Cape Henlopen School District Receives Increased Bridge to Practice Grant for Second Consecutive Year

Cape Henlopen School District has once again been awarded the Delaware Department of Education’s Bridge to Practice Grant, marking the second consecutive year the District has received funding through the early literacy initiative. This year’s award represents an increase in funding from the previous year, providing additional support for Cape’s continued investment in literacy instruction and professional learning.

The Bridge to Practice Grant supports school districts in strengthening the implementation of high-quality instructional materials and practices designed to meet the early literacy needs of students. The award will support several key areas, including Lexia LETRS stipends and substitutes, Lexia LETRS training materials for Volumes 1 and 2, and district-level UFLI training and materials. LETRS provides educators with training in the Science of Reading, supporting a state requirement that all kindergarten through third grade teachers complete Science of Reading training by 2028.

“Receiving this grant for a second consecutive year is a testament to our continued commitment to strengthening literacy instruction across our schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Jenny Nauman. “The increased funding allows us to expand opportunities for professional learning and provide our educators with resources that support strong reading outcomes for our students. Investing in our educators is an investment in our students and our community as a whole.”

Through the grant, Cape educators will continue building their knowledge and skills through Lexia LETRS professional learning, while district-level training and materials through UFLI Foundations will further support evidence-based literacy instruction. The funding will also provide stipends and substitute coverage and will support educators participating in LETRS learning during the summer. “Our staff have been provided these experiences because of the wonderful guidance and leadership of Dr. Audrey Dempsey, our Supervisor of Early Learning and Elementary Education,” continued Dr. Nauman. “We are grateful for the dedication and knowledge she brings to our team, and her commitment to providing our educators with opportunities to grow and thrive.”

The grant also includes ongoing collaboration and professional learning opportunities throughout the 2026–27 school year. Cape leadership, both school leaders and literacy leaders, will participate in Professional Learning Network sessions focused on using implementation data, monitoring progress and strengthening support for literacy initiatives.

“We are excited to continue the work we began through Bridge to Practice and build on the momentum from last year,” said Dr. Audrey Dempsey, Supervisor of Early Learning and Elementary Education. “This funding gives us the opportunity to deepen professional learning and ensure our educators have practical tools and resources they can use to support students as they develop foundational literacy skills.”

This award will fund activities through June 30, 2027, with the District working alongside the Delaware Department of Education throughout the grant period to monitor implementation, collect data and reflect on progress.