A Delaware organization is working to set the agenda for the next decade of school improvements in the state. The Vision Coalition of Delaware has been developing 10-year plans since 2005, starting with Vision 2015 and followed by Student Success 2025. In its latest phase, the coalition aims to enhance funding equity among school districts, support teachers more effectively, and improve student outcomes from early childhood through post-high school education.
The coalition is organized by the Rodel Foundation and includes leaders from various industries focused on shaping Delaware’s educational future.
“The Vision Coalition has always aimed to support our education systems in Delaware,” said Shelley Rouser, department chair of the education department at Delaware State University. “While the vision to help schools remains constant, the specific needs have evolved over time.”
With over 30 years of experience in education, including roles in classroom teaching and district leadership, Rouser has witnessed firsthand the changes in the educational landscape. She has been part of the leadership team that identifies the unique challenges and needs facing students and educators.
In 2023, the coalition surveyed educators, parents, and the public to evaluate the state of education. The survey revealed significant improvements in educational technology, mental health support, and early childhood education, showcasing positive changes from diverse viewpoints.
Despite these advancements, Rouser noted that public forums revealed ongoing areas needing attention.
Commission members are already indicating they may require more time to finalize recommendations, which might not be included in the state budget until the fiscal year 2027.
“The emphasis on preparing students for careers and life has introduced new themes, including a greater focus on cultural awareness and digital literacy,” Rouser explained. “We are also trying to understand the implications of new technologies, like artificial intelligence, which pose challenges for teachers.”
As the coalition meets, they aim to enhance educator support by 2035 through professional development, addressing cultural competency gaps, improving teacher pay, and strengthening early childhood care.
“We recognize that the early childhood workforce faces challenges, including compensation,” she said. “We advocate for children to have access to high-quality early childhood education systems.”
Jon Cooper, health and wellness director for Colonial School District, supported Rouser’s call for broader access to childcare. Currently, Delaware only provides free public preschool for children with disabilities.
“There is no universal preschool in Delaware,” Cooper said. “The Vision Coalition is advocating for a universal preschool system, which wouldn’t be compulsory. The goal is to offer free public schooling for three- and four-year-olds before kindergarten.”
Cooper, who co-chairs the student support committee, emphasized the need to meet various student needs beyond academic instruction. This includes enhancing mental health services and developing partnerships with private providers to address those needs.
The Vision Coalition of Delaware plans to release its strategy for 2035 in March 2025. The group hopes the plan will encourage community engagement and support from lawmakers.
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