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 CTE Featured in National Conversation on Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Policy
Delaware’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are leading efforts to expand Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) opportunities, ensuring adult learners receive credit for skills gained through work experience, military service, and other non-traditional learning. As part of this work, Dr. Jon Wickert recently contributed to the American Council on Education (ACE) to share Delaware’s CPL policy framework and implementation strategies. For more information, contact Dr. Jon Wickert at jonathan.wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
The U.S. Department of Education has released new guidance on Information College Request (ICR) shifts related to the Perkins V State Plan and Consolidated Annual Report, clarifying potential impacts on state and local implementation. While the changes will not immediately affect Local Education Agencies (LEAs), Delaware will continue efforts to develop shared definitions in partnership with the Delaware Workforce Development Board, as the state operates under a Combined WIOA/Perkins framework. Additionally, federal officials have confirmed that planned updates to Career Clusters Modernization will move forward as expected. Stakeholders will be kept informed as further details emerge. For questions, please contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Advance CTE Monitors Executive Actions on Perkins Funding
Advance CTE is monitoring the impact of executive actions on Perkins funding. The White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a directive pausing federal financial assistance, causing uncertainty about its effect on education and workforce grants. While Perkins V funds were largely unaffected due to forward-funding, confusion led to a federal court’s temporary halt. OMB later rescinded the directive, but a broader review of federal funding remains ongoing. For updates, visit Advance CTE’s website https://careertech.org/.
Learning for Careers (LAB25001R-LFC): Expanding Workforce Opportunities for Youth and Adults
The Delaware Workforce Development Board, in partnership with the Delaware Department of Labor’s Division of Employment and Training and the Delaware Department of Education, seeks applicants for funding to expand employer engagement in student education, training, and employment programs. The initiative aims to increase paid work experiences for youth and adult learners in middle- and high-skill, in-demand occupations. Funding will support expanding youth employment programs, secondary and postsecondary work-based learning, and employer-led efforts to recruit and train individuals ages 14–24 through internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, and cooperative education. For bid details and submission guidelines, visit Bids - Delaware Bids and Contracts.
Enhancing Literacy Integration in CTE: Strengthen Student Success with Practical Strategies. SREB’s Literacy in CTE three-day training, hosted by the Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives in partnership with Capital School District, strengthens Perkins 2S1 proficiency helps educators integrate literacy into CTE instruction. Participants will develop project-based lessons, enhance student comprehension, and align instruction with workforce needs. This hands-on training fosters collaboration and practical literacy strategies. Join us June 16–18, 2025, in the Capital School District. (40 participants). Register in PDMS (Course #43409, Section #88656) to earn up to 25 professional learning hours. For questions, please contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
SREB Math in CTE Training - June 16–18, 2025
Empowering CTE Educators: Integrating Real-World Math for Stronger Student Outcomes SREB’s Math in CTE three-day training, hosted by the Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives in partnership with Capital School District, strengthens Perkins 2S2 proficiency by helping educators integrate math into CTE instruction. Participants will refine lessons, enhance problem-solving skills, and develop project-based math applications. This hands-on training fosters collaboration and industry-aligned instruction. Join us June 16–18, 2025, in the Capital School District. (40 participants). Register in PDMS (Course #43410, Section #88657) to earn up to 25 professional learning hours. For questions, please contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us
Educators Rising Conference Postponed Due to Weather, Rescheduled for March 4-5
Due to inclement weather, the 2025 Delaware Educators Rising State Leadership Conference was postponed to March 4-5, 2025. All hotel reservations were updated accordingly, requiring no action from attendees. The conference schedule, including session times and arrival details, remain unchanged at this time. For questions contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Explore Microelectronics & Cybersecurity: Hands-On Learning for Students, Parents, and Teachers at UD!
The University of Delaware’s Center for Cybersecurity, Assurance & Privacy (CCAP) is launching a new NSF CyberCorps-funded initiative to engage students, parents, and teachers in microelectronics and cybersecurity through hands-on learning. This spring, CCAP will host Microelectronics Week, a Security Competition for student teams, and five free Community Science Days. Additionally, a week-long summer program for 20 Delaware teachers, funded by the CHIPS and Science Act, offers hands-on projects and a $2K stipend. Contact cybersecurity-info@udel.edu.
The NEED Project presents the Youth Energy Leadership Award each year. A $1,500 award for use for tuition and expenses will be awarded to deserving students who have demonstrated outstanding energy leadership, knowledge, and an interest in continuing their energy studies for the purpose of seeking a career in energy or education. Applications for the Youth Energy Leadership Award must be submitted by April 30, 2025.
Join us on April 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall for STEM Goes Red! This inspiring event, hosted by the American Heart Association, empowers 7th–10th grade girls to explore STEM fields through hands-on workshops led by industry leaders in health, technology, and finance. Highlights include a panel discussion featuring women leaders on confidence-building and dreaming big, plus potential mentorship opportunities with participating corporations. Contact Adam Miller at adam.miller@heart.org for details!
CTE Students Gain Real-World Experience in Culinary Competition
Hodgson Vo-Tech students put their culinary skills to the test in a hands-on work-based learning experience at Juniper Village in Newark. Under the guidance of Chef Scott Cave, aspiring chefs prepared dishes like cream of crab and lasagna soup for residents and community members. The event featured a career discussion with Executive Chef Aking DeLeon and a panel of esteemed judges who evaluated their creations. This real-world experience allowed CTE students to practice industry skills while gaining valuable insights from professionals in the culinary field.
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 https://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!
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.
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!
The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation Application for the 2025-26 academic year is now open and closes on March 1, 2025. As the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military families, we offer financial support to eligible children of Marines, Navy Corpsmen, Chaplains, and Religious Program Specialists pursuing trade schools, career training, community colleges, or universities. Last year, we awarded $11.7 million to 2,800 students, with 10% in CTE programs! Learn more at https://www.mcsf.org/apply/eligibility/ and apply at https://www.mcsf.org/apply/.
Call for Nominations: 2025 DACCTE CTE Awards
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.
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.
Join us for the next CTE Director Cadre Meeting on March 5, 2025, from 12:00–3:30 PM at Wilmington University (Dover), 3282 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901. This session will focus on providing guidance to LEA administrators overseeing Career & Technical Education (CTE) under Perkins V, fostering collaboration across secondary, postsecondary, and industry partners. The meeting will include policy discussions, statewide initiative updates, and networking opportunities. Register in PDMS (Course #42938, Section #87242) Check-in: 11:30AM - 11:45AM and the meeting will begin promptly at 12:00pm. For questions, contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
DACCTE Professional Development Night - March 25, 2025
Join the Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) and DOE for the State CTE Professional Development Night on March 27, 2025 (3:30 PM–5:30 PM; Virtual Meeting). This session (Virtual Meeting PDMS Course #43017, Section #87357) invites CTE educators and cadre members to collaborate and shape the future of career and technical education in Delaware. The topic for the meeting will be centered around learning how to Advocate for your CTE Program. For details, contact Ann Breeding at ann.breeding@delaware.gov. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect and inspire!
CTE Calendar
CTE Director Cadre Meeting – May 7, 2025
Join us for the next CTE Director Cadre Meeting on May 7, 2025, from 12:00–3:30 PM at Wilmington University (Dover), 3282 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901. This session will focus on providing guidance to LEA administrators overseeing Career & Technical Education (CTE) under Perkins V, fostering collaboration across secondary, postsecondary, and industry partners. The meeting will include policy discussions, statewide initiative updates, and networking opportunities. Register in PDMS (Course #42939, Section #87241) Check-in: 11:30AM - 11:45AM and the meeting will begin promptly at 12:00pm. For questions, contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
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
