Can Auctioning the 2.5 GHz EBS Spectrum Band Help Close the Homework Gap?

The 2.5 GHz band is the largest band of contiguous spectrum below 3 gigahertz. It’s highly suitable for next-generation mobile and fixed broadband services, including 5G. For over 50 years, the FCC has intended the 2.5 GHz band to serve primarily an educational purpose by placing certain restrictions on licenses in this band – but much of the 2.5 GHz band lies underutilized and unused throughout the U.S.

The idea of an incentive auction for the spectrum gained momentum when it was recently embraced by FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, who said that “we need to move beyond the status quo in the 2.5 GHz band. We need to find a way to honor the educational history of this spectrum and make more effective use in the present.” Following an auction, spectrum would contribute to closing the “Homework Gap” – the fact that up to one in three households do not subscribe to broadband service while most teachers assign homework involving an online component. As many as 12 million children would benefit from closing this gap.

Welcome & Intros

• Former-Congressman Rick Boucher, IIA Honorary Chairman

SESSION 1: Honoring the History of the Educational Broadband Service Spectrum Band with Smart Use Today

• Fireside Chat with FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel and Rick Boucher

SESSION 2: Using 2.5 GHz Auction Proceeds to Advance 5G and Educational Uses of Broadband for America’s Children

MODERATOR: Fred Campbell, Director of Tech Knowledge

• Claude Aiken, President & CEO, Wireless Internet Service Provider’s Association (WISPA)
• Zach Leverenz, Founder & CEO, EveryoneOn
• Debbie Goldman, Telecommunications Policy Director, Communications Workers of America (CWA)

Q&A

#AuctionEBS

This event complies with House and Senate ethics standards.