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 Teacher Spotlighted in Education Week
During Teacher Appreciation Week, Angie Hewes of Smyrna High School was featured in Education Week for her impact on students through career and technical education (CTE). Angie has spent 23 years inspiring students, from launching the Academy of Finance to securing innovation grants for real-world learning. Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom, coaching students like Ashton Hartnett to state and national success. Angie’s story highlights the heart of Delaware CTE empowering students to thrive.
Pathways Summit Celebrates CTE Partnerships and Awards!
On April 29, the Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) joined educators, employers, and training providers to celebrate the power of partnership. These cross-sector collaborations are essential to building lifelong learning pathways that connect students to high-quality careers. With over 20 dynamic speakers including Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, Secretary of Labor LaKresha Moultrie, Kyle Hartung of Jobs for the Future, and Governor Matt Meyer. The summit spotlighted how strategic partnerships drive innovation and expand opportunity for all learners. The event also honored this year’s Superstars in Education & Training, exemplary programs that are shaping the future of learning and workforce development across Delaware.
CTE/STEM Team Members Honored at Excellence Awards
Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner, Dr. Denise Purnell-Cuff, and Dr. Jon Wickert of the CTE/STEM team were among those honored with the Governor’s Team Excellence Award for advancing teacher pipelines, including Registered Teacher Apprenticeships and Grow Your Own pathways.
DSU Offers BOGO Summer Graduate Courses for Educators!
Delaware State University is offering a special Summer 2025 Educator Incentive Program for K–12 teachers and administrators in Delaware, featuring a Buy One, Get One Free offer on graduate or doctoral courses. Eligible participants—those listed on a Delaware school district’s official personnel roster—can take two courses while only paying tuition for one; all other fees remain the student's responsibility. Courses are delivered asynchronously online with flexible 5-, 8-, or 10-week accelerated schedules starting in May and June. For more information contact Taneka Cook at tlcook@desu.edu.
Delaware Futures accepts students year-round and offers a simple enrollment process. Teachers, counselors, parents, caregivers, and students are encouraged to apply. To get started, email dawn@delawarefutures.org or call 302-554-9802. Don’t miss this chance to give your student every advantage. Enroll today and open the door to academic support, life skills development, and a pathway to future success. learn more by visiting: https://delawarefutures.org.
Career Pathways Programs Have Huge Bipartisan Support. D.C. Should Get on Board
The 74Million, April 22 — Delaware’s Office of CTE/STEM is recognized for delivering relevant, rigorous career pathways through collaborative five-year reviews with educators, students, and employers. This process ensures alignment with student and workforce needs. The office uses data to guide program and funding decisions, including expanding access for students with disabilities. Through ongoing review and improvement, the Office builds inclusive, responsive programs. For more information, contact Dr. Jonathan Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
'An Amazing Group of Young Leaders' IR Earns State Awards in TSA, Including Advisor of the Year!
Indian River High School’s Technology Student Association (TSA) students showcased outstanding leadership, creativity, and technical skill at the Delaware TSA State Leadership Conference, earning top awards in events ranging from biotechnology design to public speaking. With many now qualified for nationals in June, they’re fundraising to ensure every student can attend. Advisor Gerald Sheridan, honored as Advisor of the Year, credits his students’ drive, resilience, and community spirit for the program’s success. For more information contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Students Named U.S. Presidential Scholar Semifinalists!
Five exceptional students named as semifinalists in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program for Career and Technical Education, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school seniors. Their selection reflects the strength of Delaware’s CTE pathways in preparing students for high-wage, high-demand careers. Honorees include Conner Jackson, Isha Prasad Kanchana, and Michelle Zhou from Newark Charter School; Chuiyee Kong from Caesar Rodney High School; and Arnav Taduvayi from Odyssey Charter School. Their achievements highlight the excellence of Delaware’s CTE programs and the incredible talent of our future workforce.
Building Delaware’s Future Through Middle Grades Career Exploration
On April 7-11, 2025 the Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in partnership with Rodel led school visits and a Community of Practice to advance Delaware’s Rethinking Middle Grades CTE initiative. Educators and students from Appoquinimink, Capital, Colonial, Red Clay, Milford, Las Americas Aspira Academy, BASSE, Kuumba, and Odyssey participated. Outcomes included deeper alignment to CTE exploration standards, expanded district collaboration, planning for sustainability and examination of students’ experiences to inform future programming. Contact Denise Purnell-Cuff at Denise.Purnell-Cuff@doe.k12.de.us for more information.
Scholarships
mikeroweWORKS Scholarship for Skilled Trades Students
The mikeroweWORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship Program helps students pursuing training for skilled jobs in industries like construction, plumbing, electrical work, and manufacturing. Focused on supporting people with a strong work ethic, the program awards scholarships to cover tuition and related costs at trade schools. Applicants must sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge and demonstrate personal responsibility, grit, and determination to succeed in a hands-on career.
Save the Date: 11th Annual STEM Educator Awards, November 13, 2025. Celebrate Delaware’s top STEM educators during a live Zoom broadcast from Buena Vista in New Castle. Hosted by the Delaware STEM Council and DFSME, the event honors excellence in K–12, community, and STEAM team categories. To learn more or to download the 2025 application visit: https://www.dfsme.org/stem-educator-awards/.
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!
Pathways Opportunity: Launch Your Manufacturing Career!
Pathways students can explore a great manufacturing opportunity with Clarios in Middletown! As an Assembler/Machine Operator, earn $24–$26/hour with incentives, plus bonuses, paid vacation, tuition reimbursement, and excellent benefits. Work nights on a 2-2-3 schedule after paid training. Gain hands-on experience with machines, safety practices, and quality control. Join a global leader in sustainable battery manufacturing and build your future today!
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.
2025 Tech Ecosystem Conference
The 2025 Tech Ecosystem Conference is planned for May 20. Wilmington residents ages 18–24 who are under/unemployed and not enrolled in school or training are invited to this free one-day event. Hosted by the Tech Council of Delaware, the day features speakers, panels, workshops, networking, and more.
Held at the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science in Wilmington May 21 from 9am –1pm this fair connects STEAM professionals with students and teachers. Learn about career pathways, salaries, local opportunities, and required coursework.
Code.org Summer Professional Learning — Scholarships Available!
Code.org’s Professional Learning Program offers engaging, high-quality training to help CTE and academic teachers bring computer science to their classrooms with confidence. Designed for both new and experienced educators, the program includes summer workshops, ongoing support, and access to a collaborative community. Scholarships are available to help schools participate. Learn more and register today to expand CS opportunities for your students!
Onshape Certification: Flexible Professional Learning for Educators
ITEEA’s STEM Center for Teaching and Learning offers three flexible ways to become Onshape Certified: a 5-day live online course, an 8-week live online option, or an asynchronous self-paced format. Each hands-on course includes 40 professional learning hours, a certificate of completion, and a free exam voucher. Register for the 8-week course by April 30 and use promo code cad8week to save 20%.
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
