The chart below is intended to be a quick reference guide of the discounts available to families and funding available to districts, based on the best information we have today.
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Direct to Consumer Internet Discounts |
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Ongoing |
Public Service Commission Internet & Phone Helpline (608)267-3595 |
Speak to dedicated staff members who will help consumers connect with discount options. |
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Ongoing |
Discounts of $7.25 - $18.50 on essential telecommunications. |
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Anticipated Start April 26, 2021 |
(Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021) |
Temporary discounts up to $50/month ($75 on Tribal Land) off of eligible household's internet access bill. Expires 6 months after the health emergency or when money is depleted. |
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School/District Purchasing |
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Ongoing - Statewide Discounted Contracts |
Digital Learning Bridge Discounts on Hardware, Software, and Internet |
Discounts for Schools $4,276.00 Voucher administered by CESA Purchasing. Must be obligated by June 2022. |
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Ongoing - ESSER Funds distributed through WISEgrants |
Broad use including, purchasing educational technology and training (including hardware, software, and connectivity) DPI Page: COVID Response and Relief Planning Recommendations |
LEAs need to obligate ESSER I funds by September 30, 2022. LEAs need to obligate ESSER II funds by September 30, 2023 LEAs need to obligate ESSER III funds by September 30, 2024. |
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March 12 - April 12, 2021 Eligible Private School Application Window |
Allowable costs include educational technology |
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Anticipate New E-rate Application Window opening in May 2021 |
Emergency Connectivity Fund (American Rescue Plan 2021) Digital Learning BridgeDiscounts on Internet |
E-rate funds to be used to support off-campus broadband services |
In addition, there are numerous one-time funds available for states and municipalities for addressing broadband needs. Bob Bocher drafted this very helpful high level summary of sections of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act that include funding for broadband.