Technology Update

The E-rate is working, a report released this month by the Benton Foundation concludes.

According to the Washington-based foundation, the federal discount program supporting the educational use of telecommunications in U.S. schools and libraries is helping urban districts wire their classrooms and use technology to improve student learning.

"The fact that the E-rate was made available gives these school districts a pool of cash that allowed them to pay for professional development or electrical upgrades," said Andy Carvin, the editor of the report and a senior...