A technology plan is required for E-Rate applicants requesting discounts for services other than basic telephone services. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires E-Rate applicants to base their requests on an approved technology plan.  A Technology Plan Approver (TPA) certified by Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) must approve the applicant’s technology plan before the applicant may receive any services. Although Head Start grantees are not required to use this Reference Guide and accompanying Template, the Template and Reference Guide have been developed to meet the requirements outlined by the FCC and USAC. This Reference Guide provides definitions, samples, issues to consider, tables, and other tools to assist in creating and documenting the agency’s plans.  The template covers the five elements required by USAC that must be included in a technology plan in order to gain approval:  goals and realistic strategies for using telecommunications and information technology; a professional development strategy; needs assessment for telecommunication, hardware, software, and other services; budget resources and; an ongoing evaluation process.

Download Office of Head Start E-Rate Technology Plan Reference Guide [PDF, 808KB]

Download Office of Head Start E-Rate Technology Plan Template