Funds will be used to improve technology services at area schools and libraries

Washington, DC (June 15, 2006) – Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) today announced that the 15th Congressional District has received a total of $72,459.17 in funding under the E-Rate program, which provides discounts between 20 and 90 percent to schools and libraries for the cost of education technology (Internet Access and Telecom Services).  The funding represents discounts schools will receive for specific technology needs, including Internet services and access, telecommunications, and internal connections needed to bring information straight to schools and libraries.

“The internet and other forms of technology are an integral part of teaching today’s students,” said Hinojosa.  “These funds will help teachers and administrators teach our children in a 21st Century classroom and ensure that they’re ready to tackle all the challenges of a global marketplace.” 

Recipients include:

• Cuero Independent School District – $44.121.07
• San Patricio County Technology Consortium (Odem) – $19,788.24
• Vysehrad Independent School District (Hallettsville) – $8,549.86

The E-Rate program will provide more than $2.1 billion in discounts to tens of thousands of schools, with the costs being covered by the Universal Service Fund, until the fund is exhausted.  The E-Rate’s first funding priority is for telecommunications services and Internet access, and the second funding priority is for internal connections and wiring at schools and libraries.