About

Hi – I am Essam El-Beik and I launched School Fiber in 2015 to help schools in the US implement high speed broadband to the premises. A key factor in why I started this website is the E-rate modernization rules issued in 2014. These rules promote the build and expansion of high speed broadband networks. E-rate modernization provides a tremendous opportunity for schools in the US to have broadband networks constructed. There are specific rule changes promoting the build of broadband networks, whether by a service provider, a local municipality or the school. The rules are complex and each of the rules have pro’s and con’s and can be implemented in different ways. This website aims to navigate through the rules and provide guidance to schools on what to do. I also aim to help schools with broadband technology and how to implement high speed broadband. Don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any questions.

Background

I’m currently helping Illinois expand broadband throughout the State and in particular helping Illinois K-12 schools and libraries access high speed broadband. I’ve been helping Illinois since October 2012. Prior to this I helped Zayo obtain $45M in federal grant funds (the ARRA BTOP program). Zayo is a national service provider providing fiber optic based broadband. And prior to Zayo I worked at a telecommunications vendor, Nortel, for 18 years, working in England, France and the US. I hold 2 patents in telecommunications. I present regularly at conferences including Schools, Health and Library Broadband Coalition, Broadband Communities and most recently SmartGig Chicago. I speak on E-rate, broadband, high speed fiber optic network and smart city and smart state strategies.

I’m also the founder of Essam Consulting Group (http://www.essamconsulting.com).

Contact

If you have any questions or want to suggest areas you would like more information on, please email me at essam@essaminfo.com or call me at 972 741 5882.