Welcome to this week’s Delaware Pathways Update!
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!
New Information
Back to topCTSO Fall Leadership Conference Builds Future-Ready Leaders
Student leaders from across Delaware gathered at the Delaware State Fairgrounds on Oct 26 and 28, 2026 for the annual CTSO Fall Leadership Conference, themed “Harvest Your Full Potential.” Students representing BPA, DECA, Educators Rising, FCCLA, HOSA, SkillsUSA, and TSA developed communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills through hands-on activities. State officers led conference activities, while participants demonstrated community leadership by collecting 381 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Delaware. Through leadership training, career-connected learning, and community service, CTSOs help prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.
CTE Students Earned More Than 4,100 College Credits!
Delaware Career and Technical Education (CTE) students earned 4,118 college credit hours during the 2025–26 school year, representing more than $1.5 million in estimated tuition value. Through partnerships with colleges and training institutions, CTE pathways provide students opportunities to earn college credits while developing technical knowledge and industry skills. These experiences accelerate postsecondary education, potentially reduce costs for families, and prepare students for high-demand careers. This achievement highlights Delaware’s continued commitment to expanding college and career readiness through rigorous, relevant CTE programs in public schools statewide.
Office of CTE and STEM Supports Milford School District’s Recovery Efforts
Staff from the Delaware Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and STEM joined colleagues today to help Milford School District recover from the devastating fire at Lulu M. Ross Elementary School. Team members assisted with packing, moving, and relocating classrooms to prepare learning spaces for students returning November 2.
December 8, 2026 - DACCTE Council Meeting
Join the DACCTE Council on Tuesday, December 8, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. for the second meeting of the 2026–2027 year. The meeting will be held virtually, with an anchor location to be announced. Members will receive updates on statewide Career and Technical Education initiatives, collaborate on shared priorities, and discuss opportunities to strengthen educator engagement. The Council continues to serve as a forum for networking, professional collaboration, and advancing innovative practices that support Delaware students, educators, and workforce development. PDMS Course 44641; Section 93116
Educator Loan Repayment Applications
Applications are now open for Delaware's Public School Employee Support Program for High-Need Areas. The program provides eligible public school employees with qualified student loan debt a state-funded award of at least $1,000 annually. Eligible applicants include certified educators working in high-need schools or subject areas and certain education support specialists, including school counselors, psychologists, social workers and speech-language pathologists. Applications are due Monday, Nov. 30, with awards anticipated in late Feb. 2027. Learn more and apply. Questions may be directed to dheo@doe.k12.de.us.
PSB Seeks Teacher Representatives
The Professional Standards Board is seeking two teachers to serve on its Professional Development and Associated Compensation Criteria Committee (PDACC). The committee recommends professional development activities eligible for license renewal credit and additional salary stipends or supplements. Members typically meet at 8 a.m. on the second Wednesday of every other month, with in-person and virtual participation options. Interested teachers should discuss participation with their supervisors before applying here. Schools or districts must provide necessary coverage, as substitute reimbursement is not available.
CTE Educators Showcase Health Science Innovation at National Conference
Delaware career and technical education (CTE) educators showcased innovative teaching strategies at the National Health Science Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. William Penn High School educators Melissa Slattery, Jordan Hudson, and Lauren Burkholder presented Antibody Assault, an interactive activity demonstrating how the immune system fights disease. Lake Forest educator John Rocks shared insights from his Certified Medical Assistant program. Their participation highlighted Delaware's commitment to engaging instruction, national collaboration, and preparing students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful healthcare careers and future workforce opportunities.
Two Delaware CTE Students Named 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars
Akshaj Bais and Nathan Hryniewicz of Newark Charter School have been named 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for graduating seniors. Both students are leaders in Delaware's Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). Bais served as Delaware HOSA State President and an International Executive Council representative, while Hryniewicz served as Delaware TSA State Treasurer. Their recognition highlights how Delaware's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs support academic excellence, student leadership, and career readiness, preparing students for success beyond high school.
Help Us Identify Delaware CTE Pathways Alumni Success Stories!
Teachers and administrators are encouraged to nominate Delaware CTE Pathways alumni whose experiences demonstrate the lasting impact of career and technical education. We are seeking graduates who have used their CTE skills and experiences to pursue postsecondary education, enter the workforce, or build successful careers. Selected stories may be featured on the Delaware Pathways website and in related publications. Please encourage outstanding alumni to complete the CTE Pathways Success Stories Survey and help us showcase how Delaware CTE Pathways prepares students for success beyond graduation. For questions contact mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Reminder
Back to top2026–2027 CTE Labor Market Information (LMI) Reports Available
The 2026–2027 CTE Labor Market Information (LMI) Reports are now available in the Schoology CTE Leadership Cadre Resources folder. Updated reports have been developed for all newly adopted, revised, and updated Advance CTE Career Clusters and Subclusters and should be used to support Program of Study reviews, new program applications, and program revisions. The reports use labor market data for the Greater Delaware Region, defined as Delaware plus a 45-minute commuting radius beyond the state's borders, providing a more accurate representation of the regional workforce available to Delaware employers and graduates. Questions? Contact Mike Fitzgerald at mike.fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Fall 2026 CTE POS Application and Revision Procedures - Due Nov 15
Revised in fall 2025, Delaware’s Career and Technical Education office updated its Pathway Creation and Revision Procedure Manual to clarify application deadlines, submission requirements, and LEA collaboration with DDOE. Applications are due by November 15 of the year before implementation, with final approval issued by February 1. LEAs must schedule quarterly updates with their assigned Education Associate, provide all supporting documents and evidence for review, and receive pre-approval before submitting an application through the CTE Portal. Required materials include LMI, advisory committee engagement, early college agreements, value-added opportunities, Pathway Matrix alignment, and leadership assurances. LMI is available in the CTE Leadership Cadre Schoology group in the resources tab. For questions about LMI contact Mike.Fitzgerald@doe.k12.de.us.
Resources
Back to topRegister Now for Free Autodesk Fusion Fundamentals Training
Autodesk is offering Fusion Fundamentals, a free virtual professional learning opportunity for U.S. and Canadian educators. Participants can enroll in instructor-led Fusion CAD Fundamentals and Fusion CAM Fundamentals courses to build skills in 3D design, manufacturing workflows, and classroom implementation. Educators receive a completion certificate, classroom-ready instructional materials, and preparation for the Autodesk Certified User (ACU) Fusion exam. Multiple sessions are available through December 2026. Register today to reserve your spot by selecting one of the available course dates using the registration links on the Autodesk Fusion Fundamentals page.
Upcoming CTSO Activities
Back to top2026-27 CTE Professional Learning and CTSO Dates
On Sept 3, the 2026-27 CTE Professional Learning and CTSO Dates calendar has been updated and is now available to help educators plan for the year. It includes statewide professional learning opportunities, CTE meetings, and CTSO conferences and events across Delaware, along with key national dates. Use it to coordinate school calendars, support student participation, and share timely opportunities with educators, advisors, students, and families. Please review the full calendar and save the dates most relevant to your programs. Updates will be made as details are confirmed throughout the school year.
Opportunities
Back to topDACCTE Invites Delaware CTE Students to Enter the Statewide CTE Month Poster Contest! - Due Dec 16
February is Career and Technical Education Month! DACCTE, in partnership with the Delaware Departments of Labor and Education, is hosting a statewide CTE poster contest showcasing the creativity and talent of Delaware CTE students. The winning poster will be featured as part of Delaware’s CTE Month celebration. Submissions are due December 16, 2026. Full contest guidelines and submission details are available on the DACCTE website. Questions may be directed to Caitlin Rozell at Caitlin.Rozell@delaware.gov.
Delaware Division of Public Health Announce Summer 2027 Program for Rising 10th–12th Graders
HEIDE STEPS is a summer program from the Delaware Division of Public Health where rising 10th to 12th graders from across the state explore the social determinants of health, learn from DPH mentors, and do hands-on community service. Two cohorts run June 14 to July 7 and July 19 to August 11, 2027, with only 30 seats each. Students need 15 community service hours, so encourage them to start looking for a place to volunteer now.
Professional Learning
Back to topEmbedding OSHA 10 Within a Comprehensive CTE Safety Culture - March 2
Embedding OSHA 10 Within a Comprehensive CTE Safety Culture, held March 2, 2027, at the Collette Education Resource Center in Dover, supports Delaware Agriculture, Construction, and Manufacturing educators in integrating workplace safety into CTE instruction. Participants will explore strategies for embedding hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety-based decision-making across classrooms, laboratories, project-based learning, work-based learning, and CTSO activities. The session highlights alignment with the Delaware CTE Safety Manual and provides practical tools for strengthening safety culture and workplace readiness. Register through PDMS Course #44588, Section #92814.
Middle School Engineering byDesign™ STEM Workshop - March 8
The Middle School Engineering byDesign™ STEM Workshop, held March 8, 2027, at the Collette Education Resource Center in Dover, introduces middle school CTE educators to the Engineering byDesign™ (EbD) STEM curriculum and authentic, project-based learning. Participants will explore curriculum resources, instructional strategies, and hands-on activities integrating engineering, technology, science, and mathematics. Educators will examine course content, implementation requirements, and career pathway connections while gaining practical tools to foster creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and student engagement through high-quality engineering design challenges. Register through PDMS Course #44589, Section #92816.
Business, Innovation, & Leadership Pathway Pilot Cohort Dates 2026-27
The Business, Innovation, & Leadership Pathway Pilot Cohort supports teachers participating in the pathway curriculum redesign through collaborative professional learning, implementation support, and opportunities to provide feedback throughout the pilot. PDMS Course #44508 includes four sessions: October 9, 2026 (Section 92471); December 11, 2026 (92472); February 12, 2027 (92473); and April 16, 2027 (92474). Sessions may be held face-to-face, virtually, or in a hybrid format. Meeting locations and formats will be determined by Fall 2026 and communicated to registered pilot cohort participants in advance.
CTE Leadership Cadre Dates 2026-27
The 2026–2027 CTE Leadership Cadre provides Career and Technical Education leaders with opportunities to collaborate, share resources, receive statewide updates, and strengthen CTE programs and practices across Delaware. PDMS Course #24244 includes four sessions: October 7, 2026, Duck Creek Library, Smyrna (Section 92438); December 2, 2026 (92439); March 3, 2027 (92440); and May 12, 2027 (92441). Participants should register in PDMS for the appropriate section. Sessions support ongoing communication, professional learning, and coordination among CTE leaders throughout the 2026–2027 school year statewide.
Cultural Competency byDesign: Create More Inclusive STEM Classrooms
Build more inclusive technology, engineering, and STEM learning environments with ITEEA’s Cultural Competency byDesign microbadge. This self-paced, 10-hour course helps educators develop practical strategies that honor student differences and advance cultural competency, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Five modules explore each of these areas, providing articles, videos, interactive activities, and a virtual notebook for reflection and classroom planning. Participants leave with resources to support equitable access, welcoming learning experiences, and student engagement. Completion may also be eligible for graduate credit through ITEEA’s St. Cloud State partnership.
DACCTE Council Meeting Dates 2026-27
The Delaware Association of Career and Technical Teacher Educators (DACCTE) Council Meetings bring together CTE teacher educators and partners to discuss statewide priorities, share updates, exchange ideas, and strengthen collaboration supporting high-quality CTE and workforce development. The 2026–2027 meetings are October 13, 2026 (PDMS Course 44640, Section 93115); December 8, 2026 (44641, 93116); April 15, 2027 (44642, 93117); and May 20, 2027 (44643, 93118). Meetings provide opportunities to help shape initiatives advancing Delaware students, educators, programs, and workforce success statewide through continued partnership and collaboration.
Health Sciences Professional Learning Series 2026-27
The Health Sciences Professional Learning Series provides CTE educators opportunities to collaborate, share resources, strengthen instructional practices, and support high-quality Health Sciences pathway implementation. Participants will discuss program priorities, review updates, and identify strategies to strengthen student learning and preparation for healthcare careers. PDMS Course #44504 includes November 13, 2026, at the DDOE Townsend Building in Dover (Section 92482) and May 17, 2027, at the DDOE Collette Education Resource Center in Dover (Section 92463). Participants should register in PDMS for the appropriate session.
Hospitality, Events, and Tourism Professional Development Dates 2026-27
The ProStart Professional Learning Series provides educators with ongoing professional development, collaboration, and resources to strengthen ProStart instruction and student learning. PDMS Course #44504 includes five opportunities: September 24–25, 2026, Hyatt Place, Dewey Beach (Section 92453); November 10, 2026, The Queen, Wilmington (92455); January 21, 2027, Collette, Dover (92457); March 2, 2027, Collette, Dover (92458); and April 12, 2027, Collette, Dover (92460). Participants should register in PDMS for the appropriate section to receive professional learning credit for each session offered.
Teacher Academy Professional Development Series 2026-27
The 2026–2027 Teacher Academy Professional Development Series provides educators opportunities to collaborate, strengthen instruction, and support Teacher Academy students. PDMS Course #44504 includes November 10, 2026, Collette Education Center (Section 92454); January 21, 2027, Townsend Building (92466); February 16–17, 2027, Rehoboth Beach (92465); March 2, 2027, Collette Education Center (92458); and April 12, 2027, Collette Education Center (92461). The series culminates with the National Day of Signing on May 4, 2027, celebrating students pursuing education careers and strengthening Delaware’s future educator pipeline.
Work-Based Learning Professional Roundtables 2026-27
Work-Based Learning Professional Roundtables provide CTE and Work-Based Learning Coordinators an opportunity to build awareness, share resources and ideas, and identify opportunities to strengthen work-based learning statewide. Each virtual session will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m.; links will be sent to registered participants. Register in PDMS and select the appropriate section: September 16, 2026 (92483); November 18, 2026 (92484); March 17, 2027 (92485); or May 19, 2027 (92486). Join colleagues to expand meaningful career-connected learning experiences for students.
CTE Cadre Bi-Weekly Newsletter · November 9, 2026 · Read online at https://blog.delawarepathways.org/cte-cadre-newsletter-november-9-2026