Funds will be used to improve technology services at area schools and libraries
Washington, DC (November 21, 2006) – Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) today announced that the 15th Congressional District has received a total of $190,986.66 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.
“As we continue to rely more and more on technological advances, we must ensure that students aren’t left behind,” said Hinojosa. “Our classrooms and schools must have access to the latest equipment and services if our children are to remain competitive in a 21st Century world. The E-Rate program helps accomplish just this.”
Recipients include:
• Mercedes ISD – $182,390.40
• Taft ISD – $8,596.26
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.