The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) equips public school staff with guidance and resources to effectively teach English Language Arts (ELA) and literacy in kindergarten through grade 12. DDOE does not create or enforce specific ELA/literacy curriculum but does ensure schools follow state content standards and support all educators with high quality professional learning.

DDOE operates with the knowledge that all children are successful in the classroom and beyond when high expectations exist alongside appropriate supports. Our primary purpose is to assist districts and charter schools in their mission to prepare students for their college and career goals after high school.

Standards

Shared end-of-year learning targets for each grade across all districts and charter schools

Ensures students develop crucial skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Assessments

Helps students, families and teachers determine each student’s strengths and areas for growth
Measures students’ reading, writing, and literacy skills.

Family Resources

Find instruction and assessment resources for students and families
Empowers families to support their children’s literacy development.

Please note: Delaware schools operate under local control, which means operational decisions – including classroom curriculum – are determined at the individual district and charter school level. For questions regarding classroom instruction, please contact your local district, charter or school board.

The Delaware Literacy Coalition

The Delaware Literacy Coalition aims to ensure all Delaware students graduate high school with strong English language arts (ELA) and literacy skills for academic and workplace success.

The coalition is led by literacy supervisors from public districts and charter schools, along with representatives from post-secondary institutions, community organizations, and the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE).

The coalition is collaboratively focused on improving ELA teaching practices statewide. The group sets goals and plans for sustainable literacy efforts in grades preK-12. DDOE provides the coalition with financial support to provide professional development aligned with school needs.

The Delaware Literacy Coalition Strategic Plan was developed in 2022 to enhance literacy outcomes for students in grades 4-8.

Meetings are scheduled throughout the year.

February 2, 2024 (8:30-10:00)
March 1, 2024 (8:30-10:00)
April 12, 2024 (TBD)
May 3, 2024 (8:30-10:00)

2023-2024 Leadership

  • Co-Chair Tracy Selekman, Brandywine School District
  • Co-Chair Kelly Carvajal-Hageman, Seaford School District

Steering Committee:

  • Lisa Ali-Turner, Appoquinimink School District
  • Tabitha Bendel, Christina School District
  • Ryan Buchanan, Smyrna School District
  • Katie Gutowski, Colonial School District

DDOE Representatives:

  • Amy Baker-Sheridan, Secondary ELA Education Associate
  • Paige Morgan, Elementary ELA Education Associate

The Delaware Literacy Cadre

The Delaware Literacy Cadre was created in 2001 to assign each district a reading specialist for ten months. These specialists, also known as literacy coaches, assist schools in improving literacy instruction by aligning curriculum and providing professional development for district and charter educators.

Literacy coaches work with teachers individually or in groups to enhance literacy teaching and learning. They collaborate with school and district leaders to establish evidence-based literacy programs and goals. They also support the implementation of teacher evaluation systems and provide professional learning opportunities to improve teaching practices.

The Department of Education (DDOE) hosts regular professional learning sessions for Literacy Coaches to collaborate and enhance their skills in line with state standards.

Important Links

Digital DE – Find the most-current resources for Delaware educators to support students in all learning environments. Additional resources are available in the ELA/literacy Schoology group. Please email Amy Baker-Sheridan and/or email Paige Morgan.

Professional learning – Opportunities for educators to participate in deep and engaging professional learning focused on student outcomes. Includes access to PDMS.

Delaware Early Literacy Plan (PreK through Grade 3) – Establishes a framework and consistent voice to address the state’s literacy challenges. Promotes high-quality early learning experiences, rigorous elementary and secondary instruction, and strong community support. Includes key activities for teachers, leaders, and community partners.

Contact Us

For more information on Delaware ELA/literacy standards, please email Amy Baker-Sheridan and/or email Paige Morgan, or call 302-735-4180.