State Releases Policy Framework to Give Postsecondary Credit to Students for Prior Learning

Delawareans could save thousands of dollars and months off the time required to complete postsecondary education and training by receiving credit for what they already know from work and other experiences outside the classroom, under a new state framework released today.

 

The Delaware Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Policy Framework provides guidance to the First State’s postsecondary education institutions as they develop policies and procedures for evaluating prior student learning and awarding credit for college degree programs or advanced placement into State Registered Apprenticeship programs.  Students can receive credit for full courses at Delaware postsecondary institutions where they can demonstrate they gained the equivalent knowledge and learning from work and other experiences.  The credit for those courses mean big savings on time and tuition costs, especially for working adult students.

 

“Building a workforce of qualified candidates is important for employers across the state of Delaware,” Governor John Carney said. “Credit for Prior Learning is an innovative and flexible tool for Delawareans to get credit for learning that takes place outside of a traditional classroom, including our neighbors who have experience in the military or in apprenticeship programs. This program will increase opportunities for many Delawareans that deserve them.”

 

Credit for Prior Learning is not new, Secretary of Education Mark Holodick said: “Many colleges and universities commonly grant credit for prior learning demonstrated through assessments such as Advanced Placement exams or military service. This framework provides certification and degree-granting institutions guidance on other ways students could receive credit for prior learning, a tool that could be especially valuable for returning students and those with non-traditional backgrounds.”

 

According to Luke Rhine, deputy assistant secretary, Office of Career, Technical & Adult Education (OCTAE), U.S. Department of Education, “Nationally, there are more than 3.5 million learners enrolled in postsecondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. States and institutions of higher education have the potential to position CTE as a catalyst to blur the lines between high school, postsecondary education, and paid work experiences to help students earn postsecondary degrees and industry credentials that our employers need and our economy demands.”

 

The framework notes credit is not awarded for experience but for college or Registered Apprenticeship-level learning, which entails knowledge, skills, and competencies that students have obtained as a result of their prior learning. CPL is rooted in the notion that legitimate, college-level learning can be achieved outside the traditional classroom setting, such that the learning is equivalent to that experienced in postsecondary education or training programs at the college level and within Registered Apprenticeship.

 

The task force that developed the framework includes representatives from Delaware’s colleges and universities, the Adult Education Divisions of the New Castle County Vocational Technical School District, POLYTECH, and Sussex County Vocational Technical School District, and the Delaware Department of Labor.  The Delaware Department of Education provided support through the Adult and Prison Education, Delaware Higher Education, and Career and Technical Education offices.  Framework development was facilitated by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL).

 

While the use of CPL is an institutional decision, Delaware colleges, universities, and statewide postsecondary adult education providers aim to deliver CPL in accordance with the framework, which calls for each institution to develop a structure for CPL that is “transparent and accessible to all students, faculty, staff and stakeholders.”

 

Under the framework, institutions that charge fees for CPL assessments should ensure any fees are based on the services performed in the process rather than the credit awarded and establish a fee waiver policy for eligible students: “No student should be denied access to CPL due to the student’s inability to pay.”

 

Partners have expressed strong support for the framework.

 

Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL)

“Credit for Prior Learning is a transformative tool that improves equity in educational outcomes by increasing degree completion while saving adult learners time and money. In addition to helping them juggle their various responsibilities, it validates the critical knowledge and skills they have gained in their professional and personal lives and says to them ‘You can do this because you are even closer than you know,’ ” Vice President of Initiatives Wilson Finch said.

 

Delaware State University

“Delaware State University is excited to support the Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Policy Framework. The award of credit for learning from work and life experiences provides under-served, non-traditional individuals with valuable, unprecedented opportunities for degree attainment and marketability.  For those attending Delaware State University, CPL is a “game-changer,’ ” Provost and Chief Academic Officer Saundra Delauder said.

 

Delaware Technical and Community College

“Delaware Tech understands that our students take diverse paths to arrive at our institution and that hands-on, experiential learning matters in terms of the skills and knowledge students bring with them. We have always been committed to awarding credit for prior learning. We are also committed to applying best practices to this work, which this framework provides, so we can ensure inclusion and access for all,” said Justina Thomas, vice president for academic affairs.

 

Goldey-Beacom College

“Goldey-Beacom College is encouraged by the work that the Credit for Prior Learning Taskforce has accomplished. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, we support this type of creative thinking which will move the needle for access to different pathways of post-secondary education for Delawareans,” said  Ryan Quann, registrar.

 

New Castle County Vo-Tech Adult Education

“The Adult Education Division of New Castle County Vocational Technical School District is proud to be a partner in developing the Credit for Prior Learning Policy Framework and recognize the prior learning, skills, and education our students have gained both formally and informally through Career and Technical Education in the classroom and on the job. This will be extremely valuable for students that started their education in CTE and now want to continue or enhance their learning through a college or university,” said Michael Kittel, principal, Adult Education Division.

 

POLYTECH Adult Education

“Registered Apprenticeship is a way for Delawareans to obtain valuable, industry-driven training and nationally recognized credentials.  POLYTECH Adult Education is excited to be part of the work statewide to expand opportunities for on-ramps into apprenticeship through credit for prior learning.  We are also pleased that in addition to awarding credit as students enter our apprenticeship programs, the CPL framework ensures that Journeypersons and apprentice graduates interested in pursuing a college degree will receive a substantial number of credits for the classroom and on-the-job training they have completed,” said Betsy Jones, director, Polytech Adult Education.

 

Sussex Tech Adult Education

“This is a groundbreaking initiative that will help to break down the barriers that often prevent students from accessing higher education.  By recognizing the knowledge and skills that students have gained outside of the classroom, or as a result of apprenticeship training and earning a professional license, this initiative will not only provide students with the opportunity to earn college credit but also increase the likelihood of their success in college,” said Mike Hague, industrial training coordinator.

 

University of Delaware

“The University of Delaware worked with the state to create the new framework and will embark on a discussion of its credit for prior learning policy with the faculty senate, department chairs and all other relevant parties,” said Provost Laura Carlson.  “UD is committed to expanding students’ access to a great education, so this new framework represents a significant step in advancing that goal. There are many productive pathways that Delawareans can take to earn a UD degree, and recognizing the credits they have already earned will help increase their mobility among Delaware’s education institutions, decrease their cost of attaining a degree and, most importantly, enhance their opportunities for academic and career success.”

 

Wilmington University

“Given our experience with traditional and non-traditional students, Wilmington University has had the privilege of offering credit for prior learning for 30 years,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jim Wilson. “This has allowed us to offer thousands of Delaware residents viable ways to complete their degree programs faster while saving significantly on tuition costs. As a student-centered institution, we wholeheartedly support The Delaware Credit for Prior Learning Policy Framework. We look forward to working with the State of Delaware to ensure every student is rewarded for skills and knowledge accrued outside the classroom.”

 

Media contact: Alison May, alison.may@doe.k12.de.us, 302-735-4006


Program to Help Foster Youth Pursue Higher Education

$529 payments available to qualified applicants

Citing information showing nationwide, only about half of youth raised in foster care end up finishing high school, and less than 3% graduate from a four-year college, Delaware State Treasurer Colleen Davis announces the Aspire529 program. Aspire529 is a pilot program for youth in or aging out of the foster care system to help them pay for expenses related to college or vocational training.

“Fewer than one-third of those aging out of foster care last year with a high school diploma or GED in Delaware went on to enroll in college or trade school,” said Treasurer Davis. “With many facing financial obstacles like the cost of transportation and child care, the option of pursuing higher education is too often overlooked.”

The annual awards are available on a first-come, first-served basis with youth able to submit one application per academic year. Upon application submission, review, and approval by the Office of the State Treasurer, a total of up to 20 qualified applicants will be eligible to receive an award of $529. The money may be used towards accompanying costs associated with obtaining a degree in higher education such as paying for books and supplies, materials required for skills training, transportation costs and child care.

The application period runs from June 1, 2022, until July 31, 2022. Winners will be notified by September 1, 2022. The online application can be found here.

To be eligible for an award, a student must:

  • Be under age 26, and:
    • At least 14 years old and currently in Department of Services for Children, Youth, & Their Families (DSCYF) Custody (foster care); or
    • Exited DSCYF Custody to adoption or guardianship at the age of 16 years or older; or
    • Aged out of foster care in Delaware at age 18.
  • Complete a current-year Delaware Aspire529 application prior to the deadline. (July 31st)
  • Be a Delaware resident.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Be an undergraduate student.
  • Show proof of enrollment or attendance at an institution of higher learning or trade school, AND if already attending, must be making satisfactory academic or vocational progress toward completion of that program. Proof of enrollment or attendance can be requested through your school’s registrar or administrative offices.

“Young adults aging out of foster care are met with many financial and logistical challenges when it comes to attending college and/or trade schools,” said Sophia Elliott, Transitional & Independent Living Program Manager with DSCYF’s Division of Family Services. “This award will help break down barriers and open up doors for youth to begin their post-secondary education journey. The Aspire529 award will help pave the way for youth to successfully achieve their education goals!”

The Office of the State Treasurer joined with $tand By Me® to provide a practical financial literacy course to complement the award. Each recipient will participate in two free, private, one-on-one financial coaching sessions from trained, skilled professionals.

“Stand By Me has partnered with several local organizations looking for ways to tackle the challenges of financial literacy to youth transitioning into adulthood,” said Shayne Lewis, Stand By Me Program Supervisor. “We are especially committed to improving financial literacy among youth facing increased financial challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic crisis.”

“The dollar amount of the award becomes much more valuable when paired with the financial education that winners will receive along with it,” Treasurer Davis said. “With the support of Aspire529, state agencies, and advocacy groups, we can help build a brighter future for foster youth as they set out on their own.”

Aspire529 provides support to youth in foster care who have overcome tremendous obstacles to obtain an education,” said Caroline Jones, President and Founder of Kind to Kids Foundation. “These awards will help our community’s most vulnerable youth achieve advanced education and become productive and successful members of our society. Thank you to State Treasurer Colleen Davis for providing this funding and making a positive impact in their lives.”

Questions about the Aspire529 program can be sent to Treasury_Aspire529@delaware.gov.


Delaware Students Awarded Full-ride Merit Scholarships

Congratulations to this year’s merit scholarship awardees! Merit scholarships are competitive scholarships awarded by DDOE to students for their academic performance, participation in school activities and service to the community.

Students may apply for Delaware merit scholarships in their senior year of high school. All four awards are renewable. Three of the programs are memorial scholarships that honor state legislators and provide full tuition, fees, room, board, and books at the public colleges in Delaware.
 
Ashley Cooke of Appoquinimink High School in the Appoquinimink School District has received the B. Bradford Barnes Memorial Scholarship, which is given in honor of the former Speaker of the State House of Representatives. This scholarship is awarded to one student each year enrolling full-time at the University of Delaware. Cooke will major in biomedical nursing.
 
Cierra Holmes of Seaford High School in the Seaford School District received the Herman M. Holloway, Sr. Memorial Scholarship, which honors the first African-American State Senator in Delaware. This scholarship is awarded to one student each year enrolling full-time at Delaware State University. Holmes will major in nursing.
 
The Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship, in honor of the former Speaker of the State House of Representatives, is awarded annually to one full-time student at the University of Delaware and one full-time student at Delaware State University who are majoring in the humanities or social sciences. (Preference is given to political science majors.) Margaret Livingstone of Middletown High School in the Appoquinimink School District is the recipient of the Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship at University of Delaware. She will major in political science. Jasmine Gray of POLYTECH High School in the POLYTECH School District is the recipient at Delaware State University. She will major in psychology.

Picture of Ashley Cooke, Appoquinimink High School

I was so excited when I received the notification for earning this award, and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity! In the fall, I will be attending the University of Delaware as a part of the Honors program while majoring in nursing. I love helping others and giving back to my community, which is why I believe nursing will be a great fit for me. This scholarship will be a major help for my family and I in covering the many costs of college, and I cannot wait to see what U of D has to offer! – Ashley Cook, Appoquinimink High School

 

Picture of Sierra Holmes, Seaford High School

Earning this scholarship is truly an honor and blessing. This scholarship means a lot to me because it will allow me to achieve my educational goals without having to worry about covering the costs of my education, and for that I am thankful. It is also meaningful to me because I’ve worked hard in my school and community, and earning this scholarship is a result of that. 
 
I am planning to pursue a degree in nursing. I chose nursing because of my interest in healthcare and my desire to help others. I would like to work in underserved areas to be able to make a difference in others’ lives by providing healthcare to those in need. – Cierra Holmes, Seaford High School
 

Picture of Jasmine Gray, POLYTECH High School

Receiving this scholarship enables me to pursue my dream to attend a post-secondary school, as well gives me the confidence to succeed academically. I plan to major in psychology with a concentration in pre-med, with plans to pursue a career as a physician assistant. The reason behind a psychology major is the versatility the major offers, and the abundant career opportunities available to assist and aid individuals, in an often underestimated field of study. – Jasmine Gray, POLYTECH High School
 
Picture of Margaret Livingstone, Middletown High School

Words cannot describe how honored I am to have been awarded the Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship. I intend to use this award to major in Political Science with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Delaware, so that one day I can become an attorney in the area of family law. I cannot wait to further my education at the collegiate level, and cannot thank the Delaware Department of Education enough for their generosity. – Margaret Livingstone, Middletown High School

 
Media contact: Alison May, alison.may@doe.k12.de.us, 302-735-4006


College Savings Highlighted in Work of Office of the State Treasurer

Delaware education savings plan looking to build on already strong numbers

Realizing the impact that education costs have on families, State Treasurer Colleen Davis remains committed to helping make quality education attainable. Recent studies show more and more people nearing retirement are taking loans to help children and grandchildren pay for education.

“Addressing the need to save for education saving is highlighted with September designated as College Savings Month, but it is an issue we deal with all year long,” Treasurer Davis said. “Not only does our office administer the DE529 Education Savings Plan, tax-advantaged accounts designed to help parents, grandparents and others pay for higher education expenses, I sit on, and our office provides administrative support for the Plans Management Board (PMB), the group that directs and serves as trustees of the money invested in the plans.”

Earlier this week, the PMB approved a series of strategic objectives to raise awareness and participation in DE529 Plans.

“We are looking at making DE529 one of the leading education savings programs in the country,” said Donna Vieira, chair of the Plans Management Board and executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Sallie Mae. “These objectives are designed to grow accounts and increase contributions.”

In spite of the recent unprecedented economic climate, the DE529 plan has experienced significant growth thanks to the responsible oversight of the PMB and the support of the Treasurer’s Office. Contributions increased 47% in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the same period the previous year. Total contributions for 2020 were $53.3 million, and as of June 30, 2021 contributions already totaled $36.4 million.

While overseeing efforts in Delaware, Treasurer Davis is also expanding her presence on the national level concerning helping families save for future education expenses.

“As a member of the Executive Board of the College Savings Plans Network, the recently elected Vice President for the Eastern Region of the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST), and the chair of NAST’s Banking and Cash Management Committee, I hope to keep the importance of 529 plans in the forefront for everyone around the country and prevent both students and their parents from acquiring overwhelming student loan debt.”


Delaware ranks third in the nation in FAFSA completion

Delaware students and families rank third in the nation in filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, according to new data released by the . Completion rates serve as early indicators of post-secondary access and success.

 

The increase, from 4th place in 2018, results from a statewide effort to help families understand and complete FAFSA. Delaware’s FAFSA completion is top in the nation behind Tennessee and Louisiana.

 

In partnership with the Delaware Department of Education, $tand By Me provided 218 workshops to 6,798 families during the 2018-2019 school year. Some workshops include hands-on assistance while families completed the form online at school. $tand By Me is a joint project of  Delaware Department of Health and Social Services and United Way of Delaware, addressing Delaware’s economic challenges and its goals to increase educational outcomes, affordable housing and home ownership, and financial stability.

“Financial aid is an important factor affecting students college enrollment, and we want families to have the support they need to overcome any fiscal hurdles,” Secretary of Education Susan Bunting said.

$tand By Me has been working with the Department of Education since 2015 to help all high school seniors have a funding strategy to pay for college.

 

“We’ve worked hard to partner with every high school in the state and provide hands-on workshops on scholarships and financial aid,” said Sally Coonin, director of the $tand By Me College Funding Project.

 

According to the U.S. Department of Education, 90 percent of students who complete a FAFSA application will enroll in college.

 

Coonin said many families don’t know how much free money is available for college. For instance, Federal Student Aid, part of the U.S. Department of Education, provides more than $120 billion in federal grants, loans and work-study funds each year to more than 13 million students paying for college or career school.

To be considered for federal aid, students must complete a FAFSA form, available starting Oct. 1 of each year. In addition to federal student aid, colleges, states and private scholarship organizations also use or require FAFSA to process their awards.

 

“One of the biggest and most important investments that families can make today is in their children’s college education,” Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker said. “The outreach that $tand By Me provides to high school seniors and their families in navigating the complex world of federal financial aid is critical to reducing long-term debt and having a successful college experience.”

 

By failing to complete FAFSA American students left an estimated $2.6 billion on the table in unclaimed Pell Grants in 2018 alone. Those grants could have been used to cover the cost of attendance at many institutions across the country.

 

“We’re very proud of this statewide initiative to help families avoid debt and find ways to pursue a post-secondary education. It’s a great example of partnership at its best,” President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Delaware Michelle Taylor said.

 

Media Contact: Alison May, alison.may@doe.k12.de.us, 302-735-4006