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’s Brightest Innovators Recognized at DETSA State Conference!
Nearly 800 students from across Delaware demonstrated their innovation, leadership, and technical skills at the 52nd annual Delaware TSA State Leadership Conference, held April 8–9 at UD’s Clayton Hall. Featuring 63 STEM-focused competitions, college tours, hands-on workshops, and industry exhibits, the event spotlighted how Career and Technical Education (CTE) engages youth to prepare for high-wage, high-demand careers. Special honors recognized outstanding advisors and chapters, and new state officers were elected to lead into 2025–26. For more information, contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
CTE Awareness Day, organized by the Delaware Office of Career Technical Education and STEM Career and Technical Education and STEM Initiatives will take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 10am to 2pm on Legislative Mall in Dover. This exhibit-style event will showcase student recognition, CTSO displays, and industry engagement, celebrating the educators, administrators, and students shaping Delaware’s future workforce. (Event may be canceled due to inclement weather.). for more information contact: Dr. Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Seaford Student Earns ServSafe Certification with Community Support
Seaford School District proudly celebrates Ever Wennberg, the first middle school student to earn a ServSafe certification, marking a Career and Technical Education (CTE) milestone. This success was made possible through aligned instruction, after-school preparation, and generous support from the Restaurant Association, which sponsored the certification exam. With 20 more students enrolled this quarter, the program continues to grow. For more information, contact Assistant Principal Pattie Barnes at Pattie.Barnes@Seaford.k12.de.us.
Grand Prize: A full 4-year scholarship presented as the President’s Emerging Storyteller Award!
Wilmington University and the Wilmington International Film Festival invite rising sophomores and juniors to submit original films for a chance to win a full four-year scholarship. Selected students will join the Young Filmmakers Summer Workshop, gaining hands-on experience with professional equipment and mentorship. Applications open April 1, 2025; submissions due by May 1, 2025. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! For more information contact Timothy Day at timothy.c.day@wilmu.edu.
At the 2025 National Summit for Educational Equity, Delaware’s Office of CTE and STEM demonstrated strong leadership in advancing equity-focused education. Dr. Jon Wickert, Director of CTE and STEM Initiatives, led a pre-summit workshop on eliminating barriers through the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) process. Michael Hill-Shaner, Education Associate, co-presented two sessions—one on learner-led research for equitable CTE improvement, and another on collaborative work-based learning strategies with the Delaware Restaurant Association. Michelle Kutch, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Brandywine School District, and Jordan Estock shared Brandywine’s strategies to promote gender equity in engineering education. Delaware was also featured in a panel on the PIPE (Programs Improving Postsecondary Equity) initiative, highlighting a six-year, five-agency collaboration aimed at expanding opportunities for students with disabilities. This robust participation underscores Delaware’s commitment to inclusive, student-centered, and equity-driven education. For more information, contact Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Future Educators Shine with 195 Honored and 115 National Qualifiers
The Educators Rising State Leadership Conference, held March 4–5 in Rehoboth Beach, DE, united aspiring teachers for workshops, panels, and keynote speeches. Co-sponsored by Delaware Department of Education Career & Technical Education, Delaware Teacher Academy Foundation, Wilmington University, and DSEA, it honored 195 award winners and 115 national qualifiers. The event showcased Delaware’s commitment to developing future educators through meaningful professional growth opportunities. For more information contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
The Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives is supporting seniors in their transition beyond high school, including preparation for the National Day of Signing on May 6 in Dover. In partnership with Higher Education, Early Learning, and Educator Excellence, we’re helping students access scholarships and funding. We are requesting that Seniors review the State Support Scholarship and complete the Teacher Academy Senior Exit Survey by April 15th to ensure the proper supports and participation in our National Day of Signing. For more information contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware high school students can enter a video contest promoting organ and tissue donation for a chance to win up to $1,000 in scholarship money. Submit a creative and accurate one-to-two-minute Public Service Announcement by April 30, 2025. Inspire others to become organ donors and help save lives! Learn more or submit at OrganDonorVidsDE.com.
The Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education (DFSME) is offering Mini-Grants to support innovative STEM learning experiences. Open to Delaware educators, these grants fund classroom resources, professional development, and hands-on projects that boost student engagement. Apply today to inspire creativity and critical thinking! For more information, contact anne.dfsme@gmail.com.
DFSME Seed Grants provide $1,000–$5,000 to support standards-based STEM/STEAM initiatives in Delaware. Funding helps launch new programs, expand successful ones, and reach new populations. Preference is given to research-driven projects with measurable impact. Grants support pilot programs, curriculum development, and professional learning. Rolling applications until funds are exhausted. Learn more: Visit DFSME’s website or email anne.dfsme@gmail.com (Subject: "Seed Grant Query").
The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is the premier honor society for Career & Technical Education (CTE), recognizing excellence since 1984. With over 1.2 million members, NTHS supports students through career development, leadership, service, and recognition. Partnering with organizations like SkillsUSA, HOSA, BPA, FCCLA, DECA, and TSA and others. NTHS enhances opportunities for CTE students. It has awarded over $3 million in scholarships, helping members pursue college, technical training, or careers in high-demand fields. Visit https://nths.org/contact-nths/ to learn how to bring NTHS to your school!
The DFSME Shining Light Award honors outstanding STEM educators in formal, informal, and community settings who inspire students as problem-solvers and future leaders. Winners receive a $100 gift card and mini mag flashlight. Nominate a deserving educator by submitting the DFSME Shining Light Nomination Form to Michelle.Kutch@bsd.k12.de.us and drses48@aol.com today!
The Jon Manon STEAM Team Education Award, presented by DFSME, honors teacher teams achieving extraordinary outcomes through collaboration and innovation. Winners receive a $1,000 cash prize to support STEAM projects and are recognized at school, district, and state levels. To submit or nominate a project, contact Randy Guschl at guschlrj@gmail.com.
Teacher Academy School Counseling & Administrator Guide
The Teacher Academy School Counseling & Administrator Guide outlines Delaware’s new Teacher Academy Program of Study, launching in the 2025-2026 school year. It merges Early Childhood and K-12 pathways, expanding access to careers in education through middle and high school courses, work-based learning, and dual enrollment. The program prepares students for roles as educators, counselors, and administrators, integrating culturally responsive teaching and leadership development. The guide also details certification requirements, curriculum updates, and Educators Rising as the official CTSO.
The Delaware Career Compass 2024-2025 edition is a step-by-step guide to career planning for students. It helps explore interests, career options, and goal-setting strategies. Learn about yourself, the world of work, and pathways to success. A fillable, interactive edition is available for easy access and engagement. For more information visit https://lmi.delaware.gov/Publications/.
Delaware’s Future Workforce: Industry & Occupation Projections
Delaware Occupation & Industry Projections provide a forecast of employment trends for the next ten years, updated every two years. These projections help students, job seekers, and employers understand future workforce demands, guiding career planning and business decisions. Stay informed about emerging job opportunities and industry growth in Delaware. For more information visit https://lmi.delaware.gov/Publications/.
Delaware Wages provides wage estimates from the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey, offering valuable insights into pay trends across industries. Made possible by Delaware employers' participation, the data ensures accuracy and confidentiality. This resource helps job seekers, students, and employers understand wage expectations and make informed career and hiring decisions. For more information visit https://lmi.delaware.gov/Publications/.
The Pocket Resume & Interview Guide is a convenient tool for students and job seekers to stay prepared for career opportunities. It helps organize key resume details and provides essential interview tips, ensuring confidence in any job search. Carry this guide to make a strong impression and take the next step toward career success. For more information visit https://lmi.delaware.gov/Publications/.
Inspiring Young Minds: Career Heroes Workbook Sparks Career Exploration
The Career Heroes Workbook introduces elementary students to career awareness through engaging activities and trading cards, highlighting six Career Hero types: Doers, Thinkers, Creators, Helpers, Persuaders, and Organizers. Designed for use with the Career Heroes Teacher’s Guide, it helps students explore diverse careers and the many professionals making a difference in the world. For more information visit https://lmi.delaware.gov/Publications/.
Navigating Delaware Pathways: An Education and Workforce Development Summit - April 29
The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s The Partnership, Inc. presents the 2nd annual Navigating Delaware Pathways Summit on April 29, 2025, at Bally’s in Dover. This full-day event unites CTE educators, employers, and higher education leaders to discuss talent acquisition, training, and workforce alignment. Highlights include interactive sessions, networking, and the Superstars in Education and Training awards. Sponsorships available. Contact Helana Rodriguez at hrodriguez@dscc.com for more information.
Join us on May 7, 2025, from 12:00–3:30 PM at Wilmington University (Dover) for the next CTE Director Cadre Meeting. This session will provide guidance on Perkins V, foster collaboration across secondary, postsecondary, and industry partners, and include policy discussions, statewide updates, and networking. Register in PDMS (Course #42939, Section #87241). Check-in: 11:30–11:45 AM. The meeting begins promptly at 12:00 PM. For questions, contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
SREB Literacy in CTE Training - June 16–18, 2025
Join SREB’s Literacy in CTE three-day training, hosted by the Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives in partnership with Capital School District, on June 16–18, 2025. This hands-on training strengthens Perkins 2S1 proficiency, helps educators integrate literacy into CTE, and develops project-based lessons aligned with workforce needs. Limited to 40 participants. Register in PDMS (Course #43409, Section #88656) for up to 25 professional learning hours. Questions? Contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
SREB Math in CTE Training - June 16–18, 2025
Join SREB’s Math in CTE three-day training, hosted by the Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives in partnership with Capital School District, on June 16–18, 2025. This hands-on training strengthens Perkins 2S2 proficiency, helping educators integrate math into CTE, enhance problem-solving skills, and develop project-based applications. Limited to 40 participants. Register in PDMS (Course #43410, Section #88657) for up to 25 professional learning hours. Questions? Contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Smart Servo Workshops
Bring real-world problem-solving to your STEM program with The Smart Servo Project. These spring and summer workshops equip educators with ready-to-use resources in human-centered design and assistive technology. Empower students to build community solutions while mastering engineering skills. Explore free curriculum and schedule your workshop today at https://wagnerlabs.net/SmartServo/. For more details contact Dr. Jud Wagner at judson@wagnerlabs.net.
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
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