E-Rate Cybersecurity Pilot Program & Training

Aug 7, 2024, 13:02 by Christopher Fletcher

The FCC has unveiled a cybersecurity pilot program that will allocate up to $200 million to selected schools and libraries. To participate in this three-year initiative, schools must apply and be chosen. The program covers eligible services such as:

  • Advanced and next-generation firewalls
  • Endpoint protection
  • Identity protection and authentication
  • Monitoring, detection, and response
For a comprehensive list of eligible equipment, refer to the provided link.

 

K12 SIX/Fortinet Webinar

Recently, K12 SIX conducted a webinar with Fortinet titled "FCC K-12 Cybersecurity Pilot Program: What You Need to Know," where Fortinet representatives discussed the program's details. The webinar recording is available for on-demand viewing, and the presentation slides can be accessed as well.

Further information about the pilot is available on the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program page, and the FCC has also released a one-page document summarizing the program.


Fall 2024 E-rate Training

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) will be hosting E-rate training sessions across Kansas. Don Dietrich from BTU Consultants will conduct five in-person sessions to discuss the E-Rate program's opportunities and requirements. The sessions will run from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Information regarding registration and costs will be posted on each service center's website. KSDE will distribute registration details once they are provided by the service centers.  Here are the dates and location of each training.

  • Monday, October 14th- Girard
  • Tuesday, October 15th – Clearwater
  • Wednesday, October 16th – Hays
  • Thursday, October 17th – Salina
  • Friday, October 18th – Lawrence

Mr. Dietrich is well-informed on all aspects of E-Rate. The sessions will feature an interactive dialogue complemented by step-by-step examples. Handouts will be distributed during the classes and will also be accessible online before the sessions commence. The topics will cover:

  • Overview of the E-rate program
  • Benefits and requirements of participation
  • EPC login, maintenance and examples
  • Finding your E-Rate History and Category 2 Budget
  • Applying for E-Rate
    • Form 470 and RFP requirements
    • Form 471 details
    • PIA Review
  • E-Rate Approval and Acceptance
    • Form 486 to accept funding
    • Form 500 to make changes
    • BEARs vs Discounts – getting reimbursed
    • Record Keeping and Audit Preparation
    • Q&A session