FCC Promises eRate Relief for Storm-impacted Schools

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has proposed using $132 million in E-rate funds to support schools and libraries impacted by Hurricane Katrina. The FCC's eRate program will open a new application window to allow schools and libraries in the affected areas to resubmit their requests for eRate funds for the 2005 program year. Schools and libraries affected by Hurricane Katrina will receive the eRate's highest priority level to ensure they are eligible for the steepest discounts available. To help schools and libraries rebuild from the devastation caused by the hurricane and flooding in the area, the FCC will continue to assign the highest level of eRate priority to these institutions for the 2006 funding year. Also, schools and libraries handling increased student and patron populations caused by the influx of evacuees will be able to amend their applications for 2005 eRate support.
[SOURCE: eSchool News]