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S 761 PCS

Calendar No. 70ESCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

110th CONGRESS 1st Session S. 761

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To invest in innovation and education to improve the competitiveness of the United States in the global economy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `America COMPETES Act' or the `America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2. ORGANIZATION OF ACT INTO DIVISIONS; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) DivisionsIVISIONS- This Act is organized into 45 divisions as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) DIVISION A- Commerce and Science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) DIVISION B- Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) DIVISION CB- Education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) DIVISION D- National Science Foundation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b)5) DIVISION E- General Provisions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Table of Contents- The table of contents for this Act is as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2. Organization of Act into divisions; table of contents.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION A--COMMERCE AND SCIENCE

Sec. 1001. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE I--OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY; GOVERNMENT-WIDE SCIENCE

Sec. 1101. National Science and Technology Summit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1102. Study on barriers to innovation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1103. National Innovation Medal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1104. Release of scientific research results.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1105. Semiannual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Days.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1106. Study of service science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE II--INNOVATION PROMOTION

Sec. 1201. President's Council on Innovation and Competitiveness.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1202. Innovation acceleration research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE III--NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

Sec. 1301. NASA's contribution to innovation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1302. Aeronautics Institute for Research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1303. Basic research enhancement.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1304. Aging workforce issues program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1305. Conforming amendments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1306. Fiscal year 2008 basic science and research funding.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE IV--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY

Sec. 1401. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1402. Amendments to the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1403. Innovation acceleration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1404. Manufacturing extension.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1405. Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1406. Technical amendments to the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act and other technical amendments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1407. Clarification of eligible contributions in connection with regional Centers responsible for implementing the objectives of the hollings manufacturing partnership program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE V--OCEAN AND ATMOSPHERIC PROGRAMS

Sec. 1501. Ocean and atmospheric research and development program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1502. NOAA ocean and atmospheric science education programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1503. NOAA's contribution to innovation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 1504. NOAA accountability and transparency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION B--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Sec. 2001. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2002. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2003. Mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2004. Department of Energy early-career research grants.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2005. Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2006. Authorization of appropriations for the Department of Energy for basic research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2007. Discovery science and engineering innovation institutes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2008. Protecting America's Competitive Edge (PACE) graduate fellowship program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2009. Title IX compliance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2010. High-risk, high-reward research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 2011. Distinguished scientist program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION C--EDUCATION

Sec. 3001. Findings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3002. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE I--TEACHER ASSISTANCE

Subtitle A--Teachers for a Competitive Tomorrow

Sec. 3111. Purpose.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3112. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3113. Programs for baccalaureate degrees in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign languages, with concurrent teacher certification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3114. Programs for master's degrees in mathematics, science, technology, or critical foreign languages education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3115. General provisions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3116. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle B--Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Programs

Sec. 3121. Purpose.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3122. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3123. Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE II--MATH NOWEMATICS

Sec. 3201. Math Now for elementary school and middle school students program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3202. Summer term education programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3203. Math skills for secondary school students.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE III--FOREIGN LANGUAGE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Sec. 3301. Findings and purpose.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3302. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3303. Program authorized.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3304. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE IV--ALIGNMENT OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Sec. 3401. Alignment of secondary school graduation requirements with the demands of 21st century postsecondary endeavors and support for P-16 education data systems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION D--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION

Sec. 4001. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4002. Strengthening of education and human resources directorate through equitable distribution of new funds.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4003. Graduate fellowships and graduate traineeships.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4004. Professional science master's degree programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4005. Increased support for science education through the National Science Foundation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4006. Meeting critical national science needs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4007. Reaffirmation of the merit-review process of the National Science Foundation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4008. Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4009. Encouraging participation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4010. Cyberinfrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4011. Federal information and communications technology research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4012. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4013. Sense of the Senate regarding the mathematics and science partnership programs of the Department of Education and the National Science Foundation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4014. National Science Foundation teacher institutes for the 21st century.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4015. Partnerships for access to laboratory science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION A--COMMERCE AND SCIENCE

SEC. 1001. SHORT TITLE.

This division may be cited as the `American Innovation and Competitiveness Act'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE I--OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY; GOVERNMENT-WIDE SCIENCE

SEC. 1101. NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT.

(a) In General- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the President shall convene a National Science and Technology Summit to examine the health and direction of the United States' science and technology, technology, engineering, and mathematics enterprises. The Summit shall include representatives of industry, small business, labor, academia, State government, Federal research and development agencies, non-profit environmental and energy policy groups concerned with science and technology issues, and other nongovernmental organizations, including representatives of science, technology, and engineering organizations and associations that represent individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Report- Not later than 90 days after the date of the conclusion of the Summit, the President shall issue a report on the results of the Summit. The report shall identify key research and technology challenges and recommendations, including recommendations to increase the representation of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in science, engineering, and technology enterprises, for areas of investment for Federal research and technology programs to be carried out during the 5-year period beginning on the date the report is issued.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Annual Evaluation- Beginning in 2008, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall publish and submit to Congress an annual report that contains recommendations for areas of investment for Federal research and technology programs, including a justification for each area identified in the report. Each report submitted during the 5-year period beginning on the date of the conclusion of the Summit shall take into account any recommendations made by the Summit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1102. STUDY ON BARRIERS TO INNOVATION.

(a) In General- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct and complete a study to identify, and to review methods to mitigate, new forms of risk for businesses beyond conventional operational and financial risk that affect the ability to innovate, including studying and reviewing--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) incentive and compensation structures that could effectively encourage long-term value creation and innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) methods of voluntary and supplemental disclosure by industry of intellectual capital, innovation performance, and indicators of future valuation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) means by which government could work with industry to enhance the legal and regulatory framework to encourage the disclosures described in paragraph (2);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) practices that may be significant deterrents to United States businesses engaging in innovation risk-taking compared to foreign competitors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) costs faced by United States businesses engaging in innovation compared to foreign competitors, including the burden placed on businesses by high and rising health care costs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) means by which industry, trade associations, and universities could collaborate to support research on management practices and methodologies for assessing the value and risks of longer term innovation strategies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) means to encourage new, open, and collaborative dialogue between industry associations, regulatory authorities, management, shareholders, labor, and other concerned interests to encourage appropriate approaches to innovation risk-taking;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) incentives to encourage participation among institutions of higher education, especially those in rural and underserved areas, to engage in innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) relevant Federal regulations that may discourage or encourage innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(10) the extent to which Federal funding all provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, including tax provisions, compliance costs, and reporting requirements, that discourage innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(11) the extent to which Federal funding promotes or hinders innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(11(12) the extent to which individuals are being equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the 21st century workforce, as measured by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) elementary school and secondary school student academic achievement on the State academic assessments required under section 1111(b)(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311 (b)(3)), especially in mathematics, science, and reading, identified by ethnicity, race, and gender;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) the rate of student entrance into institutions of higher education, identified by ethnicity, race, and gender, by type of institution, and barriers to access to institutions of higher education;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) the rates of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) students successfully completing postsecondary education programs, identified by ethnicity, race, and gender; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) certificates, associate degrees, and baccalaureate degrees awarded in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, identified by ethnicity, race, and gender; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) access to, and availability of, high quality job training programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(13) the projected outcomes of increasing the number of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(14) the identification of strategies to increase the participation of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Report Required- Not later than 1 year after entering into the contract required by subsection (a) and 4 years after entering into such contract, the National Academy of Sciences shall submit to Congress a report on the study conducted under such subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to the National Academy of Sciences $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 for the purpose of carrying out the study required under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1103. NATIONAL INNOVATION MEDAL.

Section 16 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3711) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) by striking the section heading and inserting `sec. 16. national technology and innovation medal.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) in subsection (a), by striking `Technology Medal' and inserting `Technology and Innovation Medal'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1104. RELEASE OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH RESULTS.

(a) Principles- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the heads of all Federal civilian agencies that conduct scientific research, shall develop and issue an overarching set of principles to ensure the communication and open exchange of data and results to other agencies, policymakers, and the public of research conducted by a scientist employed by a Federal civilian agency and to prevent the intentional or unintentional suppression or distortion of such research findings. The principles shall encourage the open exchange of data and results of research undertaken by a scientist employed by such an agency and shall be consistent with existing Federal laws, including chapter 18 of title 35, United States Code (commonly known as the `Bayh-Dole Act').CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Implementation- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall ensure that all civilian Federal agencies that conduct scientific research develop specific policies and procedures regarding the public release of data and results of research conducted by a scientist employed by such an agency consistent with the principles established under subsection (a). Such polices and procedures shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) specifically address what is and what is not permitted or recommended under such policies and procedures;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) be specifically designed for each such agency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) be applied uniformly throughout each such agency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) be widely communicated and readily accessible to all employees of each such agency and the public.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1105. SEMIANNUAL SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS DAYS.

It is the sense of Congress that the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy should--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) encourage all elementary and middle schools to observe a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Day twice in every school year for the purpose of bringing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics mentors to provide hands-on lessons to excite and inspire students to pursue the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields (including continuing education and career paths);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) initiate a program, in consultation with Federal agencies and departments, to provide support systems, tools (from existing outreach offices), and mechanisms to allow and encourage Federal employees with scientific, technological, engineering, or mathematical responsibilities to reach out to local classrooms on such Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Days to instruct and inspire school children, focusing on real life science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related applicable experiences along with hands-on demonstrations in order to demonstrate the advantages and direct applications of studying the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Days involvement by private sector and institutions of higher education employees, including partnerships with scientific, engineering, and mathematical professional organizations representing individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b), in a manner similar to the Federal employee involvement described in paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1106. STUDY OF SERVICE SCIENCE.

(a) Sense of Congress- It is the sense of Congress that, in order to strengthen the competitiveness of United States enterprises and institutions and to prepare the people of the United States for high-wage, high-skill employment, the Federal Government should better understand and respond strategically to the emerging management and learning discipline known as service science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Study- Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, through the National Academy of Sciences, shall conduct a study and report to Congress regarding how the Federal Government should support, through research, education, and training, the emerging management and learning discipline known as service science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Outside Resources- In conducting the study under subsection (b), the National Academy of Sciences shall consult with leaders from 2- and 4-year institutions of higher education, as defined in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a)), leaders from corporations, and other relevant parties.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Service Science Defined- In this section, the term `service science' means curricula, training, and research programs that are designed to teach individuals to apply scientific, engineering, and management disciplines that integrate elements of computer science, operations research, industrial engineering, business strategy, management sciences, and social and legal sciences, in order to encourage innovation in how organizations create value for customers and shareholders that could not be achieved through such disciplines working in isolation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE II--INNOVATION PROMOTION

SEC. 1201. PRESIDENT'S COUNCIL ON INNOVATION AND COMPETITIVENESS.

(a) In General- The President shall establish a President's Council on Innovation and Competitiveness.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Duties- The Council's duties shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) monitoring implementation of public laws and initiatives for promoting innovation, including policies related to research funding, taxation, immigration, trade, and education that are proposed in this Act or in any other Act;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) providing advice to the President with respect to global trends in competitiveness and innovation and allocation of Federal resources in education, job training, and technology research and development considering such global trends in competitiveness and innovation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, developing a process for using metrics to assess the impact of existing and proposed policies and rules that affect innovation capabilities in the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) identifying opportunities and making recommendations for the heads of executive agencies to improve innovation, monitoring, and reporting on the implementation of such recommendations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) developing metrics for measuring the progress of the Federal Government with respect to improving conditions for innovation, including through talent development, investment, and infrastructure improvements; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) submitting to the President and Congress an annual report on such progress.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Membership and Coordination-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) MEMBERSHIP- The Council shall be composed of the Secretary or head of each of the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) The Department of Commerce.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) The Department of Defense.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) The Department of Education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) The Department of Energy.(E) The Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) The Department of Health and Human Services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) The Department of Homeland Security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) The Department of Labor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(H) The Department of the Treasury.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) The National Aeronautics and Space Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(J) The Securities and Exchange Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(K) The National Science Foundation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(L) The Office of the United States Trade Representative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(M) The Office of Management and Budget.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(N) The Office of Science and Technology Policy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(O) The Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(P) The Small Business Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(Q) Any other department or agency designated by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) CHAIRPERSON- The Secretary of Commerce shall serve as Chairperson of the Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) COORDINATION- The Chairperson of the Council shall ensure appropriate coordination between the Council and the National Economic Council, the National Security Council, and the National Science and Technology Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) MEETINGS- The Council shall meet on a semi-annual basis at the call of the Chairperson and the initial meeting of the Council shall occur not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Development of Innovation Agenda-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Council shall develop a comprehensive agenda for strengthening the innovation and competitiveness capabilities of the Federal Government, State governments, academia, and the private sector in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) CONTENTS- The comprehensive agenda required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) An assessment of current strengths and weaknesses of the United States investment in research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Recommendations for addressing weaknesses and maintaining the United States as a world leader in research and development and technological innovation, including strategies for increasing the participation of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Recommendations for strengthening the innovation and competitiveness capabilities of the Federal government, State governments, academia, and the private sector in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) ADVISORS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) RECOMMENDATION- Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the National Academy of Sciences, in consultation with the National Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Medicine, and the National Research Council, shall develop and submit to the President a list of 50 individuals that are recommended to serve as advisors to the Council during the development of the comprehensive agenda required by paragraph (1). The list of advisors shall include appropriate representatives from the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) The private sector of the economy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) Labor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) Various fields including information technology, energy, engineering, high-technology manufacturing, health care, and education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) Scientific organizations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(v) Academic organizations and other nongovernmental organizations working in the area of science or technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(vi) Nongovernmental organizations, such as professional organizations, that represent individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in the areas of science, engineering, technology, and mathematics.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) DESIGNATION- Not later than 30 days after the date that the National Academy of Sciences submits the list of recommended individuals to serve as advisors, the President shall designate 50 individuals to serve as advisors to the Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) REQUIREMENT TO CONSULT- The Council shall develop the comprehensive agenda required by paragraph (1) in consultation with the advisors.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) INITIAL SUBMISSION AND UPDATES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) INITIAL SUBMISSION- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Council shall submit to Congress and the President the comprehensive agenda required by paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) UPDATES- At least once every 2 years, the Council shall update the comprehensive agenda required by paragraph (1) and submit each such update to Congress and the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Technical Amendment- Section 101(b) of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511(b)) is amended by striking `an' in the first sentence and inserting `a distinct'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Optional Assignment- Notwithstanding subsection (a) and paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (c), the President may designate an existing council to carry out the requirements of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1202. INNOVATION ACCELERATION RESEARCH.

(a) Program Established- The President, through the head of each Federal research agency, shall establish a program, to be known as the Innovation Acceleration Research Program, to support and promote innovation in the United States through research projects that can yield results with far-ranging or wide-ranging implications but are considered too novel or span too diverse a range of disciplines to fare well in the traditional peer review process. Priority in the awarding of grants under this program shall be given to research projects that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) meet fundamental technology or scientific challenges;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) involve multidisciplinary work; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) involve a high degree of novelty.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Departments and Agencies-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) FUNDING GOALS- The President shall ensure that it is the goal of each Executive agency (as defined in section 105 of title 5, United States Code) that finances research in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology to allocate approximately 8 percent of the agency's total annual research and development budget to funding research, including grants, under the Innovation Acceleration Research Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) ADMINISTRATION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of each Executive agency participating in the Innovation Acceleration Research Program under paragraph (1) shall submit to the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget a plan for implementing the research program within such Executive agency. An implementation plan may incorporate existing initiatives of the Executive agencies that promote research in innovation as described in subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) REQUIRED METRICS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) IN GENERAL- The head of each Executive agency submitting an implementation plan pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall include metrics upon which grant funding decisions will be made and metrics for assessing the success of the grants awarded.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) METRICS FOR BASIC RESEARCH- The metrics developed under clause (i) to assess basic research programs shall assess management of the programs and shall not assess specific scientific outcomes of the research conducted by the programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) GRANT DURATION AND RENEWALS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) IN GENERAL- Any grants issued by an Executive agency under this section shall be for a period not to exceed 3 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) EVALUATION- Not later than 90 days prior to the expiration of a grant issued under this section, the Executive agency that approved the grant shall complete an evaluation of the effectiveness of the grant based on the metrics established pursuant to subparagraph (B). In its evaluation, the Executive agency shall consider the extent to which the program funded by the grant met the goals of quality improvement and job creation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) PUBLICATION OF REVIEW- The Executive agency shall publish and make available to the public the review of each grant approved pursuant to this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) FAILURE TO MEET METRICS- Any grant that the Executive agency awarding the grant determines has failed to satisfy any of the metrics developed pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall not be eligible for a renewal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(v) RENEWAL- A grant issued under this section that satisfies all of the metrics developed pursuant to subparagraph (B), may be renewed once for a period of not more than 3 years. Additional renewals may be considered only if the head of the Executive agency makes a specific finding that the program being funded involves a significant technology or scientific advance that requires a longer time frame to complete critical research, and the research satisfies all the metrics developed pursuant to subparagraph (B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(vi) WAIVER- The head of the Executive agency may authorize a waiver of the requirement of clauses (iv) and (v) related to satisfying metric requirements if he or she determines that the grant failed to meet a small number of metrics and the failure was not significant for the overall performance of the grant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) FEDERAL RESEARCH AGENCY- The term `Federal research agency' means a major organizational component of a department or agency of the Federal Government, or other establishment of the Federal Government operating with appropriated funds, that has as its primary purpose the performance of scientific research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) MAJOR ORGANIZATIONAL COMPONENT- The term `major organizational component', with respect to a department, agency, or other establishment of the Federal Government, means a component of the department, agency, or other establishment that is administered by an individual whose rate of basic pay is not less than the rate of basic pay payable under level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of title 5, United States Code.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE III--NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

SEC. 1301. NASA'S CONTRIBUTION TO INNOVATION.

(a) Participation in Interagency Activities- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall be a full participant in any interagency effort to promote innovation and economic competitiveness through near-term and long-term basic scientific research and development and the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, consistent with the agency mission, including authorized activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Historic Foundation- In order to carry out the participation described in subsection (a), the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall build on the historic role of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in stimulating excellence in the advancement of physical science and engineering disciplines and in providing opportunities and incentives for the pursuit of academic studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Balanced Science Program and Robust Authorization Levels- The balanced science program authorized by section 101(d) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16611) shall be an element of the contribution by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to such interagency programs. It is the sense of Congress that a robust National Aeronautics and Space Administration, funded at the levels authorized for fiscal years 2007 and 2008 under sections 202 and 203 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 16631 and 16632) and at appropriate levels in subsequent fiscal years would enable a fair balance among science, aeronautics, education, exploration, and human space flight programs and allow full participation in any interagency efforts to promote innovation and economic competitiveness.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Annual Report-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) REQUIREMENT- The Administrator shall submit to Congress and the President an annual report describing the activities conducted pursuant to this section, including a description of the goals and the objective metrics upon which funding decisions were made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) CONTENT- Each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall include, with regard to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education programs, at a minimum, the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) A description of each program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) The amount spent on each program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) The number of students or teachers served by each program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) Measurement of how each program improved student achievement, including with regard to challenging State achievement standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1302. AERONAUTICS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH.

(a) Establishment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall establish within the Administration an Aeronautics Institute for Research for the purpose of managing the aeronautics research carried out by the Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) DIRECTOR- The Institute shall be headed by a Director with appropriate experience in aeronautics research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Duties- The Institute shall implement the programs authorized under title IV of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16701 et seq.).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Cooperation With Other Agencies-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Institute shall operate in conjunction with relevant programs in the Department of Transportation, the Department of Defense, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Homeland Security, including the activities of the Joint Planning and Development Office established under the Vision 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public Law 108-176; 117 Stat. 2490).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) RESOURCES- The Director of the Institute may accept assistance, staff, and funding from those Departments and other Federal agencies. Any such funding shall be in addition to funds authorized for aeronautics under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-155).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) OTHER COORDINATION- The Director of the Institute may utilize the Next Generation Air Transportation Senior Policy Committee established under section 710 of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act (Public Law 108-176; 49 U.S.C. 40101 note) to coordinate its programs with other Departments and agencies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Partnerships- In developing and carrying out its plans, the Institute shall consult with the public and ensure the participation of experts from the private sector including representatives of commercial aviation, general aviation, aviation labor groups, aviation research and development entities, aircraft and air traffic control suppliers, and the space industry.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1303. BASIC RESEARCH ENHANCEMENT.

(a) In General- The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Director of the National Science Foundation, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Defense, and Secretary of Commerce shall, to the extent practicable, coordinate basic and fundamental research activities related to physical sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment of Basic Research Executive Council- In order to ensure effective application of resources to basic science activity and to facilitate cooperative basic and fundamental research activities with other governmental organizations, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall establish within the Administration a Basic Research Executive Council to oversee the distribution and management of programs and resources engaged in support of basic research activity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Membership- The membership of the Basic Research Executive Council shall consist of the most senior agency official representing each of the following areas of research:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) Space Science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) Earth Science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) Life and Microgravity Sciences.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) Aeronautical Research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Leadership- The Basic Research Executive Council shall be chaired by an individual appointed for that purpose who shall have, as a minimum, a appropriate graduate degree in a recognizable discipline in the physical sciences, and appropriate experience in the conduct and management of basic research activity. The Chairman of the Council shall report directly to the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Supporting Resources and Personnel- The Chairman of the Basic Research Executive Council shall be provided with adequate administrative staff support to conduct the activity and functions of the Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Duties- The Basic Research Executive Council shall have, at minimum, the following duties:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) To establish criteria for the identification of research activity as basic in nature.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) To establish, in consultation with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the National Science Foundation, the National Academy of Sciences, the National Institutes of Health, and other appropriate external organizations, a prioritization of fundamental research activity to be conducted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, to be reviewed and updated on an annual basis, taking into consideration evolving national research priorities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) To monitor, review, and evaluate all basic research activity of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for compliance with basic research priorities established under paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) To make recommendations to the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration regarding adjustments in the basic research activities of the Administration to ensure consistency with the research priorities established under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) To provide an annual report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives outlining the activities of the Council during the preceding year and the status of basic research activity within the Administration. The initial such report, to serve as a baseline document, shall be provided within 90 days after the establishment and initial operations of the Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1304. AGING WORKFORCE ISSUES PROGRAM.

It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration should implement a program to address aging work force issues in aerospace that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) documents technical and management experiences before senior people leave the Administration, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) documenting lessons learned;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) briefing organizations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) providing opportunities for archiving lessons in a database; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) providing opportunities for near-term retirees to transition out early from their primary assignment in order to document their career lessons learned and brief new employees prior to their separation from the Administration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) provides incentives for retirees to return and teach new employees about their career lessons and experiences; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) provides for the development of an award to recognize and reward outstanding senior employees for their contributions to knowledge sharing.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1305. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.

Section 101(d) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16611(d)) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) by striking `and' after the semicolon in paragraph (2)(B);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) by striking `Act.' in paragraph (2)(C) and inserting `Act; and';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) by adding at the end of paragraph (2) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) the number and content of science activities which are undertaken in support of science missions described in subparagraph (A), and the number and content of science activities which may be considered as fundamental, or basic research, whether incorporated within specific missions or conducted independently of any specific mission.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) by adding at the end of paragraph (3) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(H) How NASA science activities can best be structured to ensure that basic and fundamental research can be effectively maintained and coordinated in response to national goals in competitiveness and innovation, and in contributing to national scientific, technology, engineering and mathematics leadership.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1306. FISCAL YEAR 2008 BASIC SCIENCE AND RESEARCH FUNDING.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall increase funding for basic science and research, including for the Explorer Program, for fiscal year 2008 by $160,000,000 by transferring such amount for such purpose from accounts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The transfer shall be contingent upon the availability of unobligated balances to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE IV--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY

SEC. 1401. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Commerce for the use of the National Institute of Standards and Technology--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) for fiscal year 2008, $703,611,000, of which $115,000,000 shall be used for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) for fiscal year 2009, $773,972,000, of which $120,0002,005,000 shall be used for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) for fiscal year 2010, $851,369,000, of which $125,00031,766,000 shall be used for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) for fiscal year 2011, $936,506,000, of which $130,042,300,000 shall be used for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1402. AMENDMENTS TO THE STEVENSON-WYDLER TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION ACT OF 1980.

(a) In General- Section 5 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3704) is repealed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Conforming Amendments-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) TITLE 5, UNITED STATES CODE- Section 5314 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by striking `Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) DEFINITIONS- Section 4 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3703) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by striking paragraphs (1) and (3); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (13) as paragraphs (1) through (11), respectively.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) REPEAL OF AUTHORIZATION- Section 21(a) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3713(a)) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) in paragraph (1), by striking `sections 5, 11(g), and 16' and inserting `sections 11(g) and 16'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) in paragraph (2), by striking `$500,000 is authorized only for the purpose of carrying out the requirements of the Japanese technical literature program established under section 5(d) of this Act;'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING ACT OF 1991- Section 208 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5528) is amended by striking subsection (c) and redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 1998- Section 6(b)(4)(B)(v) of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3005(b)(4)(B)(v)) is amended by striking `the Technology Administration of the Department of Commerce,' and inserting `the National Institute of Standards and Technology,'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1403. INNOVATION ACCELERATION.

(a) Program- In order to implement section 1202 of this Act, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) establish a program linked to the goals and objectives of the measurement laboratories, to be known as the `Standards and Technology Acceleration Research Program', to support and promote innovation in the United States through high-risk, high-reward research; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) set aside, from funds available to the measurement laboratories, an amount equal to not less than 8 percent of the funds available to the Institute each fiscal year for such Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) External Funding- The Director shall ensure that at least 80 percent of the funds available for such Program shall be used to award competitive, merit-reviewed grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts to public or private entities, including businesses and universities. In selecting entities to receive such assistance, the Director shall ensure that the project proposed by an entity has scientific and technical merit and that any resulting intellectual property shall vest in a United States entity that can commercialize the technology in a timely manner. Each external project shall involve at least one small or medium-sized business and the Director shall give priority to joint ventures between small or medium-sized businesses and educational institutions. Any grant shall be for a period not to exceed 3 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Competitions- The Director shall solicit proposals annually to address areas of national need for high-risk, high-reward research, as identified by the Director.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Annual Report- Each year the Director shall issue an annual report describing the program's activities, including include a description of the metrics upon which grant funding decisions were made in the previous fiscal year, any proposed changes to those metrics, metrics for evaluating the success of ongoing and completed grants, and an evaluation of ongoing and completed grants. The first annual report shall include best practices for management of programs to stimulate high-risk, high-reward research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Administrative Expenses- No more than 5 percent of the finding available to the program may be used for administrative expenses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) High-Risk, High-Reward Research Defined- In this section, the term `high-risk, high-reward research' means research that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) has the potential for yielding results with far-ranging or wide-ranging implications;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) addresses critical national needs related to measurement standards and technology; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) is too novel or spans too diverse a range of disciplines to fare well in the traditional peer review process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1404. MANUFACTURING EXTENSION.

(a) Manufacturing Center Evaluation- Section 25(c)(5) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k(c)(5)) is amended by inserting `A Center that has not received a positive evaluation by the evaluation panel shall be notified by the panel of the deficiencies in its performance and shall be placed on probation for one year, after which time the panel shall reevaluate the Center. If the Center has not addressed the deficiencies identified by the panel, or shown a significant improvement in its performance, the Director shall conduct a new competition to select an operator for the Center or may close the Center.' after `at declining levels.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Federal Share- Section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k) is amended by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:` (d) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Acceptance of Funds- In addition to such sums as may be appropriated to the Secretary and Director to operate the Centers program, the Secretary and Director also may accept funds from other Federal departments and agencies and under section 2(c)(7) from the private sector for the purpose of strengthening United States manufacturing. Such funds from the private sector, if allocated to a Center or Centers, shall not be considered in the calculation of the Federal share of capital and annual operating and maintenance costs under subsection (c).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1405. EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM TO STIMULATE COMPETITIVE TECHNOLOGY.

(a) In General- The Director of the National Institutes of Standards and Technology shall re-establish the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Technology. The purpose of the program shall be to strengthen the technological competitiveness of those States that have historically received less Federal research and development funds than a majority of the States have received.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Arrangements- In carrying out the program, the Director shall cooperate with State, regional, or local science and technology-based economic development organization and with representatives of small business firms and other appropriate technology-based businesses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Grants and Cooperative Agreements- In carrying out the program, the Director may make grants or enter into cooperative agreements to provide for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) technology research and development;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) technology transfer from university research;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) technology deployment and diffusion; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) the strengthening of technological and innovation capabilities through consortia comprised of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) technology-based small business firms;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) industries and emerging companies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) institutions of higher education including community colleges; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) State and local development agencies and entities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Requirements for Making Awards-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- In making awards under this section, the Director shall ensure that the awards are awarded on a competitive basis that includes a review of the merits of the activities that are the subject of the award, giving special emphasis to those projects which will increase the participation of women, Native Americans (including Native Hawaiians and Alaska Natives), and underrepresented groups in science and technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) MATCHING REQUIREMENT- The non-Federal share of the activities (other than planning activities) carried out under an award under this subsection shall be not less than 50 percent of the cost of those activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Criteria for States- The Director shall establish criteria for achievement by each State that participates in the program. Upon the achievement of all such criteria, a State shall cease to be eligible to participate in the program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Coordination- To the extent practicable, in carrying out this subsection, the Director shall coordinate the program with other programs of the Department of Commerce.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Report-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall prepare and submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives a report that meets the requirements of this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) REQUIREMENTS FOR REPORT- The report required by this subsection shall contain--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) a description of the structure and procedures of the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) a management plan for the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) a description of the merit-based review process to be used in the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) milestones for the evaluation of activities to be assisted under the program in fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) an assessment of the eligibility of each State that participates in the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research of the National Science Foundation to participate in the program under this subsection; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) the evaluation criteria with respect to which the overall management and effectiveness of the program will be evaluated.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1406. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY ACT AND OTHER TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS.

(a) Research Fellowships- Section 18 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-1) is amended by striking `up to 1 per centum of the' in the first sentence.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Financial Agreements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) CLARIFICATION- Section 2(b)(4) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(b)(4)) is amended by inserting `and grants and cooperative agreements,' after `arrangements,'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) MEMBERSHIPS- Section 2(c) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by striking `and' after the semicolon in paragraph (21);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by redesignating paragraph (22) as paragraph (23); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) by inserting after paragraph (21) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(22) notwithstanding subsection (b)(4) of this section, sections 6301 through 6308 of title 31, United States Code (commonly known as the `Grants and Cooperative Agreements Act'), sections 3551 through 3556 of such title (commonly known as the `Competition in Contracting Act'), and the Federal Acquisition Regulations set forth in title 48, Code of Federal Regulations, to expend appropriated funds for National Institute of Standards and Technology memberships in scientific organizations, registration fees for attendance at conferences, and sponsorship of conferences in furtherance of technology transfer; and'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Working Capital Fund- Section 12 of the National Institute of Standards and Development Act (15 U.S.C. 278b) is amended by adding at the end the following:`(g) Amount and Source of Transfers- Not to exceed one-quarter per centum of the amounts appropriated to the Institute for any fiscal year may be transferred to the fund, in addition to any other transfer authority. In addition, funds provided to the Institute from other Federal agencies for the purpose of production of Standard Reference Materials may be transferred to the fund.'.(d) Outdated Specifications-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) REDEFINITION OF METRIC SYSTEM- Section 2 of the Act of July 28, 1866, entitled `An Act to authorize the Use of the Metric System of Weights and Measures' (15 U.S.C. 205; 14 Stat. 339) is amended to read as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`SEC. 2. METRIC SYSTEM DEFINED.

`The metric system of measurement shall be defined as the International System of Units as established in 1960, and subsequently maintained, by the General Conference of Weights and Measures, and as interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) REPEAL OF REDUNDANT AND OBSOLETE AUTHORITY- The Act of July 21, 1950, entitled, `An Act To redefine the units and establish the standards of electrical and photometric measurements of 1950' (15 U.S.C. 223) is hereby repealed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) IDAHO TIME ZONE- Section 3 of the Act of March 19, 1918, (commonly known as the `Calder Act') (15 U.S.C. 264) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) in the section heading, by striking `third zone' and inserting `fourth zone'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by striking `third zone' and inserting `fourth zone'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) STANDARD TIME- Section 1 of the Act of March 19, 1918, (commonly known as the `Calder Act') (15 U.S.C. 261) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by inserting `(a) In General- ' before `For the purpose';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by striking the second sentence and the extra period after it and inserting `Except as provided in section 3(a) of the Uniform Time Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C. 260a), the standard time of the first zone shall be Coordinated Universal Time retarded by 4 hours; that of the second zone retarded by 5 hours; that of the third zone retarded by 6 hours; that of the fourth zone retarded by 7 hours; that of the fifth zone retarded 8 hours; that of the sixth zone retarded by 9 hours; that of the seventh zone retarded by 10 hours; that of the eighth zone retarded by 11 hours; and that of the ninth zone shall be Coordinated Universal Time advanced by 10 hours.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Coordinated Universal Time Defined- In this section, the term `Coordinated Universal Time' means the time scale maintained through the General Conference of Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce in coordination with the Secretary of the Navy.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Retention of Depreciation Surcharge- Section 14d) Non-Energy Inventions Program- Section 27 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278d) is amended--(1) by inserting `(a) In General- ' before `Within'; and(2) by adding at the end the following:`(b) Retention of Fees- The Director is authorized to retain all building use and depreciation surcharge fees collected pursuant to OMB Circular A-25. Such fees shall be collected and credited to the Construction of Research Facilities Appropriation Account for use in maintenance and repair of National Institute of Standards and Technology's existing facilities.'.(f) Non-Energy Inventions Program- Section 27m) is repealed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Paragraph (3) of section 25(c) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278m) is repealedk(c)(3)) is amended to read as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) FINANCIAL SUPPORT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) IN GENERAL- Any nonprofit institution, or group thereof, or consortia of nonprofit institutions, including entities existing on August 23, 1988, may submit to the Secretary an application for financial support under this subsection, in accordance with the procedures established by the Secretary and published in the Federal Register under paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) CENTER CONTRIBUTIONS- In order to receive assistance under this section, an applicant for financial assistance under subparagraph (A) shall provide adequate assurances that non-Federal assets obtained from the applicant and the applicant's partnering organizations will be used as a funding source to meet not less than 50 percent of the costs incurred for the first 3 years and an increasing share for each of the last 3 years. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the costs incurred means the costs incurred in connection with the activities undertaken to improve the management, productivity, and technological performance of small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES- In meeting the 50 percent requirement, it is anticipated that a Center will enter into agreements with other entities such as private industry, universities, and State governments to accomplish programmatic objectives and access new and existing resources that will further the impact of the Federal investment made on behalf of small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies. All non-Federal costs, contributed by such entities and determined by a Center as programmatically reasonable and allocable are includable as a portion of the Center's contribution.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) ALLOCATION OF LEGAL RIGHTS- Each applicant under subparagraph (A) shall also submit a proposal for the allocation of any legal right associated with any invention that may result from an activity of a Center for which such applicant receives financial assistance under this section.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE V--OCEAN AND ATMOSPHERIC PROGRAMS

SEC. 1501. OCEAN AND ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in consultation with the Director of the National Science Foundation and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, shall establish a coordinated program of ocean, coastal, Great Lakes, and atmospheric research and development, in collaboration with academic institutions and other nongovernmental entities, that shall focus on the development of advanced technologies and analytical methods that will promote United States leadership in ocean and atmospheric science and competitiveness in the applied uses of such knowledge.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1502. NOAA OCEAN AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

(a) In General- The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall conduct, develop, support, promote, and coordinate formal and informal educational activities at all levels to enhance public awareness and understanding of ocean, coastal, Great Lakes, and atmospheric science and stewardship by the general public and other coastal stakeholders, including underrepresented groups in ocean and atmospheric science and policy careers. In conducting those activities, the Administrator shall build upon the educational programs and activities of the agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) NOAA Science Education Plan- The Administrator, appropriate National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration programs, ocean atmospheric science and education experts, and interested members of the public shall develop a science education plan setting forth education goals and strategies for the Administration, as well as programmatic actions to carry out such goals and priorities over the next 20 years, and evaluate and update such plan every 5 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Construction- Nothing in this section may be construed to affect the application of section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232a) or sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794 and 794d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION B--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

SEC. 2001. SHORT TITLE.

This division may be cited as the `Protecting America's Competitive Edge Through Energy Act' or the `PACE-Energy Act'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2002. DEFINITIONS.

In this division:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) DEPARTMENT- The term `Department' means the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION- The term `institution of higher education' has the meaning given in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) NATIONAL LABORATORY- The term `National Laboratory' has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy, acting through the Under Secretary for Science appointed under section 202(b) of the Department of Energy Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7132(b)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2003. MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION AT THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY.

(a) Science Education Programs- Section 3164 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381a) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) by redesignating subsections (b) through (d) as subsections (c) through (e), respectively;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Organization of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Programs-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) DIRECTOR OF MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Science (referred to in this subsection as the `Under Secretary'), shall appoint a Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education (referred to in this subsection as the `Director') with the principal responsibility for administering mathematics, science, and engineering education programs across all functions of the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) QUALIFICATIONS- The Director shall be an individual, who by reason of professional background and experience, is specially qualified to advise the Under Secretary on all matters pertaining to mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) DUTIES- The Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) oversee all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) represent the Department as the principal interagency liaison for all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs, unless otherwise represented by the Secretary or the Under Secretary;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) prepare the annual budget and advise the Under Secretary on all budgetary issues for mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) increase, to the maximum extent practicable, the participation and advancement of women and underrepresented minorities at every level of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(E) perform other such matters related to mathematics, science, and engineering education as are required by the Secretary or the Under Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) STAFF AND OTHER RESOURCES- The Secretary shall assign to the Director such personnel and other resources as the Secretary considers necessary to permit the Director to carry out the duties of the Director.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) ASSESSMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall offer to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy, not later than 5 years after, and not later than 10 years after, the date of enactment of this paragraph, shall assess the performance of the mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) CONSIDERATIONS- An assessment under this paragraph shall be conducted taking into consideration, where applicable, the effect of mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department on student academic achievement in math and science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(6) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subsection.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) by striking subsection (d) (as redesignated by paragraph (1)) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund- The Secretary shall establish a Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund, using not less than 0.3 percent of the amount made available to the Department for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for each fiscal year, to carry out sections 3165, 3166, and 3167.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Consultation- The Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) consult with the Secretary of Education regarding activities authorized under subpart B of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (as added by subsection (d)(3)) to improve mathematics and science education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) otherwise make available to the Secretary of Education reports associated with programs authorized under that section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Definition- Section 3168 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381d) is amended by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) NATIONAL LABORATORY- The term `National Laboratory' has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Programs- The Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381 et seq.) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) by inserting after section 3162 the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`Subpart A--Science Education Enhancement';

(2) in section 3169, by striking `part' and inserting `subpart'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`Subpart B--Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Programs

`SEC. 3170. DEFINITIONS.

`In this subpart:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) DIRECTOR- The term `Director' means the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) NATIONAL LABORATORY- The term `National Laboratory' has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`CHAPTER 1--ASSISTANCE FOR SPECIALTY SCHOOLS FOR MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE

`SEC. 3171. SPECIALTY SCHOOLS FOR MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE.

`(a) Purpose- The purpose of this section is to provide assistance to States to establish or expand public, statewide specialty secondary schools that provide comprehensive mathematics and science (including engineering and technology) education to improve the academic achievement of students in mathematics and science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Definition of Specialty School for Mathematics and Science- In this chapter, the term `specialty school for mathematics and science' means a public secondary school (including a school that provides residential services to students) that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) serves students residing in the State in which the school is located; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) offers to those students a high-quality, comprehensive mathematics and science (including engineering) and technology) curriculum designed to improve the academic achievement of students in mathematics and science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Grants Authorized-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- From the amounts authorized under subsection (i), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall award grants, on a competitive basis, to States in order to provide assistance to the States for the costs of establishing or expanding public, statewide specialty schools for mathematics and science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) RESOURCES- The Director shall ensure that appropriate resources of the Department, including the National Laboratories, are available to schools funded under this section in order to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) increase experiential, hands-on learning opportunities in mathematics and science for students, science, engineering, and technology for students attending such schools; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) provide ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers employed at such schools.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) ASSISTANCE- Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, during which the staff--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) assists teachers in teaching courses at the schools funded under this section;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in teaching the courses; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) uses distance education and other technologies to provide assistance described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) to schools funded under this section that are not located near the National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) RESTRICTION- No State shall receive funding for more than 1 specialty school for mathematics and science for a fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Federal and Non-Federal Shares-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) FEDERAL SHARE- The Federal share of the costs described in subsection (c)(1) shall not exceed 50 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) NON-FEDERAL SHARE- The non-Federal share of the costs described in subsection (c)(1) shall be--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) not less than 50 percent; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) provided from non-Federal sources, in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Application- Each State desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Director may require that describes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) the process by which and selection criteria with which the State will select and designate a school as a specialty school for mathematics and science in accordance with this section;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) how the State will ensure that funds made available under this section are used to establish or expand a specialty school for mathematics and science--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) in accordance with the activities described in subsection (g); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) that has the capacity to improve the academic achievement of all students in all core academic subjects, and particularly in mathematics and science;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) how the State will measure the extent to which the school increases student academic achievement on State academic achievement standards in mathematics and science, science, and, to the extent applicable, technology and engineering;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) the curricula and materials to be used in the school;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) the availability of funds from non-Federal sources for the non-Federal share of the costs of the activities authorized under this section; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(6) how the State will use technical assistance and support from the Department, including the National Laboratories, and other entities with experience and expertise in mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering education, including institutions of higher education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Distribution- In awarding grants under this section, the Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) ensure a wide, equitable distribution among States that propose to serve students from urban and rural areas; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) provide equal consideration to States without National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(g) Uses of Funds-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- A State that receives a grant under this section shall use the funds made available through the grant to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) employ proven strategies and methods for improving student learning and teaching in mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) integrate into the curriculum of the school comprehensive mathematics and science education, including instruction and assessments in mathematics, science, and to the extent applicable, technology and engineering that are aligned with the State's academic content and student academic achievement standards (within the meaning of section 1111 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311)), classroom management, professional development, parental involvement, and school management; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) provide high-quality and continuous teacher and staff professional development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) SPECIAL RULE- Grant funds under this section may be used for activities described in paragraph (1) only if the activities are directly related to improving student academic achievement in mathematics and science, science, and to the extent applicable, technology and engineering.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(h) Evaluation and Report-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) STATE EVALUATION AND REPORT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) EVALUATION- Each State that receives a grant under this section shall develop and carry out an evaluation and accountability plan for the activities funded through the grant that measures the impact of the activities, including measurable objectives for improved student academic achievement on State mathematics and science, science, and, to the extent applicable, technology and engineering assessments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) REPORT- The State shall submit to the Director a report containing the results of the evaluation and accountability plan.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) REPORT TO CONGRESS- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the PACE-Energy Act, the Director shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress detailing the impact of the activities assisted with funds made available under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`CHAPTER 2--EXPERIENTIAL-BASED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

`SEC. 3175. EXPERIENTIAL-BASED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES.

`(a) Internships Authorized-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- From the amounts authorized under subsection (f), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish a summer internship program for middle school and secondary school students that shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) provide the students with internships at the National Laboratories;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and`(B) promote experiential, hands-on learning in mathematics or science, science, technology, or engineering; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) be of at least 2 weeks in duration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) RESIDENTIAL SERVICES- The Director may provide residential services to students participating in the Internship authorized under this chapter.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Selection Criteria-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Director shall establish criteria to determine the sufficient level of academic preparedness necessary for a student to be eligible for an internship under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) PARTICIPATION- The Director shall ensure the participation of students from a wide distribution of States, including States without National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT- The Director may consider the academic achievement of middle and secondary school students in determining eligibility under this section, in accordance with subsection (1) and (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Priority-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Director shall give priority for an internship under this section to a student who meets the eligibility criteria described in subsection (b) and who attends a school--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A)(i) in which not less than 30 percent of the children enrolled in the school are from low-income families; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(ii) that is designated with a school locale code of 6, 7, or 8, as determined by the Secretary of Education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) for which there is--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) a high percentage of teachers who are not teaching in the academic subject areas or grade levels in which the teachers were trained to teach;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(ii) a high teacher turnover rate; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(iii) a high percentage of teachers with emergency, provisional, or temporary certification or licenses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) COORDINATION- The Director shall consult with the Secretary of Education in order to determine whether a student meets the priority requirements of this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Outreach and Experiential-Based Programs for Minority Students-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, acting through the Director, in cooperation with Hispanic-serving institutions, historically Black colleges and universities, tribally controlled colleges and universities, Alaska Native- and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions, and other minority-serving institutions and nonprofit entities with substantial experience relating to outreach and experiential-based learning projects, shall establish outreach and experiential-based learning programs that will encourage underrepresented minority students in kindergarten through grade 12 to pursue careers in math, science, and engineering.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT- The Secretary shall ensure that the programs established under paragraph (1) involve, to the maximum extent practicable--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) participation by parents and educators; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) the establishment of partnerships with business organizations and appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) DISTRIBUTION- The Secretary shall ensure that the programs established under paragraph (1) are located in diverse geographic regions of the United States, to the maximum extent practicable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Evaluation and Accountability Plan- The Director shall develop an evaluation and accountability plan for the activities funded under this chapter that objectively measures the impact of the activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`CHAPTER 3--NATIONAL LABORATORIES CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION

`SEC. 3181. NATIONAL LABORATORIES CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION.

`(a) Definition of High-Need Public Secondary School- In this chapter, the term `high-need public secondary school' means a secondary school--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) with a high concentration of low-income individuals (as defined in section 1707 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6537)); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) designated with a school locale code of 6, 7, or 8, as determined by the Secretary of Education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Establishment- The Secretary shall establish at each of the National Laboratories a program to support a Center of Excellence in Mathematics and Science at 1 high-need public secondary school , Science, Technology, and Engineering at 1 high-need public secondary school located in the region of the National Laboratory to provide assistance in accordance with subsection (f).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Partnership- Each high-need public secondary school selected as a Center of Excellence shall form a partnership with a department that provides training for teachers and principals at an institution of higher education for purposes of compliance with subsection (g).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Selection-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish criteria to guide the National Laboratories in selecting the sites of the Centers of Excellence.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) PROCESS- The National Laboratories shall select the sites of the Centers of Excellence through an open, widely publicized, and competitive process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Goals- The Secretary shall establish goals and performance assessments for each Center of Excellence authorized under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Assistance- Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, during which the staff--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) assists teachers in teaching courses at the Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science, Science, Technology, and Engineering; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the teaching of the courses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(g) Special Rule- Each Center of Excellence shall ensure--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) provision of clinical practicum, student teaching, or internship experiences for math and scienceematics, science, and technology teacher candidates as part of its teacher preparation program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) provision of supervision and mentoring for teacher candidates in the teacher preparation program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) to the maximum extent practicable, provision of professional development for veteran teachers in the public secondary schools in the region.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(h) Evaluation- The Secretary shall consider the results of performance assessments required under subsection (e) in determining the contract award fee of a National Laboratory management and operations contractor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) Plan- The Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) develop an evaluation and accountability plan for the activities funded under this chapter that objectively measures the impact of the activities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) disseminate information obtained from those measurements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(j) No Effect on Similar Programs- Nothing in this section displaces or otherwise affects any similar program being carried out as of the date of enactment of this subpart at any National Laboratory under any other provision of law.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`CHAPTER 4--SUMMER INSTITUTES

`SEC. 3185. SUMMER INSTITUTES.

`(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) ELIGIBLE PARTNER- The term `eligible partner' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) the mathematics or science (including engineering), science, or engineering department at an institution of higher education, acting in coordination with a department at an institution of higher education that provides training for teachers and principals; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) a nonprofit entity with expertise in providing professional development for mathematics or science teachers.`(2) , science, or technology teachers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) SUMMER INSTITUTE- The term `summer institute' means an institute, conducted during the summer, that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) is conducted for a period of not less than 2 weeks;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) includes, as a component, a program that provides direct interaction between students and faculty, including personnel of 1 or more National Laboratories who have scientific expertise; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) provides for follow-up training, during the academic year, that is conducted in the classroom.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Summer Institute Programs Authorized-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) PROGRAMS AT THE NATIONAL LABORATORIES- The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish or expand programs of summer institutes at each of the National Laboratories to provide additional training to strengthen the mathematics and science teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools for kindergarten through grade , science, technology, and engineering teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools for kindergarten through grade 12, in accordance with the activities authorized under subsections (c) and (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) PROGRAMS WITH ELIGIBLE PARTNERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall identify and provide assistance to eligible partners to establish or expand programs of summer institutes that provide additional training to strengthen the mathematics and science teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools for kindergarten through grade , science, technology, and engineering teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools for kindergarten through grade 12, in accordance with the activities authorized under subsections (c) and (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) ASSISTANCE- Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, during which the staff--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) assists in providing training to teachers at summer institutes; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(ii) uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the training.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) LIMITATION OF AMOUNT- To carry out this paragraph, the Director may use not more than 50 percent of the amounts authorized under subsection (h) for a fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Required Activities- Each program authorized under subsection (b) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) create opportunities for enhanced and ongoing professional development for teachers that improves the mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering content knowledge of such teachers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) include material pertaining to recent developments in mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering pedagogy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) provide training on the use and integration of technology in the classroom;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) directly relate to the curriculum and academic areas in which the teachers provide instruction;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) enhance the ability of the teachers to understand and use the challenging State academic content standards for mathematics and science, science, and, to the extent applicable, technology and engineering and to select appropriate curricula;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(6) train teachers to use curricula that are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) based on scientific research;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) aligned with challenging State academic content standards; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) object-centered, experiment-oriented, and concept- and content-based;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(7) provide professional development activities, including supplemental and follow-up activities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(8) allow for the exchange of best practices among the participants.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Permissible Activities- A program authorized under subsection (b) may include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) a program that provides teachers with opportunities to work under the guidance of experienced teachers and college faculty;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) instruction in the use and integration of data and assessments to inform and instruct classroom practice; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) extended master teacher programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Priority- To the maximum extent practicable, the Director shall ensure that each summer institute program authorized under subsection (b) provides training to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) teachers from a wide range of school districts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) teachers from disadvantaged school districts; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) teachers from groups underrepresented in the fields of mathematics and science , science, technology, and engineering teaching, including women and members of minority groups.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Coordination and Consultation- The Director shall consult and coordinate with the Secretary of Education and the Director of the National Science Foundation regarding the implementation of the programs authorized under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(g) Evaluation and Accountability Plan-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Director shall develop an evaluation and accountability plan for the activities funded under this section that measures the impact of the activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) CONTENTS- The evaluation and accountability plan shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) measurable objectives to increase the number of mathematics and science teachers who participate in the summer , science, and technology teachers who participate in the summer institutes involved; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) measurable objectives for improved student academic achievement on State mathematics and science, science, and to the extent applicable, technology and engineering assessments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) REPORT TO CONGRESS- The Secretary shall submit to Congress with the annual budget submission of the Secretary a report on how the activities assisted under this section improve the mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering teaching skills of participating teachers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(h) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`CHAPTER 5--NUCLEAR SCIENCE EDUCATION

`SEC. 3191. NUCLEAR SCIENCE TALENT EXPANSION PROGRAM FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.

`(a) Purposes- The purposes of this section are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) to address the decline in the number of and resources available to nuclear science programs of institutions of higher education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) to increase the number of graduates with degrees in nuclear science, an area of strategic importance to the economic competitiveness and energy security of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Definition of Nuclear Science- In this section, the term `nuclear science' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) nuclear science;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) nuclear engineering;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) nuclear chemistry;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) radio chemistry; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) health physics.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Establishment- The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish in accordance with this section a program to expand and enhance institution of higher education nuclear science educational capabilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Nuclear Science Program Expansion Grants for Institutions of Higher Education-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall award up to 3 competitive grants for each fiscal year to institutions of higher education that establish new academic degree programs in nuclear science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) ELIGIBILITY- To be eligible for a grant under this subsection, an applicant shall partner with a National Laboratory or other eligible nuclear-related entity, as determined by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) CRITERIA- Criteria for a grant awarded under this subsection shall be based on--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) the potential to attract new students to the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) academic rigor; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) the ability to offer hands-on learning opportunities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) DURATION AND AMOUNT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) DURATION- A grant under this subsection shall be 5 years in duration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) AMOUNT- An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection shall be eligible for up to $1,000,000 for each year of the grant period.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) USE OF FUNDS- An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection may use the grant to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) recruit and retain new faculty;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) develop core and specialized course content;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) encourage collaboration between faculty and researchers in the nuclear science field; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) support outreach efforts to recruit students.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Nuclear Science Competitiveness Grants for Institutions of Higher Education-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, acting through the Director shall award up to 10 competitive grants for each fiscal year to institutions of higher education with existing academic degree programs that produce graduates in nuclear science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) CRITERIA- Criteria for a grant awarded under this subsection shall be based on the potential for increasing the number and academic quality of graduates in the nuclear sciences who enter into careers in nuclear-related fields.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(3) DURATION AND AMOUNT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) DURATION- A grant under this subsection shall be 5 years in duration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) AMOUNT- An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection shall be eligible for up to $500,000 for each year of the grant period.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) USE OF FUNDS- An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection may use the grant to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) increase the number of graduates in nuclear science that enter into careers in the nuclear science field;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) enhance the teaching of advanced nuclear technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) aggressively pursue collaboration opportunities with industry and National Laboratories;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) bolster or sustain nuclear infrastructure and research facilities of the institution of higher education, such as research and training reactors or laboratories; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(E) provide tuition assistance and stipends to undergraduate and graduate students.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Authorization of Appropriations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) NUCLEAR SCIENCE PROGRAM EXPANSION GRANTS FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (d)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) $9,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) $13,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) $18,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) $22,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) NUCLEAR SCIENCE COMPETITIVENESS GRANTS FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (e)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) $11,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) $16,500,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) $22,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) $27,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

`(a) Purpose- The purpose of this section is to enable all students to reach or exceed grade-level academic achievement standards and to enhance the knowledge of the students of the science of energy, the sources of energy, the uses of energy in society, and the environmental consequences and benefits of all energy sources and uses by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) improving instruction in science related to energy for students in kindergarten through grade 9 through the implementation of energy education programs and with the support of comprehensive science education initiatives that are based on the best available evidence of effectiveness; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) providing professional development and instructional leadership activities for teachers and, if appropriate, for administrators and other school staff, on the implementation of comprehensive mathematics initiatives designed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) to improve the understanding of students of the scientific, economic, and environmental impacts of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) to improve the knowledge of teachers, administrators, and other school staff related to the scientific content of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) to increase the use of effective instructional practices; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) to reflect science content that is consistent with State academic achievement standards in mathematics described in section 1111(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(b) Program- The Secretary (acting through the Director) (referred to in this section as the `Secretary') shall provide grants to States to assist the States in establishing or expanding programs to enhance the quality of science education in elementary schools with respect to conventional and emerging energy sources and uses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(c) Coordination- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall use and coordinate with existing State and national programs that have a similar mission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(d) Grants- The Secretary shall award grants, on a competitive basis, under this section to States to pay the Federal share of the costs of establishing or expanding high-quality energy education curricula and programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(e) Programs- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall award grants to establish or expand programs that enhance--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) the quality of science education in elementary schools with respect to conventional and emerging energy sources and uses; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) the understanding of students of the science, economics, and environmental impacts of energy production and consumption.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(f) Federal and Non-Federal Shares-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) FEDERAL SHARE- The Federal share of the costs of carrying out a program under this section shall be 50 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) NON-FEDERAL SHARE- The non-Federal share of the costs of carrying out a program under this section may be provided in the form of cash or in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated, including services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(g) Distribution- In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) ensure a wide, equitable distribution of grants among States that propose to serve students from urban and rural areas; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) provide equal consideration to States without National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(h) Uses of Funds-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) IN GENERAL- Subject to paragraph (2), States, or other entities through States, that receive grants under this section shall use the grant funds to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) employ proven strategies and methods for improving student learning and teaching regarding energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) integrate into the curriculum of schools comprehensive, science-based, energy education, including instruction and assessments that are aligned with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) the academic content and student academic achievement standards of the State (within the meaning of section 1111 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311));CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(ii) classroom management;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(iii) professional development;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(iv) parental involvement; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(v) school management; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) provide high-quality and continuous teacher and staff professional development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) REQUIREMENTS- Grant funds under this section may be used for activities described in paragraph (1) only if the activities are directly related to improving student academic achievement related to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(A) the science of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(B) the sources of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(C) the uses of energy in society; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(D) the environmental consequences and benefits of all energy sources and uses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(i) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(1) $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 and 2009; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(2) $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2010 and 2011.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2004. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY EARLY-CAREER RESEARCH GRANTS.

(a) Purpose- It is the purpose of this section to authorize research grants in the Department for early-career scientists and engineers for purposes of pursuing independent research.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Definition of Eligible Early-Career Researcher- In this section, the term `eligible early-career researcher' means an individual who--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) completed a doctorate or other terminal degree not more than 10 years before the date of application for a grant authorized under this section, except as provided in subsection (c)(3); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) has demonstrated promise in the field of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, computer science, or computational science.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Grant Program Authorized-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall award not less than 65 grants per year to outstanding eligible early-career researchers to support the work of such researchers in the Department, particularly at the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development centers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) APPLICATION- An eligible early-career researcher who desires to receive a grant under this section shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Secretary may require.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) WAIVER- The Secretary may find eligible a candidate who has completed a doctorate more than 10 years prior to the date of application if the candidate was unable to conduct research for a period of time because of extenuating circumstances, including military service or family responsibilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) DURATION AND AMOUNT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) DURATION- A grant under this section shall be 5 years in duration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) AMOUNT- An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall receive up to $100,000 for each year of the grant period.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) USE OF FUNDS- An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall use the grant funds for basic research in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer sciences at the Department, particularly the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development center.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) $13,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) $19,500,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) $26,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) $32,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2005. ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AUTHORITY-ENERGY.

(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) ADVISORY BOARD- The term `Advisory Board' means the Advisory Board established under subsection (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) AUTHORITY- The term `Authority' means the Advanced Research Projects Authority--Energy established under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) DIRECTOR- The term `Director' means the Director of the Authority appointed under subsection (c)(1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) ENERGY TECHNOLOGY- The term `energy technology' means technology, including carbon-neutral technology, used for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) fossil energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) carbon sequestration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) nuclear energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) renewable energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) energy distribution; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) energy efficiency technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment- The Secretary shall establish an Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy to overcome the long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Director-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) APPOINTMENT- The Secretary shall appoint a Director of the Authority.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) QUALIFICATIONS- The Director shall be an individual who, by reason of professional background and experience, is especially qualified to advise the Secretary on matters pertaining to long-term, high-risk programs to overcome long-term and high-risk technological barriers to the development of energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) DUTIES- The Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) employ such qualified technical staff as are necessary to carry out the duties of the Authority, including providing staff for the Advisory Committee;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) serve as the selection official for proposals relating to energy technologies that are solicited within the Department;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) develop metrics to assist in developing funding criteria and for assessing the success of existing programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) terminate programs carried out under this section that are not achieving the goals of the programs; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) perform such duties relating to long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of energy technologies as are determined to be appropriate by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Advisory Board-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) APPOINTMENT- The Secretary shall, consistent with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), establish, and appoint members to, an Advisory Board to make recommendations to the Secretary and the Director on actions necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) QUALIFICATIONS- The Advisory Board shall consist of individuals who, by reason of professional background and experience, are especially qualified to advise the Secretary and the Director on matters pertaining to long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) TERM- A member of the Advisory Board shall be appointed for a term of 5 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) INFORMATION- Each fiscal year, individuals who carry out energy technology programs of the Department and staff of the Authority shall provide to the Advisory Board written proposals and oral briefings on long-term and high-risk technological barriers that are critical to overcome for the successful development of energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) DUTIES- Each fiscal year, the Advisory Board shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) recommend to the Secretary and the Director--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) in order of priority, proposals of energy programs of the Department that are critical to overcoming long-term and high-risk technological barriers to enable the successful development of energy technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) additional programs not covered in the proposals that are critical to overcoming the barriers described in clause (i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) based on the metrics described in subsection (c)(3)(C), make recommendations to the Secretary and the Directory concerning whether programs funded under this section are achieving the goals of the programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Review- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) conduct reviews during each of calendar years 2010 and 2012 to determine the success of the activities carried out under this section; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) submit to Congress, the Secretary, and the Director a report describing the results of each review.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2006. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY FOR BASIC RESEARCH.

Section 971(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16311(b)) is amended--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) in paragraph (2), by striking `and' at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) in paragraph (3)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by striking `$5,200,000,000' and inserting `$4,800,000,000'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(4) $4,945,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





`(5) $5,265,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2007. DISCOVERY SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING INNOVATION INSTITUTES.

(a) In General- The Secretary shall establish distributed, multidisciplinary institutes (referred to in this section as `Institutes') centered at National Laboratories to apply fundamental science and engineering discoveries to technological innovations related to the missions of the Department and the global competitiveness of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Topical Areas- The Institutes shall support scientific and engineering research and education activities on critical emerging technologies determined by the Secretary to be essential to global competitiveness, including activities related to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) sustainable energy technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) multi-scale materials and processes;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) micro- and nano-engineering;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) computational and information engineering; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) genomics and proteomics.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Partnerships- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall establish partnerships between the Institutes and--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) institutions of higher education to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) train undergraduate and graduate engineering and science students;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) develop innovative educational curricula; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) conduct research within the topical areas described in subsection (b);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) private industry to develop innovative technologies within the topical areas described in subsection (b);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) State and local governments to promote regionally-based commercialization and entrepreneurship; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) financing entities to guide successful technology commercialization.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Merit-Based Selection- The selection of Institutes under this section shall be merit-based and made through an open, competitive selection process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Restriction- Not more than 3 Institutes shall receive grants for a fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Review- The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall, not later than 3 and 6 years after the date of enactment of this Act--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) review the performance of the Institutes under this section; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) submit to Congress and the Secretary a report describing the results of the review.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities of each Institute selected under this section $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2008. PROTECTING AMERICA'S COMPETITIVE EDGE (PACE) GRADUATE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.

(a) Definition of Eligible Student- In this section, the term `eligible student' means a student who attends an institution of higher education that offers a doctoral degree in a field relevant to a mission area of the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment- The Secretary shall establish a graduate fellowship program for eligible students pursuing a doctoral degree in a mission area of the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Selection-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall award fellowships to eligible students under this section through a competitive merit review process (involving written and oral interviews) that will result in a wide distribution of awards throughout the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) CRITERIA- The Secretary shall establish selection criteria for awarding fellowships under this section that require an eligible student to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) pursue a field of science or engineering of importance to the mission area of the Department;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) rank in the upper 10 percent of the class of the eligible student;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) demonstrate to the Secretary--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) the capacity to understand technical topics related to the fellowship that can be derived from the first principles of the technical topics;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) imagination and creativity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) leadership skills in organizations or intellectual endeavors, demonstrated through awards and past experience; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) excellent verbal and communication skills to explain, defend, and demonstrate an understanding of technical subjects related to the fellowship; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Awards-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) AMOUNT- A fellowship awarded under this section shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) provide an annual living stipend; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) cover--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) graduate tuition at an institution of higher education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) incidental expenses associated with curricula and research at the institution of higher education (including books, computers and software).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) DURATION- A fellowship awarded under this section shall be for a period of not greater than 5 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) PORTABILITY- A fellowship awarded under this section shall be portable with the fellow.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Administration- The Secretary (acting through the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) shall administer the program established under this section; and,CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) may enter into a contract with a nonprofit entity to administer the program, including the selection and award of fellowships.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Authorization of Appropriations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) FELLOWSHIPS- There are authorized to be appropriated to award fellowships under this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) $9,300,000 for 200 fellowships for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) $14,500,000 for 300 fellowships for fiscal year 2009 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) $25,000,000 for 500 fellowships for fiscal year 2010 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) $35,500,000 for 700 fellowships for fiscal year 2011 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) ADMINISTRATION- There are authorized to be appropriated for administrative expenses incurred in carrying out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) $2,500,000 for fiscal year 2010; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) $3,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2009. TITLE IX COMPLIANCE.

(a) In General- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes actions taken by the Department of Energy to implement the recommendations in the report of the Government Accountability Office numbered 04-639.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Compliance- To comply with title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), the Secretary of Energy shall annually conduct compliance reviews of at least 2 recipients of Department of Energy grants.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2010. HIGH-RISK, HIGH-REWARD RESEARCH.

(a) Definition of High-Risk, High-Reward Research- In this section, the term `high-risk, high reward research' means research that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) has the potential for yielding results with far-ranging implications;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) is too novel or spans too diverse a range of disciplines to fare well in the traditional peer review process; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) is supportive of the missions of the sponsoring agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment of Grant Programs-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) ENERGY GRANT PROGRAM- The Secretary shall establish a grant program to encourage the conduct of high-risk, high-reward research at the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) GEOLOGICAL GRANT PROGRAM- The Director of the United States Geological Survey shall establish a grant program to encourage the conduct of high-risk, high-reward research at the United States Geological Survey.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2011. DISTINGUISHED SCIENTIST PROGRAM.

(a) Purpose- The purpose of this section is to promote scientific and academic excellence through collaborations between institutions of higher education and the National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment- The Secretary shall establish a program to support the joint appointment of distinguished scientists by institutions of higher education and National Laboratories.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Qualifications- Successful candidates under this section shall be persons who, by reason of professional background and experience, are able to bring international recognition to the appointing institution of higher education and National Laboratory in their field of scientific endeavor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Selection- A distinguished scientist appointed under this section shall be selected through an open, competitive process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Appointment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION- An appointment by an institution of higher education under this section shall be filled within the tenure allotment of the institution of higher education at a minimum rank of professor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) NATIONAL LABORATORY- An appointment by a National Laboratory under this section shall be at the rank of the highest grade of distinguished scientist or technical staff of the National Laboratory.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Duration- An appointment under this section shall be for 6 years, consisting of 2 3-year funding allotments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Use of Funds- Funds made available under this section may be used for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) the salary of the distinguished scientist and support staff;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral appointments;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) research-related equipment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) professional travel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) such other requirements as the Director determines are necessary to carry out the purpose of the program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Review-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The appointment of a distinguished scientist under this section shall be reviewed at the end of the first 3-year allotment for the distinguished scientist through an open peer-review process to determine whether the appointment is meeting the purpose of this section under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) FUNDING- Funding of the appointment of the distinguished scientist for the second 3-year allotment shall be determined based on the review conducted under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Cost Sharing- To be eligible for assistance under this section, an appointing institution of higher education shall pay at least 50 percent of the total costs of the appointment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 (to support up to 30 appointments under this section);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2009 (to support up to 60 such appointments); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2010 and 2011 (to support up to 100 such appointments).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

DIVISION C--EDUCATION

SEC. 3001. FINDINGS.

Congress makes the following findings:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) A well-educated population is essential to retaining America's competitiveness in the global economy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) The United States needs to build on and expand the impact of existing programs by taking additional, well-coordinated steps to ensure that all students are able to obtain the knowledge the students need to obtain postsecondary education and participate successfully in the workforce or the Armed Forces.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) The next steps must be informed by independent information on the effectiveness of current programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, and by identification of best practices that can be replicated.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) Teacher preparation and elementary school and secondary school programs and activities must be aligned with the requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.) and the requirements of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) The ever increasing knowledge and skill demands of the 21st century require that secondary school preparation and requirements be better aligned with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in postsecondary education and the workforce, and States need better data systems to track educational achievement from prekindergarten through baccalaureate degrees.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3002. DEFINITIONS.

(a) ESEA Definitions- Unless otherwise specified in this division, the terms used in this division have the meanings given the terms in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Other Definitions- In this division:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) CRITICAL FOREIGN LANGUAGE- The term `critical foreign language' means a foreign language that the Secretary determines, in consultation with the heads of such Federal departments and agencies as the Secretary determines appropriate, is critical to the national security and economic competitiveness of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE I--TEACHER ASSISTANCE

Subtitle A--Teachers for a Competitive Tomorrow

SEC. 3111. PURPOSE.

The purpose of this subtitle is--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) to develop and implement programs to provide integrated courses of study in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign languages, and teacher education, that lead to a baccalaureate degree with concurrent teacher certification;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(2) to develop and implement 2- or 3-year part-time master's degree programs in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language education for teachers in technology, or critical foreign language education for teachers in order to enhance the teachers' content knowledge and pedagogical skills; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) to develop programs for professionals in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language education that lead to a master's degree in teaching that results in teacher certification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3112. DEFINITIONS.

In this subtitle:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) CHILDREN FROM LOW-INCOME FAMILIES- The term `children from low-income families' means children described in section 1124(c)(1)(A) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6333(c)(1)(A)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) ELIGIBLE RECIPIENT- The term `eligible recipient' means an institution of higher education that receives grant funds under this subtitle on behalf of a department of mathematics, engineering, science, or critical foreign language for use in a critical foreign language, or on behalf of a department or school with a competency-based degree program (in mathematics, engineering, science, or a critical foreign language) that includes teacher certification, for use in carrying out activities assisted under this subtitle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) HIGH-NEED LOCAL EDUCATIONAL AGENCY- The term `high-need local educational agency' means a local educational agency or educational service agency--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A)(i) that serves not fewer than 10,000 children from low-income families;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) for which not less than 20 percent of the children served by the agency are children from low-income families; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) with a total of less than 600 students in average daily attendance at the schools that are served by the agency and all of whose schools are designated with a school locale code of 6, 7, or 8, as determined by the Secretary; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B)(i) for which there is a high percentage of teachers providing instruction in academic subject areas or grade levels for which the teachers are not highly qualified; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) for which there is a high teacher turnover rate or a high percentage of teachers with emergency, provisional, or temporary certification or licensure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) HIGHLY QUALIFIED- The term `highly qualified' has the meaning given such term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801) and, with respect to special education teachers, in section 602 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1401).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) PARTNERSHIP- The term `partnership' means a partnership that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) an eligible recipient;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii)(I)(aa) a department within the eligible recipient that provides a program of study in mathematics, engineering, science, or critical foreign languages;(iii)(Ia critical foreign language; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(bb) a school or department within the eligible recipient that provides a teacher preparation program; or(II), or a 2-year institution of higher education that has a teacher preparation offering or a dual enrollment program with the eligible recipient; and(iv) not less than 1 high-need local educational agency and a public school or a consortium of public schools orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) a department or school within the eligible recipient with a competency-based degree program (in mathematics, engineering, science, or a critical foreign language) that includes teacher certification; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) not less than 1 high-need local educational agency and a public school or a consortium of public schools served by the agency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) may include a nonprofit organization that has the capacity to provide expertise or support to meet the purposes of this subtitle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) TEACHING SKILLS- The term `teaching skills' means the ability to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) increase student achievement;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) effectively convey and explain academic subject matter;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) employ strategies that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) are based on scientifically based research;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) are specific to academic subject matter; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) focus on the identification of, and tailoring of academic instruction to, students' specific learning needs, particularly children with disabilities, students who are limited English proficient, and students who are gifted and talented;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) conduct ongoing assessment of student learning;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) effectively manage a classroom; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) communicate and work with parents and guardians, and involve parents and guardians in their children's education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3113. PROGRAMS FOR BACCALAUREATE DEGREES IN MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, OR CRITICAL FOREIGN LANGUAGES, WITH CONCURRENT TEACHER CERTIFICATION.

(a) Program Authorized- From the amounts made available to carry out this section under section 3116(1) and not reserved under section 3115(d) for a fiscal year, the Secretary is authorized to award grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible recipients to enable partnerships served by the eligible recipients to develop and implement programs to provide courses of study in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign languages that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) are integrated with teacher education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) lead to a baccalaureate degree with concurrent teacher certification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Application- Each eligible recipient desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time and in such manner as the Secretary may require. Each application shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) describe the program for which assistance is sought;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) describe how a department of mathematics, science, engineering, or a critical foreign language participating in the partnership will ensure significant collaboration with a teacher preparation program in the development of undergraduate degrees in mathematics, science, engineering, or a critical foreign language, with concurrent teacher certification, including providing student teaching and other clinical classroom experiences or how a department or school participating in the partnership with a competency-based degree program has ensured, in the development of a baccalaureate degree program in mathematics, science, engineering, or a critical foreign language, the provision of concurrent teacher certification, including providing student teaching and other clinical classroom experiences;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) describe the high-quality research, laboratory, or internship experiences, integrated with coursework, that will be provided under the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) describe how members of groups that are underrepresented in the teaching of mathematics, science, technology, engineering, or critical foreign languages will be encouraged to participate in the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) describe how program participants will be encouraged to teach in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need, and what assistance in finding employment in such schools will be provided;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) describe the ongoing activities and services that will be provided to graduates of the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) describe how the activities of the partnership will be coordinated with any activities funded through other Federal grants, and how the partnership will continue the activities assisted under the program when the grant period ends;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) describe how the partnership will assess the content knowledge and teaching skills of the program participants; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) provide any other information the Secretary may reasonably require.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Authorized Activities-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- Each eligible recipient receiving a grant under this section shall use the grant funds to enable a partnership to develop and implement a program to provide courses of study in mathematics, science, engineering, or a critical foreign language that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) are integrated with teacher education programs that promote effective teaching skills; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) lead to a baccalaureate degree in mathematics, science, engineering, or a critical foreign language with concurrent teacher certification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS- The program shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) provide high-quality research, laboratory, or internship experiences for program participants;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) provide student teaching or other clinical classroom experiences that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) are integrated with coursework; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) lead to the participants' ability to demonstrate effective teaching skills;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) if implementing a program in which program participants are prepared to teach mathematics or science, science, technology, or engineering courses, include strategies for improving student literacy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) encourage the participation of individuals who are members of groups that are underrepresented in the teaching of mathematics, science , technology, engineering, or critical foreign languages;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) encourage participants to teach in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need, and actively assist the participants in finding employment in such schools;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) offer training in the use of and integration of educational technology;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) collect data regarding and evaluate, using measurable objectives and benchmarks, the extent to which the program succeeded in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) increasing the percentage of highly qualified mathematics, science, or critical foreign language teachers, including increasing the percentage of such teachers teaching in those schools determined by the partnership to be most in need;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) improving student academic achievement in mathematics and science;(iii) , science, and where applicable, technology and engineering;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) increasing the number of students in secondary schools enrolled in upper level mathematics and science, science, and, where available, technology and engineering courses; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) increasing the numbers of elementary school, middle school, and secondary school students enrolled in and continuing in critical foreign language courses;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(H) collect data on the employment placement of all graduates of the program, including information on how many graduates are teaching and in what kinds of schools;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) provide ongoing activities and services to graduates of the program who teach elementary school, middle school, or secondary school, by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) keeping the graduates informed of the latest developments in their respective academic fields; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) supporting the graduates of the program who are employed in schools in the local educational agency participating in the partnership during the initial years of teaching through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) induction programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) promotion of effective teaching skills; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(III) providing opportunities for regular professional development; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(J) develop recommendations to improve the teacher preparation program participating in the partnership.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Annual Report- Each eligible recipient receiving a grant under this section shall collect and report to the Secretary annually such information as the Secretary may reasonably require, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) the number of participants in the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) information on the academic majors of participating students;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) the race, gender, income, and disability status of program participants;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) the employment placement of program participants as teachers in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) the extent to which the program succeeded in meeting the objectives and benchmarks described in subsection (c)(2)(G); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) the data collected under subparagraphs (G) and (H) of subsection (c)(2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Technical Assistance- From the funds made available under section 3116(1), the Secretary may provide technical assistance to an eligible recipient developing a baccalaureate degree program with concurrent teacher certification, including technical assistance provided through a grant or contract awarded on a competitive basis to an institution of higher education or a technical assistance center.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3114. PROGRAMS FOR MASTER'S DEGREES IN MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, OR CRITICAL FOREIGN LANGUAGES EDUCATION.

(a) Program Authorized- From the amounts made available to carry out this section under section 3116(2) and not reserved under section 3115(d) for a fiscal year, the Secretary is authorized to award grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible recipients to enable the partnerships served by the eligible recipients to develop and implement--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) 2- or 3-year part-time master's degree programs in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language education for teachers in technology, or critical foreign language education for teachers in order to enhance the teacher's content knowledge and teaching skills; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) programs for professionals in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign language that lead to a 1 year master's degree in teaching that results in teacher certification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Application- Each eligible recipient desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time and in such manner as the Secretary may require. Each application shall describe--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) how a department of mathematics, science, engineering, technology, or a critical foreign language will ensure significant collaboration with a teacher preparation program in the development of master's degree programs in mathematics, science, or a critical foreign language for teachers thatthe master's degree programs authorized under subsection (a), or how a department or school with a competency-based degree program has ensured, in the development of a master's degree program, the provision of rigorous studies in mathematics, science, or a critical foreign language that enhance the teachers' content knowledge and teaching skills;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) the role of the local educational agency in the partnership in developing and administering the program and how feedback from the local educational agency, school, and participants will be used to improve the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) how the program will help increase the percentage of highly qualified mathematics, science, or critical foreign language teachers, including increasing the percentage of such teachers teaching in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) how the program will--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) improve student academic achievement in mathematics and science and increase the number of students, science, and, where applicable, technology and engineering and increase the number of students taking upper-level courses in such subjects; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) increase the numbers of elementary school, middle school, and secondary school students enrolled and continuing in critical foreign language courses;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) how the program will prepare teacherparticipants to become more effective mathematics, science, or critical foreign language teachers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) how the program will prepare teacherparticipants to assume leadership roles in their schools;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) how teachers (or mathematics, science, or critical language professionals) who are members of groups that are underrepresented in the teaching of mathematics, science, engineering, technology, or critical foreign languages and teachers from schools determined by the partnership to be most in need will be encouraged to apply for and participate in the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) the ongoing activities and services that will be provided to graduates of the program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) how the partnership will continue the activities assisted under the grant when the grant period ends;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(10) how the partnership will assess, during the program, the content knowledge and teaching skills of teachers participating in the program.(c)he program participants; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(11) methods to ensure applicants to the master's degree program for professionals in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language demonstrate advanced knowledge in the relevant subject.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Authorized Activities- Each eligible recipient receiving a grant under this section shall use the grant funds to develop and implement a 2- or 3-year part-time master's degree program in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language education for teachers in order to enhance the teachers' content knowledge and teaching skills. The program shall--(1), or programs for professionals in mathematics, science, or critical foreign language that lead to a 1-year master's degree in teaching that results in teacher certification. The program shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) promote effective teaching skills so the teachers participating in the programat program participants become more effective mathematics, science, or critical foreign language teachers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) prepare teachers to assume leadership roles in their schools by participating in activities such as teacher mentoring, development of curricula that integrate state of the art applications of mathematics and science, science, technology, and engineering into the classroom, working with school administrators in establishing in-service professional development of teachers, and assisting in evaluating data and assessments to improve student academic achievement;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) use high-quality research, laboratory, or internship experiences for program participants that are integrated with coursework;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) provide student teaching or clinical classroom experience;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) if implementing a program in which participants are prepared to teach mathematics or science courses, provide strategies for improving student literacy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) align the content knowledge in the master's degree program with challenging student academic achievement standards and challenging academic content standards established by the State in which the program is conducted;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) encourage the participation of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) individuals who are members of groups that are underrepresented in the teaching of mathematics, science, engineering, technology, or critical foreign languages;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(B (B) members of the Armed Forces who are transitioning to civilian life; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) teachers teaching in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) offer tuition assistance, based on need, as appropriate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(9 (9) create opportunities for enhanced and ongoing professional development for teachers that improves the mathematics and science content knowledge and teaching skills of such teachers; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(10) evaluate and report on the impact of the program, in accordance with subsection (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Evaluation and Report- Each eligible recipient receiving a grant under this section shall evaluate, using measurable objectives and benchmarks, and provide an annual report to the Secretary regarding, the extent to which the program assisted under this section succeeded in increasing the following:(1) The number and the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) Increasing the number and percentage of mathematics, science, engineering, technology, or critical foreign language teachers who have a master's degree and meet 1 or more of the following requirements:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) Are teaching in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need, and taught in such schools prior to participation in the program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Are teaching in schools determined by the partnership to be most in need, and did not teach in such schools prior to participation in the program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Are members of a group underrepresented in the teaching of mathematics, science, or a critical foreign language.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink