DOVER, Del.- Governor Carney announced Monday an agreement was reached with Delawareans for Educational Opportunity and the Delaware NAACP, resolving a lawsuit in the First State's Court of Chancery.
The Governor's office says the settlement "creates a path forward to provide substantial additional support for Delaware schools, high-needs students and educators," and will dedicate additional funding to the First State's most disadvantaged students.
According to the Governor's office, the settlement will:
- More than double funding for Opportunity Funding to $60 million annually by Fiscal Year 2025, and make the weighted funding program permanent. Funding will increase automatically with enrollment beyond 2025.
- Double funding for the Early Childhood Assistance Program (ECAP) to expand access to affordable early education.
- Provide full funding for K-3 basic special education, consistent with grades 4-12.
- Provide additional funding for teacher recruitment and retention in high-needs schools.
“It’s important to make clear that both parties viewed this case and these settlement negotiations as an opportunity to make real progress for Delaware’s children,” said Governor Carney. “This is a path forward to support our most disadvantaged students and families - and one that will help close the persistent achievement gap in our schools.
“But our work is just getting started,” said Governor Carney. “The General Assembly will need to consider these changes as part of its regular budget process in Dover. I look forward to discussions with legislators. Delaware’s General Assembly has supported increased investments in public education over the last four years and I believe legislators of both parties will see the merit in this proposal.”
Carney's team says Opportunity Funding provides targeted funding – for the first time in Delaware’s history – for low-income students and English learners statewide. Members of the Delaware General Assembly must approve terms the agreement as part of the regular budget and legislative process.
Department of Education Secretary Susan Bunting says the program will provide new services for young special needs students and early childhood education.
Those with the Delaware Hispanic Commission say this permanent funding is much needed.
“Children of poverty and English learners need the resources to keep pace with their peers," says DHC Chair Javier Torrijos. "School districts will be able to look at long-term programs and provide the resources to meet these students’ needs. We are extremely grateful and after many years of advocacy we see this as a major victory for all Delawareans and more importantly the future of our children and this great state.”