E-rate Commentary

Cathy Cruzan, CEMP

by Cathy Cruzan

October 23, 2025

Mentorship: The Power of Lifting Others in Leadership and Learning

At The Journal Record’s 2025 Women of the Year Forum Themed “Women Leaders Mentoring the Next Generation” the central theme was one that resonates deeply across industries and generations: the...

Michelle Jackson

by Michelle Jackson

October 23, 2025

SHLB Prep: How to Get the Most from This Year’s Conference

The annual Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition Conference is one of the most valuable opportunities for E-rate professionals to gain insights, connect with peers, and stay ahead of...

John Harrington, CEMP

by John Harrington

October 16, 2025

Walk the Halls, Meet the Future

This week I joined the CoSN CTO Academy for a site visit to Wichita Public Schools in Kansas. I serve on the CoSN board, and although my daily work at...

October 16, 2025

E-rate Admin Window: What It Is and How to Make the Most of It

Each year before the E-rate funding request filing window opens, there’s a key preparation period known as the Administrative Window. During this time, in the fall and early winter, schools...

John Harrington, CEMP

by John Harrington

October 8, 2025

Say “Heck Yes” or Say No

Time is not neutral. Every yes borrows from something else. When I say yes to work my heart is not in, I am taking time from the places I can...

John Harrington, CEMP

by John Harrington

October 1, 2025

Why Hard Work Still Matters

We live in an era of “work smarter, not harder.” And I agree with the sentiment. I don’t want to confuse motion with progress or spend energy on tasks that...

John Harrington, CEMP

by John Harrington

October 1, 2025

E-rate Funding Continues Despite FCC Shutdown

October 1, 2025 – As of today, the federal government has entered a shutdown, suspending most operations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). According to FCC guidance, the majority of...

Sean Lock, CEMP

September 29, 2025

What to Expect from the FY2026 Eligible Services List

Each fall, the release of the draft Eligible Services List (ESL) for the upcoming E-rate funding year draws attention from schools, libraries, and service providers alike. Much like dancing the...