; (ii) to conduct and support field-initiated research, including evaluations; and (iii) to engage in activities that support researchers, practitioners, and education system leaders in understanding and using scientifically-valid research, statistics, and evaluations, including the findings, research base, and implications of such work, in order to support evidence use and continuous improvement. (f) State capacity R&D grants (1) In general The Director may award grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, State educational agencies and the Bureau of Indian Education to increase such entities’ capacity to carry out scientifically valid research, data collection, statistical analysis, evaluation, research-practice partnerships (as such term is defined in subsection (e)(2)(B)), or planning for such activities— (A) in a manner that is responsive to the needs of students, families, practitioners, education system leaders, and policymakers in the State; and (B) in accordance with section 173. (2) Priority The Director shall give priority to applications that propose to, in accordance with paragraph (1)— (A) address research questions developed by practitioners in consultation with researchers; and (B) produce actionable information or evidence-based practices to improve teaching and learning in the State.