CONTACT
Julia Fallon
Executive Director
202-715-6636 x700
[email protected]

 

Statement from the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA)
on FCC Final Order Distributing $7.1 Billion for
Student and Educator Off-Campus Broadband Access

May 11, 2021 (Washington, D.C.) – Long before the pandemic, SETDA members—U.S. state and territorial educational technology and digital learning leaders—knew how important it was that all K-12 students have broadband access no matter where they learn and live. 

With the final rules of the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program unanimously adopted by the FCC bipartisan commissioners, we are pleased to know that we are one step closer to eliminating the digital divide and the “homework gap” dilemma experienced by millions of students and educators alike. Established by Congress as part of the American Rescue Plan of 2021, these emergency funds will equitably distribute $7.1 billion to schools and libraries to provide devices and broadband connectivity to students and educators who lack access. 

SETDA applauds the efforts of FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, Senator Ed Markey (MA), Representative Grace Meng (NY), and their partners for their longtime advocacy efforts and securing this invaluable assistance for students. 

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About SETDA
Founded in 2001, the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) is the principal association representing educational technology and digital learning leaders of U.S. states and territories. Through a broad array of programs and advocacy, SETDA builds member capacity and engages partners to empower the education community in leveraging technology for learning, teaching, and school operations. For more information, please visit www.setda.org.