☀️ Hello Summer, Hello Free Meals! ☀️
The sun is shining, school is out, and Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is here to make sure your summer is fueled with delicious, healthy food! 🥪🍉
Through the Summer Eats program, kids and teens can eat completely FREE all summer long. No registration, no ID, and no paperwork required—just show up and enjoy a great meal!
Wondering where to find us? It’s simple:
📲 Scan the QR code
🌐 Or visit our website: worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a convenient meal site near you!
Let’s make this summer healthy, active, and fun. Spread the word to your friends, family, and neighbors! 🍎✨
The sun is shining, school is out, and Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is here to make sure your summer is fueled with delicious, healthy food! 🥪🍉
Through the Summer Eats program, kids and teens can eat completely FREE all summer long. No registration, no ID, and no paperwork required—just show up and enjoy a great meal!
Wondering where to find us? It’s simple:
📲 Scan the QR code
🌐 Or visit our website: worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a convenient meal site near you!
Let’s make this summer healthy, active, and fun. Spread the word to your friends, family, and neighbors! 🍎✨
Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸
🔔 Please Note: WPS district offices are closed today, July 3, in observance of the holiday.
Tomorrow, we celebrate a historic Fourth of July as our nation marks its 250th anniversary! We wish everyone a safe and memorable holiday as we celebrate this milestone in our country's history.
For two and a half centuries, the United States has been shaped by the foundational values of freedom, unity, and community. This quarter-millennium milestone invites us to look back at our shared history, appreciate the progress we've made, and look forward to the future we are building together.
Learn more about the history of the Fourth of July: https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th
🔔 Please Note: WPS district offices are closed today, July 3, in observance of the holiday.
Tomorrow, we celebrate a historic Fourth of July as our nation marks its 250th anniversary! We wish everyone a safe and memorable holiday as we celebrate this milestone in our country's history.
For two and a half centuries, the United States has been shaped by the foundational values of freedom, unity, and community. This quarter-millennium milestone invites us to look back at our shared history, appreciate the progress we've made, and look forward to the future we are building together.
Learn more about the history of the Fourth of July: https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th
🛑 Kids at home doesn't have to mean more meal prep! 🛑
Parents and caregivers, we know summer schedules can get hectic. Let Worcester Public Schools take one thing off your plate while putting nutritious, delicious meals on theirs! 🥪🍎
Through the Summer Eats program, children and teens can enjoy healthy meals all summer long—so you can spend less time cooking and more time making memories.
✨ Why Families Love Summer Eats
✅ Totally Free – Meals are available at no cost for all children and teens 18 and under.
✅ Zero Hassle – No I.D. or registration required. Just show up and enjoy!
✅ Convenient Locations – Meal sites are available throughout Worcester all summer long.
📍 Ready to Find a Site?
📱 Scan the QR code
👉 Or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to view locations and meal times.
☀️🍎 We’ve Got Your Summer Eats!
Summer Eats is now open! Worcester Public Schools is providing free meals for children and teens 18 years and under in the city of Worcester from June 23 through August 15 as part of the Summer Eats program.
Meals are available this summer at sites across Worcester, from parks and pools to libraries and neighborhoods. No registration, ID, or paperwork is needed!
📅 June 23 – August 15
🚫 No service on July 3
📱 Scan the QR code
👉 Or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to view locations and meal times.
🖤❤️💚 Honoring Juneteenth ✊🏾
Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, which marks June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation reached more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice.
As we honor this important day, we recognize the resilience, achievements, and lasting contributions of Black Americans throughout our nation's history. Juneteenth is also an opportunity to reflect, learn, and continue fostering understanding and belonging throughout our schools and community.
Wishing all WPS families, students, and staff a meaningful and reflective Juneteenth.
📚 Learn more about the history and significance of Juneteenth: https://www.history.com/news/what-is-juneteenth
Open Houses for Pre-K and Kindergarten on Wednesday, June 3 🖍️
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
🏅 47th Annual WPS Mini Olympics 🏅
420 students from Worcester Public Schools elementary schools came together at Foley Stadium on May 27 for the 47th Annual WPS Mini Olympics!
Representing their schools with teamwork, determination, and school pride, students competed in a variety of track and field-style events including relays, the 50-meter dash, standing long jump, long throw, and more.
Students earned medals for top-six finishes in individual events while also helping their schools earn points toward the overall team standings. The top three teams also won trophies to bring back to their school communities.
Congratulations to Worcester Arts Magnet School for earning first place overall, with Flagg Street School and Union Hill School tying for second place!
A huge thank you to our WPS physical education staff and student volunteers from Doherty Memorial High School for making this special tradition run smoothly for our elementary students.
Check out some highlights from an unforgettable day at the Mini Olympics! 🥇
420 students from Worcester Public Schools elementary schools came together at Foley Stadium on May 27 for the 47th Annual WPS Mini Olympics!
Representing their schools with teamwork, determination, and school pride, students competed in a variety of track and field-style events including relays, the 50-meter dash, standing long jump, long throw, and more.
Students earned medals for top-six finishes in individual events while also helping their schools earn points toward the overall team standings. The top three teams also won trophies to bring back to their school communities.
Congratulations to Worcester Arts Magnet School for earning first place overall, with Flagg Street School and Union Hill School tying for second place!
A huge thank you to our WPS physical education staff and student volunteers from Doherty Memorial High School for making this special tradition run smoothly for our elementary students.
Check out some highlights from an unforgettable day at the Mini Olympics! 🥇
Superintendent Student Advisory Council Farewell Ceremony 🎓
The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) recently held its Farewell Ceremony at the Dr. Helen A. Friel Auditorium in the Durkin Administration Building.
Superintendent Brian E. Allen presented each graduating senior member of SSAC with a special graduation sash in recognition of their leadership and commitment to our schools, and thanked them for their dedication to helping improve our district.
Students also heard from Italo Fini, a political consultant and Worcester Technical High School alumnus, who offered advice and encouragement as students prepare for their next chapter.
Thank you to all of the students for their participation and commitment throughout this year’s student advisory council meetings, and congratulations to our graduating seniors! 👏🌟
The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) recently held its Farewell Ceremony at the Dr. Helen A. Friel Auditorium in the Durkin Administration Building.
Superintendent Brian E. Allen presented each graduating senior member of SSAC with a special graduation sash in recognition of their leadership and commitment to our schools, and thanked them for their dedication to helping improve our district.
Students also heard from Italo Fini, a political consultant and Worcester Technical High School alumnus, who offered advice and encouragement as students prepare for their next chapter.
Thank you to all of the students for their participation and commitment throughout this year’s student advisory council meetings, and congratulations to our graduating seniors! 👏🌟
Memorial Day ❤️🤍💙
This Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women from Worcester and across the nation who served in the military and gave their lives for our freedom. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, began in 1868 following the Civil War to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. 🕊️🌹
Let us take a moment to reflect on their courage and express our gratitude.
This Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women from Worcester and across the nation who served in the military and gave their lives for our freedom. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, began in 1868 following the Civil War to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. 🕊️🌹
Let us take a moment to reflect on their courage and express our gratitude.
🌱 Future Educators Take the Next Step! ✍️📚
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrated students in the Grow Your Own Program as they participated in a special signing event, pledging their commitment to pursuing careers in education and one day returning to serve the Worcester community.
The Grow Your Own Program is creating a pathway for students to become the next generation of educators through:
✅ Early college education courses at Worcester State University
✅ Hands-on classroom and enrichment experiences
✅ Opportunities to build a future with Worcester Public Schools
This signing event marks an important milestone as students commit to a future in education and continue their journey toward making a difference in the lives of Worcester students.
Congratulations to our Grow Your Own students as they take this exciting step toward becoming future educators! 💙💛
Take a look at photos from the event! 📸
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrated students in the Grow Your Own Program as they participated in a special signing event, pledging their commitment to pursuing careers in education and one day returning to serve the Worcester community.
The Grow Your Own Program is creating a pathway for students to become the next generation of educators through:
✅ Early college education courses at Worcester State University
✅ Hands-on classroom and enrichment experiences
✅ Opportunities to build a future with Worcester Public Schools
This signing event marks an important milestone as students commit to a future in education and continue their journey toward making a difference in the lives of Worcester students.
Congratulations to our Grow Your Own students as they take this exciting step toward becoming future educators! 💙💛
Take a look at photos from the event! 📸
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Yashfa Bashir, Doherty Memorial High School 🎓
This fall, Yashfa will attend college and major in Biology/Biotechnology. She has a deep interest in laboratory work and aims to pursue a long-term career in the health sciences field.
During her time in high school, Yashfa focused on seeking out opportunities that helped her develop professional skills and build her confidence.
Before beginning her studies, she plans to travel to England and Pakistan this summer to visit her family.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Always seek for opportunities that will be beneficial for you in high school. Most likely you would be able to learn new skills that would help you with professional environments and build your confidence.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
This fall, Yashfa will attend college and major in Biology/Biotechnology. She has a deep interest in laboratory work and aims to pursue a long-term career in the health sciences field.
During her time in high school, Yashfa focused on seeking out opportunities that helped her develop professional skills and build her confidence.
Before beginning her studies, she plans to travel to England and Pakistan this summer to visit her family.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Always seek for opportunities that will be beneficial for you in high school. Most likely you would be able to learn new skills that would help you with professional environments and build your confidence.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Chol Chol, South High Community School 🎓
Chol plans to attend Assumption University and hopes to one day enter the field of nursing with a goal of one day becoming a physician. His ultimate dream is to own a home and provide a comfortable life for his family.
Chol’s work in the classroom has earned him a scholarship to Assumption. He credits his time in high school with teaching him the importance of working hard and staying disciplined in working toward his personal and professional goals.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Do your work on time so you won't have to worry about it later so it won't add up.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
Chol plans to attend Assumption University and hopes to one day enter the field of nursing with a goal of one day becoming a physician. His ultimate dream is to own a home and provide a comfortable life for his family.
Chol’s work in the classroom has earned him a scholarship to Assumption. He credits his time in high school with teaching him the importance of working hard and staying disciplined in working toward his personal and professional goals.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Do your work on time so you won't have to worry about it later so it won't add up.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
Open Houses for Pre-K and Kindergarten on Wednesday, June 3 🖍️
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Kamrie Ababio, Burncoat High School 🎓
This fall, Kamrie plans to attend college to study music education. Her goal is to one day become a music teacher and band director, sharing her passion for performance with future students.
Kamrie has been deeply involved in the musical community at Burncoat, performing as a member of the concert band, symphony orchestra, and jazz band. She has also taken on significant leadership roles, serving as the artistic director of Worcester UNITES and the treasurer of the Burncoat High School band.
Reflecting on her time in high school, Kamrie credits her success to taking advantage of the many opportunities available to her within the WPS music programs.
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
This fall, Kamrie plans to attend college to study music education. Her goal is to one day become a music teacher and band director, sharing her passion for performance with future students.
Kamrie has been deeply involved in the musical community at Burncoat, performing as a member of the concert band, symphony orchestra, and jazz band. She has also taken on significant leadership roles, serving as the artistic director of Worcester UNITES and the treasurer of the Burncoat High School band.
Reflecting on her time in high school, Kamrie credits her success to taking advantage of the many opportunities available to her within the WPS music programs.
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
🎨 Worcester Public Schools 69th Annual Arts Festival 🎨
We had an amazing time celebrating the opening of the 69th Annual WPS Arts Festival at the Worcester Arts Museum!
With over 500 pieces on display, the museum is bursting with the creativity and artistic vision of our talented WPS students. 🌟
If you couldn't make it to opening night, you still have time to see these incredible student artworks! The exhibition is open until May 28.
Check out some of the highlights from opening night! 📸
We had an amazing time celebrating the opening of the 69th Annual WPS Arts Festival at the Worcester Arts Museum!
With over 500 pieces on display, the museum is bursting with the creativity and artistic vision of our talented WPS students. 🌟
If you couldn't make it to opening night, you still have time to see these incredible student artworks! The exhibition is open until May 28.
Check out some of the highlights from opening night! 📸
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Bernardo Pena dos Santos, Doherty Memorial High School 🎓
This fall, Bernardo will attend Centre College in Kentucky where he plans to study economics or political science with a minor in math.
Bernardo hopes to one day be a teacher or work with organizations that support students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential.
Bernardo is a recipient of the Posse Scholarship, a prestigious scholarship which provides full-tuition to high school seniors that demonstrate leadership, academic potential and teamwork.
Bernardo says that navigating a new language and testing out of ESL helped him develop the strong communication skills and confidence he carries with him today.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Get involved in as many clubs, activities, and sports as you can, because they help you meet new people and develop lifelong friendships, connections, and find new passions.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
This fall, Bernardo will attend Centre College in Kentucky where he plans to study economics or political science with a minor in math.
Bernardo hopes to one day be a teacher or work with organizations that support students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential.
Bernardo is a recipient of the Posse Scholarship, a prestigious scholarship which provides full-tuition to high school seniors that demonstrate leadership, academic potential and teamwork.
Bernardo says that navigating a new language and testing out of ESL helped him develop the strong communication skills and confidence he carries with him today.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Get involved in as many clubs, activities, and sports as you can, because they help you meet new people and develop lifelong friendships, connections, and find new passions.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
Registrations for the 2026 Worcester UNITES Performing Arts Summer Program are Now Open 🎶
Worcester UNITES is a free music program for Worcester Public Schools students in grades 4-12 who have studied an instrument for at least one year. 🎻
Students will participate in sectionals, lessons, and ensemble work with other students from throughout the district. In addition to musical instruction, there will also be plenty of summer fun!
The program will be held at South High Community School, 170 Apricot Street on June 23, 24, 25 and 26. A public concert will be held on June 26.
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHWzABnhKQU1KnkDmG53EmbnflGbXM1R5vG0868EYznF_z5Q/viewform
Worcester UNITES is a free music program for Worcester Public Schools students in grades 4-12 who have studied an instrument for at least one year. 🎻
Students will participate in sectionals, lessons, and ensemble work with other students from throughout the district. In addition to musical instruction, there will also be plenty of summer fun!
The program will be held at South High Community School, 170 Apricot Street on June 23, 24, 25 and 26. A public concert will be held on June 26.
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHWzABnhKQU1KnkDmG53EmbnflGbXM1R5vG0868EYznF_z5Q/viewform
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Nathalia Mervilus, North High School 🎓
After graduation this spring, Nathalia plans to attend a four-year college with the goal of becoming a nurse and pursuing a career in radiology.
During her time in WPS, she has exemplified leadership by serving as Cheer Captain and President of the Black Student Union. She also earned her CNA certification while balancing college-level and AP courses, managing an impressive mix of academics and career prep.
Nathalia credits her dual enrollment and leadership roles with building the confidence she needs for the next level.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Practice the art of not procrastinating and stay on top of your classes. Keep a calendar and use reminders or a notebook to stay organized.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
After graduation this spring, Nathalia plans to attend a four-year college with the goal of becoming a nurse and pursuing a career in radiology.
During her time in WPS, she has exemplified leadership by serving as Cheer Captain and President of the Black Student Union. She also earned her CNA certification while balancing college-level and AP courses, managing an impressive mix of academics and career prep.
Nathalia credits her dual enrollment and leadership roles with building the confidence she needs for the next level.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Practice the art of not procrastinating and stay on top of your classes. Keep a calendar and use reminders or a notebook to stay organized.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
🎓 Alumni Spotlight: Jupiter Montalvo ’22 🎶
Jupiter Montalvo’s path to graduation from Berklee College of Music started right here in Worcester Public Schools, through accessible arts programs like the Burncoat Music Magnet and Worcester UNITES.
Now, as they prepare for their next step as a music educator, Montalvo has experienced firsthand how impactful access to the arts can be.
“(WPS) gave me ensemble skills, it gave me the opportunity to grow my own personal style of singing and playing, and it gave me theory skills,” Montalvo said. “It set me up in a good spot once I started college.”
🔗 Read more at worcesterschools.org
Jupiter Montalvo’s path to graduation from Berklee College of Music started right here in Worcester Public Schools, through accessible arts programs like the Burncoat Music Magnet and Worcester UNITES.
Now, as they prepare for their next step as a music educator, Montalvo has experienced firsthand how impactful access to the arts can be.
“(WPS) gave me ensemble skills, it gave me the opportunity to grow my own personal style of singing and playing, and it gave me theory skills,” Montalvo said. “It set me up in a good spot once I started college.”
🔗 Read more at worcesterschools.org
🌟 Call for WooStar Nominations 🌟
It’s time to nominate this month’s WooStars — one student and one staff member who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in Worcester Public Schools!
🗓️ This Month's Nomination Deadline: Monday, May 25
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
Your nominations ensure we can spotlight individuals who are putting Vision to Action across WPS!
It’s time to nominate this month’s WooStars — one student and one staff member who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in Worcester Public Schools!
🗓️ This Month's Nomination Deadline: Monday, May 25
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
Your nominations ensure we can spotlight individuals who are putting Vision to Action across WPS!
