New leadership at Cape teachers’ union

Along with a new school year comes a new face at the helm of Cape Henlopen School District’s teachers’ union.

In June, voters elected Sussex Consortium teacher Lacey Brown president of Cape Henlopen Education Association.

Brown, who joined the Consortium staff nine years ago, replaces longtime CHEA President John Dean, who lost his bid for vice president to Cape High math teacher Steve Callahan. She has taught Consortium students at Love Creek Elementary since it opened three years ago.

Brown has been involved with CHEA for nine years, serving as building representative, secretary and vice president.

“I never thought I’d be as active as I am,” she said. “I like it because I’ve learned so much and have been able to build relationships with other educators, not just in our district, but across the county, state and United States.”

Union membership provides educational opportunities that help teachers learn about their contracts, special education and education law, Brown said. 

Brown said she wants to increase communication and collaboration between teachers and administration. She would also like the union to be more active in community events.

“I’m very fortunate to have a great job where I am in the union, and have the personal and professional support that I do,” she said.