Technology Plans

[Mary Mehsikomer]

Hi Everyone:

I've been getting a number of questions from around the state regarding technology plans requirements for Minnesota, so I thought I would offer a clarification:

1. Technology plans are no longer needed for E-rate for either Category 1 or Category 2.

2. Technology plans are no longer needed for state Telecommunications/Internet Access Equity Aid as of July 1, 2015. The requirement for technology plans was removed in the Education Omnibus bill that was signed in June. Here is the exact language from Anne Sheridan at MDE:

In the July 1, 2015 Superintendents mailing, the following communication went out regarding technology planning:
 
Technology Plans and Telecommunications Access Equity Aid
Under previous law, school districts, charter schools, and intermediate districts were required to file technology plans with the Minnesota Department of Education in order to qualify for the federal E-rate program and Minnesota Statutes, section 125B.26 (Telecom Access Equity Aid).
In the recently passed E-12 finance bill (special session HF1, Article 6, section 5), districts are no longer required to file tech plans with the department to qualify for the federal E-rate program or the Telecom Access Equity Aid program.
 
At this time, MDE will continue to approve and post technology plans that are (or have been) received by the department.
 
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
 
Anne Sheridan
 
ANNE SHERIDAN | PROJECT MANAGER
MN.IT SERVICES @ EDUCATION (MDE)
651-582-8721 (w)  |  [e-mail]

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Information Technology for Minnesota Government   |   mn.gov/oet

Mary Mehsikomer

TIES

651-999-6510

[e-mail]

[Dana Woods]

Tell me if I am thinking about this right...State approved "Technology Plans" are no longer a part of the requirements for receiving some federal funds..."technology plans" are still a pretty good idea to have for goal setting and reporting within the district.