Delaware's child services department provides K–12 classes in residential programs

DSCYF maintains an Education Unit that provides and oversees K–12 education in its residential programs. The unit serves children and youth in residential programs run by the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families. The unit must follow state and federal laws that protect people with disabilities.

The unit counts as a local education agency for certain educator programs, grants, and student credits. This limited status applies to educator loan forgiveness programs, competitive grants, and credits for youth who complete credit-bearing courses through the unit or return from department placement. Competitive grants must be awarded directly to local education agencies, and applicants must meet any grant requirements.

DSCYF sets Education Unit employees’ duties and schedule, and the law sets their qualifications and pay rules. These rules apply to employees of the DSCYF Education Unit. Qualifications, except for secretaries, match those for public education employees. Employees whose main work location is inside a Youth Rehabilitation Services facility receive hazardous duty supplements. Supervisors receive administrative supplements. If standard work hours exceed the hours identified in state law, annual pay is adjusted to account for the extra hours.