; and (iv) ability to advance student learning; (C) validated based on professional assessment standards; (D) reliably scored by trained evaluators, with appropriate oversight of the process to ensure consistency; and (E) used to support continuous improvement of educator practice. (29) Teacher preparation entity The term teacher preparation entity means an institution of higher education, a nonprofit organization, or an organization that is approved by the State to prepare teachers to be effective in the classroom. (30) Teacher preparation program The term teacher preparation program means a program offered by a teacher preparation entity that leads to a specific State teacher certification. A Grants to States for strengthening educator preparation 201. Allotments to States (a) Program authorized (1) Reservation of Funds From the total amount appropriated to carry out this part for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve— (A) one-half of 1 percent for allotments for the outlying areas (as defined in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965) to carry out this part, to be distributed among those outlying areas on the basis of their relative need, as determined by the Secretary, in accordance with the purpose of this part