Networking

K–12 Networks Benefit from E-Rate 2.0

Network monitoring and security more important than ever as E-Rate boosts schools’ digital territory.

Twitter

As Editor in Chief, Ryan works on developing editorial strategy and is always on the lookout for new writing talent and sharing great stories with the IT world. In his spare time, Ryan enjoys spending time with his family, biking and obsessively following Iowa Hawkeye sports and Cubs baseball.

The Federal Communications Commission’s recent changes to the E-Rate program mean technology leaders are busily preparing to bring broadband speeds to K–12 classrooms.

As “Better Ways to Fund K–12 Technology Upgrades” explains, E-Rate will provide schools nationwide with $3.9 billion — a 60 percent increase over previous funding levels — to offer students and teachers the connectivity required to truly harness educational technology in the classroom.

Here lies a new challenge for K–12 technology leaders: More money for better networks means more devices and information to protect. Network access, security and monitoring will become even more important as a modernized E-Rate further takes hold.

Our feature “Single-Pane-of-Glass Network Visibility Eases K–12 BYOD Management” details how districts like Sarasota County (Fla.) Schools deploy network management systems that simplify access while improving overall visibility. “Network Monitoring Frees K–12 IT Teams ” shares the story of DeKalb County (Ga.) School District’s network monitoring solution, which improved security but also helped IT decrease the number of service calls to the help desk.

All Aboard One-to-One

As schools undergo upgrades, they also seek new ways to maximize the new content and opportunities a more robust network provides. “5 Devices for K–12 One-to-One Initiatives ” not only explores how one-to-one programs inform the digital citizens of tomorrow but also includes a primer on a few of the devices districts lean on for the task.

This edition of EdTech also checks in with early Chromebook adopters, who share valuable insights on deploying these game-changing devices. For the story, turn to “Top Lessons from Early K–12 Chromebook Adopters.”

Have a great summer, and remember: No matter what device or network upgrades your school requires, we’re here to help.