In today’s dynamic education environment, students are no longer confined by classroom walls. From rural communities to urban districts, the digital revolution in K-12 learning continues to evolve, and E-rate is powering the transformation. 

At BlueAlly, we help schools and libraries harness the full potential of E-rate Category Two (C2) funding to modernize their infrastructure and launch future-ready learning. Backed by decades of public sector IT experience and powered by Cisco’s trusted technology, our solutions are purpose-built for today’s educational needs: connected learning environments, AI-readiness, data-driven decision making, and secure, scalable networks. 

The Digital Imperative: Education Without Boundaries

The pandemic and rise of hybrid models permanently changed how teaching and learning operate. According to the 2024 State EdTech Trends Report, states are actively working to close the digital access, design, and use divides while embracing transformative tools like artificial intelligence. The U.S. Department of Education’s latest National Educational Technology Plan (NETP) emphasizes building systems that enable “anywhere, anytime” learning—and this requires robust, future-proof infrastructure. 

Yet, equity remains a pressing concern. As federal pandemic relief funds expire, many districts face gaps in home connectivity, cybersecurity support, and device sustainability planning. E-rate remains one of the most reliable and sustainable ways to ensure all students—regardless of ZIP code—have access to high-speed broadband and secure networks. 

Why 2026 E-rate Matters More Than Ever

The modernized E-rate program prioritizes broadband and internal connections that support high-capacity digital learning. In Funding Year 2026, schools and libraries can apply for Category Two support using these updated budget formulas: 

• Schools: $201.57 per student 
• Libraries: $5.43 per square foot 
• Minimum Funding Floor (Small Schools/Libraries): $30,175 
• Minimum Funding Floor (Tribal Libraries): $66,385 

This funding supports the critical infrastructure needed for cloud services, Wi-Fi networks, firewalls, switches, and routers. These are the backbone of hybrid instruction, video learning, and AI-enabled tools in classrooms today. 

Built on Cisco Innovation. Delivered by BlueAlly.

BlueAlly’s digital learning solutions are built on Cisco’s education-optimized portfolio—proven, secure, and designed for scale. Together, we help K-12 districts create environments where students can thrive, faculty can collaborate, and IT teams can focus on innovation over maintenance. 

From Cisco’s CIPA-compliant cloud-managed networks to their Secure Firewall and collaboration tools like WebEx, we bring advanced yet accessible technology into every classroom. 

Five Technologies Driving 2026 Digital Learning

1. Mobility & Seamless Connectivity
   Students need uninterrupted access to digital content wherever they are. Cisco cloud-managed network solutions—deployed and supported by BlueAlly—deliver secure, high-density wireless that supports 1:1 devices, BYOD, and SafeSearch Content Filtering. 
2. Cloud-Based Flexibility
   Cisco’s cloud-native architecture enables scalable, on-demand services with centralized visibility. Our teams help you manage hybrid environments that reduce IT strain while meeting state and federal compliance mandates. 
3. Collaboration & Virtual Classrooms
   WebEx and Cisco TelePresence empower educators and students to connect in real time, expanding access to experts and virtual instruction beyond the physical school. 
4. Security at Every Layer
   As the top EdTech priority in 2024, cybersecurity is more urgent than ever. Our solutions include Cisco firewalls, identity services, endpoint protection, and policy-based controls that protect sensitive student data. 
5. Infrastructure that Scales
   A reliable, expandable network is essential. BlueAlly designs and deploys Cisco architectures that reduce downtime, simplify management, and prepare schools for evolving technologies like AI, AR/VR, and real-time analytics. 

Why BlueAlly + Cisco?

BlueAlly is not just a technology provider, we’re a strategic partner in digital transformation. As a certified Cisco premium provider, secure networking specialized, we combine Cisco’s trusted infrastructure with our proven experience delivering E-rate-aligned solutions for schools and libraries. Our expert team is here to help you: 

• Maximize E-rate ROI with compliant design and documentation support 
• Future-proof your network using scalable Cisco technologies 
• Navigate post-ESSER challenges with tailored sustainability strategies 
• Secure every layer of your infrastructure with Cisco’s integrated security stack 
• Simplify procurement through joint funding and contracting expertise 

Together, BlueAlly and Cisco empower learning without limits—backed by industry leadership and built for real-world results.