Governor Carney signs several education bills into law, builds up workforce

DELAWARE – “We want to keep our talent in our state, and we want to grow that talent. I can’t see a better opportunity than this,” Dr. Cade said.

Wednesday, Governor John Carney’s signature making several bills law to help strengthen Delaware’s education workforce. One of those measures is House Bill 138, establishing the Delaware Educator Apprenticeship Program. “We know that right now we’re in a time of teacher shortages. We see this as an important driver to help us solve that problem,” Delaware Department of Education Director of Educator Excellence Dr. Michael Saylor said.  

Grant funding from the Delaware Department of Labor would support the program, allowing aspiring teachers to earn while they learn. The Department of Education would assist with development. “It’s a two-year program. Afterwards, they’ll have their bachelor’s degree as well as their teaching certificate. They’ll stay in the district but move into a teacher position,” Dr. Saylor said.

House Bill 156 creates a gateway for paraprofessionals to become certified teachers and at a high salary.

Capital School District Superintendent Dr. Vilicia Cade said cost is typically one of the biggest barriers for many seeking to enter into the profession. “They inquire lots of student loan debt or they stop working to pursue education. I think these partnerships are critical as we move forward,” Dr. Cade said.

Dr. Cade added that with additional tools in the tool belt, they can not only address the 7% of vacancies they have in the district but create a better work environment for future educators. “We have an opportunity to create that culture where we place value on education in our state and we nurture that. I believe our governor is at the forefront of those efforts,” Dr. Cade said.

The first year will be a pilot program between Appoquinimink School District and Wilmington University. The Department of Education anticipates additional funding will expand the program in the future.

We’re told both bills also mirror current initiatives like the Grow Your Own Educator and teacher residency programs.