WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a full review of the E-Rate program in late June. The review aims "to better protect children when using E-Rate-funded networks, including to limit screen time," according to the approved notice of proposed rulemaking. The E-Rate program helps public schools, libraries, and some private schools pay monthly internet bills.

Congress created the E-Rate program in 1996. At that time, 14% of schools and libraries had internet access; near 100% can now access the internet. The program is funded through the Universal Service Fund, which the Supreme Court ruled constitutional last year.

David Thurston, who oversees technology for 33 school districts in San Bernardino County, California, described the region as diverse, covering more than 20,000 square miles. "We have mountain regions, far-flung desert regions, and then our urban and suburban areas," Thurston said. Regarding the costs, he stated, "Those are ongoing, essentially, utility costs. That's what E-Rate pays for."

Patrick Mayer, superintendent for the Alaska Gateway School District, met with legislators in Washington, D.C., this month to discuss student connectivity. The district, with just under 400 students, spends over $500,000 per year to ensure internet access at its six schools. "In rural Alaska, we don't have numerous options. We have one provider," Mayer said. He noted that students use the connection for online dual enrollment courses and virtual therapy, adding, "It means the difference between having a school in the 21st century, or a school in the 20th century."

Josh Grolin, executive director at Fairplay, a nonprofit focused on digital safety for kids, stated, "We believe there are ways of strengthening school policies to promote more limited and privacy-protecting use of EdTech without taking away critical E-Rate funding." Since January, Alabama, Tennessee, Utah, and Virginia have passed legislation reevaluating technology's role in teaching and testing. More than 10 other states are considering similar legislation.

The public will have 60 days to comment after the FCC officially publishes notice of its planned review. A 30-day reply comment period will follow.