Governor Meyer Signs Nine Education Bills, Expands Universal Free Breakfast in Delaware

WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has signed nine education-related bills into law, a sweeping package that aims to strengthen school governance, expand educator support, and provide universal free breakfast for students. “As a former middle-school math teacher, I know firsthand how… The post Governor Meyer Signs Nine Education Bills, Expands Universal Free Breakfast in Delaware appeared first on TV Delmarva Channel 33.

WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has signed nine education-related bills into law, a sweeping package that aims to strengthen school governance, expand educator support, and provide universal free breakfast for students. “As a former middle-school math teacher, I know firsthand how much it matters that every student feels supported and every educator has the resources they need,” Meyer said. “By expanding free meals, strengthening standards for school boards and educators, and making sure our schools are places where all students can thrive, these bills take meaningful steps toward a stronger and fairer education system for every Delaware family.”
Among the new laws, House Bill 91 stands out for providing free breakfast to all public school students regardless of income, beginning with the 2026–27 school year. Supporters say the measure will address food insecurity and ensure children start the school day ready to learn. Several other bills tighten requirements for school board members and educators. House Bill 85 requires background checks for elected or appointed school board members, while House Bill 97 mandates that school employees working directly with students hold valid state-issued permits or licenses. House Bill 77 adds mandatory training for school board members on ethics, transparency, and meeting rules, and House Bill 83 allows board members to participate and vote remotely under specific circumstances such as illness, maternity care, or military service. House Bill 64 further expands public access by requiring school board meetings to offer virtual participation options.
Education funding and staffing were also addressed. Senate Bill 81 ensures that paraprofessionals and specialists receive proper credit for prior years of experience when calculating pay. Senate Bill 107 adopts the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, making it easier for qualified professionals to work across state lines. Senate Bill 165 pilots a new teacher evaluation framework beginning in the 2025–26 school year, with adjustments for student absences and other challenges. Legislators praised the package as a significant investment in Delaware’s education system.
“Our children are the future of Delaware, and making sure they receive the best possible education is one of the most important jobs we have in Legislative Hall,” said Rep. Kim Williams, Chair of the House Education Committee. “This year, we made real progress toward that goal by improving school board governance, making sure only highly qualified educators are leading our classrooms, and ensuring all students have access to free nutritious meals in their schools.” Sen. Elizabeth “Tizzy” Lockman emphasized the impact of Senate Bill 81, saying it recognizes the experience of paraprofessionals who often go on to become full-time teachers. “Their experience and dedication deserve to be fully recognized, no matter when they began their service,” Lockman said.
Sen. Laura Sturgeon, who sponsored multiple bills in the package, highlighted the importance of reforms to teacher evaluations under Senate Bill 165. “Teachers know their students’ strengths and challenges,” she said. “It only makes sense that they should have a say in what performance measures are used to assess their students’ improvement.”
Collectively, the measures reflect a focus on equity, access, and accountability across Delaware’s school systems. Governor Meyer called the package a step toward “a stronger and fairer education system for every Delaware family.”

Photo: Courtesy of the Governor Matt Meyer’s Office.

The post Governor Meyer Signs Nine Education Bills, Expands Universal Free Breakfast in Delaware appeared first on TV Delmarva Channel 33.