As of September 1, NCCE will begin providing full-service E-Rate support for schools and libraries that are seeking federal assistance on eligible telecommunications, Internet access, and hardware expenses. Schools seeking guidance with technology planning, RFP development, and preparing forms or bid materials as part of the E-Rate program will now be able to receive assistance through NCCE. For additional information on all of the E-Rate services that are available, please go to NCCE’s website at ncce.org/e-rate.
The key to this new service is the appointment of Eric Chambers as the new E-Rate Services Director. Chambers brings with him more than 8 years of experience and leadership in working with school districts to apply for E-Rate funds and supporting them with technology planning. Most recently, Eric was the Director of Evaluation, Planning and Development for Northwest Educational Services District 189, where he successfully designed and implemented a funding program that resulted in generating over $5 million in revenue for Washington schools.
“Eric is a high-energy leader who will be an asset to our abilities to provide professional learning opportunities throughout our organization’s membership. His record for guiding, directing and executing the E-Rate process for schools is impressive.” said Heidi Rogers, CEO/Executive Director. “With Eric’s expertise in such crucial areas like funding technology initiatives and Wifi, we are looking forward to providing these services to assist schools.”
“I’m really excited to be joining the NCCE team—the innovative, forward thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit practiced here clearly benefits our educational community,” said Chambers. “That alone would be enough to be excited about, but to also have the opportunity to expand work I did at a local level across the entire region was something no reasonable person could pass up.”
“This is another step in fulfilling our mission,” comments Richard Snyder, NCCE board president. “Eric will be a great resource to schools and districts that are helping students and teachers use 21st century technology. The partnerships that he will form through his leadership and knowledge will directly impact student and teacher success. We couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity.”