E-Rate, a program committed to transform schools' and libraries' access to Wi-Fi across the nation, has taken another step forward to make that happen. FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler has proposed an order to modernize and rejuvenate the program, the first effort since the program's creation 18 years ago. 

According to FCC.gov, the order Wheeler proposed to his Commissioners focuses on closing the Wi-Fi gap while spending money dedicated toward the program in a smart and efficient way. The draft proposal plans to committ at least $1 billion to connect over 10 million students across the country in 2015, and another $1 billion in 2016. 

The plan will focus on bringing E-Rate into the 21st century by providing high-speed access in libraries and keeping up with EdTech advancements. 

"Action this summer would allow new rules to be in place for the 2015 Funding Year, which would support Wi-Fi upgrades across the country in time for the 2015-2016 school year," said the document. "While this order is focused on closing the Wi-Fi gap, Chairman Wheeler remains committed to an ongoing E-Rate modernization process to address other important connectivity issues faced by schools and libraries."

Read the full document. 

Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor