(a) The department may enter into a contract or agreement with one or more entities to develop and implement computer science teacher development programs; provided that an entity shall be:
(1) An educational agency, including a charter educational agency, or a consortia of educational agencies in the State;
(2) An institution of higher education located in the State; or
(3) A nationally recognized provider of effective computer science professional development.
(b) An entity that intends to enter into a contract or agreement with the department pursuant to this section shall first submit a proposal to the department that, at minimum, shall address how the entity plans to:
(1) Instruct teachers with varying levels of knowledge and experience in computer science;
(2) Provide teachers with experience in hands-on, inquiry-based practices;
(3) Utilize effective practices for professional development;
(4) Emphasize the conceptual foundations of computer science;
(5) Instruct teachers how to effectively teach students in computer science, including students from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in computer science careers;
(6) Adapt its instruction to accommodate the particular needs of teachers in different schools and districts; and
(7) Meet other requirements established by the department.