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 Educators Gather for Statewide Professional Learning to Strengthen CTE Teaching and Program Quality
The Office of Career & Technical Education (CTE) and STEM Initiatives hosted the statewide October 10th CTE Professional Learning Series, bringing together CTE educators to strengthen instructional practice and program quality. Sessions highlighted curriculum redesign across pathways, classroom and lab safety, and strategies to integrate technical and academic learning. Additional workshops focused on CTE, DACCTE funding, CTSO management. Led by NAPE and DDOE staff, the event advanced collaboration, innovation, and excellence in Delaware’s CTE classrooms. For more information contact Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner at Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Leaders Focus on Quality Education, Workforce Readiness, and Student Opportunity at Statewide Meeting
On October 1, 2025, Career and Technical Education (CTE) leaders from across Delaware convened at Wilmington University in Dover for the statewide CTE Leadership Cadre Meeting. Led by Dr. Jon Wickert and the CTE team, the event covered legislative updates, funding routines, and upcoming initiatives for SY25–26. Highlights included presentations on Credentials of Value, Program of Study revisions, environmental literacy, and communications strategy updates, alongside recognition of Dover High’s Culinary program and cross-sector collaboration to advance equitable, high-quality CTE statewide. For more information contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
Office of CTE and STEM Launches REAL Lab to Transform Teaching Through Interdisciplinary Learning
The Office of Career & Technical Education (CTE) and STEM initiatives, in partnership with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), launched the CTE Teaching REAL—Relevant, Engaging, Academic Learning—Lab on October 8–9, 2025, hosted by DuPont at the Experimental Station in Wilmington. The kickoff convened CTE teachers from across Delaware to begin designing interdisciplinary lessons that integrate math, science, and literacy into technical instruction. In the months ahead, participants will engage in coaching and scenario-based workshops, culminating in a June 2026 Teaching Lab Showcase highlighting innovative practices and student-centered learning outcomes. For more information, contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Delaware CTE Launches AI-Powered Career Advisement Assistant to Support Middle School Pathways Exploration
The CTE Career Advisement Assistant is an AI-powered chatbot tool created by the Delaware Department of Education to support middle school advisement. It helps educators design lesson plans, activities, and guidance aligned with CTE Exploration Standards, MTSS, ASCA, WBL, and core academic standards. The Assistant draws from DOE policy, pathways, and counseling standards to scaffold meaningful career advisement integration. For more information contact Dr. Denise Purnell-Cuff at Denise.Purnell-Cuff@doe.k12.de.us.
Dover Students Demonstrate Culinary and Service Skills
Dover High School, Delaware’s newest SkillsUSA chapter, showcased their culinary arts and restaurant service skills on October 1, 2025, during the statewide Career & Technical Education Leadership Cadre fall meeting at Wilmington University in Dover. The demonstration, aligned with a session on Work-Based Learning, highlighted how real-world experiences connect classroom instruction with career opportunities. Led by Chef Peter Buoncristiano, his students, and the Delaware Restaurant Foundation, the event underscored CTE’s commitment to building community partnerships that expand student access to hands-on learning and workforce preparation.
From Training to Employment: Delaware Restaurant Foundation Aligns with CTE Goals
The Delaware Restaurant Foundation (DRF) highlighted its HOPES and Restaurant Ready programs at the Hospitality Pathways Conference. These initiatives provide training, credentials, and employment opportunities for individuals reentering the workforce or facing barriers. As a pilot state for HOPES, Delaware is expanding efforts with U.S. Department of Labor and industry support, aligning with CTE goals to connect learning with industry credentials and hospitality careers.
Middle School COLT Inspires Next Generation of FFA Officers
On September 13, 2025, Delaware FFA hosted the Middle School Chapter Officer Leadership Training (COLT) with 13 chapters, 69 students, and 12 advisors. Participants engaged in officer workshops on leadership, confidence, and values. Highlights included reflections on the “Synergize” theme, a group pledge activity, and the Opening and Closing Ceremonies competition, won by W.T. Chipman. Students left prepared to serve with confidence and teamwork.
High School COLT 2025: Officers Unite Under the Theme of Synergy
Held September 24–25, 2025, Delaware FFA’s High School COLT welcomed 16 chapters, 101 students, and 23 advisors. State officers led workshops on leadership, values, and confidence, along with a campfire reflection and flag-raising ceremony honoring history. Students connected through scavenger hunts, breakout sessions, and group meals. Odessa’s team won the Opening and Closing Ceremonies competition. The event strengthened officers’ skills and emphasized the year’s theme, “Synergize.”
Sign Up Now to Volunteer During Launch into Your Future Month 2025
Volunteer spots are still open—help Delaware high school seniors plan their next steps toward success! Launch Into Your Future Month, sponsored by the Delaware Higher Education Office with support from UD’s Institute for Public Administration, runs this October and November. Volunteers guide students as they explore options like college, apprenticeships, certifications, military service, or entering the workforce.
Don’t forget! At this year’s Fall CTSO Leadership Conference (October 14–15), CTSO's are partnering with the Food Bank of Delaware to host a service project supporting our local community. Please encourage yor members to bring donations of healthy pantry staples such as canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, cereal, beans, and grains. Let’s make a difference together—your contributions help provide nutritious meals for Delaware families in need!
Secondary Innovation Grant RFA Update - Deadline Extended to October 24
The Secondary Innovation Grant due date has been extended to October 24. These funds support the implementation and improvement of CTE programs of study in four priority areas: implementation or revision of CTE programs of study (up to $20,000 per focus area); student equity and achievement in college and career coursework (up to $15,000 per focus area); Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) support services (up to $30,000); and preparation of students for career success, along with support for CTE instructors, administrators, and counselors ($7,000–$15,000, not to exceed $30,000). Deadline for applications has been extended to October 24, with award notifications issued on November 15, 2025.
Teacher Academy Legislative Report - HB 332 Reporting Due Dec 1
DOE must publish an annual report on Teacher Academy programs, including participation counts and the number of students transitioning to higher education in education fields. Data is collected using CIP codes and student identifiers. Please validate codes with your School Counselor and Administrator Guide by Dec 1. If data is incorrect, submit full details with evidence to Michael.Hill-Shaner@doe.k12.de.us for review in future reports.
State and Local CTE Pathway (POS) Applications - Due Nov 15
The application window for the 2025–2026 school year is now open. Applications are to be completed and uploaded into the Delaware CTE Portal due by November 15 of the year prior to implementation, with initial notifications issued by December 20. If revisions are required, updated applications are due January 15, and final approval will be granted by February 1. Please note that all Teacher Academy Pathways must reapply. Resources "How to Apply to Offer a Program of Study" is available on the Delaware Pathways website. For questions, LEAs should contact their CTE liaison and the appropriate CTE Education Associate for the content area.
Implementation begins in October 2025 for secondary and postsecondary programs with the addition of the COV module in the CTE Portal to support data submission and credential categorization. Results from credentials already reviewed by the CTE workgroup will go into effect in SY26-27, while those assessed in SY25-26 will take effect in SY27-28, with adjustments aligned to program approval calendars. LEAs are not required to resubmit credentials already categorized. As part of the Infinite Campus credential list cleanup, LEAs may submit data for non-approved credentials in October; unsubmitted credentials will not count for SY26-27 accountability purposes.
LEAs should prepare for the FY27 Perkins funding cycle by aligning work to updated timelines and requirements. CGA technical assistance dates will be shared at the December CTE Leadership Cadre meeting, with data reports due October 31, 2025, and eGrants updated by December 30, 2025. Technical assistance resources will be available by February 1, 2026, and reviewed at the March CTE Leadership Cadre Meeting. The CLNA remains the foundation of the local application, requiring evidence of workforce alignment, equitable access, program improvement, and student outcome gains. Early preparation will ensure Perkins applications are data-driven, sustainable, and positioned to advance Delaware’s CTE priorities.
Delaware CTE Stars Shine as U.S. Presidential Scholars
Chuiyee Kong, a Caesar Rodney High School Computer Science pathway graduate, and Isha Prasad Kanchana, a Newark Charter School Biotechnology pathway graduate, have been named U.S. Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education, one of the nation’s highest honors for CTE excellence. Now in college, Chuiyee, a former Delaware Technology Student Association (TSA) state officer founded her school’s Computer Science Club, interned with the Delaware Department of Transportation, and launched a youth coding club. Isha, active in HOSA and Business Professionals of America (BPA), conducted biotechnology research at the IBM-MIT Watson AI Lab and Indiana University and created nationally recognized, award-winning apps.
Award for Agricultural Educators - Nominations Due Nov 15.
The Delaware FFA Association and Nationwide Insurance are proud to announce nominations are open for the Golden Owl Award®, honoring outstanding agricultural educators who inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders. Students, parents, and community members can nominate teachers who go above and beyond. Finalists receive $500 and a plaque, while the grand prize winner earns $3,000 and the Golden Owl trophy. Additionally, Nationwide Insurance will donate $5,000 to support Delaware FFA leadership programs. Nominations close November 15.
Celebrate CTE Month: Enter Statewide CTE Poster Contest!
February is Career and Technical Education Month! DACCTE, in partnership with the Departments of Labor and Education, is hosting a CTE poster contest. Help highlight CTE’s vital role in our education system and economy by showcasing classroom talent. The winning student poster will promote CTE Month statewide. Submissions are due December 12, 2025. Questions? Contact Caitlin Rozell at Caitlin.Rozell@delaware.gov for more information.
DACCTE Provides Guidance and Resources for Delaware CTE Educators and Leaders
The Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) Tutorials & Resource Portal offers a comprehensive collection of guides, presentations, and professional development materials to support CTE stakeholders across the state. Resources include overviews of DACCTE’s role, explanations of funding streams such as Perkins and Title 14 regulations, advisory committee guidance, safety practices, and professional learning tools. These materials equip educators and administrators with practical support for planning, policy, and implementation.
New "Pathways" Resource to Help LEAs Apply for CTE POS's
Delaware Pathways has launched a new resource for LEAs to support applications for state-model or local CTE Programs of Study (POS). The site provides step-by-step guidance, including templates, labor market analysis tools, advisory committee requirements, and program matrices. Applications are submitted through the CTE Portal by November 30th, with approvals in January and revisions completed by February for school year implementation.
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 Technology Student Association Fall Affiliation Due in Nov!
National Technology Student Association (TSA) chapter affiliation is now open and should be completed by November to register for Delaware’s State Leadership Conference (SLC) so that students can have the details and resources needed for participation. These resources are only available only after your chapter has paid for affiliation. There are no state affiliation fees. Students can start preparing many competitive events now, including co-curricular projects. This year features service with the American Red Cross, leadership growth at the Fall Leadership Conference, networking at the Winter Leadership Lunch, and inspiring workshops at SLC for more information contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
The DDOE CTE Professional Learning and CTSO Calendar for 2025-26 document has been updated on Sept 12, 2025. The 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.
CTE Leadership Cadre Midyear Convening: Dec 3, 2025
CTE directors, school leaders, and pathways partners are invited to the midyear CTE Leadership Cadre convening on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Wilmington University–Dover. Please register in PDMS Course 24244, Section 90515. This session will foster collaboration to advance CTE initiatives and strengthen statewide leadership.
Join the Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) and the Department of Education (DOE) for the State CTE Professional Development Nights series. The virtual session begins at 3:30-5:30 pm. and offers timely, relevant training for CTE educators and leaders statewide. Sign up in PDMS Course #43679, Section #89555. For more information, contact Ann Breeding at ann.breeding@delaware.gov.
Join DACCTE’s Council meeting at 5-7 pm, offered in New Castle 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 engage in discussions that go beyond a typical school visit, supporting DACCTE’s mission to promote statewide professional growth. Sign up in PDMS Course #43676, Section #89552. For more information, contact Ann Breeding at ann.breeding@delaware.gov
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
