WORCESTER – Thursday, May 8, 2025 – Worcester Public Schools hosted its second annual Gathering for Excellence at Doherty Memorial High School, celebrating the innovation, creativity, and student-centered learning taking place across the school district.
The event brought together families, educators, and scholars to highlight successful initiatives and showcase the district’s commitment to Vision of a Learner (VOL), the district’s future-ready framework.
“The Gathering of Excellence is a celebration of learning,” said Superintendent Rachel H. Monárrez, PhD. “We thank our educators, families, our scholars, whose energy, curiosity, and hard work are at the heart of everything we do.”
Among the VOL highlights: Forest Grove Middle School demonstrated how Spanish instruction supports global citizenship; West Tatnuck School showed how scholars use technology to blend English Language Arts and Science; and Worcester Alternative School’s Unseen Style project illustrated how students use fashion to express creativity and build collaboration skills.
“Through Vision of a Learner, our scholars are not just learning content—they’re developing critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills that will serve them for life,” said Brian Allen, the next Superintendent of WPS who is currently Deputy Superintendent, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Operations Officer. “They are becoming innovative thinkers and active participants in their learning and in their communities.”
Attendees explored an open house-style showcase featuring student work and educator-led initiatives from schools across the city.
"The Gathering for Excellence is a reminder of what makes Worcester Public Schools special,” said Mayor Joseph M. Petty. “I am proud to see our educators, families, and scholars come together to celebrate the future-ready learning that will not only shape the lives of Worcester Public Schools students but the future of our city."
Attendees also enjoyed standout student performances, including the Doherty jazz band, South High Community School’s K-pop dancers, Burncoat High’s spirit team, and individual performances from scholars at Doherty and Belmont Street Community School.
