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 TSA Students Earn National Honors at 2025 Conference
Delaware’s Technology Student Association delegation proudly highlighted the First State’s workforce and STEM talent pipeline at the 2025 National TSA Conference in Nashville. Supported by the Department of Education’s CTE/STEM Office, 160 students from 17 schools competed with nearly 10,000 peers in more than 65 STEM events, and earning several Top Ten national finishes. Their success demonstrates Delaware’s commitment to hands-on learning, leadership, and growing a skilled workforce. For more information contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
DACCTE Welcomes Briana Catalon to Serve on Advisory Council
The Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Technical Education (DACCTE) proudly welcomes Briana Catalon, an Allied Health student at Smyrna High School, to serve as a student representative on the Advisory Council for the 2025–2026 school year. Briana’s leadership in HOSA–Future Health Professionals, Emergency Medical Responder certification, and ER volunteer experience highlight how CTE prepares students for success, expands access and equity, and supports Delaware’s economic future. For more information, contact Dr. Christopher Stahl at Christopher.Stahl@delaware.gov.
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.
Postsecondary CTE Innovation Grant Applications Open
The Delaware Department of Education’s Office of CTE/STEM invites eligible Postsecondary recipients to apply for competitive Innovation Grants funded through Perkins V Reserve Funds. Awards support improving and expanding CTE programs of study and initiatives aligned with state priorities, including postsecondary student success, POS updates, Credit for Prior Learning, data systems, career counseling, apprenticeships, and other innovative CTE initiatives. Applications are due September 4, 2025. Contact Dr. Orrin White Orrin.White@doe.k12.de.us for questions.
Federal FY25 Perkins Funds for Delaware Fully Allocated
Delaware CTE has received its final allocation of federal FY25 Perkins funds, ensuring full funding for this fiscal year. The state fiscal year runs July 1–June 30, while the federal fiscal year runs October 1–September 30. Delaware is now in state FY26, while ED remains in FY25 until October 1. More information is available in the Advance CTE update.
Guidance from the Office of CTE/STEM: FY26 Budget and CGA
Federal FY26 budget discussions have begun, and there are no changes to the Perkins funding plan or state CTE budget shared at recent Cadre meetings — current planning remains on track. Final federal budget action likely will not occur before October 1, so a continuing resolution or government shutdown is possible. Please follow the attached Delaware Department of Education guidance to complete your FY26 Consolidated Grant Application. Feel free to contact any of the Education Associates in Office of CTE/STEM Initiatives with any questions.
Supreme Court Clears the Way for Perkins Move from ED to Labor
On July 14, the Supreme Court allowed the U.S. Department of Education to reduce staff and proceed with transferring administration of Perkins and WIOA Title II adult education to the Department of Labor. ACTE warns this shift could disrupt CTE’s integration with education systems, cause administrative confusion, and shift funding priorities, raising concerns about program delivery and student outcomes.
Early discussions on the federal FY26 budget have started. No changes are expected to Delaware CTE’s current plans shared at recent Cadre meetings. Local and state planning efforts remain on track. There is a possibility that the federal budget may not be finalized before October 1, which could result in a continuing resolution or federal government shutdown this fall. Additional updates will be shared. Questions contact Dr. Jon Wickert at Jonathan.Wickert@doe.k12.de.us.
The U.S. Department of Education released new PRWORA guidance that could affect Delaware’s Perkins funding eligibility. This change is expected to be challenged in court. Delaware CTE is coordinating with the state’s Congressional delegation and Advance CTE to monitor developments. Postsecondary Perkins partners will receive separate communication to help respond to inquiries. Perkins V and AEFLA grantees and subgrantees may submit questions related to the Notice of Interpretation to PRWORA@ed.gov.
New Pell Grants to Expand Access for High-Quality CTE
On July 1, Congress passed and President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which creates the Workforce Pell Grant Program under the Higher Education Act. Often called short-term Pell, this expands federal aid to students in high-quality, shorter-term CTE programs that has been an Advance CTE priority for years. Implementation is expected by July 1, 2026.
The Trump Administration is withholding about $7 billion in federal education funding that was set for release under a continuing resolution. Impacted programs include English learner support, teacher training, after-school enrichment, adult education, and career exploration. Perkins V CTE funds are not directly affected, but related services could face disruptions. Advance CTE is closely monitoring the situation and advocating for the prompt release of these funds.
Trump Administration Advances New Legal Interpretation Impacting Postsecondary Institutions
The Trump Administration issued a new legal interpretation expanding restrictions under PRWORA, declaring that many postsecondary programs including those funded by Perkins V are public benefits and must limit access for undocumented immigrants. This aligns with President Trump’s February 2025 Executive Order to curb taxpayer-funded services for noncitizens. Advance CTE is reviewing this policy shift to assess its potential impact on CTE programs and student participation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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..
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
