What I’ll Do on the Brandywine School Board — And Why It Matters to Every Family

I’ve spent my life in service—because real leadership isn’t about power. It’s about people. About trust. About showing up, doing the work, and never forgetting who you serve.

That’s how I led for eight years as President of New Castle County Council. And that’s exactly how I will serve you on the Brandywine School Board—with honesty, heart, and action.

What a School Board Member Really Does

Let’s talk about what the job truly is. A Brandywine School Board member helps shape the future of every child who walks through our school doors. It’s not just about policies and budgets—though we do that. It’s about standing up for students, educators, and families when it matters most.

As your board member, I will:

• Oversee our $257.7 million school budget to ensure every dollar improves student outcomes and supports teachers.

• Help set educational goals that reflect the needs and dreams of our community.

• Hire and evaluate the superintendent who manages the daily operations of our 17 schools.

• Uphold Delaware education law (Title 14), from school safety to student services.

• Make sure your voice is at the table—before decisions are made, not just after.

  
  

The board works as a team—decisions are made by majority vote. But experience matters. Leadership matters. And that’s what I bring to the table.

Why I’m Ready on Day One

Serving as Council President wasn’t just a title—it was a calling. For eight years, I helped communities across our county drive real, lasting change:

✅ I led budget oversight without voting to raise taxes.

✅ I championed libraries, expanded youth programs, and preserved historic schools and land.

✅ I fought for seniors, children, and underserved families.

✅ I answered every call—because that’s what public servants do.

And I did it all while living the everyday realities of being a mother and grandmother. All four of my children graduated from Delaware public schools. I’ve packed the lunches. Lived the report cards. Lost sleep over tough moments and cried at graduations. I’ve been there—just like you.

This work is personal to me.

Where Brandywine Stands Today

Let’s be honest. We have urgent work to do.

Brandywine School District serves 10,349 students across 17 schools. Our community is vibrant and diverse:

• 41.9% White

• 38.2% Black

• 8.2% Hispanic/Latino

• 6.3% Asian

• 29% of students come from low-income families

• 22% live with disabilities

• 6% are English learner

  
  

These aren’t just statistics. They are lives. Every child, every classroom matters—and it’s our job to meet each one with opportunity and support.

But here’s the reality:

📉 Reading proficiency is 37% in elementary school, 56% in high school.

📉 Math proficiency is just 33% in elementary—and only 26% in middle school.

🎓 Graduation rate is 86%. Solid—but we can and must do better.

We are spending $24,901 per student—among the highest in the state.

So why aren’t we seeing stronger results?

That’s the question I want to help answer—and fix.

My Priorities as Your Board Member

✔️ Transparency and Accountability. You deserve to know where your money is going—and why.

✔️ Support for Teachers and Staff. They are the heart of our schools. I will fight for fair pay, strong training, and the respect they’ve earned.

✔️ Equity in Every School'. No child’s education should be defined by their ZIP code. Every school must have the resources to succeed.

✔️ Raising Achievement We need proven programs, early interventions, and innovation to move the needle on reading and math.

✔️ Stronger Community Voice. You should never feel shut out. I’ll ensure better communication, real engagement, and open access to decisions that affect your family.

I Know How to Lead Through Crisis

When COVID hit, I was still Council President. I helped families stay housed, seniors stay safe, and small businesses stay afloat. We adapted fast. We worked together. We found solutions.

That’s the kind of leadership I will bring to our schools—because I’ve done it before.

Education touches everything—from safety to opportunity to the strength of our neighborhoods. This is not a steppingstone. This is a promise.

I’m running because I care deeply. I’m running because I have the experience to lead. And I’m running because every child in Brandywine deserves a board member who will fight for them—every day.

Let’s Do This Together

On May 13th, I’m asking for your vote—not just to serve, but to get results.

Let’s build a school district that lives up to our values. Let’s invest in students, support our teachers, and strengthen our future. Let’s give every child in Brandywine the opportunity to thrive.

With appreciation,

Karen Hartley-Nagle

Candidate for Brandywine School Board (District B)

President, New Castle County Council (2016–2024)

Mother • Grandmother • Public Servant • Advocate