E-rate Commentary

by Brian Stephens

Why Data Matters: Transforming Insights into Action

I am a lifelong Peanuts fan. When I was a kid, my Mamaw had several Peanuts paperbacks on her shelf that, despite having basically committed to memory, I would sit...

by John Harrington

The Discipline to Say No: A Leadership Reflection on Focus, Growth, and Letting Go

As we reach the midpoint of the year, I’ve found myself in more annual planning conversations than usual—across organizations, teams, and even continents. Each one reminds me of a simple...

How does the E-rate Community Prepare for the Future?

The E-rate Community plays a vital role in ensuring that schools and libraries across the United States have access to affordable, high-speed internet. This access is crucial for enhancing digital...

by John Harrington

Seeking the Deeper Truths: Why Leaders Must Look Beyond the Surface

In leadership, it’s easy to get caught up in the obvious metrics—revenue, growth charts, student test scores, dollars allocated. These numbers matter. They provide the scaffolding for our strategies and...

by Patrick Burke

The Role of Feedback in Building the Future of the E-rate Program

The E-rate program is essential for providing schools and libraries with affordable internet access. One important way this program keeps progressing is through the Annual Applicant Survey conducted by Funds...

by John Harrington

The Strength of Stillness: Why Calm Is a Competitive Advantage

In today’s world of hyper-speed communication, instant answers, and perpetual urgency, it’s easy to believe that reacting quickly is always best. But over the years, I’ve come to appreciate a...

by Sheauna Brown

Common Themes in E-rate: 2024 Responses

As the Filing Window closes each year, it is an important time to review and assess trends from previous funding years to better understand the changing needs and priorities of...

by Micah Rigdon

Your Guide to Making a Difference with the 2025 Applicant Survey

Each year, the E-rate program connects thousands of schools and libraries with the funding they need to provide essential broadband access. But beyond the numbers and paperwork, there’s a powerful...