Learning has evolved, and schools are facing the challenge of providing students with reliable high-speed internet access, especially for those who lack connectivity at home. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken a significant step by expanding E-rate eligibility to include Wi-Fi hotspots that can support students, school staff, and library patrons without internet access.
The E-rate program aims to provide discounts to schools and libraries to help them obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. Over the years, the program has been updated to focus on bringing high-speed broadband to educational institutions. This recent decision to allow the use of E-rate funds for Wi-Fi hotspots will enable students to access educational resources that were previously out of reach.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of modernizing the E-rate program to ensure that schools and libraries across the country can loan out Wi-Fi hotspots to support high-speed internet access. This move will benefit students in both rural and urban areas, bridging the gap in connectivity and providing equal opportunities for learning.
The new ruling by the FCC will allow schools and libraries to use E-rate funding to loan out Wi-Fi hotspots and support high-speed internet access for students, school staff, and library patrons. Additionally, there will be safeguards in place to protect the integrity of the program and ensure that the supported Wi-Fi hotspots are used for educational purposes.
John Harrington, CEO of Funds For Learning, praised the FCC’s decision, emphasizing the importance of connectivity in education, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The approval of this initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to the E-rate program, aligning it with the current educational landscape and empowering schools and libraries to bridge the homework gap.
In addition to expanding E-rate eligibility, the FCC has adopted a three-year, $200 million Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program to address growing cyber threats against broadband networks in K-12 schools and libraries. This pilot program aims to improve school and library defenses against ransomware and cyberattacks that can jeopardize student learning.
By gathering actionable data through the pilot program, the FCC aims to enhance cybersecurity measures in educational institutions and share best practices with federal partners to combat cyber threats effectively. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety and security of students in the digital age.
Overall, the FCC’s efforts to modernize the E-rate program and address cybersecurity challenges in schools and libraries reflect a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of the education sector. By prioritizing connectivity and security, educational institutions can create a more inclusive and secure learning environment for all students.
