School Broadband Assistance Grant

Overview

Helping students by helping schools reach 100 Mbps

The Alaska School Broadband Assistance Grant (BAG) program provides grant assistance to schools to increase internet download speeds.  Established by the Alaska State Legislature in 2014, the original grant enabled schools to reach download speeds of 10 Mbps. In 2020, the Legislature revised the allowable download speed to 25 Mbps and, in 2024, increased the grant to assist schools to reach up to 100 Mbps.

FY2028 BAG Program Process

Click HERE to view an info-graphic flyer for this process.

Step 1: Successful E-Rate Application
Districts must qualify for a discounted rate for Internet services under the federal E-Rate program to apply for BAG Funding. Timeframe: According to the E-Rate Program

Step 2: Year-End Report and GMS FER
If your school district received BAG funding in FY2027, file the BAG Year-End Report and GMS FER with DEED.  The Year-End Report form is typically available by March 1 and the GMS FER form is available by July 1.
Timeframe:
Year-End Report available by March 1, 2027
GMS FER available July 1, 2027

Step 3: BAG Application
Complete and submit the BAG Application via the Grant Management Systems (GMS).  The application is typically available in the GMS by March 31.  Due Date: May 15, 2027

Step 4: Application Review
DEED reviews the district's application information for completeness and accuracy, and may request additional information or clarification.  Timeframe: May 15, 2027 - June 15, 2027

Step 5: BAG Award Calculation
DEED calculates the district's need and proportionate share of available funding, and then distributes award letters and grant agreements.  Timeframe: June 15, 2027 - July 15, 2027

Step 6: Sign and Return BAG Agreement
School district reviews grant agreement, signed by two district personnel, including superintendent.  School district then submits the agreement via the GMS.  Timeframe: July 15, 2027 - August 1, 2027

Step 7: Budget the Awarded BAG Grant
Once the awarded BAG grant is loaded in GMS, the business manager must budget the amount to line 430 – Utility Services and submit it in GMS.  Timeframe: August 1 - August 15, 2027

BAG funding will be distributed by August 15, 2027.

Important Dates

Contact

School BAG & E-Rate Support

Faye Tanner: 907-269-7979

EED.BAG@alaska.gov

School BAG Awards

Resources

School BAG Laws and Regulations

AS 14.03.127 Funding for Internet Services

4 AAC 33.600 Funding for the Improvement of Internet Speeds at Public Schools

School BAG Forms

Refer to Grant Management System (GMS)