SLD's e-Rate training videos available online
Those who missed fall sessions can learn new program features
The Universal Service Administrative Company's Schools and Libraries Division (SLD) held seven training sessions this fall for the 2008-2009 e-Rate, to help school and library applicants, e-Rate service providers, consultants, and trainers understand this year's program rules. Although in past years, e-Rate administrators have promoted a variety of new forms and rule changes, this year's training sessions focused on a "back to the basics" approach. The training session videos are now available online for those who were unable to attend the training. The filing window for the 2008-2009 e-Rate funding cycle opened on Nov. 7 2007, and will close at 11:59 p.m. EST on Feb. 7, 2008.
"The whole thrust this year is to try to get people to [understand that] when you do the basics right, your application generally goes right," said Mel Blackwell, vice president of SLD.
- Back to the Future
In this presentation Mel Blackwell, the Vice President of Schools and Libraries, will walk you through what's new, what's changed and what remained the same in the Schools and Libraries Program (Program). (39:05)
- What Are the "New" Basics
This presentation discusses the new direction the FCC has taken to help applicants be more successful with the Program. This presentation will help you understand how to correct mistakes and avoid reductions or denials. (34:41)
- What Documents Should I Keep
This presentation discusses in detail the specific Program documentation and forms you should keep. The presentation explains why saving the correct documentation is so important and the length of time you are required to retain documentation. (32:57)
- How Do I Write a Good Tech Plan
This presentation covers how to write a good tech plan to provide a complete picture of the planned uses for the technology. The presentation covers what is required and how to meet those requirements, including the five core elements of the tech plan. (31:15)
- How Do I Run a Good Competitive Bidding Process
This presentation walks you through the competitive bidding process and the steps you take to ensure a fair and open bidding process. This presentation discusses bidding violations, the evaluation and selection process and talks about the necessary resources an applicant must have. (41:52)
- How Do I Navigate PIA Review
This presentation discusses the different types of PIA reviews and how to successfully navigate through them. Additional guidance is provided to respond to PIA questions, eligibility questions and how to meet Program compliance/rules. (37:27)
- Online Form 486 Demonstration
This presentation focuses on how to use the online Form 486 and provides helpful tips on how to file it correctly. (21:51)
- How Do I Determine Which Services Are Eligible
This presentation discusses the Categories of Service that are eligible for discounts through the Program, the Item 21 Attachment, where to locate the Eligible Services List on our website, and tips for applying for eligible products and services. (26:27)
- How Do I Appeal Successfully
This presentation discusses how to write and file an appeal, what information should be included in an appeal, and how to submit an appeal. It also includes information about the top appeal reasons, what types of appeals are denied, when USAC is able to grant an appeal and the deadlines associated with appeals. (31:52)
- How Do I Invoice USAC
This presentation will walk you through the invoicing process, methods, deadlines and how to file an invoice. The presentation also provides statistics relating to invoice review and the cycle in which USAC pays invoices. (25:34)
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