20 U.S.C. § 1070d–37

(a) Establishment of criteria The State educational agency is authorized to establish the criteria for the selection of scholars under this subpart. (b) Adoption of procedures The State educational agency shall adopt selection procedures designed to ensure an equitable geographic distribution of awards within the State (and in the case of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, or Palau (until such time as the Compact of Free Association is ratified), not to exceed 10 individuals will be selected from such entities). (c) Consultation requirement In carrying out its responsibilities under subsections (a) and (b), the State educational agency shall consult with school administrators, school boards, teachers, counselors, and parents. (d) Timing of selection The selection process shall be completed, and the awards made, prior to the end of each secondary school academic year.