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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Secretary Marten Shares Back-to-School Video Message
The video recognizes the incredible work of educators and encourages a strong start to the school year. Emphasizing appreciation for educators’ dedication on building strong learning environments that support every student’s growth and achievement.
Welcome Back! A Message from the Delaware Office of CTE & STEM
The Delaware Office of CTE and STEM is excited to welcome educators, leaders, and partners to a new school year filled with energy and opportunity! Together we will celebrate equity, growth, and student success while strengthening the educator pipeline, expanding work-based learning, embedding environmental literacy, and aligning credentials of value—ensuring Delaware continues to shine as a national leader in preparing every learner for career and life success.
Delaware Spotlighted for Advancing Postsecondary CTE Data Systems
On September 23, the Advance CTE Data Community of Practice will spotlight Delaware and South Carolina for their leadership in advancing postsecondary CTE data systems through the ECMC Foundation–funded PDI initiative. Representing the Delaware Office of CTE and STEM Initiatives, Dr. Orrin White will present on the state’s robust and sustainable data infrastructure to support continuous improvement in postsecondary CTE joined by Jess Hansen and Dr. Denise Purnell-Cuff. This work reflects Delaware CTE’s mission to prepare every learner for success, advancing equity, transparency, and system coherence while ensuring pathways lead to meaningful careers. For more information contact Dr. Orrin White at Orrin.White@doe.k12.de.us.
Annual Reminder - Update School Profiles on Pathways Site
CTE Directors, please take a moment to review your school's profile on the Delaware Pathways website. These profiles highlight your career pathways, programs, and opportunities for students and families exploring educational options. If you notice any information that needs updating or have changes to submit, please contact Melissa Pitts at melissa.pitts@tappnetwork.com. Keeping your profile current ensures families have accurate information when making educational decisions.
CTE Program of Study Updates: 2025–26 Application and Approval Updates
The Delaware Department of Education has updated Career & Technical Education (CTE) program of study development, submission, and approval requirements. Key updates include revised application timelines, aligned skill and wage definitions, and new SOC-based criteria for program approval. For general questions about the application process, please contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at michael.hill-shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Fellows Drive Innovation and Student Leadership in 2025!
DDOE’s 2025 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Fellows program concluded this month, showcasing how students are transforming ideas into impact. Ricky Ayala (Aspira Delaware) amplified student voice in career cluster redesign and developed tools to inform future policy; Chukwuebuka Dara (MOT Charter School) created career resources and contributed student insights to workforce research; Amber Jennings (Sussex Academy) advanced equity and social-emotional learning to ensure all learners are represented in CTE; and Mildred Appah (Early College School at Delaware State University) expanded middle school engagement and strengthened Career and Technical Student Organization opportunities. Together, these Fellows demonstrated how student leadership and work-based learning fuel innovation, equity, and readiness for Delaware’s future workforce. For more information contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us or Dr. Denise Purnell-Cuff at Denise.Purnell-Cuff@doe.k12.de.us.
FY26 Delaware CTE Innovation Grant RFA Applications
The FY26 CTE Innovation Grant Request for Application provides Delaware LEAs with guidance to apply for Perkins V funds supporting CTE the following priorities: 1. Support the implementation or revision of Delaware CTE Program of Study (POS); 2. Support for Student Equality and Achievement in College and Career Coursework; 3. Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) support services; 4. Prepare students for career success and support CTE instructors, administrators, and counselors. For more information contact Rozie Townsend Rozie.Townsend@doe.k12.de.us.
CTE Cadre Newsletter Archive: One-Stop for Past Editions!
Delaware Pathways now offers a CTE Cadre Newsletter archive, making it easy to find every past edition in one place. The archive gives educators, students, and partners quick access to past updates, resources, and highlights.
Delaware Leads Nation in Growing Educator Workforce
For the second consecutive year, Delaware ranks first nationally in post-COVID educator workforce growth, according to state-reported hiring data. The Delaware DOE’s Office of Career & Technical Education (CTE) and Educator Excellence team are collaboratively building a seamless educator pathway that starts with career exploration in middle school, advances through rigorous high school Teacher Academy coursework, and extends into paid apprenticeships, teacher residencies, and full-time employment. CTE recently updated the Teacher Academy program of study to offer additional advanced courses, dual enrollment, articulated credits, rigorous curriculum, and work-based learning experiences that prepare students for immediate entry into the profession. The Educator Excellence team then strengthens this pipeline with “Grow Your Own” initiatives, year-long residencies, and supports such as free Praxis preparation and certification vouchers, removing financial barriers for aspiring teachers. Together, these efforts reflect Delaware’s diverse student population, strengthen the educator workforce, and provide sustainable staffing solutions statewide. For more information, contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Setting National Standard in Alignment of Education to Labor Market Demand
Delaware CTE is setting a national standard for aligning education with economic opportunity through consistent use of labor market information (LMI). A new Advance CTE case study highlights how Delaware’s statewide LMI framework informs the design and approval of CTE programs. This approach ensures students are prepared for high-skill, high-wage careers in critical sectors like healthcare, IT, and manufacturing, while helping families and educators make informed career pathway decisions. For more information contact Dr. Jonathan Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Leads Nation in Embedding Environmental Literacy
Delaware CTE is leading in the integration of environmental literacy across Career & Technical Education pathways. A new case study, developed with Advance CTE and NOAA, showcases how climate resilience and sustainability are embedded into instruction to prepare students for green, blue, and clean economy careers. Accompanying educator resources and a printable poster help schools connect learners with careers that meet workforce needs while addressing environmental challenges across industries. For more information contact Dr. Denise Purnell-Cuff at Denise.Purnell-Cuff@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.
The annual report outlines growth in Delaware’s career and technical education programs, highlights strategic partnerships, addresses funding mechanisms, evaluates statewide program effectiveness, and offers recommendations to enhance student credentials and workforce alignment. The report shares DACCTE’s role in advising policymakers and supporting educators to better prepare students for careers. For more information, contact Executive Director Chris Stahl at DACCTE@delaware.gov.
Save the Date for Delaware CTSO Fall Leadership Conference, October 14–15, 2025
Mark your calendars! The Delaware CTSO Fall Leadership Conference will be held October 14, 2025, for middle school students and October 15, 2025, for high school students at the University of Delaware. This statewide event brings together BPA, DECA, Educators Rising, FCCLA, HOSA, SkillsUSA, and TSA for leadership development, teamwork, and community engagement. All chapter officers are strongly encouraged to attend, along with students interested in leadership or seeking to grow as rising leaders. More details will be shared soon!
Delaware HOSA Advisors Meeting: Kick Off the Year Together!
Join us on Sept 9, 2025 for an exciting in-person HOSA Advisors Meeting to connect, collaborate, and prepare for a fantastic year with DE HOSA! The meeting will take place at the Collette Education Resource Center, 35 Commerce Way, Dover, DE 19901, in Room A/B from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Please ensure your HOSA Advisors are registered in PDMS Course #23030; Section #90211. For questions, contact Rozie Townsend at Rozie.Townsend@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.
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.
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.
2025–2026 Edition of the Delaware Career Compass is here!
This step-by-step guide helps students explore their interests, understand the world of work, and plan pathways to achieve their career goals. Educators can also access the accompanying Teacher Guide, which provides lesson plans to easily integrate career exploration into classroom instruction. Contact information is included in the booklet for requesting printed copies.
Delaware Student Success, powered by the Delaware Higher Education Office under the Department of Education, guides students and families through every step of academic planning from grades 7–12 and beyond. It offers checklists, career‑exploration tools, college identification, financial‑aid resources (including the Scholarship Compendium), webinars, and Spanish and Haitian Creole support, equipping learners for postsecondary success through planning, informed decisions, and access to educational opportunities. For additional information, educators may send questions to Dheo@doe.k12.de.us
As Delaware educators in an EbD Consortium state, you gain free access to the complete PreK–12 Engineering byDesign essential‑learning curriculum—no cost for public and charter teachers. Log in, complete the access form and access via Google Drive. Optional LMS access (interactive version) is available by request. You’re also eligible for professional learning workshops, expert consulting, and support aligned with ITEEA standards. For more information contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
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!
Launch Your Ideas with NASA TechRise Student Challenge!
The NASA TechRise Student Challenge opens this September for grades 6–12! Educator/student teams of all skill levels are invited to submit experiment ideas to fly on a commercial suborbital flight (rocket or high-altitude balloon). Participants gain access to free classroom resources and a fall virtual field trip. Sixty winning teams will each receive $1,500, technical support from NASA advisors, and the chance to launch their experiment on a NASA-sponsored flight. Don’t wait—register today!
Registration for Girl Power Camp is now open! This free one-day event introduces high school girls to energy careers, including line work, substations, fiber broadband, and advanced-metering technology. Held at Choptank Electric Cooperative in Salisbury, Md., participants learn safety skills, climb poles, operate bucket trucks, and receive career guidance from HR professionals and college advisors. Hosted by Delaware Electric Cooperative. Registration deadline: Friday, September 26. Contact Lauren Irby at lirby@delaware.coop.
Registration is open for Delaware’s Principal for a Day Week, October 27–31, 2025! Hosted by Junior Achievement of Delaware, this program connects business leaders with schools to strengthen workforce partnerships. Please encourage your friends in Program Advisory Committees who are business and industry leaders to participate—shadow a principal, share expertise, and help shape students’ career exploration in high-demand pathways. Register today and support Delaware’s future talent pipeline.
CyberPatriot: Cyber Defense Competition Open for Registration
CyberPatriot challenges middle and high school teams to act as IT professionals securing virtual networks. Through online rounds, students identify and fix cybersecurity issues in realistic scenarios. Top teams earn national recognition, scholarships, and a trip to the finals in Maryland. A great fit for cybersecurity classrooms—registration for Season 18 is open through October 1, 2025. Visit the CyberPatriot website for coach resources.
Project MFG is offering several FREE competition series in CNC machining, welding, and additive manufacturing. These events challenge students to think critically, manage resources, and showcase their skills in advanced manufacturing technologies. Participation is completely free, and Project MFG even covers travel expenses for both teachers and students. Don’t miss out—registration for this season is now open! For more information contact Amymoyer@ProjectMFG.com.
The Critical Needs Reimbursement Program supports Delaware educators teaching on an emergency certificate in designated shortage areas by offering tuition reimbursement for eligible coursework. The updated list of critical needs applies to courses taken between Summer 2025 through Spring 2027. This initiative helps educators gain required credentials while reducing financial burden. For additional information, educators may send questions to Dheo@doe.k12.de.us
High Needs Educator Student Loan Repayment Program
The High Needs Educator Student Loan Repayment Program offers annual payments toward eligible student loans for educators who hold a standard Delaware teaching certificate and teach full-time in a designated shortage area. Eligible educators may receive one award per year to help reduce their outstanding loan balance. For additional information, educators may send questions to Dheo@doe.k12.de.us.
Get ready, CTE students! The U.S. Department of Education’s Your AI Horizons Challenge launched this August. As part of the CTE Momentum series, this exciting opportunity invites you to explore how artificial intelligence can shape the future of careers across every industry. Don’t miss out. Subscribe to the CTE Momentum newsletter today to stay informed and be first to know when the challenge goes live!
The Delaware Scholarship Compendium is a comprehensive, user-friendly resource created by the Delaware Higher Education Office to help Delaware students and families explore and apply for national and local scholarships. It serves as a central guide to diverse funding opportunities from private and public organizations, making college more accessible by showcasing a wide variety of awards tailored for in‑state learners. For additional information, educators may send questions to Dheo@doe.k12.de.us
The Champion Fund provides financial assistance to bring Technology Student Association (TSA) membership to middle and high schools facing economic challenges. This initiative covers Red CAP membership dues (up to 10 members and one advisor) for eligible schools for one year, enabling newly-affiliated chapters to explore TSA’s enriching STEM competitions, leadership opportunities, and career resources. Eligible schools include those without a prior TSA chapter, schools inactive for three or more years, or those impacted by economic hardship due to disasters. Applications, requiring a principal’s signature, are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The Champion Fund relies on tax-deductible donations from individuals, chapters, or organizations to support its mission. Together, we can expand access to TSA’s transformative opportunities for students nationwide. If you have any questions regarding the Champion Fund, please contact Maria Raza at mraza@tsaweb.org or toll free at 1-888-860-9010.
Join Delaware’s CTE "REAL" Teaching Lab with SREB!
Save the Date: Delaware CTE Teaching REAL Lab 2025–26 – Beginning October 8–9, 2025, Delaware CTE educators will embark on a yearlong professional learning journey designed to seamlessly integrate math, science, and literacy into technical instruction. Through dynamic workshops, virtual coaching, and real-world scenario design, participants will create and refine interdisciplinary lessons that boost student engagement and achievement, earn up to 45 licensure clock hours and showcase their innovations at the Teaching Lab Showcase on June 17–18, 2026. Get ready to connect academics to careers and elevate CTE across Delaware! For Questions Contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
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
Join DACCTE’s Council meeting at 5 -7 pm, offered in Kent County and virtually. Educators, administrators, and counselors can earn professional development hours while exploring key career and technical education topics. Connect with Council members, share ideas, and take part in discussions that go beyond a typical school visit, supporting DACCTE’s mission to promote professional growth and statewide collaboration. Sign up in PDMS Course #43675, Section #89554. For more information, contact Ann Breeding at ann.breeding@delaware.gov..
October 10th Professional Learning: “STEM ConnectED Day”
Connecting Delaware Educators and Innovation, this FREE Professional Development opportunity offers exclusive access and behind-the-scenes tours of leading statewide STEM companies. Experience STEM in action! Witness cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices in STEM fields. Gain insights into current industry trends that can enhance your teaching. Develop ideas to improve your classroom. Empower your students through the new connections you make. Presented by Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education (DFSME).
Save the Date for "Fall Statewide CTE PD Day" - Oct 10
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
