Delaware middle and high school students earned outstanding results at the 2026 Business Professionals of America (BPA) National Leadership Conference in Nashville earlier this month. Supported by Delaware Department of Education staff, BPA gives students meaningful opportunities to apply technical knowledge, strengthen leadership skills, and engage in real-world, career-connected learning experiences that align directly with the goals of the Delaware Department of Education’s Strategic Plan.

Delaware CTE students earned:

• 11 National Championships (1st Place)
• 27 Top 3 National Finishes
• 101 Total Top 10 National Placements across Middle Level and Secondary divisions
• Middle Level Ambassador of the Year

Students from across the state competed in business, finance, leadership, technology, and workplace readiness events, demonstrating the knowledge, professionalism, and technical skills that prepare learners for success in postsecondary education and Delaware’s evolving workforce.

These accomplishments reflect the department’s strategic focus on creating student-centered learning experiences that are rigorous, relevant, and connected to future opportunities. By expanding access to high-quality career pathways and strengthening partnerships among schools, families, higher education, and industry, Delaware is helping students build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.

Among the state’s top-performing schools were Appoquinimink School District’s Alfred G. Waters Middle School; Charter School of Wilmington, Newark and Odyssey charter schools; and Delmar School District’s Delmar Middle/Senior High School.

The success of Delaware’s BPA students reflects the strength of Delaware’s career and technical education programs and the continued collaboration among students, advisors, educators, families, and business partners to expand meaningful opportunities for student success statewide.

Find 2026 National Leadership Conference Top 10.

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