Here is today's Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC) Disability News message.? I hope you have a wonderful day.?

Martha?

*Martha K. Gabehart* | "Executive Director
"Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC)
*Kansas Governor Laura Kelly
*900 SW Jackson, Suite 100 | Topeka, Kansas 66612
(785) 296-6525 (direct) | (785) 260-4027 (cell)

[email protected] | www.kcdcinfo.ks.gov [ [link removed] ]

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Job Vacancy Announcements

Minds Matter in Overland Park is holding a virtual job fair Wednesday, April 26th, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.? Please register by emailing [email protected]

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This is the PEAT Newsletter. The Partnership on Employment and Accessible Technology (PEAT) is a program funded by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP).? This may be a duplicate from another week. I couldn't find it on any previous Disability News messages, but this is the March edition.??

View this email in your browser [ [link removed] ]

How AI Hiring Tech Can Impact Applicants

If you use artificial intelligence (AI) in any stage of the hiring process, you need to make sure the technology increases inclusion and reduces bias against all candidates, including those with disabilities. We created an article [ [link removed] ] that illustrates how AI can positively or negatively impact applicants and how you can use it to boost inclusion.

Spotlighting Accessibility in the New NIST AI Risk Management Framework

In January 2023, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published the highly anticipated Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework (AI RMF 1.0) [ [link removed] ] and companion NIST AI RMF Playbook. Together, these resources establish voluntary national standards to address risks in developing and using AI products and services. In this new post, PEAT shares critical ways the Framework and Playbook promote inclusive and equitable AI [ [link removed] ], especially for those with disabilities.

Mental Health Matters: A Series of National Online Dialogues on Workforce Mental Health Policies

The U.S. Department of Labor?s State Exchange on Employment & Disability (SEED) [ [link removed] ] is dedicated to improving mental health in the workplace. You are invited to participate in a series of online dialogues to explore and advance workforce mental health policies. You can contribute to this important conversation by submitting your ideas and commenting and voting on mental health priority areas related to benefits policies, workplace supports, service disparities in underserved communities, behavioral workforce shortages and more before the April 3, 2023, deadline. To learn more and join the conversation, visit the Mental Health Matters [ [link removed] ] landing page.

NTIA?s Request for Comment Period is Now Open

The U.S. Department of Commerce?s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) published a Request for Comment soliciting input on how NTIA should structure the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant program and the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant program, as part of the wider effort to administer the $2.75 billion Digital Equity Act of 2021. Learn more about NTIA?s Request for Comment [ [link removed] ] and how you can share your thoughts.

ForHumanity Certification: Disability Inclusion and Accessibility

PEAT helped develop a free, virtual and self-paced course on Disability Inclusion & Accessibility [ [link removed] ] as part of the nonprofit ForHumanity University. The course covers independent audit criteria related to equality laws, disability inclusion, and accessibility and is co-taught by PEAT?s Director, Bill Curtis-Davidson, alongside Ryan Carrier (ForHumanity) and Cari Miller (Center for Inclusive Change). Students can choose to take an optional paid examination to become a Certified Auditor and can apply for scholarships to have the certification fee waived.

ASK ASHLEY!

Q: I?m an HR professional working within a private-sector company. What are some best practices to ensure we?re keeping the door open for inclusive and accessible hiring?

A: There are many steps you can take to make your hiring process more inclusive and accessible. First, it is a good idea to work with your organization's Employee Resource Group (ERG) for Disability Inclusion to determine what accessibility gaps exist in your current process. Here's a great guide from AskEARN.org [ [link removed] ] that can help you establish an ERG if you don't already have one. Second, I'd encourage you to check out TalentWorks [ [link removed] ]. It's a guide we put together to help you ensure your online recruiting efforts are accessible to all job seekers. By listening and practicing proactive inclusion, you will create a more welcoming space for job candidates with and without disabilities.

Our mailing address is:
Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology
200 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20210

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This the newsletter from the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD).?

Web Version [ [link removed] ]

Governor Kelly Launches Statewide Initiative to Increase Adoption of Affordable Connectivity Program

TOPEKA ? Governor Laura Kelly today announced a statewide initiative to increase awareness of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a program that helps lower-income families pay for high-speed internet. The ACP is a $14.2 billion federal broadband benefit that provides eligible households a monthly discount of up to $30 per month (up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands) and a one-time $100 discount toward a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.

There are 438,634 Kansas households eligible for the ACP, yet only 93,244 (21%) of those eligible have enrolled.

?Access to high-speed internet in today?s economy isn?t a luxury ? it?s a necessity,? Governor Laura Kelly said. ?The Affordable Connectivity Program makes it easier for families in both rural and urban areas to access essential digital tools ? something that?s essential as Kansas continues to work toward being a top 10 state for broadband access by 2030. More Kansans need to know about it.?

?The Kelly Administration is firmly committed not only to ensuring broadband connectivity is made available to all Kansans,? Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said, ?but that it is affordable as well. ACP helps reduce that barrier for individuals who need the help.?

In partnership with EducationSuperHighway, a national non-profit with a mission to close the broadband affordability gap, the governor?s initiative will build a broad coalition of local stakeholders, service providers, non-profit organizations, and higher learning institutions to overcome the barriers that prevent households in under-resourced communities from enrolling.

?It will require all of these partners working together to bridge the digital divide that exists in Kansas,? Director of Broadband Development Jade Piros de Carvalho said. ?The ACP is another important step at increasing broadband access across the state and will result in more connected Kansans.?

ACP-eligible households include families with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and those who qualify for Lifeline, SNAP, Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch, WIC, and other government-funded programs.

Combined with commitments by Internet Service Providers to deliver high-speed internet plans for no more than $30 per month, eligible households can receive high-speed internet at no cost by pairing their ACP benefit with one of these ?free with ACP? broadband plans.

?Kansas is leading the way in closing the digital divide by ensuring eligible households know about the Affordable Connectivity Program, can easily enroll, and then sign up for high-speed internet service,? EducationSuperHighway CEO Evan Marwell said. ?We applaud Governor Kelly?s bold leadership in removing the barriers that keep millions unconnected.?

EducationSuperHighway will support statewide awareness by training community leaders and partner organizations and providing outreach materials to help households enroll. The non-profit recently launched GetACP.org/Kansas to simplify the ACP enrollment process by helping eligible households determine the easiest way to qualify and learn more about ?free with ACP? broadband plans available at their address.

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Lasting Infrastructure & Network Connectivity (LINC) | Provider Feedback Request

KOBD is launching the Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity (LINC) program which is a multi-faceted effort to improve broadband infrastructure, middle mile connectivity, and Internet Exchange Point capabilities within the State of Kansas. Through this program, applications will be solicited, and grants will be awarded for the two categories of capabilities. Separate sections outlined within this document will describe the solutions being requested, program guidelines and application requirements for each capability. The LINC program information is captured in two separate sections as documented below:

Section 1: Broadband Infrastructure

Section 2: Internet Exchange Point (IXP) and Middle Mile

Applications will be accepted for any or all capabilities as outlined in section one and two of the program guidelines. Each application will be evaluated on its own merit. Service providers may submit multiple applications, specifically for Section 1 (Broadband Infrastructure) given specific geographic considerations for each type of application in these categories. Section 2 (Internet Exchange Point and Middle Mile Solutions) is a combined capability where an applicant may apply for either Middle Mile or Internet Exchange Point or for both capabilities. KOBD may choose to award grants to both capabilities or any one capability depending on the compelling information provided by the applicant pool.

**NEW** Internet Service Provider Guideline Review Period - Service providers will be able to review and suggest feedback on the Program Guidelines. The Program Guidelines will be posted on the KOBD website Tuesday, April 18th. Suggested feedback can be delivered via Submittable through the link on KOBD website, beginning Tuesday, April 18 through Monday, April 24, 2023, 11 PM CST. Learn more on the KOBD website here [ [link removed] ].

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Director's Note: Out and About
Jade Piros de Carvalho is the Director of the Kansas Office of Broadband Development.

Kansas Office of Broadband is in the last leg of our journey across Kansas. When reflecting on this journey I only see growth and opportunity. KOBD team has traveled a minimum of 4,700 miles across Kansas to hear from those who have been left in the gaps. We continue to be inspired and in awe of those across the state championing these efforts. For those that have not joined us yet, please take a moment to check the Roadshow map and determine if we are close enough to connect. #connectingallKansans

We hear consistent and common themes, along with unique challenges communities are facing with connectivity. To be inclusive of those who might not be able to make the Roadshow, we encourage everyone to take our Roadshow survey. This survey will provide insight and support for the work of our five-year plan. Surveys are linked: English [ [link removed] ], Spanish [ [link removed] ], Vietnamese [ [link removed] ].

Key conversations:
? Federal Communications Commission's Affordable Connectivity Program is helpful, but difficult to navigate for the low-income residents that it is designed to assist
? High poverty levels make broadband affordability an issue for many households
? Water conservation efforts and other Precision Agriculture applications are hampered by a lack of broadband to the farm/acre

STAFFING UPDATES: This month, Casey Russell, Infrastructure Manager, joined our team. Casey is the former network engineer for the Kansas Research and Education Network. Casey is also a volunteer contributor for SCInet, the fastest (temporary) network in-the-world. #FiberFirst #FasterFaster #IPv6 #Multicast

In our newsletter, you'll find more information on where we are meeting up and connecting with Kansans. Thanks so much for your support and work.

You are still invited!

The KOBD recognizes the importance that digital connectivity plays in thriving and growing communities. We know we have areas that need improvement, along with success stories. We would like to hear from you and your neighbors regarding connectivity, access, and internet opportunities that exist when connecting all Kansans. To learn more about the process you can visit the Kansas Broadband Roadshow site [ [link removed] ] to learn more about the plan and process.

Remaining stops are listed below:
? April 25 | Arkansas City | 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Register here [ [link removed] ].
? May 4 | Salina | 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Register here [ [link removed] ].

Additionally, as we are moving across the state, we are encouraging everyone to complete the Roadshow survey. Please find the various versions linked here. This survey will continue to provide insight and support for the work of our five-year plan. English [ [link removed] ], Spanish [ [link removed] ], Vietnamese [ [link removed] ]

FCC Map Updates + Challenges
Kansas Office of Broadband Development continues to submit challenges to the FCC. We understand there are known inaccuracies with the map and want to support an accurate representation of the coverage in Kansas. A couple of reminders from our office and the FCC are listed below:

If you have concerns about the map we encourage you to connect with Stephen Shelton, our Broadband Data and GIS Analyst. He's always working on submitting additional challenges and appreciates anything you would like to share. Stephen can be reached via email at [email protected].

The Federal Communications Commission is still updating the fabric map, if you have connectivity concerns please review the process to challenge your service or location listed on the map. Full instructions on Challenging The Map are linked here [ [link removed] ]. Thank you to those that participated and shared information on Challenging the Map. We are still sharing updates on this effort. Please continue to check-in.

Reminder the FCC has a portal [ [link removed] ] for consumers ?to share their stories and experiences in obtaining broadband internet access,? as part of the FCC?s efforts to combat digital discrimination. The FCC?s Task Force to Prevent Digital Discrimination will be responsible for collecting these stories and experiences, which will help inform its digital discrimination work.

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Staff Spotlight: Joshua Edgar
Broadband Program Manager
Josh also officially known as Joshua, joined our team on March 6th, and we are pleased to share more from him. Josh is a born and raised, 6th generation Kansan. With his history steeped deep in Kansas culture and community, he is proud that his family is still farming on the same piece of ground that his ancestors did in the 1870s.

Growing up in Wichita, he attended Kapaun Mount Carmel Catholic Highschool and is an alumnus of Kansas State University where he received his bachelor's and master's degree in political science.

After finishing graduate school, Josh joined the Nebraska Public Service Commission as a policy analyst, where he managed the in-state broadband grant program. While in Nebraska he gained a new appreciation for Kansas? northerly neighbor. He especially liked exploring and learning about the Nebraska sandhills but still prefers to hike the Konza prairie.

Outside of the office, Josh loves to be active! Most weekends you will find Josh outside running on the trails, biking, gardening, or just enjoying the ever-changing Kansas weather. Josh is also an avid reader, with shelves stocked with books on every subject. Some of his favorite authors are Doris Kearns-Goodwin, Francis Fukuyama, and William Least Heat-Moon.

Josh is excited to join the KOBD team and do his part in bringing reliable broadband to deserving communities.

Check out the photo below of Josh running 10 miles in below-freezing weather at the PSYCO WYCO in Kansas City. We're thankful he's on our team and willing to go the extra mile in wind or weather to bring broadband to Kansas.

Reach out and connect with Josh via email at [email protected].

From the Federal Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth

By: Melinda Stanley | Office of Internet Connectivity & Growth | Federal Program Officer ? Kansas | Mobile: 202-515-6509 |
Email: [email protected]
Don't forget you have the opportunities to share your voice and connect with others.

NTIA Opens Public Comment for Two New Digital Equity Programs [ [link removed] ]

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) would like to hear from YOU! NTIA?s formal public comment period is open and seeks to engage partners, stakeholders, and most importantly, individuals with lived experiences with facing challenges of having access to and/or the skills and devices to fully utilize affordable, reliable, high-speed internet to inform the design and implementation of two components of the Digital Equity Act of 2021 (a part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act). The input will inform the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program and the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program.

The goal of the programs is to promote adoption and meaningful use of the Internet among underrepresented communities and populations, including low-income households, veterans, aging individuals, racial and ethnic minorities, rural residents and others as part of President Joe Biden?s goal to close the digital divide and transform the lives of all Americans. This proceeding is your opportunity to inform NTIA on aspects of design and implementation that will work to achieve this national and community-driven opportunity for change.

The submission deadline for comments is May 1, 2023 (5pm EST). Public comment linked here [ [link removed] ]. Infomation is also attached below?

Upcoming DE Request for Comment Virtual Listening Sessions are linked below:

? April 24: NTIA Public Virtual Listening Session [ [link removed] ]: Digital Equity Request for Comment (Option 3) 3:00 pm Eastern Time| Internet for All - The focus of this listening session will be measuring for success and transformative impact
? April 28: NTIA Public Virtual Listening Session [ [link removed] ]: Digital Equity Request For Comment (Option 4) 3:00 pm Eastern Time| Internet for All- The focus of this listening session will be the State Digital Equity Competitive grant program

Archive for the April 10 NTIA Public Virtual Listening Session: Digital Equity Request for Comment? (LINK WASN'T WORKING) (Option 1) | Internet for All

Additional information regarding the comment opportunity can be found here [ [link removed] ].

For upcoming events or to subscribe to updates go to Internet for All [ [link removed] ].

Know I'm here to help. We're committed to connection. - M

USDA Offers New Funding to Promote the Expansion of High-Speed Internet in Rural Areas

$20 million in Technical Assistance Funding is Available to Plan High-Speed Internet Projects in Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, April 17, 2023 ? U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the availability of $20 million to deliver broadband technical assistance resources for rural communities, and to support the development and expansion of broadband cooperatives.

USDA is offering the funding under the new Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The program supports technical assistance projects such as conducting feasibility studies, completing network designs and developing broadband financial assistance applications. Funding is also available to help organizations access federal resources, and to conduct data collection and reporting.

?USDA is committed to making sure that people, no matter where they live, have access to high-speed internet. That?s how you grow the economy ? not just in rural communities, but across the nation,? said USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Xochitl Torres Small. ?USDA is partnering with small towns, local utilities and cooperatives, and private companies to increase access to this critical service which in turn boosts opportunity and helps build bright futures.?

Continue reading here [ [link removed] ].
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Broadband Celebrations

? KOBD was invited to a Ribbon Cutting with IdeaTek at the Garden City Chamber of Commerce celebrating a regional project to run 400 miles of fiber up the highway 83 corridor to connect our Liberal neighbors through Garden City and Scott City. This project will poke off into remote areas bringing fiber to 1,000 residences and 20 feed yards, enabling precision agriculture and home access. This project represents a successful dig-once ROW partnership with KDOT to further the state?s IT goals.

? Results from the Kansas Broadband Study by the Institute for Policy & Social Research at the University of Kansas have been published. The full report along with a data dashboard can be viewed here [ [link removed] ].

Have something to celebrate? Share it with us? Send Morgan <[email protected]> an email.

Kansas Broadband Connections

? National: Director Jade Piros de Carvalho presented to broadband leaders across the nation at the Fiber to the Future, Global Infrastructure Conference. This panel was focused on the timetables and decision-making criteria for the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment grants. States across the nation are working hard to meet and support these deadlines. It?s a testament to Commerce and Kansas, that KOBD is considered a leader in this space.

? State: Kimberlyn Jones, Digital Equity Program Manager, presented to the Advisory Council for Assistive Technology for Kansans. This is a statewide federally funded program that worked with people with disabilities of all ages to learn about and acquire the technology they need to go to school, get and maintain a job, be involved in the community, and live safely at home.

? State: Morgan Barnes, Outreach and Engagement Manager presented to 130 City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association in Manhattan Kansas at their annual conference. City clerks are critical access points in communities and across Kansas, KOBD shared current plans and opportunities to #connectallKansans.

? State: Director, Jade Piros de Carvalho signed in to KMUW 89.1 to participate in an #engageICT panel conversation. Jade joined Joseph Shepard from Lead For America and Jaime Nix with the Wichita Public Library. This event highlighted the importance of affordable broadband access and digital skills training. You can access the conversation via the KMUW Engage ICT site here [ [link removed] ].

The Kansas Office of Broadband Development was established in 2020 to help ensure all Kansans have the opportunity to live, work, learn and compete in a global economy by improving universal access to quality, affordable and reliable broadband.


* Federal Register for NTIA's Comment Request 2023-04242.pdf [ [link removed] ]

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