Now that we’ve discussed how the E-rate school may help schools in California, we’ll focus on two specific examples of E-rate doing just that. Below, you’ll find an example from Kern County and an example from San Diego Unified School District. 

Kern County: From Slow Speeds to Digital Excellence

Kern County, housed in the heart of California’s Central Valley, had long struggled with inadequate internet access in its rural school districts. Before E-rate, schools often relied on outdated telephone lines, with speeds too slow to support modern digital learning tools. Students faced challenges completing assignments, accessing online resources, and participating in hybrid learning environments. As technology advanced, this digital divide became increasingly apparent.

E-rate funding allowed Kern County to implement a project and install fiber-optic networks across its schools. This upgrade increased the internet speeds in Kern County by 300%, turning what was once a frustrating digital divide into a connected community.

The impact of the E-rate program in Kern County went beyond infrastructure. The district introduced digital textbooks, which saved costs and allowed teachers to tailor learning experiences to students’ needs. The district also rolled out online STEM programs and virtual field trips, immersing students in interactive learning. Teachers reported a 40% improvement in student engagement because of the digital connectivity provided by the E-rate program. Kern County’s success has since become a blueprint for other rural counties aiming to modernize their educational offerings in California.

San Diego Unified School District: Adapting to the Digital Age

San Diego Unified School District, California’s second-largest school district, faced a critical test during the pandemic: how to ensure equitable internet access for its 100,000+ students. Many students, especially those from low-income households, lacked reliable internet at home. Without internet services, these children faced constant loading screens, Zoom freezes, and discouragement. The state of a child’s education was at stake.

With E-rate funding, the district launched an initiative to enhance Wi-Fi access across its campuses and surrounding areas. They installed outdoor wireless access points (WAP), extending connectivity to parking lots and community centers. This move ensured students could access reliable internet for remote learning, even if their homes lacked adequate connectivity.

In addition, E-rate funding allowed the district to provide over 50,000 hotspots to families in need. They also used E-rate funds to invest in network security, safeguarding students and educators against cyber threats. The district reported that attendance in virtual classrooms rose by 25% after these improvements, with students and families expressing gratitude for the program’s tangible impact. Click here to learn more about how the E-rate program helps safeguard schools and libraries against cyber threats.

One parent shared, “E-rate saved my child’s education. Without it, I don’t know how we could have kept up during the school closures.” The initiative didn’t just keep students connected; it set the stage for a hybrid model that continues to support learning today. 

For more E-rate success stories, read our blog post here.