WORCESTER – Friday, September 18, 2026 – The Worcester Public Schools announces that Sean Rose has been appointed as Chief of Access, Opportunity, and Equity, a Cabinet-level position that will focus on sustaining a district-wide culture of equity and narrowing opportunity gaps to support student achievement.

Rose brings more than two decades of leadership experience across education, human services, youth development, municipal government, trauma-informed care, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. He currently serves as President and CEO of Thrive Support and Advocacy, an organization supporting youth with developmental disabilities and their families. 

“Sean brings leadership, community experience and a deep commitment to Worcester,” said Brian E. Allen, Superintendent of Worcester Public Schools. “He understands that equity means ensuring every student is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive. His experience working with young people, families, educators and community organizations will be an important asset to our schools.”

“I am deeply honored to serve the Worcester Public Schools and the city I love,” said Rose. “Every student deserves to know that they belong, that their voice matters and that their future is full of possibility.”

“Access, equity and opportunity are not just words,” Rose said. “They are reflected in the way we welcome students and families, the expectations we set for young people, the relationships we build and the systems we create around them. I am looking forward to listening, learning and working alongside our students, families, educators and community partners to make sure every Worcester student has a genuine pathway to success.”

The Chief of Access, Opportunity and Equity will establish and monitor institutional policies, practices, and programs that cultivate a culture of inclusion and belonging in the Worcester Public Schools — one that actively respects, values, and responds to the diversity of our students, staff, families and community.

The Chief will lead systemic efforts to narrow opportunity and achievement gaps, eliminate racial disproportionality across student demographics, and direct targeted diversity and outreach initiatives. 

The role will also have oversight over the district’s Department of Family and Community Engagement, which includes management of student and family advisory councils and outreach with community organizations, Parent Information Center (student enrollment), recruitment initiatives including the Grow Your Own student-to-teacher pipeline program, cross-departmental oversight to ensure the implementation of culturally responsive practices across all academic areas, and oversight over equity and discrimination compliance matters, among other areas of focus.

Rose has deep roots in the city, which includes years of public service and volunteer work. Additional experience includes leadership roles in organizations that provide trauma-informed services, including the Justice Resource Institute. Rose was selected for his position following a multi-step review process that included parents and community members.

The Chief of Equity, Access, and Opportunity position is funded in the FY27 district budget through the vacancy of an administrative position.

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