The federally administered “e-rate” funding program — much maligned by state elected officials — could actually provide a boon to Idaho. The Federal Communications Commission is looking at new rules that could free up e-rate money for WiFi in 726 Idaho schools and 143 Idaho libraries. FCC commissioners are expected to vote on the rule changes Friday. If the rules go through, e-rate dollars to offset the state’s cost of hooking up WiFi in high schools and junior high schools, and the state could use the savings to accelerate WiFi installation in elementary and middle schools. “We’re very excited,” said state schools superintendent Tom Luna, who, along with colleagues in other states, has been pushing for an e-rate upgrade/Kevin Richert, IdahoED NEWS. More here.

Question: What? Idaho asking the feds for help?