E-Rate is the federal program that connects America’s schools and libraries to the internet. In Pennsylvania it has committed $672 million to schools and libraries from FY2016 through FY2026, reaching all 67 counties and every one of the 29 intermediate unit regions.
The FCC has opened a rulemaking, WC Docket 26-133, that proposes significant changes to how the program works. Comments are due October 13, 2026. Decisions made in this docket will shape connectivity for students for years.
Three ways to be heard
- Sign on. One signature adds your name to the comment the coalition files with the FCC and to letters to lawmakers.
- File your own comment. The Commission weighs individual, evidence-based comments more heavily than identical form letters. A guided tool turns your words and your organization’s real E-Rate figures into a comment ready to file.
- Contact your legislators. Tell Congress what E-Rate means for your schools.
Find your district’s numbers. The Pennsylvania E-Rate site shows every funded applicant in the Commonwealth, by ZIP code, name or intermediate unit region.
A national picture, too
Pennsylvania isn’t alone. Nationwide, E-Rate committed $13.2 billion to schools and libraries in funding years 2021–2025, reaching communities in all 50 states, DC, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. AIU built the national map and data tools with AASA, The School Superintendents Association, so districts everywhere can see their own numbers.
Sources: USAC public E-Rate data, as presented on erate.padigitaltrusthub.net and erate.aasa.org.