Building Delaware's STEM Future, One Classroom at a Time

DFSME is Making the Difference


Imagine Delaware as a collaborative hub for STEM innovation, where new teaching ideas are nurtured, talent is supported and students see a future built in their own communities.

 

This is the vision DFSME has championed for over 30 years, and with new transitions in place, we’re building on that momentum every day.

 

As the state’s STEM connector, DFSME brings together educators, schools, partners, and STEM education organizations to work towards making Delaware one of the best places in the country for students to receive a quality STEM education.

 

In partnership with schools, businesses, and policymakers, we connect students with the skills, knowledge and experiences they need to pursue STEM careers and succeed. DFSME Initiatives include Mini-Grants & Seed Grants, Professional Development, and STEM Educator Awards among others. Through our combined efforts, DFSME is turning its vision into meaningful opportunities, empowering students and educators across the state.

 

We have powerful messages in this issue, and share wonderful student contributions to our environmental art contest. We hope you enjoy this edition!


— Jon Manon, President & CEO

Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education (DFSME)


The Future is Bright!

After more than a decade as DFSME Executive Director, Randy Guschl (center), has been a major interface between K-16 educators and the Delaware business community. (Also Pictured L-R): Ryan Gingo, DFSME STEM Events and IT Coordinator; Em McKeever, DFSME Development Officer: Daniel Suchenski, Delaware STEM Council President; Jon Manon, DFSME President and CEO.



Thank You, Dr. Randy Guschl, 
for Your Years of Service with DFSME!

The Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education announces that Dr. Randy Guschl has stepped down from his role as Executive Director. Through Randy's leadership, DFSME established a strong community of STEM education supporters. DFSME’s Board of Directors is grateful for his many significant contributions.


Randy used his leadership to share his convictions around the great importance of STEM education. He championed efforts such as Next Generation Science Standards, bringing widespread improvement to all Delaware classrooms. He recognized the importance of programming and events for girls in STEM, establishing Million Women Mentors in Delaware with their flagship program for middle school girls, Engineering Your Tomorrow. >>READ MORE

Among 18 statewide Awardees, here, Nellie Stokes Elementary students share the Winners’ spotlight in classroom presentation.


Announcing Statewide Winners

“The Air We Share” Environmental Awareness Art Contest


This month, DFSME is proud to announce the winners of the first of a two-part series of “The Air We Share Environmental Awareness Art Contest” award winners. Winners were presented with Awards, $100 Visa gift cards, framed certificates and goody bags supplied by Bloom Energy and Croda. The contest challenged students grades 3-5 to design artwork that visually shows how one can make a positive impact on our community's air quality.

 

Congratulations to the Contest Winners!

Grade 3

1st Place - Sophie Benjamin, Nellie Stokes Elementary

2nd Place - Draper Wright, Greenwood Mennonite Elementary


Grade 4

1st Place - Caiden White, Nellie Stokes Elementary

2nd Place - Lina Baruffi, John R. Downes Elementary

3rd Place - Gunes Gunacti, John R. Downes Elementary


Grade 5

1st Place - S. Meeram Jaffri, Nellie Stokes Elementary

2nd Place - Sarah Binu, North Star Elementary

3rd Place - Kaelynn Leeuwen, Nellie Stokes Elementary

 

Winning Entries:

Look for more Winners & their Submissions in the March Issue.

Sandi Begor accepts her Shining Light Award surrounded by her 5th grade class who are holding up their mini mag flashlights, supplied by Chesapeake Utilities, DFSME Shining Light program sponsor.

DFSME’s February “Shining Light Award”

Honors Sandra Begor, 5th Grade Math and Science Educator

Sandi Begor, a 5th grade teacher in Caesar Rodney School District, goes above and beyond to teach the importance of math and science 
in every student's academic career. She engages her students through real-life opportunities, fun room transformations, and inspirations of learning. She pushes her students to understand the concepts and helps support them to get there.

 

Sandi is dedicated to creating a highly-engaging and well-structured learning environment. By implementing and celebrating strong routines, students maximize instructional time for high-leverage content – demonstrating a commitment to strengthening and retaining a high-performing environment. This foundation of focused-engagement is essential for preparing competitive students who can readily apply themselves to rigorous STEM content and thrive in the global workforce.

 

Sandi Begor has been Teacher of the Year at Nellie Stokes Elementary.

 

We are pleased to recognize Sandra Begor as a Superlative Educator!

Ms. Begor was nominated by Kerri Carr, Principal at Nellie Stokes Elementary School.


The Shining Light Award is made possible by Sponsor Chesapeake Utilities.

Nominate Your Favorite Educator to be a Shining Light!

Anyone may nominate a STEM formal, informal or community Educator for the Shining Light Award.

Honorees receive an award, a $100 gift card and a mini heavy-duty mag flashlight.

For more details, visit dfsme.org/shining-light-award

Email completed form to drses48@aol.com or Michelle.Kutch@bsd.k12.de.us.

 

The first graduates of the Maintenance Training Program were on hand along with elected officials and other community partners who help Mountaire Farms train employees for meaningful careers in the technical trades.


Congratulations to Mountaire Farms

New Industrial & Technical Training Center Opens in Delaware

Mountaire Farms had a festive ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of their opening a new Industrial and Technical Training Center in Selbyville, DE on February 6, 2026.

 

Now the fourth largest chicken company in the United States, Mountaire is a fast growing agricultural food processing company with almost 10,000 employees at facilities in Delaware, Arkansas, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina. Mountaire is a family-owned business, dedicated to giving back to their local communities.


“The reason why Mountaire has been so successful is because of our people. 
That’s not by accident. We’ve been laser-focused on workforce development, identifying talent, and finding ways to encourage people to grow their careers. 
Our graduates are proof that investing in our people is worth every single penny.”

— Amanda Irwin, President

 

Inset photo (L-R): Em McKeever, DFSME Development Director, Amanda Irvwin, Mountaire President; Susan Bunting, Delaware Secretary of Education (retired); Jon Manon, DFSME President & CEO.

 

For more information about Mountaire Farms and careers, click here.

March 5-6 • 6pm-6pm

Do More 24 Delaware


Why give through Do More 24 Delaware?

Do More 24 is designed to be an easy way for the entire community to donate to nonprofits,

and ignites a culture of community-wide giving, allowing everyone the opportunity

to be a philanthropist, and to encourage the next generation of donors

to be inspired to give to causes they care about.

 

Your Support In Action: Microscopes Broaden Middle School Students' Horizons

“We are so thankful for your support! This allowed us to purchase microscopes for our students. The microscope is a wonderful instrument that creates awareness of a new world. They teach content and concepts like size and scale, identifying patterns, understanding how structure can affect function, and that systems can be large or small. They help unlock doors to potential STEM career pathways by sparking curiosity and wonder. My students deserve to see what is out there for them in the STEM fields and that was made possible through this generous donation. Thank you so much!” 

— Skyline Middle School Teacher

 

March 5 & March 6 • 6pm - 6pm • Help us #DoMore24!


To Schedule a Donation Reminder to Support Your Favorite Organization, click here.

First Ascent recently hosted a professional development session for DFSME’s STEM ConnectED Day. The session invited educators into their collaborative office space for a tour and behind-the-scenes-look at how this business operates with deep roots in STEM, engineering, and education and marketing.


STEM Impact in the First State

First Ascent is Advancing STEM/STEAM Education

 

Delaware is a global hub for innovation, from biotech breakthroughs to engineering marvels. But even the most groundbreaking science needs to reach investors, talent, and the community. This month, we highlight First Ascent, a Wilmington-based digital marketing and design agency, and a dedicated DFSME partner in the Delaware STEM community.


First Assent’s focus is advancing STEM/STEAM education and preparing the next generation for meaningful careers in advancing Delaware’s life sciences workforce. Leadership partners shared discussions on the development of next generation of vaccines, the Delaware health workforce and renewable electricity and advanced technology to deliver clean energy for the future. 


First Ascent was founded by a DuPont mechanical engineer, providing the team with a unique perspective on the challenges STEM organizations face. They focus on turning complex data into clear brand stories that build trust and drive growth for science and technology companies.

 

Among their high-profile initiatives, First Ascent has worked with BioConnect DE, CorriXR Therapeutics, Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, Innovation Space and Geotechnology Associates, Inc.

 

To learn about how they help science and technology companies grow, visit FirstAscentDesign.com.

February's Outstanding Delaware Women in STEM Honoree

Amber Young is Vice President of Technical Services at Pepco Holdings. An accomplished leader, she earned her Electrical Engineering degree and MBA from the University of Delaware. From an early career at PSEG Nuclear she transitioned to Pepco, where she has led transmission planning, operations, capital projects, and capacity expansion. An active member of power industry groups, Amber also volunteers and serves on boards for several community organizations.



Million Women Mentors is the premier network dedicated to encouraging girls and women around the world to pursue, persist and thrive in STEM careers. The Delaware STEM Council and DFSME are partners in the event along with MWM-DE and the Office of the Governor, State of Delaware.

 

Up to TEN honorees will be selected for recognition!

Hurry! Nominations close on February 28!

Last Call for Sign Ups!

Engineering Your Tomorrow

A STEM Career Day for Girls in Grades 6-8

Sat., February 28, 2026 • 9:30am – 3:30pm

 

Engineering Your Tomorrow (EYT) is a free program for middle school girls who will participate in a fun-filled day of hands-on lab activities. They will discover how STEM impacts the world around us while also encouraging their enthusiasm for learning.

 

At EYT, middle school girls will spend the day with scientists and engineers testing scientific hypotheses and exploring STEM careers. The girls and their parents/caregivers will experience how exciting engineering and science can be!

 

The Feb. 28 event will be held at Conrad Schools of Science from 9:30am to 3:30pm and will include workshops, demos, plus panels and info sessions for parents/caregivers. Lunch will be provided.


Registration is Free Thanks to our Generous Sponsors:

Engineering Your Tomorrow is presented by Million Women Mentors – Delaware.

2026 Odyssey of the Mind

Student Creativity Meets STEAM

Free Admission • Open to the Public


The 2026 Delaware Odyssey of the Mind State Tournament invites families, educators, and community members to experience Odyssey of the Mind in action.


Saturday, March 28 • Smyrna High School


Photo: Students showcase a team-designed vehicle and original performance solution as part of an Odyssey of the Mind Vehicle Problem.


Odyssey of the Mind is a global creative problem-solving program where students apply Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) to solve open-ended challenges with no single “right” answer. At the State Tournament, teams present their final performances and solutions, showcasing the results of months of student-driven design, construction, testing, and collaboration – all created on a shoestring budget of under $165 per team. Each performance will showcase:


●     Original solutions that blend engineering, storytelling, and the arts.

●     Engineered vehicles built to meet specific technical challenges.

●     Technical solutions where all props and backdrops must fit into two suitcases.

●     Load-bearing structures designed under strict material and weight constraints.

●     Creativity, teamwork, perseverance, and real-world problem-solving skills.


For the detailed schedule and list of participating schools click here.

Apply now! 

Girls Who Code 2026 Summer Programs!

Early Application Deadline: Feb 25

 

Who is this for? 9th-12th grade girls and non-binary students. 

 

Girls Who Code is excited to offer Pathways this summer from June 29th through August 14th! This seven-week program is a free, flexible online learning opportunity for students who want to learn coding at their own pace.


  • Participants will be able to explore coursework in five tracks throughout the program: Data Science + AI, Game Design, Web Development, Cybersecurity, and AI + Society.


  • Beyond coding, students gain real-world insights through virtual Partner Events with leading tech organizations. They can also connect with peers through Girls Who Code’s private Discord community and join optional Student Hours for live support and collaboration.


  • For students who participated in Pathways during 2025, this summer's program will offer new courses and virtual events, as well as the chance to explore coursework you may have missed previously!


  • Pathways is open to high school girls and non-binary students of all experience levels, including rising 9th graders, graduating seniors, and returning participants.


Early Application Deadline: February 25, 2026

Application Deadline: April 10, 2026


For more information and to apply, click here.

Cash Awards!

Delaware RENEW Essay Contest

Submissions Accepted February 23 – March 16


The RENEW (Reflective Essays on Nature, Earth and their Wonders) essay contest for Delaware's high school students is a platform for them to reflect – in writing – on climate change and environmental justice. It offers them an opportunity to underscore the urgency for everyone to act individually and collectively to counter the imminent existential threat and overcome a grave moral challenge.

 

Encourage your students to register now! All Delaware high schoolers, including public, private, parochial, and homes schoolers can participate. Cash awards range from $500 - $2,000.


Top essayists will receive awards at a ceremony on or around Earth Day, April 22, 2026.


To download the flyer, click here.

To see this year’s YouTube video promo, click here. 

When we envision the future, we see dedicated STEM educators.

Great teachers inspire Delaware students to reach for fulfilling careers

that aim to improve our world.

 

Your Donation Helps Support Classroom Teachers

to Provide Enriched STEM Experiences for Delaware Students!

No amount is too large or small.

 

Teachers know their students best!

With your kind donation, DFSME gives STEM educators what they need to make

phenomenal real-world STEM connections with their students.

We are a 501(c)(3) organization. Your donation is tax-deductible.


Thank You for Your Support!

February 21-25

Northrop Grumman’s Virtual Engineers Week

Northrop Grumman invites local educators, students and parents grades 5-8 to participate in

E-Week that celebrates the fun and excitement of engineering. Sessions are open to the public. 

For information, registration and STEM resources, click here.

 

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2 DAYS UNTIL EVENT!

February 20 • 7:30am - 2:30pm

Yes! Delaware Youth Environmental Summit

FREE for Delaware high school students and educators who are advisors to school teams.

Students explore the most pressing state, national and global environmental issues

and engage in steps they can take on campus and beyond.

Includes morning snack and lunch.

Clayton Hall Conference Center, 100 David Hollowell Drive, Newark DE 19716

For registration details, click here.

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10 DAYS UNTIL EVENT!

February 28 • 9:30am - 3:30pm

Engineering Your Tomorrow

FREE STEM Career Day for Middle School Girls

Girls in grades 6-8 will spend the day with scientists

and engineers exploring STEM careers through fun, hands-on lab activities!

Parents/caregivers/teachers are encouraged to attend sessions

to help guide girls in making choices that will prepare them for

higher education and careers in STEM fields.

Registration is FREE thanks to our generous sponsors. Lunch will be provided.

Conrad Schools of Science, Wilmington, DE.

To register, click here.


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February 25 Early Application • April 10 Deadline for Application

Girls Who Code • Summer Programs

June 29 through August 14

This seven-week program is a free, flexible online learning opportunity for

high school girls who want to learn coding at their own pace.

Participants will be able to explore coursework in five tracks throughout the program:

Data Science + AI, Game Design, Web Development, Cybersecurity, AI + Society.

Check out the walkthrough video with instructions on applying,

read our FAQs, or email us at pathways@girlswhocode.com.

 

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February 26

Delaware Engineers Week Celebration • Riverfront Events

Join us for the celebration “Transform Your Future” of the engineering community in Delaware. 
Help us honor scholarship recipients, congratulate those who have recently earned their 
PE license (DAPE), award this year’s engineering excellence awards (ACEC-DE) to projects and engineers within the State, and finally honor our Young Engineer and Engineer of the Year.

For more information, agenda & tickets, click here.

 

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March 6, 2026

2026 Sussex County Science Fair

The science fair provides an opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to

present their original research in science, mathematics, or engineering.

Any student in Sussex & lower Kent Counties is welcome. Sponsors need not be teachers;

any responsible adult qualifies. Students in New Castle and upper Kent Counties

should contact the Stanton Campus of Del Tech for their Science Fair.

Owens Campus of Delaware Technical and Community College

For more information, click here.

 

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March 7

Triple Crown Conference 2026

Delaware Council of Mathematics Leaders Annual Conference includes

three strands of professional learning that are designed to address

the varied needs of Delaware’s mathematics leadership community.

To learn more and register, click here.

 

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March 7 - High School • March 21 - Junior High • April 18 - Elementary

2026 Delaware Science Olympiad Tournaments

Delaware Science Olympiad inspires students to achieve the next level

in their science education through exciting and challenging competitions.

For more information, location updates and registration, click here.


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March 11

2026 New Castle County Science Fair

New Castle County students in grades 6-12 are eligible

to participate in this challenging yet rewarding experience.

Participants can submit an individual or team project (up to three persons).

Students compete at their level and will be judged by a diverse panel of experts.

Judges will evaluate the projects and may question students

about how they arrived at their scientific conclusions.

Delaware Technical Community College, 400 Stanton-Christiana Road, Newark, DE 19713

For more information, click here.


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March 14

National Pi Day

Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi).

Pi Day is observed on March 14 (3/14 in the month/day format) since 3, 1, and 4

are the first three significant digits of π.

To read more, click here.

 

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March 22 - 27

National STEM Week 2026

National STEM Week 2026 is a ten-day celebration of science, technology,

engineering, and math. Join in with a vibrant lineup of events hosted by museums,

 libraries, and top STEM organizations nationwide.

From hands-on activities to interactive workshops and inspiring talks,

each FREE event is crafted to ignite curiosity and inspire learners of all ages.

Whether you're engaging in your local community or from home,

dive into a world of STEM discovery and innovation!

To explore National STEM Week Act, click here.

 

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March 24 • Nominations Due by Feb 28

6th Annual Delaware Women & Girls STEM Day 2026

Call for Nominations! Up to 10 Outstanding Delaware Women in STEM will be honored.

Established in 2021 by the State of Delaware Governor’s Office and

hosted in collaboration with Million Women Mentors and DE STEM Council.

To submit nominations, click here.


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April 1 • 12:30pm – 3pm • Reply by March 20

2026 Delaware Valley Science Fairs Open House

Come explore, observe, connect, and experience the vibrant

atmosphere generated by over 900 6th-12th grade scientists,

innovators, creators, and researchers. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center,

100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA 19456.

To RSVP or for more info, contact jhoward@DVSF.org or 267-918-6349.


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Save the Date! April 19 • 10am - 4pm

Maker Faire Philadelphia 2026 • Free Event

Maker Faire showcases all kinds of amazing work by makers of all ages.

Welcome you and your constituents, family, neighbors, colleagues,

whether you join us as makers or come as participants.

Expect to see combat robots, green technology,

unique tools, unusual machines, 3D printers, laser cutters,

analog and digital artwork, drones, VR/AR, electronics,

textiles, fashion, biotech, films, rockets, food, glass, toys, and more.

Cherry Street Pier & Race Street Pier.

To find out more, click here.

 

Our Sponsors & Supporters

DFSME thanks the following organizations for contributions to STEM education in Delaware.


STEM Legacy

DuPont | LabWare


STEM Heritage

Ashland


STEM Sustainer

Bloom Energy | Mountaire Farms | Verizon


STEM Network

Croda | Delmarva Power | Walmart



STEM Business

Agilent Technologies | American Chemical Society Delaware Section

Autumn Arch | Chesapeake Utilities | Incyte


STEM Gifts in Kind

ChristianaCare | Corteva Agriscience | DelawareBio

Delaware Design Company | Delaware Nature Society | Delaware Technical Community College

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | EDiS

Junior Achievement | STEMconnector | Stroud Water Research Center | Whisman Giordano & Associates


Community Partners

Career and Technical Education Cadre | Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation

Delaware Afterschool Network | Delaware Department of Education | Delaware Math Coalition

Delaware Pathways | Delaware Science Coalition | Delaware STEM Council

Goldey-Beacom College | Healthy Food for Healthy Kids | Million Women Mentors

Northrop Grumman | University of Delaware



 
 


Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education

100 W. 10th Street, Suite 612 

Wilmington, DE 19801 

Tel: 302.397.0034 | Fax: 302.397.0036 

Email: info@dfsme.org


www.dfsme.org

©2025 Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education

501(c)(3) Education nonprofit dealing with K-16 STEM education in Delaware schools.