Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that the United Independent School District (United ISD) has been awarded a combined total of $507,747.36 through three separate grants awarded by the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as “E-rate.”  The grant money will be used for internet access and telecommunications services.

“Providing our youth with easy access to a quality education has been a priority of mine and I will continue working hard to make sure that the children in the United Independent School District receive the best education possible,” said Congressman Cuellar.

The first grant is for $172,961.18; the second is for $285,786.34; and the third is for $48,999.84.

United ISD Superintendent Roberto J. Santos received the news with great excitement and said these dollars will go a long way in the education of the school district’s children.

“I personally thank Congressman Cuellar for his assistance in looking out for the best interest of the children at United ISD,” Santos said. “Through his efforts, United ISD children will benefit and will have the most modern technology at their fingertips.”

Also at the grant announcement, Congressman Cuellar, along with United ISD officials, presented backpacks filled with school supplies to underprivileged children at Dr. Henry Cuellar Elementary School. The backpacks were donated by COSTCO.

E-rate grants support connectivity by providing funding for internet access, telecommunication services, internal connections, and basic maintenance of internal connections. E-rate is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access.

“As a father of two children, I understand the importance that technology plays in the education of our young people. I congratulate the Board Members, Superintendent Roberto J. Santos, and the United Independent School District family for ensuring that the students have access to the latest technological advancements,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip.

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