Major School Board Reforms Arrive in Delaware

Delaware’s 2025 legislative session has brought some of the most significant reforms to school board governance we’ve seen in decades. These changes signal a clear priority: restoring confidence in public education and ensuring governance reflects the highest standards of transparency and safety.

But what exactly is changing—and how can Delaware’s school boards prepare to lead effectively under these new laws?

What the New Laws Mean for School Boards

Four key bills—HB 82, HB 83, HB 64, and HB 85—are reshaping how boards operate:

• Stricter residency requirements: Board members must now meet clearer guidelines to ensure they genuinely live in the communities they represent, reinforcing local accountability.

• Mandatory virtual access: All meetings must now offer virtual options, allowing the public to watch and participate regardless of location, increasing transparency and community engagement.

• Limits on remote attendance for board members: While meetings will remain accessible virtually to the public, board members themselves will have limits on how often they can attend remotely to promote in-person engagement and accountability.

• Strengthened background checks: Requirements for board member background checks have been expanded to protect students and maintain public trust.

Together, these reforms aim to strengthen how boards serve families while building trust with the communities they represent.

Why It Matters for Delaware’s Students and Communities

High-functioning, transparent school boards are critical for improving student outcomes and ensuring that public education reflects community values. When families can access meetings easily, they are more likely to participate and stay informed. Clear residency requirements ensure decisions reflect local needs, and rigorous background checks safeguard student safety.

As Education Week notes, transparent governance and clear communication are key to maintaining trust in public education, especially as schools face new challenges and shifting expectations from families.

Policy Alone Isn’t Enough: Boards Need Support

At First State Educate, we believe laws alone don’t create effective boards—people do. Board members must be prepared, informed, and supported to navigate this changing landscape.

That’s why we are expanding our Knowledge Hub and offering tailored trainings to help Delaware boards:

• Understand the specific requirements of each new law.

• Update policies and meeting procedures accordingly.

• Build trust and transparency with their communities.

• Lead with clarity and confidence during this period of change.

With the right resources, Delaware’s boards can turn these new requirements into opportunities to better serve students and families.

A Turning Point for Public Education in Delaware

If you serve on a board, support a district, or care about the future of Delaware’s schools, now is the time to get informed and equipped.

We invite you to join us in ensuring these reforms translate into real, positive outcomes for every student in our state. Let’s make this a turning point for public education in Delaware—together.

Learn more about our trainings and resources here: First State Educate Knowledge Hub

Or connect with us to explore how we can help your board lead with confidence during this historic shift in governance.