Statement from Cisco Chairman and CEO John Chambers:

U.S. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler today unveiled a landmark proposal that has the power to transform our nation's classrooms and put the power of the Internet at the fingertips of all teachers and students.

Connecting students and teachers in the classroom is one of the most important things that our nation can do to dramatically improve our educational system. Connected classrooms will provide students with real-time access to the world's libraries, incredible science experiments, and a wealth of video, apps and other rich media content.  It also will connect students in rural areas, as well as enable students to take innovative and specialized courses at other schools and other districts.

The effects of this decision will be felt for decades. Not only will it encourage more students to enter the fields that make up STEM -Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math - but it will also help make our students and our nation more competitive on the global stage. The nations that are on the leading edge of the digital revolution will be the ones that lead in terms of innovation, job creation and economic growth.

The E-Rate program forms the bedrock of the federal government's effort to connect our nation's schools and libraries to the Internet. This proposal, if adopted, will breathe new life into the program and will help our children and grandchildren prepare for an 'Internet of Everything' future where technology is integrated into all aspects of work, life, and education.

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