraries Program.

Let Progressive Communications (PCI) help you with E-Rate:

1. Extensive Knowledge of eligible services and products
2. Extensive Knowledge of the process, forms  and deadlines
3. Item 21’s provided upon bid award
4. Assistance with the PIA process
5. Provide checklist and information on the “2 in 5” rule
6. Follow up with required forms upon award of E-Rate funding
7. Check lists for all required forms and deadlines

Let PCI help your School System reach its maximum funding level with E-Rate funding for all eligible equipment including:

1. Network Cabling, Electronics
2. Wireless LANs
3. Eligible Servers
4. Eligible VoIP solutions
5. Distance Learning
6. Firewalls
7. Fiber WANs
8. PVBXs
9. Basic Maintenance on all eligible equipment