New dual language public elementary school will open in Georgetown in September 2027
Source: LAAA
NEWARK, Del. (July 16, 2026) — ASPIRA Delaware announced the appointment of Dr. René Diaz as the
Founding Head of School for Las Américas ASPIRA Academy – Georgetown, a new free public dual language
elementary charter school that will initially serve students in kindergarten through third grade when it
opens in September 2027, with plans to expand to fifth grade.
Dr. Diaz brings more than 20 years of experience in education across Delaware. He has served in a variety
of roles, including substitute teacher, paraprofessional, high school social studies teacher, Migrant Education teacher, 4-H Youth Development Educator, and high school assistant principal. Most recently, he served as principal of Milford Central Academy, where he led initiatives that significantly reduced both in school (ISS) and out-of-school (OSS) suspensions across all major subcategories. Under his leadership, the school also achieved measurable gains in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics, as reflected in improved student performance on the Delaware System of Student Assessments (DeSSA). Dr. Diaz earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from Wilmington University and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership from the University of Delaware. He holds Delaware certifications as a Teacher of Social Studies (Grades 9–12), School Principal/Assistant Principal, Certified Central Office Personnel, and
Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent. He has served students and families in Sussex County for more than two decades.
As Founding Head of School, Dr. Diaz will lead the planning and implementation of the school’s academic vision, organizational development, and community engagement efforts. He will work alongside ASPIRA Delaware’s leadership team to recruit exceptional educators, build strong partnerships with families and community organizations, and establish a culture of excellence that will serve students for generations to come.
“We are so fortunate to have Dr. Diaz join the ASPIRA Delaware family during this crucial time of growth and expansion in Southern Delaware. As an accomplished and passionate educational leader in Sussex County, he shares in ASPIRA’s mission and vision to provide high quality, bilingual education to all students,” said Elizabeth Diaz-Morales, ASPIRA Delaware Board Chair and Principal Chemist at Chemours.
“Las Américas ASPIRA Academy is honored to have the opportunity to serve the Georgetown community, and there is no better person to lead us than Dr. Diaz, who has an unwavering commitment to his students, their families, and community.”
Las Américas ASPIRA Academy will provide a high-quality dual language education designed to help students become bilingual, biliterate, and academically prepared while fostering leadership, cultural pride, and civic responsibility. The school will initially serve students in kindergarten through third grade, expanding to serve kindergarten through fifth grade as additional grade levels are added.
“I am honored to join ASPIRA Delaware during such an exciting time as the organization expands into Sussex County,” said Dr. Diaz. “As a Sussex County resident for more than 20 years, I am especially excited to bring my knowledge, experience, and passion for education to serve the Georgetown community.
Opening a new school is a unique opportunity to build a learning community where students feel valued, families are true partners, and every child is empowered to reach their full potential. I look forward to working alongside our educators, families, and community partners to create an exceptional educational experience for the children of Georgetown and throughout Sussex County. Georgetown is a vibrant and diverse community, and I am honored to help establish a school that reflects its strengths, celebrates its diversity and culture, and prepares students for lifelong success.”
The appointment marks another significant milestone in ASPIRA Delaware’s expansion into Sussex County.
The organization has been working closely with community leaders and stakeholders to develop a school that reflects the needs and strengths of the region while providing students with an innovative, student-centered educational experience.
Information about enrollment and the Delaware School Choice application process will be available this fall.
The School Choice application period for the 2027–28 school year begins in November 2026. Families can learn more about ASPIRA Delaware’s enrollment process and receive updates about the Georgetown school at aspiraacademy.org
