The Schools and Libraries Division of USAC (SLD) allows schools to use the family survey method (aka the Alternative Discount Mechanism) instead of the information reported to the school's state department of education on the low income student count form. The survey is based on the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) income eligibility levels (School year 2006-07) for reduced lunches. By using the survey method, you can count students who are eligible for the National School Lunch Program whether or not they choose to participate in the lunch program.

You may use the Family Survey below to count the students at your school who are eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The survey results (Fall, 2006) can be used in your E-Rate FY 2007-08 application to determine your discount rate. If you do not use the survey method, you must use the October, 2006 low income student count that you submit to your State Department of Education.

If you choose to use the survey method, SLD guidelines require that you send the survey to 100% of your students. You must have at least a 50% return rate.

If we are preparing your E-Rate application for you, you will need to do the following:

• Distribute your surveys to your students
• Collect the returned surveys (You must have a return rate of 50% or more)
• Tally your surveys that are returned (see survey summary instructions below)
• Enter your summary information on the family survey summary form
• Send us the following no later than November 30, 2006:
1. Electronic Version of your Excel spreadsheet
2. Copy of ONE completed family survey
3. E-Rate Family Survey Summary Form-School Year 2006-07

Family Survey for Erate FY 2007 Applications (pdf)
Family Survey for Erate FY 2007 Applications (MS Word file)

Survey Summary Forms:
Family Survey Summary Instructions (pdf)
Family Survey Summary Sheet for Erate FY 2007 (pdf)
Family Survey Summary Sheet for Erate FY 2007 (MS Excel file)

If you have any questions, please contact Debi Sovereign at 580-332-1444.