About Us
About Us
About Us: We are a dedicated E‑Rate consulting firm that supports K–12 institutions with the E‑Rate application process and ensures full program compliance.
At Summa E‑Rate Solutions, we believe every student should have access to fast, reliable internet and essential digital resources—no matter where they learn. Based in California, we specialize in helping K–12 public, charter, and private schools, as well as libraries across the United States, secure vital funding through the federal E‑Rate program.
Our Mission:
It’s simple to help you access the funding you need—without the administrative burden—so your staff can stay focused on what truly matters: delivering quality education.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking to streamline your current approach, Summa E‑Rate Solutions is here to make the process smoother, faster, and fully compliant.
Meet our Founder
Hello, I am Gary J Michaels, the founder of Summa E-rate Solutions, LLC. I have a substantial background in the cable industry during its entry into the high-capacity internet industry which began around the early 2000’s. This is the period when the cable industry witnessed significant growth in broadband data services, driven by technological advancements, increased demand, and competitive pressures, outpacing DSL (digital subscriber line) offered by phone companies.
During this period, I worked as a project manager and on major accounts including school districts and public libraries, with the Comcast and Time Warner Cable, Government, Medical and Education Departments. In 2012 Comcast launched an advanced voice platform called Business VoiceEdge, which is a cloud-based voice and unified communications package designed to replace traditional PBX systems. The service utilizes Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. In this same year I became a Comcast advanced voice manager.
Prior to the early 2000’s, I worked in the broadcast and cable industries in various national and local spot television sales and manager roles with TV stations and cable media departments throughout the west coast.
In the Gov/Ed departments I worked extensively with the E-rate program and then, saw a need for a national online E-rate consulting service after the 2014 E-rate modernization order was announced. This order increased funding and refocused on high-speed broadband and Wi-Fi and the roll out of the E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) in June 2015. Since then, Summa E-rate Solutions has signed up school and library accounts all over the USA, and added staff because the demand for competent, tech-savvy and knowledgeable E-rate program assistance is ever increasing.
How K-12 institutions will benifit form E-Rate
- Affordable Connectivity – Reduce the cost of internet and network services.
- Upgraded Infrastructure – Improve Wi-Fi, routers, switches, and internal networks.
- Budget Relief – Free up school funds for other essential educational resources.
The E‑Rate program can be complex and time-consuming—that’s where we come in. With in-depth knowledge of program requirements and regulatory guidelines, our team guides schools and libraries through every stage—from drafting RFPs to filing FCC forms and preparing audit-ready documentation.
How Libraries will benifit from the E‑Rate program
- Lower Internet Costs – Save on broadband and network services.
- Enhanced Public Access – Improve Wi-Fi and connectivity for patrons.
- Support for Digital Equity – Bridge the digital divide in your community.
How Libraries Will Benefit from the E‑Rate Program
- Lower Internet Costs – Save on broadband and network services.
- Enhanced Public Access – Improve Wi-Fi and connectivity for patrons.
- Support for Digital Equity – Bridge the digital divide in your community.
See How Much Your School Can Save