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Board accepts $372,702.93 in E-rate Category 2 funds for network upgrades
Summary
Trustees accepted Category 2 E-rate funding covering up to 80% of eligible network and cybersecurity upgrades over five years; the board agreed to commit the local 20% match for the planned firewall, switches, wireless access points and cybersecurity training.
The Beatrice Board of Education voted March 9 to accept Category 2 E-rate funding of $372,702.93 over a five-year cycle to support network upgrades and cybersecurity needs.
Doris moved to accept the E-rate funding; the motion passed. Jason explained the program’s eligible uses and the district’s plan: the funds will support firewall upgrades, network switches, wireless access points and cybersecurity software and training. “It’s an 80/20,” Jason said, describing E-rate’s typical cost-share: the E-rate can pay for up to 80% of eligible items and the district is responsible for the remaining 20%.
Jason clarified why Chromebooks are not covered by the E-rate: “It can’t be used for devices outside of switches or things that actually transmit the Internet.” The board approved accepting the E-rate award and agreed to commit local funds for the district match.
Why it matters: the funding covers core network and security investments that district staff say will reduce cybersecurity risk and support classroom connectivity.
What’s next: staff will prioritize purchases consistent with E-rate eligibility and report back to the board as procurements proceed.
