An Introduction to “E-Rate” and El Sol Science Academy’s Technology Framework

Adrian Rodriguez

Introduction/AgendaOverview of “E-Rate”

Overview of El Sol Science and Art Academy’s Technology Plan

References

E-Rate Overview Administered by the Universal Service Administrative

Company under direction of the FCC Assists U.S. school and libraries in attaining affordable

internet access Funding is requested under four categories:

telecommunications services, internet access, internal connections, basic maintenance

Schools can apply individually or through a consortium

Applicants must already have software/hardware necessary to facilitate the use of “E-Rate’s “ services

E-Rate: Overview of ProcessApplication Process

1. Determine eligibility http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step01/

2. Develop a Technology Plan http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step02

3. Open a Competitive Bidding Process http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step03

4. Select a Service Provider http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step04/ 5. Calculate the Discount Level http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step05/

6. Determine You eligible Services http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step06/

7. Submit Application for Support http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step07/

8. Undergo Application Review http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step08/

9. Receive Funding Decision http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step09/

10. Begin Receipt of Services http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step10/

11. Invoice USAC http://www.universalservice.org/sl/applicants/step11/

Summary/Conclusion Program meant to help schools with limited

technology funds Limited to schools and libraries in the United States Application process can be cumbersome, ensure that

each step is fully understood Technology infrastructure must be provided by

libraries/campuses E-Rate Website: http://www.universalservice.org/sl/

El Sol Science and Arts Academy Technology Plan

Developed in conjunction with district goals and mandates

Based on current CA state standards Adheres to U.S. Department of Education’s

requirement for technology plans Requires training for all teachers regardless of

technology knowledge level Plan aims to build completely technology literate

students by the 8th grade

2011-2015 8th Grade Proficiency Plan

0

50

100

2011-2012

2012-2013

2013-2014

2014-2015

76

86

95100

Key Initiatives in Technology Plan Monthly in-services for all teachers Identify “superusers” that will lead and support all teachers

in initiatives Grade-level appropriate goals/objectives to be developed

that correlate with current standards and benchmarks Grant writing workshops for all teachers to help secure

funding sources Collaborate with partner charter high school to create a

digital “network” to exchange information

Conclusion El Sol’s vision has brought together all stakeholders Vision is consistent with school’s mission statement

and commitment to science Determined to foster 100% technology proficiency by

the end of 8th grade Multiple funding sources already in place to bring in

new software/hardware/monies

El Sol Academy website:http://elsolacademy.net/

References http://www.universalservice.org/sl/ http://elsolacademy.net/