CoSN is a strong presence and voice in the policy debates at the national and state level serving as a champion of policies required to power next-generation learning environments. Our policy agenda focuses on securing robust funding for EdTech, strengthening the E-rate program, protecting the privacy and security of student data, and promoting digital equity. We provide our members with the tools and resources to be successful advocates on these issues. Policy actions are categorized based on CoSN's focus on four key policy issues: E-rate and Broadband Access in Classrooms, EdTech Funding, Privacy and Data Security, and Digital Equity.
CoSN Staff Contacts:
Carla Wade MS, Director of External Relations, cwade@cosn.org
Updates on EdTech Legislative Campaigns
Register at the CoSN | Action Center and stay up to date on our campaigns for 2025 and voice your support for keeping students connected!
Urge Congress to Protect and Invest in Cybersecurity Support for Schools
Cyberattacks on schools are escalating—and just when we need federal support the most, it's being pulled away.The Trump Administration has eliminated key cybersecurity funding for programs at CISA that benefit schools, such as services from the MS-ISAC, and while also cutting staff at the Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology. These actions strip away critical resources that help schools defend against ransomware and other cyber threats. Supporting cybersecurity for schools is a bi-partisan concern, with impacts to everyday American students and their families.
ACT NOW to send a letter to your Members of Congress now.
Keep Our Communities Connected: Advocates Rally As Supreme Court Hears Oral Arguments On Universal Service And E-Rate
The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) participated in a press conference today alongside a broad coalition of organizations across the telecommunications, education and healthcare sectors to ensure the continuation of Universal Service Fund (USF) in response to a recent court decision that jeopardizes the program’s future. Click here to view the full press release and live stream.
Do you want your voice to be heard?! CoSN has helped make it possible with our Advocacy Tool! Act now and send a letter to your Representatives on our latest campaign urging Congress to Protect and Invest in Cybersecurity Support for Schools!
Keep Students Connected: Protect E-Rate for Mobile Hotspots
Congress is considering a resolution, S.J.Res.7, that would strip schools and libraries of critical E-rate flexibility to provide mobile Wi-Fi hotspots to students in need. If passed, this resolution would widen the digital divide, leaving many students—especially those in rural and low-income communities—without access to essential online learning resources.
We need your voice to stop this effort to diminish E-rate. Tell your members of Congress to oppose S.J.Res.7 and protect E-rate funding for mobile hotspot lending programs. It only takes a minute to send a message, but the impact on students will last a lifetime. Click below to lend your support!
State and Federal Cybersecurity Policy and Education in 2024
This paper examines the key trends, strategic approaches, and practical implications of 2024’s cybersecurity legislation for educational institutions. By highlighting both enacted laws and notable proposed legislation, it provides education leaders and policymakers with actionable insights for strengthening cybersecurity governance, protection, and education in their own communities and schools.
