A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

The e-rate sends an exciting message to every student, educator, parent, and community. It says: The future can belong to you.

I congratulate the FCC on its wise, forward-looking ruling. And I thank everyone who worked so hard to support the e-rate. President Clinton made it a top priority. Vice President Gore's early vision and persistent voice led the way. Senators Snowe and Rockefeller showed great leadership. And the members of the ED LINC Coalition were among the first to call for affordable access for schools and libraries.

Linking schools and libraries to the Internet is only the beginning. Technology doesn't get us anywhere unless we know how to use it wisely and effectively.

President Clinton recognizes that we must focus on all "Four Pillars" of educational technology. In addition to Internet access, the "Pillars" include putting computers into classrooms, training teachers well to use technology, and providing high quality software and online resources. The President's budget for 1998 calls for a 100 percent increase in our investment in all these areas.

Today is a day to celebrate. But it is also a day to rededicate ourselves to the job ahead. We must all work together to make the e-rate a reality. This includes the education and library communities, the telecommunications industry, and state and local leaders.

The e-rate is a great opportunity, but also a great responsibility. Most of all, we must show that it really makes a difference in the classroom, and that means helping students to learn the basics and other core subjects to high standards.

The U. S. Department of Education is determined to meet the challenge. We will continue to provide leadership, technical assistance, and outreach. We are determined to make the most of the e-rate, for our children and for America.

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