My grandmother Nelly was the smartest person I’ve ever known, but she had to leave school after the eighth grade to help out on our family’s farm in Sussex.

She did everything she could to make sure her grandchildren would have the opportunities that she didn’t – I can still hear her telling me: “Young lady, no matter what, you WILL get an education. That is the best investment you can make in your future.”

My grandma’s words stayed with me as I became the first person in my family to graduate from college and go on to a career as a nurse and University of Delaware educator. They’ve continued to guide me through my service as Lieutenant Governor and they will guide my priorities as your next Governor.

Education is the foundation of our state’s future. That’s why I was especially honored to join members of the Delaware State Education Association (DSEA) over the weekend to share my bold vision to make sure every Delawarean has access to a great education, no matter their zipcode or family background.

John, it’s critical that we retain and recruit talented teachers, improve outcomes for our students, and make schools a safe place for learning and exploration.

As the only career educator in this race, you have my word that when I’m governor, our education professionals – from teachers and paraprofessionals to bus drivers and school nurses – will always have a seat at the table.

Together, we will:

• Create the Governor’s Education Council
• Guarantee free school meals
• Fix our school funding formula
• Pay teachers what they deserve
• And continue our historic investments in Delaware’s public schools

I’ve been in this fight alongside you all my life, and I’m just getting started. Your support makes this possible. Let’s make Delaware the best place to live, work, and raise a family!

– Bethany Hall-Long