This bi-weekly newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected, providing important updates, timely reminders, and valuable resources for our Career and Technical Education (CTE) community. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please reach out to your Delaware CTE liaison. Thank you for staying engaged with Delaware CTE!
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Delaware General Assembly Proclaims February as CTE Month!
The Delaware General Assembly has designated February 2025 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, recognizing the essential role of CTE in preparing students for career success. With participation from 31 local education agencies, Delaware is a leader in CTE offering over 120 CTE programs across 16 Career Clusters. In the 2023-2024 academic year, 63.7% of students engaged in CTE, with 8,250 students enrolled in Work-Based Learning. Delaware’s CTE concentrators achieved a 96.4% graduation rate, surpassing state targets. As a national leader in CTE, Delaware provides students with early college credits, industry credentials, and hands-on learning opportunities, strengthening workforce readiness and economic development. For more information about CTE in Delaware contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
The Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Department of Education, hosted a CTE poster contest to celebrate Career and Technical Education Month. Sarai Vivar-Lucero from Cape Henlopen High School earned first place with their inspiring design, "The Key to Success," which will be featured on social media throughout February. Congratulations to the top winners from Cape Henlopen, Conrad Schools of Science, and Caesar Rodney High School! For more information about DACCTE visit daccte.delaware.gov or contact Cristopher Stahl at christopher.stahl@delaware.gov or Caitlin Rozell at caitlin.rozell@delaware.gov.
CTE Students Shine as 2025 U.S. Presidential CTE Scholars Candidates During National CTE Month!
Congratulations to all of Delaware’s Presidential Scholars and especially to our Career and Technical Education (CTE) students who have been named candidates for the prestigious 2025 U.S. Presidential CTE Scholars Program! Representing excellence in academics, leadership, and CTE achievements, the candidates are Conner Jackson (Newark Charter Junior/Senior High School), Isha Kanchana (Newark Charter Junior/Senior High School), Chuiyee Kong (Caesar Rodney Senior High School), Arnav R. Taduvayi (Odyssey Charter School), and Michelle Zhou (Newark Charter Junior/Senior High School). This national program honors distinguished high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding ability and accomplishment, celebrating their dedication and contributions to their schools, communities, and future careers!
Office of CTE Partners for Pilot Project with Silver Lake Treatment Center
The Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE), in partnership with the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF) and the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE), is leading a pilot of the PIPEline Project for Equity at Silver Lake Treatment Center (SLTC). This initiative provides CTE students with leadership and equity training, fostering research, collaboration, and idea-sharing to enhance access, participation, and completion for students with IEPs in CTE pathways. Participants will earn Work-Based Learning credit, receive stipends, and support DSCYF’s accountability goals while contributing expert testimony on equity issues. The program launches January 27, 2025, with a statewide showcase on May 14, 2025. For more information, contact Chiara Fox-Molock Chiara.Fox@delaware.gov and Dr. Orrin White Orrin.White@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Pathways Aim to Boost Male Representation in Teaching Careers
"Why Boys Don’t Want to Become Teachers—And What Schools Can Do About It" (Education Week): Delaware CTE Pathways Work to Boost Male Representation in Teaching Careers - The percentage of male teachers has declined to 23%, down from 30% in 1987, limiting male role models for boys and potentially affecting their academic engagement (Education Week). Societal perceptions of teaching as a female profession and concerns over low wages deter boys from pursuing teaching careers. To address this, Delaware’s Smyrna High School Teacher Academy encourages male students to explore education careers through internships and mentorship. For more information about Teacher Academy, contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
"Boys Think School Is a Waste of Time—Career Pathways Prove Them Wrong" (Education Week): Delaware CTE Drives Student Engagement and Workforce Readiness
At Delaware's Smyrna High School, approximately 90% of graduates complete one of six Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, such as agricultural and natural resources or STEM and professional studies (Education Week). These pathways combine classroom instruction with hands-on experiences, like internships, to boost student engagement and demonstrate the real-world relevance of education. This approach has been particularly effective for male students, who often find traditional classrooms less engaging, by equipping them with practical skills and clearer career pathways, fostering motivation and academic success.
Delaware to Expand Youth Apprenticeships and Career Opportunities
The State of Delaware is dedicated to expanding youth apprenticeship and Earn-and-Learn opportunities to prepare young people for meaningful careers and to meet workforce demands. Governor Matthew S. Meyer has issued an Executive Order to establish a Working Group tasked with exploring how registered apprenticeships can be leveraged to create pathways to employment within state government.
CTE Federal Information Collection Requests – Finalized Updates
Delaware has successfully concluded its federal Information Collection Requests (ICRs) process, achieving favorable outcomes. This accomplishment allows for a prioritized shift to updated Career Clusters data. Proposed additions to the State Plan have been deferred and will instead be included in the Consolidated Annual Report (CAR), postponing required updates to the State Plan until 2028 or pending legislative changes. Approved modifications to Perkins Core Indicators of Performance will require updates to data systems by January 2027 or 2028. Supporting materials, including public comments, OCTAE responses, and updated templates, have been distributed. Stakeholders will receive additional updates as new developments occur. CTE Directors can access resources in the January 28, 2025, CTE Director Cadre posting on Schoology or refer to the email titled "CTE Federal Information Collection Requests" sent on January 28, 2025. For further assistance, contact Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
CTE Launches Student Leadership Season Statewide
On January 15, 2025, middle school students from across Delaware participated in skill-building events aligned with their Family and Consumer Science curriculum. These events highlighted topics such as culinary arts, environmental literacy, finance, and health and nutrition, kicking off Career and Technical Education’s (CTE) Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) leadership development season. The season continues with the DECA conference at the University of Delaware on January 29-30, followed by the Business Professionals of America conference on February 5-6 in Dover and the Educators Rising conference on February 11-12. HOSA will host its middle grades event on February 19 at Wilmington University in Dover. In March, SkillsUSA will hold its conference at Delaware Technical Community College and the Air National Guard in New Castle County from March 12-14, and FFA will host its event at the University of Delaware on March 25-26. The HOSA High School conference will follow on March 25-27 at Wilmington University in New Castle. Finally, the Technology Student Association conference will be held on April 8-9 at the University of Delaware. For more information, contact Andrea Keen at Andrea.Keen@doe.k12.de.us.
Agriculture Students Gain Global Awareness and Cultural Competency
Delaware FFA State Officers participated in the 2025 National FFA International Leadership Seminar for State Officers (ILSSO) from January 4–17, traveling to Spain and Portugal. This prestigious program enhances cultural competency and global agricultural awareness, with participants exploring historic capitals and engaging with local agricultural communities. Delaware officers, all Pathway completers, gained insights into international practices while serving as advocates for Career and Technical Education. ILSSO provides invaluable experiences, preparing students to lead in an interconnected world. For more information on Delaware FFA events, contact Dr. Bart Gill at bart.gill@doe.k12.de.us or visit www.delawareffa.org.
Students Showcase Skills at Delaware FCCLA Conference
Delaware middle school students recently showcased their culinary, career, and leadership talents at the FCCLA State Leadership Conference and Middle School Exploratory Event. This dynamic event brought together students from across the state to develop critical work-readiness skills, explore diverse career pathways, enhance financial literacy, and chart their academic and professional futures. Sponsored by the Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career & Technical Education (CTE) and Junior Achievement of Delaware, with support from the Delaware Restaurant Association and Teacher Academy Foundation, the event featured competitions in culinary knife skills, food innovation, and public advocacy. Highlights included Brandywine High’s Culinary Program catering and students earning medals while preparing for future careers and making a community impact. For more information on the Delaware FCCLA and its programs, visit www.delawarepathways.org or contact State Advisor Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
The Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) workgroup hosted its first in-person Middle School Explore Conference at the Junior Achievement campus in Wilmington. This event marked the kickoff of CTE’s Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) leadership development season. CTSOs serve as a vital component of classroom curriculum and instruction, enhancing employability and career skills through hands-on demonstrations, real-life applications, and work-based experiences integrated into Career and Technical Education programs. For more information contact Andrea Keen at Andrea.Keen@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware Tech High School Architectural Drafting Competition
Delaware Technical Community College is thrilled to bring back the High School Architectural Drafting Competition! Schools interested in participating are encouraged to reach out to Steve Cannon at scanno10@dtcc.edu for more details. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to showcase your students' talents and creativity in architectural drafting. Join us in celebrating the skills and potential of future designers. Contact Steve today to learn how your school can get involved!
Join the Navy and Marine Corps Homecoming 250th Celebration in October and November 2025, commemorating 250 years of service. Engage students through exciting STEAM competitions, ship tours, museum programs, school visits by veterans, and participation in the grand parade. This once-in-a-lifetime event connects students to history, civics, and STEAM fields while fostering patriotism and inspiring future careers. Schools can select tailored activities for all grade levels. Don’t miss this opportunity—register by February 28, 2025.
Navigating Delaware Pathways: An Education and Workforce Development Summit
The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s The Partnership, Inc. proudly presents the 2nd annual Navigating Delaware Pathways: An Education and Workforce Development Summit on April 29, 2025, at Bally’s in Dover. This full-day event brings together Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators, employers, and higher education leaders to explore innovative strategies for aligning education with workforce needs. Attendees will engage in interactive sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions on talent acquisition, training, and retention. The summit also features the Superstars in Education and Training awards, recognizing outstanding workforce development programs. Join us as we collaborate to shape Delaware’s future, ensuring education meets the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Helana Rodriguez at hrodriguez@dscc.com for more information.
The Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) invites nominations for its 2025 Awards Program, recognizing outstanding contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Delaware. Award categories include: a business, industry, agency, labor union, or trade association; an individual from the private, public, or education sector; and an exceptional 12th-grade CTE student (one per high school). Please encourage all appropriate CTE personnel to participate by submitting nominations electronically by February 20, 2025. Check out the DACCTE website for nomination forms and for questions, contact Ann Breeding at ann.breeding@delaware.gov.
The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence (HFT Prize) recognizes K-12 educators who innovate, inspire, and transform classrooms. This prestigious award honors teachers dedicated to fostering creativity, inclusion, and academic growth. Winners receive a $20,000 cash prize plus $5,000 for their school, empowering them to make an even greater impact. Applications are open from March 4 to May 2, 2025—don’t miss this chance to showcase your achievements and gain the recognition you deserve! Learn more and apply today at hftforschools.org.
Explore Leadership & Careers in Energy: Apply for DEC’s 2025 Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.!
Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Youth Tour, an all-expenses-paid leadership experience in Washington, D.C., from June 16-20! Three high school juniors or seniors living in DEC-served homes will be selected to join over 1,800 students nationwide for a week of leadership development, networking, and exploring iconic sites. The tour includes meetings with legislators, learning about the cooperative business model, and exciting activities. One student will also be chosen for the Youth Leadership Council. Apply by Feb. 14 at 4:30 p.m. Questions? Contact Lauren Irby at lirby@delaware.coop or 302-349-3132.
Equity in Career & Technical Education (CTE) requires an inclusive environment that advances empowerment and belonging for both the learner and educator. Students’ circumstances and personal/social identifiers shall not restrict their access to the full variety of academic and career opportunities, enriching experiences, and meaningful relationships that support attainment of their individual career and life goals.
Delaware Department of Education - Pathways Program, 401 Federal Street, Suite 2, Dover, DE 19901
