We are excited to celebrate the outstanding staff and students selected as WooStars for the month of May! Below, you will find the list of this month’s honorees, along with their photos and shared insights about their contributions from our school communities.
For a full list of WooStars for the 2024-25 academic year, visit the WooStars Archives webpage.
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for students and staff who have gone above and beyond to feature on our social media channels.
Natalie Marek, Fifth Grade Scholar at West Tatnuck School - Week of 04/28 to 05/02
“Natalie is always willing to make someone feel comfortable, included and accepted. She is empathetic, caring, and funny. Natalie is always the first to help a new student or sit with the child who is having a hard day. Natalie enjoys uplifting her peers.”
This demonstrates that Natalie is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner future-ready framework. Natalie shows an ability to interact with others in varied social, cultural and multilingual backgrounds (ECM 3).
Ryan Gower, Physical Education Teacher at Rice Square School - Week of 05/05 to 05/09
“Shoutout to our amazing PE teacher, Ryan Gower, for his incredible dedication both inside and outside the gym! His engaging PE lessons not only promote fitness but also emphasize teamwork and good sportsmanship, creating an environment where every student feels valued and included. Beyond the gym, Mr. Gower goes the extra mile—taking time out of his day to mentor students, making them feel heard, and helping them make positive choices. Your impact reaches far beyond class time, and we truly appreciate all that you do!”
Gabriel Ortiz, Third Grade Scholar at Flagg Street School - Week of 05/12 to 05/16
"Gabriel was awarded three years in a row as a kind star. He is always willing to help his teacher and friends in the classroom. Academically he also has improved a lot, challenging himself with reading year round."
“Gabriel has a very kind heart and cares very much about his success in school. He has worked hard to improve academically and has shown growth this school year. He brings a ton of energy and many smiles into our classroom each day!”
This demonstrates that Gabriel is an Empowered Individual, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner future-ready framework. Gabriel demonstrates responsibility for academic preparedness and outcomes (EI 2).
Lisa Thomas, Paraeducator at Gates Lane School - Week of 05/19 to 05/23
“Lisa always goes above and beyond no matter what classroom she works in. She always has a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She is always willing to do anything to help anyone, often coming in early to set up breakfast for the kids, set up the classroom, and help organize materials. She is always engaging the students whether in the classroom, on the playground, or in the cafeteria. She is a model para educator and we are so thankful to have Lisa as part of our Gates Lane team.”
Sarah Cota, Kindergarten Scholar at Worcester Arts Magnet School - Week of 05/26 to 05/30
“My daughter has had a hard time transitioning into her new school and grade. But every morning, I see Sarah reach out to her, let her know it’s okay to be sad, and then hold her hand. She says hello every morning and shows she’s excited to see my daughter which has made her transition to the school so much easier. Sarah shows kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence far beyond her years. Her compassion has made a true difference in our lives!”
This demonstrates that Sarah is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner future-ready framework. Sarah shows an ability to interact with others in varied social, cultural and multilingual backgrounds and contexts (ECM 3).