Delaware: Teachers need certification if certain amount of autistic students in class

June 18, 2026,Spotlight Delaware:  Delaware parents voice concerns about special education

Roughly 50 parents gathered at a Middletown firehouse earlier this month to express their concerns about the goals and resources devoted to their kids’ special education programs within local school districts.  

Many of the parents shared a frustration about what they described as a disconnect between their children’s academic progress and the individualized education plans designed to support them. Others raised concerns about access to services and communication with school officials. . . .

The town hall, which drew families from multiple Delaware school districts, was initially prompted by concerns that the Appoquinimink School District would reduce hours for its summer school and extended school year program – both of which help eligible students with disabilities to retain knowledge during the summer break. . . .

Despite resources, parents struggle

Federal law requires school districts to reimburse families for private services like tutoring from a certified educator when the district cannot provide an appropriate education that aligns with the student’s IEP needs.

Still, some parents of children receiving district-paid services claim there are difficulties ensuring their children are not marked absent for receiving those services.  . . .

Delaware also requires specialized certification for teachers who work with a certain percentage of students with autism in the classroom. 

These standards have left districts like Appoquinimink “significantly constrained” in their ability to recruit amid the ongoing, nationwide teacher shortage, said Kristi Peters, the Appoquinimink director of special education. . . .

Livingstone said there are not enough educators in the state who are certified to work with students with autism, and the district must rely on paraprofessionals or long-term substitute teachers. . . .