Ministry of Education hires trainers for early literacy skills

Delaware's classrooms will begin to receive early literacy teachers this fall. The Delaware Department of Education is currently interviewing candidates because it has 15 to 20 positions to fill.

Delaware's 2023 state assessment found that only 40% of students in grades 3 through 8 scored at or above the required level in English.

Governor John Carney added $3 million to the state budget for statewide literacy coaches.

Paige Morgan, DOE staff member for elementary ELA literacy instruction, said early literacy coaches will assist teachers and provide evidence-based reading instruction. They likely already have teaching or classroom experience.

“I know the power and impact of successful coaches when they can support senior leaders and teachers in their building. It just has a tremendous impact on success,” Morgan said.

Kathy Kelly, DOE director of curriculum design and professional learning, said the goal is to help teachers and students.

“We know that teachers are overburdened and have a lot on their plate right now,” Kelly said. “So if we can get people into their buildings who can help them, we can ultimately start to improve student achievement.”

The DOE will hire selected candidates next month, and training will begin in September or October and continue throughout the school year.