From Election to Action: Supporting Delaware’s Newest Education Leaders

Last election season may be behind us, but for Delaware’s newly elected school board members, the real work has just begun. With orientation now complete, these leaders are stepping into their roles with fresh ideas, bold questions, and a deep responsibility to keep students at the center of every decision.

At First State Educate, we believe that intention must be met with support—and that’s where we come in. This month, we launched Board First 2025, our tailored onboarding program designed to help new board members make informed, community-centered, data-driven decisions. We’re proud to support every incoming board member for the 2025-26 school year on this important journey.

We also recently hosted Voices & Vision 2025, in partnership with Capital One, where Delaware’s top education leaders gathered to shape what’s next. From inspiring remarks to collaborative working sessions, the event underscored how progress in education is a shared responsibility—and we’re already seeing that momentum in motion.

What’s ahead? In August, three Delaware board members will attend a national convening hosted by School Board Partners. Meanwhile, FSE is developing new resources to help boards navigate Delaware’s evolving student funding formula. Want to get involved? Let’s talk.

We’re also proud to have presented at the 23rd Annual Policy & Practice Institute on June 24th—Delaware’s leading education conference. Sharing space with over 600 educators, board members, and policymakers reaffirms our shared commitment to strong public schools.

And finally, we’re thrilled to unveil the FSE Knowledge Hub—a powerful new online space designed to equip Delawareans with the training, tools, and connection needed to lead effectively. Whether you’re a board member, candidate, or concerned citizen, the Knowledge Hub is your place to grow, learn, and lead.

Leadership Spotlight: Patty Maull
Cape Henlopen’s newly elected board member, Patty Maull, is already making waves. With a strong focus on student mental health and community engagement, she’s stepping into her role with heart and vision. We can’t wait to see what she’ll accomplish.

Want to nominate someone for next month’s spotlight? Reach out to us—we’d love to hear from you.

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Let’s build something powerful together—for our students, for our schools, and for Delaware’s future.