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GOVERNOR MATT MEYER SIGNS EDUCATION BILLS, DELIVERING UNIVERSAL FREE BREAKFAST, SCHOOL BOARD REFORM

September 2, 2025

Nine new laws expand student support, raise educator standards, and increase public access to school governance

WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer on Monday signed nine education bills designed to strengthen the state’s school system, while also celebrating a new law that will provide universal free breakfast to all students beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

“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.”

Submitted Photo

Among the measures:

  • House Bill 85 requires all elected and appointed school board members to undergo a background check within 15 days of taking office.

  • House Bill 91 establishes universal free breakfast statewide, regardless of family income.

  • House Bill 97 mandates that any school employee working directly with students must hold a valid permit or license to ensure proper qualifications.

  • Senate Bill 81 ensures paraprofessionals and other specialists receive credit for years of experience toward pay, regardless of their hire date.

  • Senate Bill 91 strengthens protections against sex-based discrimination and harassment in federally funded schools.

  • Senate Bill 107 adopts the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, allowing qualified professionals to work across state lines.

  • Senate Bill 165 launches a pilot program to refine teacher evaluations, taking student mobility and absences into account.

  • House Bill 64 requires school boards to offer virtual options for the public to attend and comment at meetings.

  • House Bill 77 mandates training for school board members on ethics, FOIA, and meeting rules.

  • House Bill 83 allows school board members to vote remotely for reasons such as illness, pregnancy, or military service.

Lawmakers who sponsored the bills said the reforms will modernize governance, provide greater support for educators, and expand access to resources for families.

“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 towards 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.”