EPC Administrative Window Open
The EPC administrative window is open for E-rate applicants to update free/reduced lunch and enrollment numbers, and any other information in the EPC Portal. DPI’s lunch and enrollment information data (“valid file”) is posted above. Note that the data on the valid file is from the December snapshot of the 2021 school year. This is the most up-to-date data which has been certified by DPI and this is the data we will send to USAC to be used by PIA, the E-rate application reviewers.
During the administrative window, E-rate applicants can update their lunch and enrollment information in two areas, the Entity Profile (discount calculation) and the Category Two Budget. You are required to update your lunch and enrollment data, and should update your Category Two enrollment data if your district’s enrollment went up in 2021-2022. Step-by-step directions for this process are available in the USAC webinar, “Request a C2 Replacement Budget.”
It is imperative that the data you enter in your EPC profile matches the DPI posted data to avoid questions about your free/reduced and enrollment numbers from PIA. Contact us if you wish to use different numbers for your district on the valid file and you can document why. Note that if you use different numbers PIA will contact DPI to confirm the numbers. DPI cannot validate different numbers without some documentation from the district.
On Thursday October 27th from 1:00-2:00 CT, USAC is providing training about updating entity information during the administrative window. Registration is required.
Special Note for Applicants on the TEACH Network
Please login to EPC and double check the accuracy of your Entity Profile information. Wrong or missing information can negatively affect the TEACH statewide consortium application for E-rate discounts on the TEACH Network. Note also that later this year DPI will provide information on how to apply for internet discounts for schools and libraries using the TEACH Network for their transport.
Private School Lunch & Enrollment Data
Private school agency and school level enrollment and participation reports are available on the DPI School Nutrition Program Statistics page.
CEP Percentages
We receive a common question about the CEP percentages looking low in the posted valid file. Please note that CEP percentages that are entered into EPC are automatically multiplied by 1.6 by USAC, which will yield a much higher F/R percentage.