DEI Enforcement Blocked by Federal Courts
In a major development, three federal courts have collectively blocked the U.S. Department of Education from enforcing its controversial “Dear Colleague Letter” related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in schools. This letter, issued in February 2025, warned K-12 schools and universities that acknowledging race in scholarships, hiring, or campus activities could jeopardize their access to federal funding.
The legal challenge stems from lawsuits filed by school districts, educators, and civil rights advocates in Maryland, New Hampshire, and Washington, D.C. According to the ACLU, courts have not only blocked the original DEI letter but also halted enforcement of the subsequent certification requirements issued by the Department.
As these cases move forward, Delaware Secretary of Education Cindy Marten responded briefly, reaffirming the state’s commitment to providing a discrimination-free education, consistent with all federal laws.
“DDOE and our subgrantees are committed to ensuring that every student has access to a quality education, free from discriminatory practices and policies,” stated Marten in her April 14 communication.
Student Talent Shines in DelDOT’s 2025 Bridge Design Competition
Showcasing future engineering stars, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) hosted its sixth-annual Bridge Design Competition at Polytech High School in April 2025. This year’s event saw a record turnout with 161 teams and nearly 500 students participating.
The competition aimed to spark interest in math, science, and engineering fields among middle and high school students. Winners received scholarship prizes to support their academic journeys.
Winners by Category:
- Middle School
- 1st Place: JOLT, Talley Middle School
- 2nd Place: Big Brains, Shue-Medill Middle School
- 3rd Place: The A’s, Georgetown Middle School
- Grades 9–10
- 1st Place: Golden Gate Warriors, Smyrna High School
- 2nd Place: BLT Balsa Salsa, Smyrna High School
- 3rd Place: The Studious Bunch, Polytech High School
- Grades 11–12
- 1st Place: The Baddest Bridges, Smyrna High School
- 2nd Place: KJP Builders, Caravel Academy
- 3rd Place: Pinnacle Princesses, Caesar Rodney High School
Delaware Department of Education Announces Two Major Appointments
Delaware Secretary of Education Cindy Marten has announced two significant hires to strengthen the department’s leadership team, signaling preparations for the first major overhaul of Delaware’s school funding formula in over 75 years.
Key Appointments:
- Denise Carter – Appointed as Deputy Secretary for Strategic Initiatives.
Carter brings over 30 years of federal operations experience, having led finance, acquisitions, grants, and technology systems at the Federal Student Aid Office. - Adam Schott – Appointed as Associate Secretary for Student Support.
Schott is a recognized leader in education finance, having held senior positions at the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. He played a vital role in implementing the American Rescue Plan’s $122 billion education relief fund.
Both officials officially began their roles on April 22, 2025, and are expected to play key parts in modernizing Delaware’s education system with a student-centered funding model.
Conclusion
Recent court rulings, student competitions, and leadership changes in Delaware’s education landscape highlight a pivotal moment of transition and opportunity. As legal battles over DEI enforcement continue and educational reforms move forward, Delaware remains committed to fostering inclusive and high-quality learning environments for all students.
