What is E-Rate?

E-Rate is the commonly used name for the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, which is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission. The program provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the United States and U.S. territories in obtaining affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Geared to the level of poverty and the urban/rural status of the population served, discounts range from 20 to 90 percent of the costs of eligible services.

HISD's Office of Ethics & Compliance is responsible for implementing the district's E-Rate compliance program. This includes developing a training program for all E-Rate employees and establishing internal controls that provide management oversight, reviews of E-Rate program activities, and a competitive bidding process for E-Rate goods and services. 

Any questions or concerns regarding gifts and conflicts of interest should be communicated to the Office of Ethics and Compliance at (713)556-6095 or Ethics hotline at (800)455-9551.