The U.S. Department of Education has issued revised common instructions for applicants seeking discretionary grant funding, superseding prior guidelines published on December 7, 2022. These updated instructions serve as a centralized resource for application procedures, which will be referenced in Notices Inviting Applications (NIAs) for clarity and consistency. Key changes include enhanced clarity on application submission processes, requirements for a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and updated guidance on the use of Artificial Intelligence in grant applications. Applicants must submit materials electronically via Grants.gov, ensuring compliance with strict submission deadlines, and are cautioned against employing AI without understanding its potential risks. The instructions also outline the specific formats required for application documents and emphasize the importance of timely registration and submission to avoid disqualification. Additional support resources and contact information for applicant assistance are provided, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to facilitating access to federal educational grants while maintaining rigorous standards for accountability and integrity in application submissions.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for the fiscal year 2025 for the Indian Education Discretionary Grants Programs' Professional Development Program, specifically the Native American Teacher Retention Initiative (NATRI). The program aims to enhance the skills of Indian individuals in education and promote retention of effective educators in local educational agencies (LEAs) that serve a high proportion of Indian students. A notice of intent to apply is encouraged by February 18, 2025, with applications due by April 28, 2025. The grant emphasizes addressing the shortage of qualified Indian educators through initiatives that support their training and retention. Grantees must provide measurable outcomes detailing participants' progress toward state licensure and successful completion of service requirements. Competitive preference is given to tribal applicants and consortiums associated with Indian organizations or institutions. The funding, estimated at $72 million for special programs, allocates approximately $13 million for this initiative, with an expected award range of $400,000 to $500,000. The overarching goal is to ensure that every student has access to competent, culturally informed educators who understand Native American communities, enhancing educational opportunities and academic outcomes for Native American students. All submitted projects must comply with federal regulations concerning discrimination and reporting.

The document comprises final regulations amending the Professional Development (PD) program under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, aimed at improving educator retention for Indian students. It establishes priorities, including the recruitment and retention of effective teachers, and revises sections of the regulations for clarity and consistency. Key changes include expanding eligibility definitions, incorporating payback options for participants in part-time training, and emphasizing the importance of retention efforts among educators. The provisions ensure compliance with various federal acts regarding federalism, environmental assessments, and the regulatory impacts of proposed changes. Furthermore, the National Park Service introduces rules for Visitor Experience Improvements Authority (VEIA) aimed at enhancing visitor services at national parks, allowing for the administration of commercial services contracts. These regulations are essential for managing visitor facilities while ensuring economic benefits through concession contracts. Overall, the document reflects the federal government's commitment to educational support for Indian communities and improved visitor experiences in national parks, underlining collaboration with local entities and stakeholders.