20 U.S.C. § 1033a — Augustus F. Hawkins centers of excellence

Implementing reforms within teacher preparation programs to ensure that such programs are preparing teachers who meet the applicable State certification and licensure requirements, including any requirements for certification obtained through alternative routes to certification, or, with regard to special education teachers, the qualifications described in section 1412(a)(14)(C) of this title, are able to understand scientifically valid research^*, and are able to use advanced technology effectively in the classroom, including use of instructional techniques to improve student academic achievement, by—

Providing sustained and high-quality preservice clinical experience, including the mentoring of prospective teachers by exemplary teachers, substantially increasing interaction between faculty at institutions of higher education and new and experienced teachers, principals, and other administrators at elementary schools or secondary schools, and providing support, including preparation time, for such interaction.

Developing and implementing initiatives to promote retention of teachers who meet the applicable State certification and licensure requirements, including any requirements for certification obtained through alternative routes to certification, or, with regard to special education teachers, the qualifications described in section 1412(a)(14)(C) of this title, and highly qualified principals, including minority teachers and principals, including programs that provide—

Awarding scholarships based on financial need to help students pay the costs of tuition, room, board, and other expenses of completing a teacher preparation program, not to exceed the cost of attendance.

Disseminating information on effective practices for teacher preparation and successful teacher certification and licensure assessment preparation strategies.

Activities authorized under section 1022a of this title.