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School test scores dismal again despite new math, reading plans

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

There was little cheering news Tuesday when Delaware released its 2023 state assessment results. The numbers are still grim, with the majority of students across the board failing to reach proficiency in math and reading.  “I can’t imagine anyone looking at these test results and saying they are good enough,” said Julia Keleher, the new executive director of First State …

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Here’s how to help children get ready to return to school 

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

Most of the 19 school districts in the First State kick off their academic year the week of August 28, and there’s several ways families can ensure their children have a smooth transition back to the classroom. “Parents should slowly start to wean their kids back to go to bed earlier so they wake up early,” said Bridget Amory, superintendent …

milford

Milford board scraps restorative practices from code

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

In opposition to the wishes of some residents, the Milford School District’s board voted Monday night to strike restorative practices from its student code of conduct.  Restorative practice is a method that aims to build and strengthen community relationships.  Instead of focusing on solely disciplining a child for their behavior, restorative practices aim to improve their behavior and evaluate the …

There's several tips to keep yourself, your family and pets safe during the heat of the summer.

Tips to avoid heat stroke emergencies this summer

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Health

Delaware challenge: take a walk outside for 15 minutes and try not to sweat – mission impossible. In the heart of the summer season, the Delaware Division of Public Health warns First State residents – and their animal companions – to beware of extreme heat conditions that cause serious threats to health.  “Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to …

Some are upset that the State Fair does not allow guns on the fairgrounds.

Del. gun advocate groups furious over State Fair weapons ban

Jarek RutzCulture, Headlines

Gun owners and gun rights advocates are upset about a no-gun policy at the Delaware State Fair, even though the policy has been in place for decades. The addition of weapon detectors and screening devices at the fair entrance this year seemed to raise awareness of the policy. “The Delaware State Fair is now officially anti-gun,” read a statement from …

The Delaware State Fair runs July 18-27.

Our guide to 2023 Delaware State Fair

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Culture

The Delaware State Fair returns Thursday, with something for everyone: Rides, livestock shows, carnival games, blue ribbon food competitions, a circus, racing pigs, a camel show, a magic show, concerts – and people watching. It adds up to more than 200 hours of entertainment in a single day – not including the carnival or grandstand concerts, said Danny Aguilar, assistant …

This year's General Assembly had about 60 pieces of legislation relating to education.

Ed leaders detail what they consider legislation highlights

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

With the 2023 General Assembly session ending in June, educational advocates are cheering the legislature’s action on early education, mental health support and transparency relating to school boards. One leader, though, would like to see bills that focus on letting parents know clearly and precisely what’s happening in the classroom, starting with easy to find proficiency ratings. About 60 bills …

Teacher absenteeism is affecting different districts in unique ways.

Teacher absenteeism calls for staff flexibility, strategies

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

A human resources director for the largest school district in Sussex County shocked a House Education Committee hearing in April when she told them about 300 of its 1,000 educators are off on any given school day. About 800 of those educators are teachers, and their absenteeism rains down problems for the district, said Celeste Bunting, director of human resources …

Milford's school taxes are going down .6% for next year.

Milford votes to decrease taxes for next year

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

Residents of the Milford School District are officially getting a tax decrease for the seventh straight year. After the district’s chief financial officer Sara Hale presented the tax proposal for the 2023-24 school year at the school board’s June meeting (to much applause and gratitude from members), the board voted unanimously Monday night to approve next year’s tax rate.  “Since …

Fireworks and family fun are in store for Delaware's July 4th celebrations and events.

Your guide to July 4th holiday in Delaware 

Jarek RutzCulture, Headlines

July Fourth – a celebration of America’s independence and often a day full of fun with family and friends – is next Tuesday. With AAA Mid-Atlantic expecting around 14% of Delaware’s population to be traveling, here’s what to know about Independence Day in the First State: Travel AAA predicts 142,000 Delawareans will travel at least 50 miles over the weekend, …