WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Ganado Unified School District has donated educational materials that will be distributed to E-Rate libraries and students across the Navajo Nation, helping expand access to learning resources in local communities.
The materials consist primarily of elementary-level workbooks designed to support students’ learning and academic development.
Community representatives Shar Soce and Relinda John will coordinate the pickup and distribution of the remaining materials for E-Rate libraries and students throughout Navajo Nation chapters.
Through the efforts of Sonia Nez and the Navajo Nation Broadband Office, 70 boxes of books have already been delivered to chapters including Sawmill, Fort Defiance, Ganado, Chinle, Many Farms, Round Rock, and Lukachukai. Approximately 90 boxes of books remain and will be divided among community representatives for delivery within their respective agencies to ensure students across Navajo Nation communities have access to these valuable educational resources.
The E-Rate program, also known as the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Program, provides eligible schools and libraries with 20 to 90 percent discounts on telecommunications services, internet access, and internal network connections.
Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company under the Federal Communications Commission, the program distributes up to $3.9 billion annually to help bridge the digital divide.
Sonia Nez and her team with the Navajo Nation Broadband Office have worked to ensure that small libraries have been established in several chapters across the Navajo Nation, expanding access to internet connectivity, educational materials, and digital resources for students and families.
On March 10, 2026, Community Representative Vikki Shirley also delivered Broadband/E-Rate books to the Rough Rock and Rock Point communities as part of the ongoing distribution effort.
The Navajo Nation extends appreciation to the Ganado Unified School District, the Navajo Nation Broadband Office, and community representatives for working together to strengthen educational opportunities for students across the Navajo Nation.
