Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,
I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. As the summer break draws to a close, it is my pleasure to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome back to Hodgson Vo-Tech for the upcoming academic year!
The start of a new school year is a time of renewed energy, fresh opportunities, and limitless potential. Our dedicated faculty and staff have been working to prepare an enriching and safe environment that fosters academic excellence, career and technical expertise, personal growth, and a strong sense of community. To do this, we will focus on three areas: Empowering Future Innovators, Building Pathways for Success and Cultivating Lifelong Learners.
As we embark on a new academic year, I wanted to take a moment to inform you about an important change in our high school administration. The New Castle County School District has made administrative moves this summer between our four schools. We bid a heartfelt farewell to our outgoing Assistant Principal, Ms. Celeste Sosa, who has been an integral part of our school community. Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff have been truly exemplary and we are deeply grateful for her contributions. At the same time, we are excited to welcome our new Assistant Principal, Dr. Sarah Olsavsky, who brings a wealth of experience to our team. Dr. O's passion for education and her innovative approach to student success will undoubtedly enrich our school community. We anticipate the positive impact she will bring as we work together toward excellence. If you have any questions about these changes, please feel free to call us.
We wanted to inform you about an important change happening at our school: over the summer break, we have transitioned to a new learning management system, Infinite Campus. We believe this new system will significantly enhance our ability to support your child's education. However, as with any major transition, there may be a few bumps along the way. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we adapt to this new system. Our team is working diligently to ensure a smooth transition and we will keep you updated with any important information. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.
An exciting highlight of this school year is the construction of the new Hodgson building. This transformative project marks a significant milestone for our school community, promising state-of-the-art facilities that will enhance our educational environment. In this newsletter, Mr. Michael Paoli has provided detailed updates and important information regarding the construction project.
To the parents and guardians, your partnership is invaluable to us. We appreciate your trust in Hodgson Vo-Tech to nurture and guide your children. As we step into this new academic year, let's approach it with positivity, determination, and a deep sense of gratitude for the gift of education. Our shared journey promises excitement, challenges, and countless moments of achievement.
Welcome back, Silver Eagles! Let's make this year one filled with growth, inspiration, and memorable experiences. We're here to cheer you on every step of the way.
Warm regards,
Dr. Colihan
Our mission is to provide students with a dynamic and hands-on learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and technical expertise. We strive to equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen careers and to become leaders in their fields.
We are dedicated to offering a comprehensive education that integrates academic rigor with practical experience. Our goal is to prepare students for successful careers by providing them with the tools, resources, and industry connections needed to thrive in a competitive job market.
Our mission is to inspire and prepare students to be lifelong learners and adaptable professionals. By combining rigorous academics with career-focused training, we aim to develop well-rounded individuals who are ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving workforce.
Meet the Administrative Team
Assistant Principal
Supervisory Areas
Attendance, Business and Transportation Cluster, Crisis Response, Discipline, DEI, Drivers Ed., Physical Education, Nurses Office, Science, Wellness Center
Assistant Principal
Supervisory Areas
Assessments, Dual Enrollment, English, Master Schedule, MLL, School Counselors, Special Education, 504 plans, MTSS, Technology, Websites
Assistant Principal
Supervisory Areas
Athletics, Construction Trades cluster, Education & Human Service cluster, Environment & Health Tech cluster, Co-Op, Spanish
August
August 12th - Fall Sports Begin
August 21st - New Student Orientation, 6pm
August 21st - Students schedules & Bus Information will be made available
August 27 - Only Freshmen and Seniors Report to School
August 28 - Only Sophomores and Juniors Report to School (Seniors Asynchronous)
August 29 - All Grades report to school
August 30 - No School
September
September 2nd - No School (Labor Day)
September 10th - Asynchronous Learning Day
October
October 11th - Asynchronous Day
October 14th - No School (Professional Learning)
October 15th - 18th - Spirit Week
October 18th - Pep Rally
October 19th - Homecoming Game & Dance
Planning ahead? Click below for the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar at a Glance.
New Student Orientation for incoming 9th grade students and their families takes place at 6pm on August 21st. During this Open House style format, students will receive their class schedule, school map and lunch number. Student and families are welcome to walk around the building to find their classes and meet others.
Please enter in the Gymnasium lobby located on the side of the building.
A copy of the student schedule will be provided on August 21st at Freshman Orientation. We are currently working on putting the schedules together for all grade levels.
Schedules will not be completed till the week of August 19th.
A Ninth Grade schedule consists of the following courses:
●Mathematics
●Physical Science
●Global Studies
●English Language Arts 1 OR ELA Honors
●Physical Education and Health
●Career Exploratory
Welcome 9th grade Silver Eagles!
Hodgson Vo Tech will offer you a great deal of experiences throughout your high school career. One experience that Hodgson is excited to share is the 9th grade CTE Exploratory rotations. The CTE rotation schedule provides students with an opportunity to visit five of our career and technical programs. The Hodgson administration and staff is looking forward to meeting you as we welcome you to the #HVTSTRONG family.
Administrative Assistant: Kim Scott (302) 834-7233
Students are placed with their counselor based on their career area. Ninth grade students are placed with their counselor based on their last name.
Mrs. Banks
Auto Body, Masonry, Health Information, Electrical Trades, Physical Therapy Medical Assisting
9th grade last names F - Le
Mrs. Garofalo
kristin.garofalo@nccvt.k12.de.us
Industrial Millwright, Computer Networking and Programing, Early Childhood, Auto Technology
9th grade last names Ro-Z
Mr. Gray
Culinary Arts, Carpentry, Plumbing, Technical Drafting
9th grade last names A - E
Mrs. Pellegrini
amy.pellegrini@nccvt.k12.de.us
Cosmetology, Dental Assistant, Nurse Technology, Veterinary Technology
9th grade last names Li - Ri
Hodgson Vo Tech offers diverse Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs . Our CTE offerings are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences, practical skills, and pathways to successful careers in various industries. At Hodgson, we believe in equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving job market. Hodgson currently has 15 CTE programs that offer a range of specialized courses and training in the following areas:
Construction
Education and Human Services
Health
Business and Transportation
This year, we are excited to add Veterinary Technology to our CTE program portfolio. Vet Tech is a hands-on program of study that explores many aspects of animal science. Students practice decision-making and research skills through classroom instruction, laboratory activities, and practical experiences. This program prepares students for a variety of careers including agribusiness, veterinary medicine, and veterinary technician assistant.
Our CTE programs are designed to provide real-world applications of academic concepts, enabling students to explore their interests and develop career-ready skills. Our CTE programs offer:
Hands-on Learning: Practical experiences in labs, workshops, and industry settings.
Industry Certifications: Opportunities to earn certifications that enhance employability.
College and Career Readiness: Preparation for post-secondary education and entry into the workforce.
Partnerships with Local Businesses: Collaborations that provide internships, mentorships, and job shadowing experiences.
We are excited about the opportunities our CTE programs offer and look forward to helping our students explore their passions and achieve their career goals.
For and With Students District-Wide
NCCVT’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Group, Forever a Movement, or FAM, are student-led groups that focus on the development and enhancement of their voices as leaders and advocates to enact change at Hodgson, NCCVT and beyond. The FAM focuses on meaningful advocacy, goal setting, and district-wide collaboration to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our community.
FAM’s Vision:
In connection with the school district’s policy, Hodgson Vo-Tech will be a safe place where all students are appreciated, accepted, represented, and valued by administration, faculty, staff, and students regardless of their culture, religion, and/or sexual preference through unity, respect, and continuous courageous conversations.
FAM’s Goals:
To offer a safe space for courageous conversations to be fostered
To commit to a culturally responsive environment
To serve as a liaison between students and administration
To ensure that action steps are taken towards diversity, equity, and inclusion
To interrupt racial tension and unconscious bias within our schools.
To educate students on the benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion while creating a community rooted in trust and respect.
All students in grades 9-12 use a school-issued Chromebook. Prior to the start of the school year, all forms and payments must be completed by students and parents. This is a yearly process for all families. Forms are electronic and can be found on the website as well as linked here. There is one student Acceptable Use Agreement form and one parent Acceptable Use Agreement form.
There is also a yearly $25.00 insurance payment that is made electronically.
Students in grades 10-12 already have their devices and should ensure their devices are charged and ready for use.
Students in grade 9 will receive their Chromebook the first day of school.
We’re excited to share that we’re adding a monthly activity period to our school schedule! While we’re still finalizing the details, our goal is to give students more time to participate in organizations and clubs, enriching their experience here at Hodgson.
Student Activities, Groups and Organizations
Hodgson's Student Diversity Task Force (FAM) are student-led organizations which are created to promote and develop student leadership skills and ensure student voice and cultural awareness. The list of current Affinity groups are below:
Black Student Union
Christian Club
The Leading Ladies
Latinos Unidos
Pride Gen Z
Boys to Men
Additional Groups
Athletic Sports Teams
Benchmark (Yearbook)
Blue/Gold Club
Crochet Club
LYNK Club
National Honor Society
Spirit Week/Homecoming Activities
Student Council
Career and Technical Organizations
ABC (Associated Builder/Contractors) Student Chapter
Architecture, Construction and Engineering (ACE) Mentoring
Educators Rising
HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America)
Skills USA
Students are encouraged to join student organizations!!
Hodgson seeks to provide every 12th grade Career and Technical Education (CTE) student with a paid cooperative training job opportunity, which is a culminating experience in their senior year. This program enables seniors to work in paid entry-level positions in a business or related industry while completing their high school graduation requirements.
Last year, our class of 2023 was able to land cooperative work with more than 165 different employers and earned more than $ 2.75 million in wages during the school year. More than 115 students were offered full-time employment after graduation, and a large number accepted and began their careers.
This summer has been no different. Employers continue to call in daily for qualified students to fill their workforce! We need seniors who want to work and start their cooperative experience right away. You can contact Mr. Chris Moxley, Co-Op Coordinator, with any questions at 302-834-7740 or christopher.moxley@nccvt.k12.de.us.
Dear Parent/Guardian,
We are looking forward to serving your student breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria! It is not mandatory to complete a meal benefit form, but students who have not completed a meal benefit form and received notification from New Castle County Vo Tech School District that they were approved for school meal benefits for the 2024-2025 school year will need to pay for lunch on the first day of school. The price of school lunch is $1.75. Students who are approved for free or reduced-price meals will be eligible to receive school lunch at no charge. All students, regardless of meal benefit status, will receive free breakfast in the New Castle County Vo Tech School District.
Nutrition Services is now accepting meal benefit forms and we encourage you to send your student's form in now to be processed prior to the start of the school year. If you would like to apply for meal benefits for your student, please complete the form online by visiting www.nccvtns.com.
If you have students in another school district, please remember that you need to complete a meal benefit form for each school district separately and that meal benefits that you receive for students in another school district will not automatically transfer to your student in the New Castle County Vo Tech School District. Meal Benefit Form English Meal Benefit Form Spanish
If you need help with applying for free or reduced meals or need a paper form, please contact the Nutrition Services Office at 302-995-8066.
You may also add money to your student's school meal account using PayPams. You can create an account, add funds with a credit card, and monitor student cafeteria transactions by visiting www.paypams.com. We also accept cash and check deposits at the register in the school cafeteria to add money to your student’s meal account.
You may reapply for benefits at any time during the school year. If you are not eligible now but have a decrease in household income, become unemployed, have an increase in household size, or qualify for SNAP or TANF benefits, you may fill out another application at that time.
Si desea su correspondencia en espanol, por favor llame al 302-995-8066.
Sincerely,
Angela Meekins, MBA, RD, LDN, SNS
Supervisor of Nutrition Services
1417 Newport Rd
Wilmington, DE 19804
The New Hodgson Vo Tech
We are excited to share information about the construction plans for our new Hodgson Vo Tech school. This project represents a significant investment in the future of our community, providing a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance the educational experiences of our students. The new school will feature modern classrooms, advanced technology, world-class CTE programs, an auditorium, a gymnasium, and new athletic fields.
The new school will be located on our campus, specifically where the football stadium was located. The construction began in Sept 2023 with the demolition of the athletic fields. Since the construction began, the site has been cleared and graded, the underground utilities have been installed, the parking lot has been paved, and the foundation has been laid. Currently, the steel beams for the structural framework are being erected.
The construction will be carried out in several phases to ensure timely completion and minimize disruption to the students and our surrounding community. The entire construction process is expected to be completed by summer 2026, with the school opening for the 2026-2027 school year.
The construction of the new Hodgson Vo Tech is more than just a building project; it is a milestone that symbolizes our commitment to providing a top-tier education and a nurturing environment for our students. The excitement surrounding this development is palpable, as it represents a shared investment in the future of our community. We are excited about the positive impact this school will have on both our students and the community.
We look forward to sharing more information with you as the project progresses.
Ground Breaking
Aerial View of cleared land
Steel Beams are Going Up
Message from Athletic Director - Mr. Dave Collins
Hodgson has a very proud tradition of athletics, winning 23 State Championships and 95 Conference Championships! We look forward to you joining this tradition as one of our student athletes. At Hodgson, we offer 18 different sports to choose from throughout the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Within this newsletter, you will find information on physicals, listings of all our offered sports, and most specifically, information on our fall sports programs that begin in August.
To participate in athletics, you MUST have an up-to-date DIAA physical on file! If you do not have physical, you cannot participate, there are NO exceptions to this.
If you do not have a DIAA physical, you have several options:
1. Contact our Wellness Center at 832-5400 to schedule an appointment. Their summer appointments may be limited.
2. Contact your primary care doctor, make sure you tell them this is a sport physical that needs to be completed on a DIAA form. We cannot accept physicals not on the DIAA form.
3. Get your physical completed at an urgent care/walk in clinic. We recommend using the Go Care at Abby Medical Center. 1 Centurian Drive, Newark 19713. Please indicate you are there for a DIAA sports physical.
Prior to turning in your physical, please make sure you and your parent has signed in all the correct places. A missing signature can prevent you from participating.
Requests for student directory information - which is limited to a student's name, home address, and telephone number - are routinely received by our school from colleges, military recruiters, financial aid programs, and similar organizations. On occasion, and at the expressed approval of the principal, we do make this information available. Parents who do not wish to have their son’s/daughter's name included on student directory listings, please notify the school in writing by sending your notification to the Guidance Office or emailing Sarah.Olsavsky@nccvt.k12.de.us
The New Castle County Vocational Technical School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, or covered veteran status in employment, admission to, or participation in its programs, services, and activities, in accordance with state and federal laws. The lack of English language skills shall not be a barrier to admission or participation in the district’s activities and programs.
The District offers additional services to students with limited English language skills or with disabilities so that they may benefit from these programs.
This notice is provided as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Questions, complaints, or requests for additional information regarding these laws may be forwarded to the designated school district compliance coordinators:
School Admissions/Programs: Dr. Stan Spoor, Director of Student Services and District Programs
Special Ed/Section 504/ESL: Mrs. Sharon Horrocks, Supervisor - Programs for Exceptional Children
Employment/Discrimination (Title IX): Dr. Clifton Hayes, Director - School Operations
NCC Vo-Tech School District
1417 Newport Road
Wilmington, DE 19804
Tel: (302) 995-8000
Delaware Department of Education regulations do not permit students to be assigned to more than one bus. The Transportation Office can only route a bus to one address per student. This address is the address that was on the initial application and is listed as the physical address on file in the school data system. Bus passes will only be issued for Court Ordered Split Custody situations, in which the second guardian's address must be verified by the school and listed in Infinite Campus. Passes will NOT be issued for the following reasons:
Employment (i.e. to get dropped off closer to the student's job, including their coop job)
Staying with a relative or friend overnight or for the weekend
Aftercare
Getting off at a different stop on the same bus
Once bus passes are issued there are conditions that apply:
Passes are issued to the closest stop on an existing route to the second address. We will not re-route a bus or create a stop. Therefore, we cannot guarantee a safe walking path, and it is expected that the student will be picked up and dropped off from the stop that is listed on the bus pass.
The Transportation Office will not communicate your student's schedule to the bus driver. The expectation is that your student will communicate their schedule to the driver.
You will not receive the “all calls” with updates or changes to that bus route. You only receive calls for the bus your student is assigned to.
The student must always carry the pass in case there is a substitute driver on the bus.
The pass is only valid if there are seats available on the bus.
Passes can be revoked for behavioral issues or if a bus reaches maximum capacity (48) of students who are regularly assigned.
Prior to the start of the school year, all bus pass requests should be directed to the transportation office. 302-994-8544
This year the NCCVT School District is transitioning away from Parent Night due to very low attendance for many years. In place of Parent Night, we are going to institute welcome videos from teachers as well as parent-teacher conferences.
Below are some details:
Parent Night will not be held this year
Teachers will develop intro videos to be shared at the start of each course providing an overview of the course and expectations for a great learning environment.
We will implement voluntary parent/guardian-teacher conferences (virtual or in-person) during the first semester and second semester on Asynchronous Days as follows:
2024-2025 dates/times
10/11/24 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
3/7/25 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Additional information will be communicated in the future regarding conferences.
We are pleased to announce that our school has enrolled with SAFEDE, by STOP it Solutions. SAFEDE is a technology platform to assist students, parents, and staff in asking for and privately accessing a wide variety of help and resources.
Our aim with SAFEDE is to provide:
1. Private access to basic needs resources.
2. Convenient linkage to school, community, local, state, and federal resources and helplines.
3. A culture that recognizes that all of us need help at different points in our life and asking for help is an important life skill.
SAFEDE is a tool that works by empowering students, parents, and staff to access help they need with dignity and privacy. All parties will have access to the SAFEDE mobile app, which has three main features:
1. ASK FOR HELP can be used to anonymously request help from local school contacts, including Messenger which allows anonymous two-way communication with school contacts and help requesters.
2. CRISISTEXTLINE can be access directly from the app to text with non-local trained crisis counselors
3. GET RESOURCES can be used to search community, local, state, and federal resources and helplines
Our designated administrators will have access to SAFEDE’s backend incident management system to manage and track requests. That system may also be used to assign requests to other individuals.
Transition from Valedictorian/Salutatorian to Bands of Honor - Starting with the Class of 2026
Please review the following documents and complete the necessary forms. Only do so if the forms apply to you.