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.
Delaware DOE Responds to Sudden Federal K-12 Funding Withholding
In a message from Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, Delaware families learned the U.S. Department of Education will abruptly withhold $26.6 million in critical federal K-12 funding, which is 10.5% of Delaware’s total. Under Governor Meyer’s leadership, the Delaware Department of Education is coordinating with districts, charter leaders, Congress, and the Attorney General’s Office to secure the funds, plan contingencies, and protect students, schools, and educators statewide.
Delaware SkillsUSA students excelled at the 2025 National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta. Eighty-four competitors from six Delaware high schools, with strong support from their schools and the Office of CTE/STEM, brought home top honors, including two national bronze medals, multiple Top 10 placements, and industry Skill Point Certificates. Their success highlights Delaware’s commitment to career and technical education, workforce readiness, and closing the state’s skills gap. For more information, contact Andrea Keen at Andrea.Keen@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware Students Make History at 2025 Educators Rising National Conference
Delaware students delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 Educators Rising National Conference in Orlando, with 39% earning Top 10 finishes and 26 placing nationally, including three national champions. Highlights include Delaware’s first-ever middle school and collegiate champions and Smyrna Middle School’s entire team placing in the Top 5. Students also heard inspiring keynotes, joined equity-focused sessions, and supported local schools through a student-led service project. For questions, contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware Youth Power Health Workforce Pipeline at National HOSA Conference
At the 48th Annual HOSA International Leadership Conference, Delaware’s 121-student delegation—led by State Advisor Rozie Townsend and supported by the Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education—made a powerful impact, earning five Top 10 national finishes. Highlights included a Delaware HOSA State Officer in the Parade of Flags, advisor Kimberly Hines honored for service, and Conrad Schools of Science recognized for their HOSA Service Project. Two chapters earned national service awards, showcasing Delaware’s leadership in health-focused Career and Technical Education. For more information contact Rozie Townsend at Rozie.Townsend@doe.k12.de.us.
The 1st annual report of Delaware CTE highlights statewide enrollment and student performance data from SY2022-23 across both secondary and postsecondary programs. The report is designed to promote alignment, provide transparency, strengthen program access and quality, and support data-informed decision-making across partners. It also serves as a tool to guide continuous improvement of CTE in Delaware. We invite you to review the report and share your feedback using the Feedback Survey. Responses are due by July 15, 2025, so we can incorporate your input into the SY2023–2024 Annual Report. For more information, contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Join the free Junior Chefs Summer Camp—open to students in grades 8–11 or those in the 18–21 Educational Program with a documented disability (IEP, 504 Plan, or physician diagnosis). Participants receive chef gear, culinary and life skills training, and industry certifications. A $100 stipend, knife, and cutting board are awarded upon completion. In-person and virtual options available. Questions? Call 302-444-8609 ext. 105 or email admissions@humanityskitchen.org.
Pharmacy Tech Certification – Enroll for Fall 2025!
The Eastside Career Development Center’s Pharmacy Tech Certification program runs July–October 2025. This 12-week online course prepares students for the PTCB exam and careers in pharmacy. Topics include prescriptions, top 200 drugs, billing, and compounding. An externship with a local healthcare employer is included. Open to those pursuing certification and job placement in the pharmacy field. Call 302-501-6628 for details or scan the QR code.
Justin Land, a 2016 POLYTECH High School graduate and former SkillsUSA Delaware champion, now leads the school’s welding program. After gaining hands-on experience through CTE and excelling in state and national competitions, Justin built a successful welding career before returning to teach. Their story highlights how Delaware Pathways prepare students for leadership, technical careers, and lifelong success and is one of the success stories featured in the Delaware CTE Annual Report.
Office of CTE Communication Feedback Survey - Spring/Summer 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!
CTE Educators Strengthen Literacy and Math Integration Through Summer Training Workshops
The Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career & Technical Education and STEM Initiatives hosted Math in CTE and Literacy in CTE workshops from June 16–18, 2025, in partnership with Capital School District and the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). Sponsored by the Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE), the workshops supported 38 CTE educators in integrating literacy and math strategies into technical instruction. Participants explored ways to strengthen the reading, writing, numeracy, and problem-solving skills of students in real-world settings. The training emphasized the importance of embedding academic instruction into CTE to improve comprehension, critical thinking, and career readiness.
Governor Meyer Appoints Tyler Gunter as Student Member to State Board of Education
Governor Matt Meyer has appointed Tyler Gunter, a rising senior at MOT Charter High School, as the 2025–26 student member of the Delaware State Board of Education. A Delaware Pathways participant and leader in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), Tyler serves as National Parliamentarian and Delaware State Treasurer for Business Professionals of America and is a former Delaware DECA State Vice President. He will advise on equity, graduation policy, and student success, bringing student perspective, civic experience, and a passion for inclusive education policy.
CTE Success Story: Woodbridge Graduate Leads Innovation at Perdue Farms
Curious how Delaware’s career and technical education (CTE) programs prepare students for future careers? Meet Lindsey Mizia, a 2009 graduate of Woodbridge High School, whose interest in science and animals was ignited through the school’s Animal Science program. Today, she leads improvement efforts across five Perdue Farms facilities. Lindsey’s journey from CTE student to industry leader is one of many success stories featured in the Delaware CTE Annual Report.
How Delaware Pathways and CTE Launched Johnny Bui’s Career!
Delaware Pathways and Career and Technical Education (CTE) power student success across the state. At Caesar Rodney High School, Johnny Bui excelled in the Manufacturing Engineering Technology program and rose through the ranks of the Delaware Technology Student Association (TSA), serving four years as a state officer, including state president. A U.S. Presidential Scholar in CTE, Johnny now thrives as a Senior Software Engineer in the tech industry. His passion, leadership, and technical excellence continue to inspire future Delaware students to dream big and pursue bold, impactful careers.
Odyssey Charter CTE Students Inducted in the National Technical Honor Society
Seventeen outstanding students from Odyssey Charter High School were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society, recognizing excellence in Career & Technical Education (CTE). These students earned the honor based on their academic achievement and technical skill development in CTE programs. The National Technical Honor Society celebrates high-performing students who demonstrate leadership, character, and dedication to their chosen career pathways.
Applications Open for 11th Delaware STEM Educator Awards
Applications are now open for 11th Delaware STEM Educator Awards. Section 1 is due Aug. 15. Section 2 is due Sept. 30. These awards honor outstanding STEM educators—individuals or teams—from elementary through high school, including public, private, and community-based programs. Eligible applicants include teachers in science, math, computer science, engineering, and CTE. Winners receive up to $7,500 in cash awards.
DDOE and NAPE Invite Two New District Teams to Join 2025–2026 PIPEline to Career Success
The Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE), in partnership with the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE), is inviting two new district teams to join the 2025–2026 PIPEline to Career Success for Students with Disabilities. This fully funded, year-long professional development opportunity provides training, technical assistance, and research-based tools to help districts increase access, participation, and completion in CTE programs for students with disabilities. Additional benefits include dedicated planning time, support for meeting state and federal reporting requirements, and collaboration with experienced district teams. Applications are due by July 12, 2025, and should be submitted to Carol Burbank, cburbank@storyweaving.com.
The “Dashboard: Top Employer‑Requested Credentials” is an interactive tool highlighting the most frequently requested non‑degree credentials by employers in 2024. Filterable by state and Career Cluster, it shows which credentials are in demand, not necessarily approved, as these vary by state, need, and workforce demand. Educators and policymakers can use this tool as a resource to initiate discussions related to alignment of programs.
All-New Edition! Delaware’s "Safety First" Manual Is Fully Updated!
The Delaware Department of Education has published a revised Safety First manual to promote safer instruction across classrooms and labs. Developed by the Offices of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development and CTE & STEM Initiatives, the guide offers research-based safety protocols for hands-on learning environments in science, CTE, and more. The manual is available to all Delaware schools. For more information, contact Carrie Evick at carrie.evick@doe.k12.de.us or Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Project ExCITE II for AP Computer Science Principles
Project ExCITE II, led by ITEEA with Hofstra and NC State, prepares high school Technology & Engineering teachers in DE, GA, ID, KY, LA, MA, MN, NC, ND, NJ, and PA to deliver an enhanced AP Computer Science Principles course with robotics. Teachers get training, $2,000, robotics kits, travel reimbursement, and CEUs. Apply now to bring AP-CSP byDesign to your classroom
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!
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
