The document announces updates and guidelines related to discretionary grant applications at the U.S. Department of Education. It emphasizes the importance of centralized instructions for applicants to streamline the application process. Significant revisions include the removal of the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS), substituting it with the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and technical updates. Applicants are advised to obtain an application package from the Department's website or Grants.gov, submit applications electronically, and ensure compliance with submission deadlines. It outlines requirements for registration in the System for Award Management (SAM), including having an active UEI and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). The notice also discusses procedures for addressing technical issues with Grants.gov and how to submit paper applications if electronic submission is not feasible. Overall, the document is a crucial reference for applicants aiming to navigate the federal grant application landscape effectively, ensuring compliance with requirements and timely submissions.
The document outlines new regulatory updates from the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of Education. It first establishes a safety zone in the Straits of Mackinac, Michigan, around operational tugs and crew boats conducting surveys of submerged pipelines. This zone prohibits entry without authorization from the Coast Guard from April 1 to May 15, 2024, enhancing maritime safety.
Additionally, it presents priorities and requirements for the Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Program, aimed at improving teacher preparation programs at minority-serving institutions. Effective May 6, 2024, these updates focus on increasing the diversity of the teacher workforce, enhancing evidence-based clinical training experiences for teacher candidates, and addressing recruitment and retention challenges for underrepresented groups. The Department emphasizes intentional support for candidates from diverse backgrounds and outlines strategies to strengthen the teacher pipeline in underserved schools.
Both initiatives reflect the government's commitment to safety in navigation and improving educational equity, addressing critical areas of public service and federal funding allocation.
The Department of Education is inviting applications for the Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Program, which aims to enhance teacher preparation at minority-serving institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal Colleges. The program seeks to address teacher shortages and improve diversity within the teaching workforce by providing funding to develop comprehensive, quality teacher preparation programs. Applications are open until June 18, 2024, with a budget of $15 million allocated for up to 27 awards averaging $550,000 each. The program emphasizes the need for high-quality, evidence-based clinical experiences and aims to increase the number of bilingual and multilingual teachers to better serve diverse student populations. It is critical for applicants to address specific priorities focused on increasing teacher diversity and providing comprehensive support structures. The evaluation will consider the quality of project design, significance, management techniques, and the appropriateness of evaluation methods. This initiative is part of broader efforts to ensure equitable access to effective educators for underserved students while enhancing educational achievement across communities.