FAQs:

What is the Office of Educational Advocacy?

The Office of Educational Advocacy (OEA) is a division of Wilmington City Council dedicated to advocating for Wilmington students and families and strengthening connections across the city’s education ecosystem.

Why was OEA created?

Wilmington students and families navigate a complex education landscape involving multiple school districts, charter schools, agencies, organizations, and systems.

OEA was created to provide sustained, city-level infrastructure focused on connecting those efforts, elevating community voices, improving access to information, and advocating for Wilmington students and families.

Who does OEA serve?

OEA serves students residing in the City of Wilmington and works alongside their families, educators, schools, community organizations, advocates, and other partners supporting their success.

Does OEA operate schools?

No. OEA does not operate schools and is not a school district.

OEA works alongside school districts, charter schools, the Wilmington Learning Collaborative, community organizations, advocacy groups, and other partners without replacing or duplicating their roles.

How is OEA different from other education organizations?

OEA is positioned within Wilmington City Council and is specifically focused on the interests of students and families residing in the City of Wilmington.

Rather than replacing organizations already serving students, OEA works to connect, collaborate, advocate, and informacross Wilmington’s education ecosystem.

Can OEA help with a concern involving my child’s education?

OEA can help families identify resources, understand available options, connect with appropriate organizations or contacts, and identify when a concern may point to a broader issue requiring advocacy.

OEA does not replace formal school or district complaint, grievance, or appeals processes.

Can OEA help me find education resources?

Yes. Part of OEA’s role is helping connect Wilmington families with information and resources available across the city and state.

If you aren’t sure where to start, contact us.

How can my organization partner with OEA?

OEA welcomes connections with organizations serving Wilmington children and families.

Organizations can contact OEA to share existing programs and resources, identify community needs, explore partnership opportunities, or discuss ways to strengthen coordination.

How can I share an idea or concern with OEA?

We want to hear it.

Students, families, educators, community organizations, and Wilmington residents can use our survey to share thoughts: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=pLhhIjtXKEKhmehw-fybYhDpFf-SHM5BgkXmtjrISkZUMzUwRU1HU0lFVVg0MkhNM0NXRlU3NFJMUS4u