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!
If you have content you'd like to suggest for an upcoming edition, please submit tothis link.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to strengthen your teaching strategies and boost math performance for students in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and earn up up to 25 professional learning hours! We encourage CTE educators to register and take advantage of this targeted professional learning experience. PDMS registration Course #43410, Section #88657 has been extended to Thursday, June 12, 2025. Help your students build confidence and success in math through meaningful, real-world instruction!
Office of CTE Communication Feedback Survey - Spring 2025
You are invited to participate in a brief survey designed to gather input from Delaware's Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators and administrators on the effectiveness of the Office of CTE’s communication strategies. Your feedback is essential to help us improve the clarity, relevance, and responsiveness of our communications to help us support your professional needs in the 2025–2026 school year. Thank you for your support!
Now Accepting Applications: Student Representative for Delaware CTE Advisory Council
The Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) is seeking a student representative to help shape the future of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Delaware. This is a unique opportunity to share your voice, offer insights, and collaborate with state leaders, all while developing valuable leadership skills. The council will meet four times throughout the year: October, December, April, and June. Applications are due by July 1, 2025. To learn more about DACCTE, visit https://daccte.delaware.gov/.
Advance CTE’s national The State of CTE: Credentials of Value report explores how states are improving credentialing systems to strengthen talent pipelines. Drawing on a 50-state scan and interviews including insights from Dr. Jon Wickert DDOE Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives and Mrs. Joanna Staib, Executive Director of the Delaware Workforce Development Board. The report identifies the need for more consistent, data-driven approaches, such as those included in Delaware's updated credential assessment model. For more information contact Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us
Webinar: How Delaware Connects CTE and Apprenticeships to Strengthen Workforce Pathways
Join New Editions and JFF on Thursday, June 12 at 1:00 PM ET for the webinar Connecting CTE and Registered Apprenticeship: Delaware’s Strategic Approach. Discover how Delaware is using Perkins funding to align Career and Technical Education (CTE) with Registered Apprenticeship programs, creating smooth transitions for students and building strong talent pipelines for employers. Dr. Jonathan Wickert will share successful strategies and initiatives that can inform similar efforts in other states. For more information contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Join Project Evident on June 26 from 12:00–1:00pm EST for a national webinar exploring how to strengthen career pathways for young people. Dr. Jon Wickert from the Office of CTE/STEM will share how Delaware is expanding youth apprenticeships, promoting economic mobility, and improving education equity as part of broader efforts to build a skilled, inclusive workforce. The session features key findings from a new national report.
New! State Model Delaware CTE Pathways Guidance Resources
Now available from the Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE), this toolkit supports educators, guidance professionals, and partners in promoting Delaware Pathways. Accessible directly on the Delaware Pathways website, these resources include official logos, guidelines, editable flyers, and Program of Study overviews. Use these resources to engage students and families in meaningful career exploration. For questions, contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
The Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) has launched an updated Delaware Pathways Educators page to support teachers in connecting students with real-world careers through high-quality CTE programs. The page explains the differences between state and local pathway models, outlines the application process for DOE-approved Programs of Study, and highlights student success outcomes. Explore the tools and guidance now available. For questions, contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTSO State Officers Unite for 2025 Leadership Training at the Beach
The Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) hosted the 2025 State Officer Leadership Training (SOLT) on June 3–4 at the Atlantic Sands Hotel in Rehoboth Beach. State officers from seven Delaware CTSOs—BPA, DECA, Educators Rising, FFA, HOSA, SkillsUSA, and TSA participated in interactive workshops focused on leadership development, strategic planning, and collaboration to prepare for a successful year of service. For more information contact Keen Andrea at Andrea.Keen@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware Business Students Place at National Conference
Delaware students showcased their talent at the 2025 Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference in Orlando, earning 110 Top Ten finishes, including 12 national championships. Tyler Gunter was elected to the National Executive Council, and Evina Shingavi was honored as Middle Level Torch Award Ambassador of the Year. Students also engaged in leadership workshops and service projects supporting Special Olympics. Learn more at delawarebpa.org.
Dr. Jon Wickert from the Office of CTE/STEM contributed insights to help shape recommendations aimed at advancing equity, improving outcomes, and promoting sustainability across connected pathways systems. Building Career Pathways For Young People, led by Project Evident, highlights critical research gaps in career pathway development for youth under 25. The report draws on national data and expert input to inform policy and practice. It also emphasizes activities and investments that align with the Delaware Pathways Transition Memo and Governor Matt Meyer’s Executive Order 1 report. For more information, contact Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Apply to be a Reviewer for Educator Preparation Program Review Process
The Delaware DOE seeks professionals to serve as paid Reviewers for Educator Preparation Program (EPP) Modifications and Additions. This project-based role involves evaluating program proposals for quality, alignment, and readiness using a standardized rubric. Apply by June 13th, 2025. Reviewers must attend a required training on June 23. Compensation includes $200 training and $1,000 per review. for questions contact: Keeley.Powell@doe.k12.de.us.
UD BlueHensWork: Funded Micro-Internships for Public Service
Delaware-based nonprofits, public service, and government organizations can host University of Delaware students for short-term, paid micro-internships at no cost. Through the UD Career Center’s BlueHensWork initiative, organizations receive up to 40 funded hours of project-based work per year, helping students gain real-world experience while supporting mission-driven efforts. Projects are posted via Parker Dewey and completed remotely during summer or winter breaks.
Guidance on Allowable Uses of Perkins for CTE Programs
Guidance outlines how Perkins V funds can be used to support Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Delaware. It details required uses, recommended spending caps, and allowable and non-permissive expenditures, covering areas like career guidance, professional learning, equipment, CTSO support, and special populations. The document helps ensure that funds strengthen CTE programs, improve student outcomes, and align with state and federal requirements. Should you have any questions, please contact your DOE CTE program manager for assistance.
The FY26 CTE Innovation Grant Request for Application provides Delaware LEAs with guidance to apply for Perkins V funds supporting CTE program development, equity initiatives, student success, and educator professional development. It outlines eligibility, priority areas, application requirements, funding limits, evaluation criteria, and timelines to strengthen career and technical education.
This guidance outlines the 2025-2026 Consolidated Grant Application (CGA) process under Perkins V for Delaware local education agencies (LEAs). It includes instructions on budgeting, performance indicators, local plans, needs assessments, improvement plans, and required assurances. Contact details for Delaware Department of Education staff and resources to assist LEAs in developing high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Should you have any questions, please contact your DOE CTE program manager for assistance.
Apply now for the 2025 Delaware STEM Educator Awards, honoring outstanding STEM teaching at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as community and STEAM team efforts. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate excellence in STEM education.
Virtual Robotics & Pre-Engineering Workshop June 12, 2025
Educators are invited to a one-day virtual workshop on June 12, 2025, to explore the REC Foundation Pre-Engineering and Robotics Certification byDesign. Hosted by ITEEA, the training provides tools, curriculum insights, and practical strategies to enhance STEM instruction. Participants will receive a free certification voucher ($50 value). Spots are limited. Use promo code rec20 for 20% off registration. Open to educators in consortium states.
DDOE CTE Professional Learning and CTSO Calendar for 2025-26 document outlines key professional development opportunities, conferences, and events for Delaware CTE educators and students. It includes workshops, summer institutes, leadership events, CTSO state and national conferences, and specialized trainings focused on literacy, math, and work-based learning. The document supports educators in aligning CTE programs with workforce needs and enhancing student success through high-quality learning experiences. Should you have any questions, please contact your DOE CTE program manager for assistance.
Join the Wilmington Learning Collaborative for the 1st Annual Educator Symposium
Join the Wilmington Learning Collaborative for the 1st Annual Educator Symposium, June 17–18 from 8 AM to 4 PM at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. This year’s theme, “Transforming Tomorrow,” brings together educators, school leaders, and community partners from Wilmington and beyond to share strategies and tools for a successful school year. For more information, contact Jessica Ka at jessica@wlc-de.org.
CTE New Teacher Summer Institute - August 5-6, 2025
CTE teachers are invited to the New Teacher Summer Institute on August 5-6! Join us for a full day of onboarding on August 5 and breakout sessions on August 6. To participate please complete the New Teacher Orientation form https://forms.office.com/r/tJNSdNPMvH and register in PDMS Course: 43535, Section: 89132 to launch your CTE journey with tools, resources, and support for success! For questions contact Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Call for Proposals: Make Waves at ITEEA’s Conference
Join ITEEA’s 88th Annual Conference in Virginia Beach, where educators, researchers, and industry leaders will explore the theme “Making Waves.” Set against the coastal backdrop, this event highlights innovation in STEM, technology, and engineering education. Apply to present a 30, 45, or 75-minute session that showcases hands-on strategies, evolving pedagogy, or human-centered learning. Proposal deadline is August 29, 2025.
Save the Date: October 10, 2025 - STEM ConnectED Day
Save the Date of October 10, 2025 for the STEM ConnectED Day, hosted by DFSME. The day will offer Delaware educators a free, one-day professional development event featuring exclusive tours of leading STEM businesses across Kent, New Castle, and Sussex counties. Connect with industry professionals, explore current STEM trends, and discover real-world applications to bring back to your classroom. Don’t miss this opportunity to link education and innovation.
Save the date for the Statewide CTE Professional Development Day on October 10, 2025, at the Delaware State Fire School. The tentative schedule includes general sessions, workshops, and Program of Study (POS) time. More details will be shared soon!
Save the Date: Feb 20, 2026 - Youth Environmental Summit
Save the Date! February 20, 2026 — The 7th Annual YES! Delaware Youth Environmental Summit is a free, student-planned event for Delaware high school students and educator advisors. Participants explore critical environmental issues at the state, national, and global levels while identifying actionable steps they can take on campus and beyond. All Delaware schools are encouraged to attend. For more information, click here.
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
