Title and Board Action Requested
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Approve the contract and authorize the purchase of contracting an E-Rate Consultant from E-Rate Central for an estimated cost of $119,700.00 with the annual fee for year one is $13,300.00 and in the remaining four-years of $26,600.00.
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Executive Summary
The Director of Technology and Information Services, on behalf of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby requests the Board approve the purchase of contracting an E-Rate consultant from E-Rate Central. The federal E-Rate program provides discounts of up to 90% on Internet access, network upgrades, and other eligible technology services-representing one of the most impactful funding sources available to public schools. Hernando County Schools relies heavily on the federal E-Rate program (we currently receive an 80% discount) to offset the cost of critical technology infrastructure and Internet connectivity. The district currently manages approximately $2,000,000.00 in annual E-Rate-eligible spending, making the program one of our largest and most consequential funding sources. Ensuring full compliance, accurate filings, and strategic maximization of all eligible reimbursements is essential to protecting district finances and supporting modern learning environments.
Over the last several years, the E-Rate program has grown increasingly complex, with detailed procurement rules, strict documentation requirements, multi-stage application filings, and heightened federal scrutiny through audits and Program Integrity Reviews. Even minor errors or omissions can jeopardize large portions of funding or lead to extensive financial recovery actions. For a district with Hernando's scale of technology investment, the risk exposure is substantial.
Hiring a professional E-Rate consultant will provide the district with expert oversight and management of this highly specialized program. A consultant will:
* Develop a multi-year E-Rate funding strategy aligned with Hernando's technology roa...
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