About Gunning Bedford
Gunning Bedford Middle School, Colonial School District
801 Cox Neck Road • New Castle, DE 19720
Phone: (302) 832-6280
Fax: (302) 834-6729
At Gunning Bedford Middle School, we are proud to be a vibrant learning community where students are empowered to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Serving grades 6–8 within the Colonial School District, we are committed to preparing every student for success in high school and beyond. Named after Gunning Bedford Jr., a Delaware statesman and signer of the U.S. Constitution, our school reflects a legacy of leadership, responsibility, and civic pride. We strive to instill these same values in our students every day.
Our Mission
At Gunning Bedford, our mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where all students can thrive. We believe that every student has unique strengths, and we are dedicated to helping them discover and develop their full potential.
Academic Excellence
Our dedicated staff delivers high-quality instruction that challenges students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and solve real-world problems. Through a rigorous curriculum and innovative teaching practices, we ensure students are well-prepared for the transition to high school.
A Supportive Community
We take pride in fostering a positive school culture built on respect, relationships, and belonging. Our team works closely with families and the community to support the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Opportunities to Grow
Students at Gunning Bedford have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, athletics, and enrichment programs that allow them to explore their interests and build confidence outside the classroom.
The Panther Pride
At the heart of our school is Panther Pride—a shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and teamwork. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the community, our students and staff represent Gunning Bedford with pride.
Who was Gunning Bedford
Gunning Bedford Jr. (1747–1812) was an American lawyer, politician, and one of Delaware’s most important early leaders—and the person for whom Gunning Bedford schools are named.
He was a Founding Father of the United States who played a key role in shaping the nation during its earliest years. Born in Philadelphia, he later became closely tied to Delaware, where he built his career in law and public service.
Bedford is best known for his role at the Constitutional Convention, where he represented Delaware. He was a strong advocate for smaller states, arguing that they should have equal representation in the new federal government. His efforts helped influence the structure of Congress, especially the creation of the Senate, where each state has equal representation.