⭐ Joshua Waddell, Seventh Grade Scholar at Burncoat Middle School ⭐ “Joshua took the initiative to connect with Legendary Legacies Inc., rallying his Burncoat class to support formerly incarcerated individuals by assembling supplies for welcome home bags. His leadership and compassion exemplify the spirit of community service, making a meaningful impact.” This work demonstrates that Joshua is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Joshua identified a need in the community, articulated and communicated solutions, and developed an action plan to address the need (EC.M2). ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Joshua Waddell, seventh grade scholar at Burncoat Middle School.
🎓 Call to Education Event Recap at Worcester State University Last Friday, nearly 100 junior and senior high school scholars from across Worcester Public Schools, including students from Burncoat High School, Claremont Academy, Doherty Memorial High School, Gerald Creamer Center, North High School, South High Community School, University Park Campus, and Worcester Technical High School, gathered at Worcester State University for our “Call to Education” event! 🙌📚 They had the opportunity to hear from 18 WPS educators and support staff—including teachers, wraparound coordinators, nurses, psychologists, and more—during two insightful panel sessions. 🎤 The scholars asked thoughtful questions 💡, made real connections 🤝, and learned firsthand about the journeys of those who have chosen careers in education and student support. 💬🌟 Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event memorable, and to our scholars for bringing their enthusiasm and curiosity! 💙🎉
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
🎓 Call to Education Event Recap at Worcester State University Last Friday, nearly 100 junior and senior high school scholars from across Worcester Public Schools, including students from Burncoat High School, Claremont Academy, Doherty Memorial High School, Gerald Creamer Center, North High School, South High Community School, University Park Campus, and Worcester Technical High School, gathered at Worcester State University for our “Call to Education” event! 🙌📚 They had the opportunity to hear from 18 WPS educators and support staff—including teachers, wraparound coordinators, nurses, psychologists, and more—during two insightful panel sessions. 🎤 The scholars asked thoughtful questions 💡, made real connections 🤝, and learned firsthand about the journeys of those who have chosen careers in education and student support. 💬🌟 Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event memorable, and to our scholars for bringing their enthusiasm and curiosity! 💙🎉
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of students and teachers sit in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker.
A group of people sit at a table during a presentation about teaching at Worcester State University.
📢 First Annual Worcester Public Schools Job Fair Your Next Career Move Begins Here! Join us for the First Annual Worcester Public Schools Job Fair on Tuesday, April 29, from 3:30 – 5:30 PM at Doherty Memorial High School, located at 299 Highland Street, Worcester. This event presents an excellent opportunity to explore career options within public education and become part of a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact in our community. Whether you are an experienced professional or just beginning your career, Worcester Public Schools offers a range of meaningful opportunities for growth and advancement. 🔗 Register today: https://buff.ly/J4fg8um
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A flyer for the first annual Worcester Public Schools Job Fair, featuring a QR code for registration and two smiling individuals.
Friendly Faces of Heard Street Discovery Academy 😊📚 We recently visited Heard Street Discovery Academy, part of the South Quadrant, to see students engaged in learning. ✏️🎒 Heard Street Discovery Academy serves 245 students in grades K-6. The school focuses on reading comprehension strategies 📖, writing across all subjects 📝, and classroom discussions 🗣️. Students participate in hands-on learning and collaborative activities to develop critical thinking skills. As part of their commitment to student success, Heard Street Discovery Academy is actively involved in the Attendance Matters campaign to promote regular attendance and student achievement. 🌟 The school provides a structured learning environment where students and educators focus on academic growth. 💡👩‍🏫
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Two students, a girl and a boy, smile at the camera while using laptops in a classroom.
A teacher and student work together on a laptop in a classroom.
A young girl wearing headphones smiles while drawing on a piece of paper in a classroom.
A teacher smiles warmly as she puts her arm around a young student wearing a headset.
Two students, a boy and a girl, are smiling at the camera while using laptops in a classroom.
A young student smiles while working on math problems at her desk in a classroom.
Two young boys sit at a desk in a classroom, smiling at the camera.
A young student wearing headphones smiles while working on a laptop in a classroom.
A young girl smiles while wearing headphones and using a laptop in a classroom.
A young boy in a red hoodie smiles while sitting at his desk in a classroom.
⭐ Levis Kotherja, Fourth Grade Scholar at Jacob Hiatt Magnet School ⭐ “Levis is a hard working, engaged student. He is a quiet leader in the classroom who always sets a strong example for his peers to follow. He participates actively across subject areas and contributes to classroom discussions. Levis gets along well with his peers and is a leader socially as well as academically. We are lucky to have Levis at Jacob Hiatt!” “Levis is a hard-working student. He scored high on his STAR math test placing him in sixth grade level. In reading, he also scored high placing him in fifth grade level. Levis is fluent in Albanian and enjoys his world cultures class. Levis goes to school and is always ready to learn and help his classmates.” This work demonstrates that Levis is a Curious Learner, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Levis sets academic goals and makes a connection between his goals and his actions in the classroom (CL 1). ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Levis Kotherja, Fourth Grade Scholar at Jacob Hiatt Magnet School.
April has 16 school days — let’s make each one count! 🙌 Consistent attendance helps students stay on track, succeed academically, and build great habits. 📝💪 Let’s show up, learn, and thrive together! 🎓🌟
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Graphic featuring the text 'We've Got 16 School Days in April — let’s make each one count!'
🎤🎨 Claremont Academy’s Senior Rap Fair 2025 On Friday, March 28, seniors in Joseph Moriarty's Latin American Studies course presented their projects for the 20th Century Revolutions Unit. 🌎 Students explored countries like Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Puerto Rico, incorporating rap and graffiti art into their work. 🎶🎨 The event featured students performing their raps/poems 🎤 and showcasing their artwork 🖼️ for the senior class. A panel of judges—including Oscar Almendarez (Claremont Class of 2023), Tammy Bailey (Claremont Assistant Principal), and Dr. Raphael Rogers (Clark University) —evaluated the students’ work. This Rap Fair marked a key moment in the senior experience, giving students the opportunity to share their learning, creativity, and unique perspectives with their peers. 👏✨ 📸 Check out some photos from the event!
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Five young men stand in front of a wall with flags representing different countries. They are holding a poster with a drawing and the words 'Fear a Civil War' and 'US Out of El Salvador.'
Two students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags from different countries. One student holds a microphone and the other holds a poster with a painting of the Brazilian flag and two portraits.
A group of students and teachers pose with a poster depicting a scene from El Salvador's history, surrounded by flags representing different countries.
Three people stand together, smiling for a photo.
Three students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags, holding a microphone and a sign that reads 'La Violencia en Colombia 1948-1958'.
A group of students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags, one person speaks into a microphone while holding a paper, another holds a poster with a drawing and text.
Three students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags from various Latin American countries. One holds a poster with a drawing of a dove, a chain, and the Dominican flag. Another speaks into a microphone, and the third holds a phone.
Four students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags of Latin American countries, presenting a poster about El Salvador.
A group of students stand in front of a wall decorated with flags from various Latin American countries, holding a sign that reads 'Independence'.
A group of students listen attentively during a presentation at Claremont Academy.
💙🌍 World Autism Awareness Day at Worcester Public Schools Today, Worcester Public Schools recognizes World Autism Awareness Day, reaffirming our commitment to inclusivity, support, and awareness for our students, families, and staff. At Gates Lane School of International Studies, staff came together to wear blue, including custom shirts designed by Worcester Technical High School's Graphic Communications students. They also created supportive posters, now displayed throughout the hallways. Gates Lane’s Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) hosted an open house, welcoming families to learn more about special education services and the Specialized Approaches to Individual Learning (SAIL) program. 💙 Show your support — wear blue and spread kindness!
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
School staff stand together, smiling and wearing blue t-shirts that read 'Understand, Autism Awareness, Accept, Support, Gates Lane'.
Staff stand in a kitchen, smiling and wearing blue t-shirts featuring a heart and puzzle pieces design with the words 'Autism Awareness' and 'Gates Lane'.
A diverse group of students and teachers pose for a picture in a school hallway, with posters about autism awareness and kindness displayed behind them.
Staff sit at a table with papers and flyers, including one that says 'Autism Awareness' and 'Understand, Accept, Support.Staff sit at a table with papers and flyers, including one that says 'Autism Awareness' and 'Understand, Accept, Support.
A group of children and a teacher pose for a photo in a classroom, with a whiteboard behind them.
Four teachers stand in a hallway, smiling and wearing blue shirts that read 'Understand Autism Awareness' and 'Gates Lane'.
A large group of students and school staff, many wearing blue shirts, gathers in a schoolyard.
14th Annual VEX Robotics WPS Elementary Tournament 🤖 Over 600 students from 30 WPS elementary schools recently competed in the 14th annual VEX Robotics Elementary Tournament at South High Community School! The elementary tournament is a three-day event that brings many WPS elementary students together for robotics fun. Students from WPS high school robotics teams also volunteered to help the event go smoothly each day. VEX Robotics is an educational program where students design, build, and program robots using lego-like pieces. Through the experience, students work collaboratively to solve game-based challenges while interacting with peers from across the district. Check out a few sights from day three of the three-day tournament! 📸
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Students participate in a VEX IQ Robotics Competition, focusing on the 'Rapid Relay' challenge.
Students participate in a robotics competition, focusing on a robot and a game board with the words 'VEX IQ Robotics Competition Rapid Relay' visible.
A group of students, wearing yellow shirts with the Worcester Public Schools Robotics logo, pose for a photo.
Students participate in a robotics competition, using controllers to operate their robots.
Lake View School's Vocabulary Parade 📚 Lake View School hosted a lively vocabulary parade for families and caregivers, showcasing tons of creativity and a command for language! Expanding students' vocabulary has been a focus for Lake View educators this school year, and the progress was on full display throughout the parade. Students chose a word and brought it to life with signs, props, and elaborate costumes. Many parents and caregivers lined the sidewalks of Coburn Ave to cheer on their young scholars. This lesson touched upon the Vision of a Learner future-ready framework by connecting two of its dispositions: Effective Communicator and Curious Learner. Check out some of the highlights from Lake View's vocabulary parade!
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Three young girls dressed up as royalty hold signs that define their roles: 'Queen,' 'A woman who is in charge of country or kingdom,' and 'CROWN.'
A group of children dressed in costumes walk down a sidewalk, one holding a sign that says 'ERUPT'.
A group of children hold signs with definitions of 'citizen', 'colonist', and 'independence' during a school event.
A group of children participate in a parade, holding signs with words like 'serene,' 'calm,' and 'peaceful.'
Four children dressed in costumes stand in a school hallway, holding signs that define words like: 'Rubber,' 'Pushy,' 'Limber,' and 'Adventurous.'
Three children stand in a hallway, holding signs that say 'Hurricane,' 'Botanist,' and 'Orchard.'
Worcester Technical High School Partners with NEI General Contracting to Train Future Builders 🏗️ Worcester Technical High School has partnered with NEI General Contracting, an award-winning firm, to provide students with hands-on training in the construction industry. Through this initiative, NEI General Contracting has placed three students in co-op positions and connected many more with subcontractors.
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Worcester Technical High School students in safety jackets and helmets stand together in a large group.
⭐ Brenda Dubrey, Third Grade Educator at Thorndyke Road School ⭐ “Mrs. Dubrey’s dedication to her students, outstanding communication skills, and her kind-hearted, fun-loving nature make her truly one of a kind. Mrs. Dubrey is not just a teacher; she is a catalyst for joy and excitement in the classroom. She has the remarkable ability to make learning fun, fostering an environment where every student feels engaged and motivated. Her innovative teaching methods and enthusiasm for education inspire her students to not only excel academically but also to love the process of learning. One of Mrs. Dubrey’s greatest strengths is her ability to make each child feel seen, valued, and special. She creates a classroom culture that is inclusive and nurturing, ensuring that every student feels confident to participate and express themselves. This sense of belonging that she fosters is truly impactful, both for the students and their families." “Her communication with parents is equally commendable. She keeps us informed, involved, and reassured that our children are in the best hands. Mrs. Dubrey’s approachability and warmth make it easy for parents to collaborate with her, which is a crucial aspect of our children’s education. I wish every student and parent could experience the extraordinary influence of Mrs. Dubrey. She is more than deserving of recognition for the countless lives she touches with her passion, kindness, and commitment to education.” ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Brenda Dubrey, third grade educator at Thorndyke Road School.
🎉 Juniper Outreach Foundation Opens Food Pantry at Doherty Memorial High School The Juniper Outreach Foundation has officially opened its eighth in-school food pantry at Doherty Memorial High School, providing students with access to food 🍎, snacks 🍪, clothing 👚, and other essential items. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Joseph Petty, Principal John Staley, Tim Murray, President/CEO of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Julie McDonald, Executive Director of the Juniper Outreach Foundation. ✂️🎤 With generous support from the Fairlawn Foundation, this new pantry joins Juniper’s growing network of school-based pantries at Burncoat Preparatory School, Lincoln Street School, City View Discovery School, Elm Park Community School, Vernon Hill School, Gerald Creamer Center, and South High School—ensuring more students have the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom. 📚🌟
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Doherty Memorial High School Principal John Staley and Juniper Outreach Foundation Executive Director Julie McDonald smile at the camera in front of a storage shelf filled with labeled bins of food and essential supplies.
A woman in a striped sweater smiles and holds papers while standing in a hallway with a sign that reads 'Black Box Theater' and balloons in the background.
A group of people stand in a hallway, smiling and holding a large pair of scissors to cut a red ribbon. A sign above them reads 'Juniper Pantry'.
A well-organized pantry with shelves stocked with various food items, including peanut butter, pancake mix, and syrup.
A red metal shelving unit filled with various items, including backpacks, water bottles, blankets, and toilet paper.
Clear plastic storage bins labeled with different sizes of clothing, such as 'Small Sweatpants' and 'Under Garments'.
Alumna and Author Tika Smith Visits Scholars at Burncoat High School 📚 Thank you to Tika Smith, a Burncoat High School Class of 1991 graduate and published author, for taking the time to visit students at Burncoat High! During her visit, Tika met with journalism students to answer questions about her books, share her experiences, and inspire the next generation of writers and readers. Tika Smith is an author, nonprofit leader, and senior lab tech currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Health and Human Services at Antioch University in Seattle, WA.
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Tika Smith with a group of students from Burncoat High School.
Tika Smith holds up books alongside a Burncoat High School educator.
Tika Smith holds up books alongside a Burncoat High School educator.
🌟 Student Spotlight: Caleigh Moriarty’s Field Hockey Clinic 🌟 Caleigh Moriarty, an 11th grader at Doherty Memorial High School, launched a Field Hockey Clinic at May Street School for 5th and 6th grade girls! 🏑 This initiative, developed as part of her AP Seminar project, introduces young athletes to the sport and encourages more girls from diverse backgrounds to get involved in athletics. The clinic has been a huge success, with nearly every participant joining in—and many asking for even more sessions! As Principal Luke Robert shared, "None of the students quit, and many asked for more sessions!" Caleigh, along with her friend and teammate Sarah Defusco, hopes to expand the program to other schools, providing more students with opportunities to explore new activities and stay active. 🎉 A big shoutout to Caleigh and Sarah for their commitment to empowering young athletes!
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A group of young people sit together in a gymnasium, smiling for a photo.
A group of young athletes practice drills in a gymnasium, with a basketball hoop and cones visible.
A group of students sit on the floor of a gymnasium, listening to a field hockey coach.
Two young women in black field hockey uniforms stand together, holding their sticks, in a gymnasium.
Two field hockey players compete for the ball on a green field.
A field hockey player in a white jersey with 'Doherty' on the front prepares to hit the ball with her stick.
Student Superintendent Advisory Council Meeting at Worcester Technical High School 💭 The Student Superintendent Advisory Council (SSAC) came together at Worcester Technical High School for its latest monthly meeting. Made up of scholars from WPS high schools, SSAC meets each month during the school year to discuss topics focused on improving the student experience in WPS. This month, scholars enjoyed a blindfold icebreaker before diving into collaborative activities, including "problem trees" and a fun budget-related activity led by WPS Deputy Superintendent Brian Allen.
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Four students and a teacher sit together around a table.
Superintendent Rachel H. Monárrez interacts with two students.
A student smiles while another writes on a sheet of white presentation paper.
Deputy Superintendent Brian Allen smiles with two students.
Doherty’s Dea Kamberi Named 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts! 🎉 Doherty Memorial High School senior and valedictorian Dea Kamberi has earned the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts title—marking a first for Worcester Public Schools! This prestigious honor recognizes Dea’s excellence in academics, talent, leadership, fitness, and self-expression. She will now represent Massachusetts at the national competition in Alabama this summer! A standout scholar, Dea excels in dual enrollment courses at Quinsigamond Community College, showcases her musical talent through piano performance, and leads in her community through the Bank of America Student Leaders Program and her internship at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester. Congratulations to Dea on this achievement! 👏🎶📚
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A young woman with long brown hair smiles warmly at the camera, wearing a white crocheted sweater and gold necklaces.
A young woman with long brown hair smiles while wearing a white ribbon and a silver medal.
A young woman with long brown hair smiles at the camera, wearing a white knitted sweater and gold necklaces.
Friendly Faces of Belmont Street Community School 🤗 We recently stopped by Belmont Street Community School to visit our young learners! Belmont Street School is a vibrant community where students grow, thrive, and achieve their full potential. Belmont Street School sets high standards for learning, ensuring that every student is challenged and supported on their educational journey. The inclusive environment at Belmont Street School values diversity, respects every family and culture and celebrates the progress of learners each year. Together, Belmont Street builds a strong foundation for lifelong success! Belmont Street School is located in the North Quadrant of the Worcester Public Schools and hosts 615 students from PreK to Grade 6.
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A graphic featuring a photo of a teacher and a student along with the words 'Friendly Faces of Belmont Street Community School'.
A student smiles at the camera.
A student and teacher sit together at lunch.
Two students stand together and smile.
A student sits on the floor and reads a book titled 'The Wolf Who Cried Boy.'
⭐ Arianna Santiago, Second Grade Scholar at Union Hill School ⭐ “Arianna is kind and patient. She tries to uplift her peers and always goes out of her way to help her classmates. Arianna loves to share and loves the diversity in her classroom. When a new student arrives in the classroom and she realizes they have troubles understanding our language she tries to help in any way she can.” This demonstrates that Arianna is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Arianna shows an ability to interact with others in varied social, cultural and multilingual backgrounds (ECM3). ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars Graphic of Arianna Santiago, second grade scholar at Union Hill School.
Burncoat High School Drama Club Moves Onto State Finals 🎭 Burncoat High School's drama club has advanced to the finals in the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild's (METG) state-wide competition for its performance of The Price by Don Zolidis! Catch Burncoat on stage for the state finals on Saturday, March 29 at 12:30 PM at John Hancock Hall in Boston! Get your tickets now: https://www.ticketstage.com/bin/f.wk?ts.performance.gen There will also be two chances to watch the show at Burncoat Middle School on March 21 and March 22 at 7:00 PM.
9 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A photo of the cast from The Price, a play performed by the Burncoat High School theater club.