This research report from the National Academy of Education evaluates the clinical aspect of preservice teacher training and notes that structural elements, such as academic subject matter and professional practice, are crucial to candidate learning. This paper is organized into four sections. First, it examines variations in clinical experiences linked to applying academic knowledge in diverse settings. Second, it discusses community-based clinical experiences geared toward preparing, recruiting, and retaining teachers, especially in urban and underserved schools. The third section explores statewide initiatives such as teacher residencies, targeting subject-specific shortages and staffing issues in certain schools. Finally, it proposes a research-driven approach to evaluate the clinical component, emphasizing quality indicators for enhancing teaching efficacy.