E-Rate
E-Rate service provider for California schools and libraries
Category 2 networks, Wi-Fi, cabling and fiber for K-12 districts and libraries, delivered on the E-Rate timeline with the documentation USAC expects. Including network infrastructure across more than 500 LAUSD schools.
The short answer
WCC is a registered E-Rate service provider. We bid on posted Form 470s and RFPs, then install Category 2 switching, Wi-Fi, cabling and fiber, and deliver the as-builts, test results and invoices that funding requires. E-Rate discounts run from 20% to 90% of eligible costs, depending on poverty levels and rural status.
Eligibility
What E-Rate covers and what it doesn't
E-Rate is the FCC's Schools and Libraries Program, administered by USAC. For most districts and libraries, Category 2 funding is the main way to pay for new switching, Wi-Fi and cabling.
| Status | Items |
|---|---|
| Eligible (Category 2) | Switches, routers, wireless access points and controllers |
| Eligible (Category 2) | Structured cabling and fiber inside and between buildings |
| Eligible (Category 2) | Basic firewall service and UPS for eligible equipment |
| Eligible (Category 1) | Internet access and data transmission to the building |
| Not eligible | Security cameras, access control and audiovisual systems |
| Not eligible | Laptops, tablets and other end-user devices |
What we deliver
Category 2 work, installed and documented
E-Rate projects run on fixed deadlines in occupied buildings, with paperwork that has to hold up to audits years later. We schedule around the school year and keep records USAC can follow.
Wireless. Classroom Wi-Fi designed for device density, with surveys before and after install.
Switching and routing. Core and access switches with PoE for access points and phones.
Structured cabling. Cat6 and Cat6A to standard, labeled and certified.
Fiber. Backbone and building-to-building fiber, OTDR tested.
Closeout records. As-builts, test reports and equipment lists to support BEAR or SPI invoicing and future audits.
Timeline
How an E-Rate funding year runs
- Fall–winterForm 470Applicant posts needs; bidding stays open at least 28 days.
- WinterBid selectionPrice must be the most heavily weighted factor.
- Jan–MarForm 471Applicant files during the window.
- Spring–summerReview and commitmentUSAC review, then a funding commitment.
- By Sept 30Install and invoiceCategory 2 work completed, then BEAR or SPI.
Compliance
E-Rate rules that protect your funding
Fair bidding
A service provider that plans to bid can't help write the Form 470 or RFP. Use your staff or an independent consultant to define scope.
Protects against funding denials
Gift rules
Applicants can't accept gifts or favors from bidding providers. We keep every interaction within the rules.
No meals, gifts or free work
Records
Bids, contracts, invoices and asset records must be kept for at least 10 years for audits.
We deliver records ready to file
Why WCC
Why districts and libraries choose WCC
E-Rate work punishes missed deadlines and missing paperwork. We've delivered it at scale and know what USAC looks for.
Proven at scale. Structured cabling and network infrastructure across more than 500 LAUSD schools, managed in occupied campuses.
Every Category 2 trade in-house. Wi-Fi, switching, cabling and fiber from one licensed contractor.
Built around the school calendar. Summer and after-hours work, phased by site.
Licensed since 2003. CSLB #819788 with C-7, C-10 and C-28 classifications.
K-12 services
School technology from WCC
Services for schools and districts
E-Rate eligible network work, plus security systems installed under separate funding.
FAQ
E-Rate questions
What does E-Rate cover?
E-Rate is the FCC's Schools and Libraries Program, administered by USAC. Category 1 covers internet access and data transmission to the building. Category 2 covers internal connections: switches, routers, wireless access points, structured cabling, fiber inside and between buildings, and basic firewall service. Discounts range from 20% to 90% based on student poverty levels and urban or rural status.
What is not E-Rate eligible?
Security cameras, access control, audiovisual equipment, end-user devices like laptops and tablets, and advanced security services such as intrusion prevention and sandboxing subscriptions are not eligible. Separately, the FCC's three-year Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program funds some advanced security services for its selected participants.
Is WCC a registered E-Rate service provider?
Yes. WCC is registered with USAC as an E-Rate service provider and has delivered Category 2 projects for California schools and libraries, including structured cabling and network infrastructure across more than 500 LAUSD schools.
How does the E-Rate timeline work?
The applicant posts a Form 470 to open competitive bidding, waits at least 28 days, selects a provider and files a Form 471 during the filing window, usually January through March. After USAC review and a funding commitment, Category 2 work generally must be completed by September 30 after the funding year ends, followed by invoicing through BEAR or SPI.
Can a service provider help write our Form 470 or RFP?
No. E-Rate competitive bidding rules bar any service provider that plans to bid from helping prepare the Form 470 or RFP. Districts and libraries typically use their own staff or an independent E-Rate consultant to define scope; WCC responds to posted 470s and RFPs.
Do you install E-Rate projects for libraries too?
Yes. Public libraries are eligible on the same terms as schools, and WCC has served as the E-Rate service provider for library network projects.
Can you install cameras or access control at the same time?
Yes, but they must be contracted and paid separately from the E-Rate funded work, since they aren't eligible. Doing both together still saves on pathways and scheduling.
Related
Related guides and services
Get a recommendation
Talk to our K-12 team
Tell us about your district or library and the funding year you're planning for. We'll explain how we can bid and what the project timeline looks like.