Schools, districts, and education policy in Delaware.
The framework proposes escalating state intervention for struggling schools, including possible takeover, and a K-3 literacy system that could hold back students at the lowest reading level under strict conditions.
The law, signed in September 2025, takes effect for the 2026–27 school year. It creates new permit requirements for paraprofessionals and support staff and allows the state to claw back funds from districts that intentionally retain uncredentialed employees beyond a 90-day grace period.
Grades 3-8 proficiency inches up 1 point each in ELA and math, but SAT math remains flat and achievement gaps persist far below pre-pandemic levels and state targets.