Is it possible for a school district that lacks any AM, FM, or TV broadcast assets but possesses Educational Broadband Service (formerly ITFS) to obtain an LPFM (Low-Power FM) station license?

Yes, a school district that does not possess any AM, FM, or TV broadcast holdings but has Educational Broadband Service (formerly ITFS) can typically apply for and obtain an LPFM (Low-Power FM) station license. The ownership and licensing rules for LPFM stations do not typically take into account the possession of Educational Broadband Service. LPFM stations are generally considered separate entities with their own set of regulations and eligibility criteria.

However, it’s essential to ensure that the school district meets all the eligibility requirements specified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for LPFM stations, including non-commercial and educational broadcasting rules. Consulting with FCC specialists or legal experts can help ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

EBS/ITFS is not classified as a media holding.

ITFS stands for “Instructional Television Fixed Service.” It is a band of the radio spectrum in the United States allocated for educational television broadcasting. ITFS was originally established to support instructional television programs for schools and educational institutions. It allows for the transmission of educational content over the airwaves to be received by schools and other educational organizations.

In recent years, ITFS has evolved, and the band has been used for various educational purposes, including data communication and internet access for schools and colleges. The name was changed to “Educational Broadband Service” (EBS) to reflect this broader use of the spectrum.

In essence, ITFS/EBS is a portion of the radio spectrum reserved for educational purposes and services, primarily related to broadcasting educational content and, more recently, providing broadband connectivity to educational institutions.