Three years ago, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy began to advertise the E-Rate program, an opportunity for Nassau schools and libraries to apply for educational and Internet access grants. McCarthy recently announced that the Elmont community has received approximately $11,130 this year to be distributed among the Elmont Union Free School District, Elmont Public Library, Sewanhaka Central High School District and St. Boniface School. In addition, the community of Franklin Square received $7,029 to be distributed between the Franklin Square Union Free School District and the Franklin Square Public Library.

"The numbers are in and they are astronomical," McCarthy said. "This money will help our schools pay for computers and Internet access in the classroom."

With the implementation of the E-Rate program, Congress recognized that technology plays an increasingly important role in today's educational experience, yet it remains a harsh expense. Schools and libraries that apply for grants are eligible for communication discounts ranging from 20-90 percent. The grants are not federally funded, but funded by mandatory contributions from private communication providers. The schools and libraries are responsible for paying the difference between their discount and the actual cost of service. All those involved are allowing children the opportunity to utilize technology investments, to become better equipped for the future.

In Elmont, funding through the E-Rate program will be distributed as follows:

* Elmont Union Free School District $26,013

* Elmont Public Library $6,800

* Sewanhaka Central High School $76,362

* St. Boniface School $1,953

In Franklin Square, funding is split by the school district and library as follows:

* Franklin Square Union Free School District $4,965

* Franklin Square Public Library $2,064

"This program has proven invaluable to both the schools and the students," McCarthy said. "E-Rate is an easy way for schools and libraries to fund expensive technology that our children must understand in order to succeed."