This Month's Staff WooStar: Yelitza Agosto, Culture & Climate Specialist at Burncoat Middle School ⭐️
“Yelitza deserves this award because she consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. Not only does she excel in her role, but she also contributes far beyond her job description, helping to build a more positive and connected school culture each day. On Fridays, she brings joy to staff by hosting song lyric trivia, creating moments of fun and camaraderie. She frequently takes on side projects—whether through her video editing, photography, or other creative talents—and shares them generously with our school community. Her efforts and dedication make our school a brighter, happier place to work, and her impact reaches far beyond her assigned responsibilities. She embodies the spirit of teamwork, positivity, and commitment that makes our school thrive.”
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for examples of students and staff who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in WPS to feature on our social media channels.
👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
“Yelitza deserves this award because she consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. Not only does she excel in her role, but she also contributes far beyond her job description, helping to build a more positive and connected school culture each day. On Fridays, she brings joy to staff by hosting song lyric trivia, creating moments of fun and camaraderie. She frequently takes on side projects—whether through her video editing, photography, or other creative talents—and shares them generously with our school community. Her efforts and dedication make our school a brighter, happier place to work, and her impact reaches far beyond her assigned responsibilities. She embodies the spirit of teamwork, positivity, and commitment that makes our school thrive.”
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for examples of students and staff who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in WPS to feature on our social media channels.
👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
This Month’s Student WooStar: Julianna Cohen, 10th Grade, Engaged Community Member at Burncoat High School ⭐️
“Julianna has been canvassing for candidates for school committee and city council for the past two elections. She researched candidates and reached out to volunteer, and has spent the past several Saturdays canvassing around Worcester for the candidates that she supports. She volunteered all summer at the Massachusetts State House in Boston as a tour guide, as well as an online internship with State Senator Robyn Kennedy's office. Julianna is an assistant teacher at our religious school, participates in several clubs, and is part of the Hanover Insurance Academy of the Arts at Burncoat.”
This demonstrates that Julianna is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Julianna can identify a need in their community, articulate and communicate solutions, develop an action plan, and advocate for change (ECM 2).
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for examples of students and staff who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in WPS to feature on our social media channels.
👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
“Julianna has been canvassing for candidates for school committee and city council for the past two elections. She researched candidates and reached out to volunteer, and has spent the past several Saturdays canvassing around Worcester for the candidates that she supports. She volunteered all summer at the Massachusetts State House in Boston as a tour guide, as well as an online internship with State Senator Robyn Kennedy's office. Julianna is an assistant teacher at our religious school, participates in several clubs, and is part of the Hanover Insurance Academy of the Arts at Burncoat.”
This demonstrates that Julianna is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Julianna can identify a need in their community, articulate and communicate solutions, develop an action plan, and advocate for change (ECM 2).
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for examples of students and staff who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in WPS to feature on our social media channels.
👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
🌟 Superintendent Allen Visits September WooStars! 🌟
Superintendent Brian E. Allen stopped by Thorndyke Road School and Clark Street Community School to congratulate our September WooStars!
Pictured here with Thorndyke second grader Sullivan Raposa and Clark Street New Citizen's Program ESL teacher Natasha Mateo, Superintendent Allen celebrated their efforts in their school communities.
Our October WooStars will be announced tomorrow — stay tuned! 👀
Superintendent Brian E. Allen stopped by Thorndyke Road School and Clark Street Community School to congratulate our September WooStars!
Pictured here with Thorndyke second grader Sullivan Raposa and Clark Street New Citizen's Program ESL teacher Natasha Mateo, Superintendent Allen celebrated their efforts in their school communities.
Our October WooStars will be announced tomorrow — stay tuned! 👀
🎃👻 Norrback Avenue School’s First Trunk or Treat! 👻🎃
Families, students, and staff came together recently to celebrate the Halloween season at Norrback Avenue School’s first-ever Trunk or Treat.
Students and families showcased their creativity with costumes and decorations, and fun was had by all.
A special thanks to everyone who helped make the evening a memorable one for the school community!
Families, students, and staff came together recently to celebrate the Halloween season at Norrback Avenue School’s first-ever Trunk or Treat.
Students and families showcased their creativity with costumes and decorations, and fun was had by all.
A special thanks to everyone who helped make the evening a memorable one for the school community!
🐾 Name of WPD’s New Comfort Dog Announced! 🐾
The Worcester Police Department visited Tatnuck Magnet School to reveal the winning name in their Comfort Dog Naming Contest — and the winner is... Sheruff Barkley!
During the contest, third grade classrooms from across Worcester Public Schools submitted name ideas for the new Bernedoodle pup. The public then voted for their favorite on WPD’s social media channels.
The winning name, Sheruff Barkley, was chosen by the third grade classes of Ms. Amanda Dibara and Mr. William Bowes.
While Sheruff Barkley completes his training, WPD officers stopped by Tatnuck Magnet to celebrate with the winning classes, handing out prizes such as fidget spinners, coloring books, and stickers.
Sheruff Barkley will return to Tatnuck Magnet School for his first official visit once he’s ready for duty!
The Worcester Police Department visited Tatnuck Magnet School to reveal the winning name in their Comfort Dog Naming Contest — and the winner is... Sheruff Barkley!
During the contest, third grade classrooms from across Worcester Public Schools submitted name ideas for the new Bernedoodle pup. The public then voted for their favorite on WPD’s social media channels.
The winning name, Sheruff Barkley, was chosen by the third grade classes of Ms. Amanda Dibara and Mr. William Bowes.
While Sheruff Barkley completes his training, WPD officers stopped by Tatnuck Magnet to celebrate with the winning classes, handing out prizes such as fidget spinners, coloring books, and stickers.
Sheruff Barkley will return to Tatnuck Magnet School for his first official visit once he’s ready for duty!
💸 South High Community School Seniors Learn Real-World Financial Skills! 💸
South High Community School recently hosted Country Bank’s Credit for Life program, a hands-on financial literacy experience that helps students prepare for life after graduation. 🏦💡
For the past three years, Country Bank has partnered with South High Community School to bring this engaging program to our seniors. More than 400 students participated this year, role-playing as 25-year-old adults with careers, salaries, and credit scores — making real-life decisions about saving, spending, and budgeting.
Kudos to our students for engaging in this valuable program, and a big thank you to Country Bank and their volunteers for their continued partnership! 💚
South High Community School recently hosted Country Bank’s Credit for Life program, a hands-on financial literacy experience that helps students prepare for life after graduation. 🏦💡
For the past three years, Country Bank has partnered with South High Community School to bring this engaging program to our seniors. More than 400 students participated this year, role-playing as 25-year-old adults with careers, salaries, and credit scores — making real-life decisions about saving, spending, and budgeting.
Kudos to our students for engaging in this valuable program, and a big thank you to Country Bank and their volunteers for their continued partnership! 💚
💥 Burncoat Brings the Energy for Homecoming 2025! 💚🎉
What an incredible day celebrating school spirit, teamwork, and Green Pride at Burncoat High’s 2025 Homecoming Pep Rally! 🏫✨
From the pep band kicking things off with Swag Surfin’ to the Spirit Team’s high-energy performances and cheers, the excitement in the gym was unmatched! 🎺💃
👏 A big shoutout to all of Burncoat’s Fall Sports Teams and especially the Seniors — we’re so proud of your hard work and dedication!
What an incredible day celebrating school spirit, teamwork, and Green Pride at Burncoat High’s 2025 Homecoming Pep Rally! 🏫✨
From the pep band kicking things off with Swag Surfin’ to the Spirit Team’s high-energy performances and cheers, the excitement in the gym was unmatched! 🎺💃
👏 A big shoutout to all of Burncoat’s Fall Sports Teams and especially the Seniors — we’re so proud of your hard work and dedication!
🌟 Principal Month Spotlight: Rachel Savage 🌟
This month, we’re introducing principals across WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Rachel Savage, principal at Wawecus Road School.
Principal Savage has been part of Worcester Public Schools for 15 years. With experience as a special education teacher, instructional coach, and now administrator, she is passionate about helping students believe in themselves and unlock their full potential. Her favorite subject to learn about is science. Outside of school, Principal Savage enjoys musical theater and cooking!
Join us in celebrating Principal Savage!
This month, we’re introducing principals across WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Rachel Savage, principal at Wawecus Road School.
Principal Savage has been part of Worcester Public Schools for 15 years. With experience as a special education teacher, instructional coach, and now administrator, she is passionate about helping students believe in themselves and unlock their full potential. Her favorite subject to learn about is science. Outside of school, Principal Savage enjoys musical theater and cooking!
Join us in celebrating Principal Savage!
🔬 STEAM Week Showcase at Lake View School 🔬
Students and staff at Lake View School wrapped up Massachusetts STEAM Week with a schoolwide showcase celebrating creativity, curiosity, and discovery!
Each grade hosted an experiment or activity, giving students the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on learning.
Excitement filled the halls as students proudly shared their projects and presented their discoveries to classmates. It was a morning full of energy, enthusiasm, and learning!
Students and staff at Lake View School wrapped up Massachusetts STEAM Week with a schoolwide showcase celebrating creativity, curiosity, and discovery!
Each grade hosted an experiment or activity, giving students the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on learning.
Excitement filled the halls as students proudly shared their projects and presented their discoveries to classmates. It was a morning full of energy, enthusiasm, and learning!
🌊 Grade 5 Learners in Action at Columbus Park Preparatory Academy! 🌿
Our Grade 5 students at Columbus Park Preparatory Academy were fortunate to attend a field trip to Save The Bay in Rhode Island. During this experience, they explored the beauty and diversity of the Bay’s habitats through hands-on coastal science activities 🐚🔬. Students investigated the shoreline while learning key scientific concepts such as life cycles, diversity, adaptations, and geology 🌱🦀🪨.
This experience exemplifies our Vision of a Learner in Action, fostering curiosity, problem-solving, and active engagement with the world around them 💡✨.
This incredible opportunity was made possible through our partnerships with Tatnuck Brook Watershed Association, the City of Worcester Lakes and Ponds Program, Clark University, Worcester State University, and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation 🤝🌎—all working together to bring rich STEM experiences to our students.
Our Grade 5 students at Columbus Park Preparatory Academy were fortunate to attend a field trip to Save The Bay in Rhode Island. During this experience, they explored the beauty and diversity of the Bay’s habitats through hands-on coastal science activities 🐚🔬. Students investigated the shoreline while learning key scientific concepts such as life cycles, diversity, adaptations, and geology 🌱🦀🪨.
This experience exemplifies our Vision of a Learner in Action, fostering curiosity, problem-solving, and active engagement with the world around them 💡✨.
This incredible opportunity was made possible through our partnerships with Tatnuck Brook Watershed Association, the City of Worcester Lakes and Ponds Program, Clark University, Worcester State University, and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation 🤝🌎—all working together to bring rich STEM experiences to our students.
Burncoat High School Spirit Team Fashion Fundraiser 🎉⭐
The Burncoat Spirit Team kicked off the Fourth Annual Fashion Fundraiser with an electrifying performance, wowing the crowd and setting the stage for an evening of fun and community support at Union Station.
The fundraiser helps the Spirit Team raise money for their upcoming trip to the National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Florida this January, where the team will defend its National Championship from last year.
During the Fashion Fundraiser, local leaders, city officials, and community members showed their support by walking the runway, contributing to raffles, and making donations to help the Spirit Team this competition season.
The Burncoat Spirit Team kicked off the Fourth Annual Fashion Fundraiser with an electrifying performance, wowing the crowd and setting the stage for an evening of fun and community support at Union Station.
The fundraiser helps the Spirit Team raise money for their upcoming trip to the National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Florida this January, where the team will defend its National Championship from last year.
During the Fashion Fundraiser, local leaders, city officials, and community members showed their support by walking the runway, contributing to raffles, and making donations to help the Spirit Team this competition season.
🎃 Attendance Matters at Gerald Creamer Center! 🎉
We’re kicking off the season of fun incentives with our first round of Boo Bags! 👻
On Friday, October 10, students who arrived by 7:20 a.m. every day this week were rewarded for their commitment to showing up on time. ⏰🙌
Keep it up, Creamer community — attendance adds up to success! 💪✨
We’re kicking off the season of fun incentives with our first round of Boo Bags! 👻
On Friday, October 10, students who arrived by 7:20 a.m. every day this week were rewarded for their commitment to showing up on time. ⏰🙌
Keep it up, Creamer community — attendance adds up to success! 💪✨
Digital Citizenship at Nelson Place School 💻✨
Grade 3 students at Nelson Place School recently participated in a lesson called “Your Rings of Responsibility” in the lead-up to Digital Citizenship Week.
The lesson focused on what it means to be a responsible digital citizen and how actions online can affect ourselves, our communities, and the world.
With teacher Ms. Wendy Scott, students explored the question: How do good digital citizens take responsibility for themselves, their communities, and their world?
Through Nearpod activities and group discussions, they reflected on how everyday choices connect to behavior online.
Students played a matching game to identify responsible and irresponsible online actions and learned key concepts such as responsibility, digital citizenship, and copyright.
By the end of the lesson, they strengthened their understanding of how to make thoughtful, respectful, and safe choices when using technology.
Grade 3 students at Nelson Place School recently participated in a lesson called “Your Rings of Responsibility” in the lead-up to Digital Citizenship Week.
The lesson focused on what it means to be a responsible digital citizen and how actions online can affect ourselves, our communities, and the world.
With teacher Ms. Wendy Scott, students explored the question: How do good digital citizens take responsibility for themselves, their communities, and their world?
Through Nearpod activities and group discussions, they reflected on how everyday choices connect to behavior online.
Students played a matching game to identify responsible and irresponsible online actions and learned key concepts such as responsibility, digital citizenship, and copyright.
By the end of the lesson, they strengthened their understanding of how to make thoughtful, respectful, and safe choices when using technology.
First Meeting of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council at North High 🎓
The first meeting of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) brought together student leaders from across Worcester Public Schools to reflect on what leadership means to them and how identity, values, and community shape the way they lead.
During the meeting at North High, students explored perspectives on leadership through activities like a “step-in” circle and a leadership word web, working together to create shared community agreements to guide their work this school year.
By the end of the session, students had:
✅ Reflected on their own leadership identity
✅ Built trust and connection within the group
✅ Defined leadership through their personal values
We’re excited to see how these student leaders will use their voices to strengthen our schools and inspire others throughout the year.
The first meeting of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) brought together student leaders from across Worcester Public Schools to reflect on what leadership means to them and how identity, values, and community shape the way they lead.
During the meeting at North High, students explored perspectives on leadership through activities like a “step-in” circle and a leadership word web, working together to create shared community agreements to guide their work this school year.
By the end of the session, students had:
✅ Reflected on their own leadership identity
✅ Built trust and connection within the group
✅ Defined leadership through their personal values
We’re excited to see how these student leaders will use their voices to strengthen our schools and inspire others throughout the year.
👻Nelson Place Trunk or Treat!
🎃Students were in amazing costumes and parents and staff went all out with incredible creative car decorations for the Nelson Place Elementary School Trunk or Treat!
🍬The event was a massive success thanks to the PTO, teachers, and staff all working together. It was one of the largest turnouts ever!
Everyone had a blast!
🎃Students were in amazing costumes and parents and staff went all out with incredible creative car decorations for the Nelson Place Elementary School Trunk or Treat!
🍬The event was a massive success thanks to the PTO, teachers, and staff all working together. It was one of the largest turnouts ever!
Everyone had a blast!
Woodland Academy Library Walk with Families 📚
Woodland Academy students and families recently took part in a walk to the Goddard Branch Library, an event designed to connect the school community with resources available right in their own neighborhood.
Open to all students in grades K–6, families, students, and Woodland Academy staff walk together to the library to learn about its many offerings, meet library staff, explore books, and even sign up for library cards.
Now in its third year, the event is organized by teacher Megan Tighe in collaboration with the Worcester Public Library. The event takes place twice each year, once in the fall and once in the spring.
Woodland Academy students and families recently took part in a walk to the Goddard Branch Library, an event designed to connect the school community with resources available right in their own neighborhood.
Open to all students in grades K–6, families, students, and Woodland Academy staff walk together to the library to learn about its many offerings, meet library staff, explore books, and even sign up for library cards.
Now in its third year, the event is organized by teacher Megan Tighe in collaboration with the Worcester Public Library. The event takes place twice each year, once in the fall and once in the spring.
🌟 Principal Month Spotlight: Olga Papadopoulos 🌟
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Olga Papadopoulos, who is serving as the Acting Principal at South High Community School this year.
Principal Papadopoulos is a proud graduate of WPS and South High, Class of 2000, and has spent over twenty years working in Worcester Public Schools. English is her favorite subject, and she enjoys visiting the culinary classroom at South. She finds joy in connecting with students and the school community, and her goal is to help every student recognize that they are significant and valued members of the school family.
Join us in welcoming Principal Papadopoulos!
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Olga Papadopoulos, who is serving as the Acting Principal at South High Community School this year.
Principal Papadopoulos is a proud graduate of WPS and South High, Class of 2000, and has spent over twenty years working in Worcester Public Schools. English is her favorite subject, and she enjoys visiting the culinary classroom at South. She finds joy in connecting with students and the school community, and her goal is to help every student recognize that they are significant and valued members of the school family.
Join us in welcoming Principal Papadopoulos!
🎧 Burncoat High’s Em Beeler Featured on The WPI Podcast!
Burncoat High School math teacher Em Beeler was featured in a recent episode of The WPI Podcast, where she shares her love of mathematics, what drew her to teaching, and her approach to creating team-based learning and offering real-world applications for math in the classroom.
🎙️ Listen here: https://www.wpi.edu/listen/wpi-podcast/e19-college-connections-em-beeler-class-2022
Burncoat High School math teacher Em Beeler was featured in a recent episode of The WPI Podcast, where she shares her love of mathematics, what drew her to teaching, and her approach to creating team-based learning and offering real-world applications for math in the classroom.
🎙️ Listen here: https://www.wpi.edu/listen/wpi-podcast/e19-college-connections-em-beeler-class-2022
📚🏆 EJ Bard Sets a New Kids World Record! 🏆📚
Congratulations to Eamonn John (EJ) Bard, a second grader at May Street School, who set a new Kids World Record for the most books stacked in 30 seconds!
As his mom, Kate Bard, Special Education Clinician & Behavior Specialist at Doherty Memorial High School, shared:
"He loves reading (especially 'Dog Man' books), but he’s always had a passion for stacking and building. He chose to break a world record by stacking books. It was a LOT harder than he thought — balancing against gravity is no joke — but he persevered!"
EJ’s achievement is a perfect example of creativity, focus, and perseverance — inspiring us all! 💪📚
Congratulations to Eamonn John (EJ) Bard, a second grader at May Street School, who set a new Kids World Record for the most books stacked in 30 seconds!
As his mom, Kate Bard, Special Education Clinician & Behavior Specialist at Doherty Memorial High School, shared:
"He loves reading (especially 'Dog Man' books), but he’s always had a passion for stacking and building. He chose to break a world record by stacking books. It was a LOT harder than he thought — balancing against gravity is no joke — but he persevered!"
EJ’s achievement is a perfect example of creativity, focus, and perseverance — inspiring us all! 💪📚
Senior Sunrise at Gerald Creamer Center 🌅
The Gerald Creamer Center’s Class of 2026 celebrated the start of their senior year with the first-ever Senior Sunrise!
Seniors and staff gathered in the crisp fall morning to watch the sunrise, enjoying hot chocolate, donuts, and muffins while sharing the moment with friends.
A special thank you to the Student Council, guided by Mrs. Cordero, for organizing this memorable event and making the morning extra special.
Here’s to the Gerald Creamer Center Class of 2026—let’s make this year unforgettable! 💛💙
The Gerald Creamer Center’s Class of 2026 celebrated the start of their senior year with the first-ever Senior Sunrise!
Seniors and staff gathered in the crisp fall morning to watch the sunrise, enjoying hot chocolate, donuts, and muffins while sharing the moment with friends.
A special thank you to the Student Council, guided by Mrs. Cordero, for organizing this memorable event and making the morning extra special.
Here’s to the Gerald Creamer Center Class of 2026—let’s make this year unforgettable! 💛💙