Whitewater Times

The Delavan-Darien School District has announced the appointment of Candice Franks as the new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator for the 2025-2026 academic year. Franks brings nearly 20 years of experience in CTE education and leadership, recognized for her contributions to work-based learning, technical college partnerships, and program development aligned with workforce needs.

Franks holds a Master of Science from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. She is working towards her CTE Coordinator License at the University of Wisconsin–Stout, with six courses remaining.

Over her 19-year career, Franks has served as an Agriscience Instructor and Department Chair at Waterford Union High School (2006–2008) and Badger High School in the Lake Geneva-Genoa City UHS School District (2008–2025). Additionally, she has industry experience as Assistant Director of Science and Math for NASCO International.

Her educational work includes collaboration with technical colleges and business partners. Franks has supported Start College Now participants, youth apprenticeship programs, served as an adjunct instructor since 2006, and developed transcripted credit agreements with Gateway Technical College (12 credits), Madison College (2 credits), and Blackhawk Technical College (3 credits). She has also co-taught with special education staff to expand inclusive access to CTE opportunities.

“I am particularly excited about Delavan-Darien’s commitment to Academic and Career Planning (ACP), school-to-work programs, and CTSO involvement,” said Franks. “My approach is rooted in data-driven decision-making and meaningful community engagement. I’ve built strong partnerships with local industry leaders and workforce development boards to ensure our programming aligns with real-world labor market needs.”

Franks is experienced in managing Carl Perkins funding, ACT 59 Incentive Grants, and grant budgets that balance compliance with innovation. Her leadership has contributed to expanding access to high-quality work-based learning experiences.

DDSD Superintendent Drew Halbesma expressed his enthusiasm about Franks joining the district: “Candice brings an incredible blend of classroom experience, program development, and industry partnership expertise. Her leadership will be key in continuing to strengthen our CTE offerings.”

The Delavan-Darien School District anticipates growth in CTE under Franks' guidance.