Business Students Win State Honors

Business students from across Delaware won state awards at last month’s Business Professionals of America State Leadership Conference.

About 360 high school business students from 20 high schools in the state participated in the conference at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, competing in 52 events in the categories of management; marketing and communications; digital communications and design; management information systems; business administration; and finance. Students also campaigned for the state officer leadership team.

About 260 business students from 20 middle schools statewide also participated. The middle level students competed in 15 events.

Find a list of state qualifiers here and here.

Students were recognized Friday at the 2023 Business Professionals of America, Delaware Association Awards Ceremony. The ceremony culminated with the celebration of leadership, recognition of community services, and the presentation of the 2023– 2024 State Officer Leadership Team with school representatives and families in attendance.

The following student members were elected to serve on the State Officer Leadership Team for 2023 – 2024:

President – Jennae Overton from Middletown High School (Appoquinimink School District)
Vice President – Kinga Gul from Newark Charter High School (charter)
Secretary – Manushri Gupta from MOT Charter High School (charter)
Middle Level Representative – Anusha Sarwadi from Alfred G. Waters Middle School (Appoquinimink School District)

The Secondary Advisor of the Year was Jeffrey Bunting of Indian River High School in the Indian River School District. Jennifer Rhudd, formerly of Kirk Middle School, received the Honorary Life Award. The State Professional Cup is awarded to the chapter from each division most actively involved in Special Recognition and Torch Awards. This year’s recipient of the Middle Level Professional Cup is Mariner Middle School in Cape Henlopen School District and the Secondary Level Professional Cup is Cape Henlopen High School.

State Auditor Lydia York and state Rep. Michael Smith served as judges.

Gold sponsor JP Morgan Chase is represented on the Board of Directors and contributed about 35 judge volunteers including Managing Directors Glen McFarlane and Jamal Brown as well as a $1,500 award to the 1st place Website Design Team from Newark Charter High School (Kinga Gul, Alanna Denault, Natalie Keach and Srujan Yamali).

In addition, about 40 BPA members submitted more than 70 logo designs for the JPMC Design Challenge. Four winners were selected: Srinidhi Kotteswaran, Daniel La Rose, Rajat Bhaskaran, and Leo Yan. Each student received a $75 Amazon gift card, certificate, and an opportunity to meet a User Experience designer at JPMC to get a closer look at building a brand from scratch.

BPA is a leading Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology and other related career fields. For more information, please visit the BPA Web site at www.bpa.org or contact Lisa Wilson, Delaware BPA State Advisor at lisa.wilson@doe.k12.de.us.

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

Governor Carney, Lt. Governor Hall-Long Announce $50M American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Investment in Jobs Training

Investments will expand Forward Delaware, and fund Pathways 2.0, which will expand the Pathways program to reach more than 6,000 Delaware middle school students and 80 percent of Delaware high school students

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney and Lt. Governor Hall-Long joined private sector leaders at Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) on Tuesday to announce a $50 million investment in workforce development, including an expansion of the Forward Delaware jobs-training program for industries most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and additional work experience services for Delaware students.

The investments are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which was championed by Delaware’s Congressional Delegation – U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, along with Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester. ARPA was passed by Congress and then signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11.

“We’re focused on investments that will build on the strengths of Delaware’s world-class workforce and support Delaware families and businesses who were most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Governor Carney. “These workforce development programs will help Delawareans develop the skills they need to succeed in a 21st century economy. And the expansion of our Pathways program will connect even more students with real-world work experience while they’re still in school. I want to thank President Biden and members of Delaware’s federal delegation for making these important resources available.”

Tuesday’s announcement includes a $15.8 million public-private expansion of Delaware’s Pathways program, which links education and workforce development programs and allows students to gain real-world work experience while in school.

“This investment in Delaware’s workforce will meet the challenges of tomorrow by working together, to strengthen Delaware’s economy, while providing our families the tools and skills they need to succeed,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “This public-private partnership makes strategic investments in our workforce that were not only hit the hardest during the pandemic as well as those that will lead us into the future with a focus on careers in STEM, healthcare, increasing women and minorities in construction, and our restaurant and hotel industry.”

Pathways 2.0will expand the Pathways program into Delaware middle schools, reaching more than 6,000 students. The investment will also grow the Pathways program in Delaware high schools to reach 32,000 students, about 80 percent of all students attending Delaware public high schools. Formed in 2015, the Pathways program currently serves about 20,000 high school students.

“The pandemic has made significant changes to our economy and workforce needs, and Delaware must adapt in order to be a competitive state with a first-class workforce now and in the future,” said Sens. Carper, Coons and Rep. Blunt Rochester. “We commend Governor Carney for his focus on workforce development throughout this difficult period, and Delaware Technical Community College for always adapting their programs to provide practical workforce needs.”

The State of Delaware will invest $8.3 million in the Pathways 2.0 expansion – targeting support for workforce development in health care, IT, finance, and engineering. The investments will also expand employer-driven apprenticeship programs that allow Delawareans to “earn and learn” in high-growth, high-wage industries.

Private and public entities contributed major funding toward the next phase of work through 2024, including Bloomberg Philanthropies, Walton Family Foundation, ASA (American Student Assistance), JPMorgan Chase, the Delaware Business Roundtable Education Committee (DBREC), and the Delaware Department of Education (DOE).

“Delaware is an important proof point for the nation on how states can rethink their schools as economic engines for the 21st century,” said Jenny Sharfstein Kane of Bloomberg Philanthropies. “Bloomberg Philanthropies was proud to help catalyze Delaware’s pathways system in 2018, and we’re excited to partner to accelerate this work even further. This is also a significant example of how private and public funding can come together to mobilize maximum support and impact of the work.

“Young adults want meaningful, applicable learning experiences as they craft their unique path to a successful life,” said Romy Drucker, Interim Director of the K-12 Education Program for the Walton Family Foundation. “Only with deeper connections and collaboration between K-12 schools, colleges and employers can this be the reality for all students.”

“Delaware’s collaborative efforts will further ‘blur the lines’ between school and work—and make the world after graduation much more tangible and attainable for thousands of young people,” said Rodman Ward III, president and CEO of Corporation Service Company (CSC) and board chair of Rodel, a nonprofit that supports the public-private partnership in career pathways.

“We know that middle school is a crucial point in the education continuum when there is an enormous opportunity to help students better know themselves and understand their long-term education and career goals,” said ASA President and CEO Jean Eddy. “However, middle schoolers often experience stress when thinking about the future because there are so few resources available to help them plan. We are excited to partner with the state and other dedicated funders to significantly increase access to highly effective and engaging career exploration experiences that will empower thousands of young people to discover their interests, explore their options, and get hands-on experience that can help build students’ confidence in the future, as well as the skills necessary for their long-term success.”

“The negative, financial effects of the pandemic have disproportionately affected restaurants more than any other business sector, and with 5,000 open positions statewide, Delaware’s restaurant industry will only recover with a skilled workforce,” said Carrie Leishman, President and CEO of the Delaware Restaurant Association. “With 98% of Delaware restaurants reporting open positions, these funds will be used to rapidly advance training into all corners of our state, by supporting opportunity and upward mobility for those seeking to enter and re-enter the hospitality industry. We thank the Governor for continuing to support restaurants and the 46,000 Delawareans that make up its workforce.”

“This funding will accelerate our pathways models—bringing more students face-to-face with employers, while providing opportunities to earn college credit and industry credentials sooner,” said Joseph Jones, superintendent of the New Castle County Vocational Technical School District.

Additionally, the investments announced on Tuesday will support:

$1.5 million – Delaware Department of Labor (DOL) Workforce Programs. Training programs will be offered statewide and designed to assist Delaware workers and their families who have been impacted most by the COVID-19 crisis. The initiative will focus on health care, logistics, and transportation.
$1.2 million – Expansion of Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) Workforce Development Academy. Funding seeks to increase the participation of women, minorities, and disadvantaged Delawareans seeking employment in the highway construction industry.
$1 million – Restaurant and Hotel Industry Support. Funding will focus on training and pathways to employment for Delawareans seeking employment in Delaware’s hospitality industry.

“DelDOT is making significant infrastructure investments across our state and it is important we are doing all we can to build the workforce of today and tomorrow and establishing a workforce that looks like the communities we represent,” said Nicole Majeski, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Transportation.

“We are pleased that the Governor has continued investment in Forward Delaware. The program has become a recognized hub for employers and employees seeking information, data and resources to help Delawareans impacted by the COVID Pandemic,” said Karryl Hubbard, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Labor. “These critical federal funds will enhance an already successful model for developing and upskilling workers and will positively impact employment prospects for many underserved groups across the state. We look forward to working with our partners and providing training for critical industry needs.”

Click here to view video from today’s announcement.

Click here to view photos from today’s announcement.

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Grants to expand high school career pathways programs

Secretary of Education Susan Bunting today announced more than $458,000 in federal grants to expand high school career pathway programs and to support all youth in their pursuit of college and career-readiness coursework. The statewide Delaware Pathways initiative aims to prepare all students to excel in key industries that offer good jobs in today’s economy.

Grant funds are used by school districts and charter schools to implement career and technical education programs as part of a larger state effort to connect our public education system, post-secondary institutions, and employers. Students take hundreds of hours of specialized instruction and hands-on training in their career pathways, giving them the opportunity to graduate high school with work experiences, college credits, and industry credentials that are relevant to those industries. As a result, students receive a head start on getting a job and earning a postsecondary credential or degree.

Bunting joined Capital Superintendent Dan Shelton to meet with students and administrators at Dover High School to announce the 51 grant awards, which benefit 17 school districts or charter schools across the state. Capital’s Dover High School is using its grant award to support the PIPEline to Career Success Project for students with disabilities. The project supports students with disabilities to enter into high-quality career pathways, graduate from high school, and transition into postsecondary education and employment.

“Dover High School’s program is a prime example of the kind of investments we must make so every student graduates from our schools prepared for success,” Bunting said. “Delaware has public and private partners working together. They are collaborating on the alignment of supports across state agencies for students from low-income families and students with disabilities and on integrating community-based organizations so that out-of-school learning connects to students’ education and career interests.”

The Delaware Pathways program currently serves more than 16,000 students enrolled in 26 career pathways programs across 16 comprehensive school districts, three technical school districts, and 11 charter schools, in addition to serving youth at Cleveland White and the Ferris School.

By 2020 Delaware aims to enroll more than 20,000 students—half of the state’s public grade 9-12 population—in career pathways that lead to in-demand jobs—and will work across secondary and postsecondary education systems so that more than 7,500 students are actively engaged in work-based learning placements in partnership with Delaware employers.

“Delaware’s Pathways programs help connect young Delawareans to skills that are demanded in today’s workforce and help put them on a path to a well-paying career,” Governor John Carney said. “Investing in our workforce and quality skills training also helps strengthen our economy over the long run by making sure Delaware has skilled workers for jobs that are available. This new funding will help us continue and expand that important work.”

Added, U.S. Senator Tom Carper: “Today, thousands of jobs are going unfilled because we do not have the people with the right skills to support them. The Delaware Pathways program aims to end that shortage by finding the skills that our employers need and creating programs in our classrooms that properly prepare students for the workforce. I always say the best thing you can do for someone is help them find a job, and providing modern training and connecting students with employers is a smart way to ensure they will be employable when they enter the workforce.”

Pathways are developed in partnership with Delaware employers and institutions of higher education. The Department of Education provides curriculum support for each pathway as well as training for teachers to successfully implement the coursework. In addition, the department is working with Delaware colleges and universities so students who complete these programs are eligible for college credit at one or more institutions of higher education in the state.

School districts use funding in a variety of ways, which includes support for students and staff, the development of services and materials required to offer advanced coursework, and to scale hands-on training opportunities with Delaware employers.

“We are so pleased that we will once again be able to expand and focus on our workforce development efforts,” Capital Superintendent Shelton said. “Our career and technical programs are a central key to our students being prepared for college or entering the workforce after high school. Having students who graduate high school already possessing technical certifications and many also having already earned college credits through our articulation agreements with post-secondary institutions, gives our students the skill they need and a leg up on their future careers.”

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New Pathway Grant Awards

Appoquinimink

Appoquinimink LEA – PIPEline to Career Success Project

Appoquinimink LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

Appoquinimink High School – Computer Science

Middletown High School – Computer Science

Middletown High School – Natural Resource Management

Odessa High School – Animal Science and Management

Odessa High School – Computer Science

Odessa High School – Digital Comm. Technology

Odessa High School – Natural Resource Management.

Odessa High School – Plant Science

Brandywine

Brandywine LEA – National Alliance for Partners in Equity—Gender Equity Project

Brandywine LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

Brandywine High School – Marketing Today

Concord High School – Marketing Today

Mount Pleasant High School – Digital Communications Technology

Mount Pleasant High School – Marketing Today

Caesar Rodney

Caesar Rodney High School – Marketing Today

Cape Henlopen

Cape Henlopen High School – Fashion and Apparel

Capital

Capital LEA – PIPEline to Career Success Project

Christina

Christiana High School – Animal Science and Management.

Christiana High School – Fashion and Apparel

Christiana High School – Marketing Today

Colonial

Colonial LEA – PIPEline to Career Success Project

Colonial LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

William Penn High School – Animal Science and Management

William Penn High School – Digital Comm. Technology

William Penn High School – Marketing Today

Lake Forest

Lake Forest High School – Animal Science and Management

Lake Forest High School – Digital Communications Technology

Laurel

Laurel LEA – PIPEline to Career Success Project

Milford

Milford LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

Milford High School – Digital Communications Technology

Milford High School – Plant Science

New Castle County Vocational Technology

Delcastle High School – Computer Science

St. Georges High School – Computer Science

Newark Charter

Newark Charter School – Marketing Today

Red Clay

Red Clay LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

AI Dupont High School – Marketing Today

Smyrna

Smyrna LEA – PIPEline to Career Success Project

Smyrna LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

Smyrna High School – Culinary and Hospitality Management

Smyrna High School – Digital Communications Technology

Smyrna High School – Marketing Today

Sussex Tech

Sussex Tech LEA – Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth

Woodbridge

Woodbridge High School – Plant Science

New and Expanded Pathways

Animal Science & Management

The Animal Science & Management program explores: animal production and management, physical restraint and handling, conducting health exams, evaluation of behavior, principles of genetics and reproduction, animal selection through evaluation, anatomy and physiology, animal nutrition, basic veterinary practices, global food systems, ethics of food animal production, and current agricultural issues in order to foster an understanding of the steps involved in producing and marketing products for consumers. Students practice decision-making and research skills through classroom instruction, laboratory activities, and practical experiences.

Computer Science

The Computer Science program of study helps students to develop analytical thinking and problem solving skills as well as algebraic reasoning and quantitate analysis necessary for careers in computer science, programming, and IT.

Digital Communications Technology

The Digital Communication Technology (DCT) program of study requires students to apply the skills and tools of digital designers used in graphic design, pixel-based imagery manipulation, HTML coding, digital video production, vector image manipulation, digital illustration, and digital publishing. Students utilize strategies to solve open-ended problems while learning how to apply technical skills, creative skills, industry knowledge, documentation techniques, and processes using modern, industry-leading technology and software.

Fashion & Apparel

The Fashion & Apparel program of study prepares students for entry level employment in the industry. Students learn construction skills for application in design including color, proportion and fit. Science principles are used to help students understand fibers to better determine appropriate application. Fashion business including the economic impact of the industry as well as marketing and management are studied. The program prepares students for careers such as store manager, fashion designer, assistant buyer, visual merchandiser.

Marketing Today

The Marketing Today program of study engages students with the world of marketing services by focusing on how marketing is evolving in the digital age and how companies can be successful by implementing marketing strategies. Students gain career and industry knowledge through series of work-based learning activities in and out of the classroom such as: an internship, apprenticeship, co-op, and or project completion of at least 60 hours. Marketing Today courses introduce students to a wide array of careers such as data analytics, project and content management, digital marketing, marketing campaign management, demographic analytics, and communications.

Natural Resource Management

The Natural Resource Management program of study is designed to provide students with exposure to topics in conservation management and maintenance of natural resources. Students learn responsible stewardship practices of air, soil, water, land, fish, and wildlife resources for economic, recreation, and health purposes. Students utilize a variety of classroom and laboratory activities supplemented through supervised agricultural experiences and leadership programs and activities.

Plant Science

The Plant Science program of study is designed to provide students with knowledge of plant growth and reproduction, as well as the use of plants for food, fiber, and ornamental purposes. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in: agronomy, ornamental horticulture, biotechnology, forestry, soil science, and turf management.

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

Delaware Pathways Grants Will Support New High School Career Programs

State investing more than $438,000 in preparing youth in key industries

GEORGETOWN, Del. – Governor Carney on Wednesday announced more than $438,000 in federal grants to expand high school career pathway programs. The statewide Delaware Pathways initiative aims to prepare all students to excel in key fields that offer good job opportunities in today’s economy.

Governor Carney joined Sussex Technical High School students and administrators in the school’s automotive technology shop to announce the 42 awards, which will benefit 20 districts or charter schools across the state. Sussex Tech is using its grant to support its new automotive technology career pathway, which provides youth with the opportunity to earn a pre-apprenticeship certificate from the Delaware Department of Labor, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) ASE entry level certification, and the ASE G1 certification as well as college credits through Delaware Technical & Community College. This type of pre-apprenticeship program is the first such offering in Delaware.

“Expanding our Pathways programs will help more Delaware students prepare for successful careers, and help Delaware compete in an economy that is changing every day,” said Governor Carney. “We remain focused on making sure that all Delaware students have an opportunity to succeed, and to contribute to our state’s success. Skills training programs like those offered at Sussex Tech and at districts and charters statewide will help us achieve those goals, and I am excited to announce this new step forward today.”

“IG Burton is excited to partner with the state and our school districts to expand relationships with employers and ensure youth have the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. These partnerships help students graduate with the skills Delaware’s employers need in the workplace,” said Lester Guyer, Assistant Service Director at IG Burton. “Congratulations to Sussex Tech for helping to grow our auto industry – and for helping youth build the automotive technology skills needed to be employed through classroom instruction and work-based learning experiences.”

Grant funds are used by school districts and charter schools to implement career and technical education programs as part of a larger state effort to connect our public education system, post-secondary institutions, and employers. Students take hundreds of hours of specialized instruction and hands-on training in their pathways, giving them the opportunity to graduate with work experience, college credit, and industry credentials that are relevant to those industries. As a result, students receive a head start on getting a job and earning a degree.

The Governor’s Delaware Pathways program currently serves more than 12,000 students enrolled in 20 career pathways programs across 16 comprehensive school districts, three technical school districts, and 10 charter districts, in addition to serving youth at Cleveland White and the Ferris School.

Pathways are developed in partnership with Delaware employers and institutions of higher education. The Department of Education provides curriculum support for each pathway as well as training for teachers to successfully implement the coursework. In addition, the department is working with Delaware colleges and universities so students who complete the new programs will be eligible for college credit at one or more institutions of higher education in the state.

“We are fortunate in Delaware to have public and private partners working together to support our youth, such collaboration includes the alignment of supports across cabinet agencies for students from low-income families and students with disabilities as well as the purposeful integration of community-based organizations so that out-of-school learning connects to students’ education and career interests,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Susan Bunting.

School districts use funding in a variety of ways to support students and staff, and to provide the services and materials required to offer advanced coursework and hands-on training opportunities with Delaware employers.

“Sussex Tech students gain practical, real-world experience in one of 18 different fields, preparing them to be career- and college-ready,” said Sussex Technical School District Superintendent Stephen Guthrie. “They need cutting-edge tools, software and technology to learn and practice professional skills that they can immediately apply in the workforce.”

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New Pathway Grant Awards Beginning in School Year 2018-19

Appoquinimink

Appoquinimink High School – Animal Science and Management

Appoquinimink High School – Digital Communication Technology

Appoquinimink High School – Plant Science

Middletown High School – Animal Science and Management

Middletown High School – Digital Communication Technology

Middletown High School – Plant Science

Brandywine

Brandywine High School – Early Childhood Education Teacher Academy

Concord High School – Early Childhood Education Teacher Academy

Mt. Pleasant High School – Early Childhood Education Teacher Academy

Caesar Rodney

Caesar Rodney High School – Animal Science and Management

Caesar Rodney High School – Digital Communication Technology

Cape Henlopen

Cape Henlopen High School – Animal Science and Management

Cape Henlopen High School – Natural Resource Management

Capital

Dover High School – Agricultural Power and Engineering

Christina

Christiana High School – Agricultural Power and Engineering

Glasgow High School – Academy of Business Information Management

Colonial

William Penn High School – Plant Science

Delmar

Delmar High School – Animal Science and Management

Delmar High School – Digital Communication Technology

Delmar High School – Plant Science

Lake Forest

Lake Forest High School – Academy of Business Information Management

Lake Forest High School – Plant Science

Lake Forest High School – Public and Community Health

Milford

Milford High School – Animal Science and Management

New Castle County Vocational Technology

Delcastle High School – Automotive Technology

Hodgson High School – Automotive Technology

Howard High School – Automotive Technology

St. Georges High School – Automotive Technology

Polytech

Polytech High School – Automotive Technology

Red Clay

AI Dupont High School – Architecture Engineering Technology

AI Dupont High School – Digital Communication Technology

Cab Calloway School of Arts – Digital Communication Technology

McKean High School – Animal Science and Management

McKean High School – Automotive Technology

McKean High School – Plant Science

Seaford

Seaford High School – Digital Communication Technology

Smyrna

Smyrna High School – Natural Resource Management

Smyrna High School – Plant Science

Sussex Academy

Sussex Academy – Digital Communication Technology

Sussex Tech

Sussex Technical High School – Automotive Technology

Woodbridge

Woodbridge High School – Animal Science and Management

New and Expanded Pathways

Academy of Business Information Management

The NAF Academy of Business Information Management introduces students to the skills needed to plan, organize, direct, and evaluate business functions essential to business operations through courses focusing on entrepreneurship, global and domestic economics, information technology, customer service, and ethics. Students gain critical career knowledge through a series of work-based learning activities that are conducted in school as well as outside the classroom. These activities may include, but are not limited to, job shadowing, mock interviews, and resume writing workshops. In addition, a paid 120-hour summer internship is designed to be included as part of the program.

Agricultural Power and Engineering

The Agricultural Power and Engineering program of study provides students with the mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles and methods required to understand dynamic power systems and metal fabrication. Students practice real world applications, communication skills, and problem solving skills associated with dynamic power systems and metal fabrication. Students are prepared for a variety of careers including engineering, welding technicians, mechanical and industrial technicians, maintenance technicians, mechanical engineering, metal fabrication, CNC operators, power technology repair and troubleshooting, and green energy technologies.

Agricultural Structures and Engineering

The Agricultural Structures and Engineering program of study provides students with the scientific principles and methods required to understand the interrelationships of construction. Students practice real world applications and problem solving skills associated with agricultural designs and engineering principles. Students utilize problem solving, as well as communication skills to develop engineering concepts and building practices that are sound and reliable. The program prepares students for a variety of careers including carpentry, engineering, architectural design, electrical, plumbing, masonry, construction framing, business management, sales, building maintenance, home improvement, and green energy technologies.

Animal Science & Management

Architectural Engineering Technology

The Architectural Engineering Technology program of study engages students in the world of construction and architecture through coursework focusing on site selection, drafting, architecture, and engineering planning, budgeting, cost estimating, and project management. Students utilize strategies to solve open-ended problems while they learn how to apply technical skills, knowledge, documentation techniques, and processes using modern, industry-leading technology and software. Work-based learning experiences and industry-mentored projects will introduce students to a wide array of careers such as architects, civil engineers, construction management, cost estimators, and drafters.

Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology program of study provides students with the mathematical, scientific, and mechanical knowledge to understand and perform the maintenance, repair and servicing of automotive vehicles. Students participating in this pre-apprenticeship program will be prepared to enter into a Delaware Department of Labor Automotive Technician Tech C Registered Apprenticeship program.

Digital Communications Technology

Early Childhood Teacher Academy

The Early Childhood Teacher Academy program of study prepares students for careers in an early childhood setting. The program engages students in developing a realistic understanding of early childhood education while exploring the importance and impact of teachers as well as the uniqueness of early childhood development. Observation opportunities including special needs and non-classroom settings, provide practical experiences to enrich the learning.

Natural Resource Management

Plant Science

Public & Community Health

The Public & Community Health program of study engages students in a comprehensive approach to health. Students learn the history of public and community health as well as examine complex public health problems, major theories of disease etiology and intervention. Students explore public health issues related to epidemiology, mental health, disabilities, and substance abuse.

Delaware Pathways Receives $3.25 Million Grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies to Prepare Students for High-Demand Jobs

Pathways provides high school and postsecondary students with the opportunity to gain work-based learning experiences for in-demand careers

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney on Friday announced a $3.25 million grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies to expand access to economic opportunity for Delaware students. Funding will help bolster the Delaware Pathways program, which provides high school and postsecondary students with the opportunity to gain work-based learning experiences for in-demand careers as well as earn industry credentials and early college credits.

Economists forecast that Delaware will hire or replace 30 percent of its workforce in the next six years. Delaware Pathways, which represents a partnership between Governor Carney’s office, the K-12 education system, higher education, nonprofits, the Department of Labor, and a host of other public and private leaders, aims to tackle that issue by providing students with career exploration, real-world training, and robust postsecondary preparation.

“Thanks to Pathways, education and workforce programs are designed to help young people take active steps to pursue continuing education and competitive employment,” said Governor Carney. “This generous grant will help Delaware continue its focus on in-demand occupations and where there is the greatest potential for our students to enter the workforce in middle- and high-skill occupations.”

The grant, which was announced Friday at the Fourth Annual Delaware Pathways Conference at the Chase Center in Wilmington, will support Delaware as it expands the Pathways initiative to accomplish the following by 2021:

Expand career pathways, including the creation of a new regional pathway in health care and continued expansion of existing pathways to connect 20,000 students with in-demand careers ranging from manufacturing, finance, information technology
Launch a series of industry councils in partnership with the local business community to strengthen connections between employers and education and training programs
Expand the Office of Work-Based Learning at Delaware Technical Community College, with a goal to support 2,500 high school students and another 5,000 postsecondary students in work-based learning experiences in their field of study
Create instructional supports and teacher professional learning routines for the statewide computer science pathway in partnership with Zip Code Wilmington
Launch summer learning opportunities for youth interested in coding and computer science in partnership with Zip Code Wilmington

The Bloomberg Philanthropies grant, which will span the course of three years, comes on the heels of similar investments in Colorado and New Orleans in 2016.

“We need to ensure that all students are provided with opportunities to access good jobs and careers that provide pathways to the middle class,” said Howard Wolfson, who leads Bloomberg Philanthropies education programs. “Delaware is showing strong leadership in rethinking ways to create new opportunities for young people, recognizing that this work needs to start with the right preparation in school and continue with strong partnerships with businesses. We are happy to support Delaware’s effort to provide 20,000 students with a head start in their connection to in-demand careers.”

“The world is changing fast, and Delaware Pathways is a shining example of public and private leaders banding together around a common challenge to find solutions,” said Paul Herdman, president and CEO of the Rodel Foundation of Delaware, which shepherded the grant application process and will serve as a lead partner for the project moving forward. “Not only are we ensuring that thousands of young people are pursuing their passions and connecting with family-sustaining careers, we’re helping to build a talented and motivated workforce right here in our own backyard that will drive our economy forward.”

Massive shifts in the economy, politics, and social issues have dramatically altered how states like Delaware are preparing young people for the world they’ll inherit after graduation. Increasingly, the tech-driven, family-sustaining careers of today and tomorrow require some level of postsecondary education or training. To address that disconnect between high schools, colleges, and a rewarding career—and the reality of emerging industries like IT and healthcare—public and private leaders from around the state have banded together to help usher in a new generation of the state’s workforce.

Mark Brainard, president of Delaware Technical Community College, played a key role with the Colonial School District in getting the first career pathway started with just 27 students from William Penn High School working in the advanced manufacturing field.

“It’s been very gratifying to develop the first pathway of 27 students and see it grow to more than 9,000 in just four years. We’re excited to play a role in developing these connections for students,” said Brainard. “As the state’s intermediary on this initiative, we utilize our partnerships with business to connect students to the world of work and higher education. Delawareans have a special way of working together. These pathways have expanded because all of the various partners work together so well to benefit our students and put Delaware on the cutting edge of work-based learning.”

In addition to Delaware Tech, Rodel, and Governor Carney’s Office, key partners in Delaware include its state departments of education and labor, its Workforce Development Board, the United Way of Delaware, plus partnerships with every school district and employers in different industries throughout the state.

Delaware’s strong alignment across sectors has quickly made it a national exemplar and a recipient of targeted supports. In 2017, it was one of just 10 states to receive $2 million in grant funding through the New Skills For Youth initiative led by JPMorgan Chase in partnership with the Council of Chief State School Officers and Advance CTE.

About Delaware Pathways:
Delaware Pathways is an education and workforce partnership that has shaped extensive school reform and the development of regional Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways that accelerate academic and technical instruction, reflect the needs of the state economy, and purposefully integrate employers. Each pathway offers students the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized credential, early college credit, and relevant work experience. These instructional models are now being scaled across the state in key industry sectors such as: agriculture, education, finance, health care, hospitality and tourism, engineering and science, information technology, and manufacturing. For more information, please visit here or contact Alison May via email at: alison.may@doe.k12.de.us.

About Bloomberg Philanthropies:
Bloomberg Philanthropies works in over 120 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on five key areas for creating lasting change: Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s charitable activities, including his foundation and his personal giving. In 2017, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $702 million. For more information, please visit www.bloomberg.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter.

Notable Statements of Support

• “At United Way, one of our strategic priorities is ensuring that Delaware has a workforce pipeline of diverse, talented, and well-trained young people. We are investing in efforts to improve literacy rates, and to prepare our youth for college and careers. Pathways is central to our work. We join with the governor and all our Pathways partners to celebrate this grant and to take this opportunity to re-commit to the state’s workforce development goals.” –Michelle Taylor, President and CEO, United Way of Delaware

• “It’s been very gratifying to develop the first pathway of 27 students and see it grow to more than 9,000 in just four years. We’re excited to play a role in developing these connections for students. As the state’s intermediary on this initiative, we utilize our partnerships with business to connect students to the world of work and higher education. Delawareans have a special way of working together. These pathways have expanded because all of the various partners work together so well to benefit our students and put Delaware on the cutting edge of work-based learning.” – Mark Brainard, President, Delaware Technical Community College

• “This grant reinforces the great progress we have made across the state aligning all of our Pathway stakeholders, and pushing the envelope on our strategic plan, objectives from day one at our Workforce Development Board. When opportunity strikes, Delawareans will always roll up their sleeves alongside each other – especially when it comes to supporting our schools, and the young men and women that represent our next generation of business leaders here in Delaware.” – Gary Stockbridge, CEO, Delmarva Power, and Chairman, Delaware Workforce Development Board

• “The world is changing fast, and Delaware Pathways is a shining example of public and private leaders banding together around a common challenge to find solutions. Not only are we ensuring that thousands of young people are pursuing their passions and connecting with family-sustaining careers, we’re helping to build a talented and motivated workforce right here in our own backyard that will drive our economy forward.” – Paul Herdman, President and CEO, Rodel Foundation of Delaware

• “Thanks to Pathways, education and workforce programs are designed to help young people take active steps to pursue continuing education and competitive employment. This generous grant will help Delaware continue its focus on in-demand occupations and where there is the greatest potential for our students to enter the workforce in middle- and high-skill occupations.” – Delaware Governor John Carney

• “When companies and entrepreneurs are deciding where to grow their businesses, the most important factor in their decision making is the talent of the local workforce. In today’s economy it is more important than ever that Delawareans be equipped with the best education and career training available. Our pathways initiative is a key component to that work.” – Cerron Cade, Delaware Secretary of Labor

• “Students who complete a career pathway are actualizing our definition of college and career readiness – they attain a secondary school diploma, earn an industry-recognized credential and complete early college coursework connected to a Registered Apprenticeship program or an Associate or Bachelor’s degree program at a Delaware college or university. We’re excited that this money will allow us to further strengthen and expand Pathways programs.” – Delaware Secretary of Education Susan Bunting

• “Pathways has enabled the Colonial School District to provide its middle and high school students with opportunities and access to the world of work and careers through rigorous course work, while at the same time preparing them for success at the post-secondary level.” – Colonial School District Superintendent Dusty Blakey

• “To truly prepare students to be both college and career ready, we need to do more. For students to have rewarding careers, they must be aware of their options and prepared to take the next step. We want every student to graduate from our schools with the academic and technical skills necessary to pursue postsecondary education or training that is aligned with his or her career interests, and Pathways helps us to meet that goal.” – Woodbridge School District Superintendent Heath Chasanov, head of the Delaware Chief School Officers Association

• “Zip Code Wilmington is excited about the opportunity to grow and partner with Delaware schools to expand the computer science pathway and create new opportunities for youth to develop coding skills. We are excited to engage with teachers and community partners to help grow the next generation of IT talent.” – Tariq Hook, Executive Director of Zip Code I/O

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