Legislation emerged from recommendations of group established by Executive Order

Dover, DE – Governor Markell issued the below statement following House approval of Senate Bill 122, which would allow for redrawing school district boundaries in the City of Wilmington. The new lines must be consistent with recommendations of the Wilmington Education Advisory Committee, which was established by the Governor to support City students, particularly from the highest need communities. The redistricting plan will be developed by a Wilmington Education Improvement Commission, which would be formed by House Bill 148, which passed the Senate today. That plan would need approval by the State Board of Education and the General Assembly.

SB 122 passed the Senate this week, meaning the bill now heads to the Governor’s desk.

“This bill paves the way for a responsible and careful process to reduce the number of school districts in the City of Wilmington. A successful redrawing of district lines that removes Christina from the City will help more Wilmington families fully participate in their children’s education. It’s time to end forty years of busing many students far from their homes and making it difficult for families and the community to engage in their schools. I thank all of the members of the Wilmington Education Advisory Committee for their hard work in producing the thoughtful proposal that led to this legislation.

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