The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) and Delaware schools adhere to the provisions of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which aims to promote educational stability and improve educational outcomes for students in foster care. The law allows for students in foster care to continue their education without disruption, maintain important relationships, and have the opportunity to achieve college and career readiness and stresses the importance of collaboration between child welfare agencies and schools.
- Immediate enrollment
- Best-interest decision making
- Dispute resolution
- School transportation
- Interagency collaboration
- Data sharing
The DDOE supports students in foster care by partnering with state agencies and districts and charters to develop state-wide systems, provide technical assistance, resources and professional learning opportunities for those working with students in foster care.
District/Charter Websites and Contacts
Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families, Division of Family Services Contact Information:
The Division of Family Services has identified points of contact to assist with the coordination of services for students in foster care. Please contact the appropriate point of contact for the county in which the student resides.
| County | Contact Name | Contact Email | Contact Phone Number |
| New Castle (University Plaza) | Christy Diffendall | Christy.Diffendall@delaware.gov | 302-781-6232 |
| New Castle (Beech Street) | Kyla Ryde | kyla.ryde@delaware.gov | 302-660-3561 |
| Kent | Monica Morris | Monica.morris@delaware.gov | 302-526-5675 |
| Sussex | Kathleen Truitt | kathleen.truitt@delaware.gov | 302-752-3065 |
DDOE Contact Information:
For questions regarding education for students in foster care, send an email to Jennifer Davis or call 302-735-4103.
