(a) On or before January 1, 2006, the state board may adopt rules and regulations for the development and implementation of plans of intervention established under the program. The state board shall establish standards and criteria for reviewing, evaluating and approving school improvement plans and applications for grants submitted by districts. All grants shall be awarded by the state board in accordance with the standards and criteria established by the state board. No district shall be eligible to receive a grant unless the district includes within its plan specific strategies for intervention.

(b) Upon request of a school district, the state board shall provide technical assistance regarding the establishment and maintenance of the improvement plan.