(a)  In general

To be eligible to receive a grant under this subchapter, a local educational agency shall demonstrate in the application submitted pursuant to section 5964(a) of this title that such agency⁠—

(1)  serves an area in which there is a high rate of⁠—

(A)  homicides committed by persons between the ages 5 to 18, inclusive;

(B)  referrals of youth to juvenile court;

(C)  youth under the supervision of the courts;

(D)  expulsions and suspensions of students from school;

(E)  referrals of youth, for disciplinary reasons, to alternative schools; or

(F)  victimization of youth by violence, crime, or other forms of abuse; and

(2)  has serious school crime, violence, and discipline problems, as indicated by other appropriate data.

(b)  Priority

In awarding grants under this subchapter, the Secretary shall give priority to a local educational agency that submits an application that assures a strong local commitment to the projects or activities assisted under this subchapter, such as⁠—

(1)  the formation of partnerships among the local educational agency, a community-based organization, a nonprofit organization with a demonstrated commitment to or expertise in developing education programs or providing educational services to students or the public, a local law enforcement agency, or any combination thereof; and

(2)  a high level of youth participation in such projects or activities.