🌟 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, March 30

👉 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!
2 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars round up graphic featuring this year's WooStar selections. It also has text that says 'WooStars Nominations' and 'This Month's Nomination Deadline is Monday, March, 30."
Alumni Spotlight: Joe Okla ’24

After being away from competitive basketball for a year, North High alum Joe Okla returned to the court in a big way.

Now a sophomore at Worcester State, Okla reunited with Coach Al Pettway, helping lead the Lancers to a MASCAC Championship while earning both MASCAC Rookie of the Year and MASCAC Tournament MVP honors.

👉 Read the full story: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2748778
2 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Joe Okla drives to the basket with the ball in his hand.
North High School Theater Presents Clue 🔎🎭

Students at North High School took the stage for opening night of their production of Clue, bringing mystery, laughs, and classic characters to the audience.

You can catch the show later today, March 7, at 2:00 PM at North High. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Check out a few photos from opening night!
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Two actors stand on a stage in front of a colorful, painted bookshelf backdrop.
Two actors stand on a stage in front of a colorful, painted bookshelf backdrop, one is holding a book with the words 'evidence'.
A person in a black suit and white gloves holds a golden ticket, looking down intently.
Three actors stand on stage engaged in conversation.
A group of young people in various costumes, some in police-inspired outfits, pose for a photo.
This Month’s Staff WooStar: Anita DiPilato, Secretary at North High School ⭐️

“Anita is more than a secretary, she is the heartbeat of North. Every day, she goes far beyond her job description to serve students, families, and staff with care and consistency. Students don’t just visit her office for paperwork; they go because they feel safe there. Anita creates a space where young people can be themselves, even on their hardest days. I’ve seen students walk in overwhelmed and leave encouraged, grounded, and ready to return to class. She listens without judgment and always makes sure they leave with a smile.”

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
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Anita DiPilato of North High School.
This Month’s Student WooStar: Aidan Gorczynski, 6th Grade, Empowered Individual at Lake View School ⭐️

“Aidan is a truly Empowered Individual who takes ownership of his education and future. As a sixth grader, he has grown into an amazing student who radiates confidence and kindness. He works incredibly hard to achieve his goals, often going the extra mile to help peers or improve his own work. His positive attitude and work ethic truly define him. He navigates his world with humor and grace, proving that he is not just capable of handling challenges, but capable of thriving in spite of them. He is a polite, funny, and driven role model for Lake View.”

This demonstrates that Aidan is an Empowered Individual, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Aidan can confidently identify resources that can help them face a given challenge or to accelerate/enhance an opportunity, and explain the possible impact those resources could have (EI 3).

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
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Aidan Gorczynski of Lake View School.
💙 School Social Work / School Adjustment Counselor Week 💙

This week, we recognize School Social Work/School Adjustment Counselor Week and want to take a moment to thank our school adjustment counselors across the district for all they do 🙏✨.

Our school adjustment counselors play a vital role in supporting students’ social, emotional, and behavioral well-being 🧠💛. They partner closely with families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 and work alongside school teams 🤝 to make sure students and families are supported through both everyday challenges and critical moments ⚡.

On behalf of Worcester Public Schools, thank you for your dedication and heart 👏. Every day, your work makes a meaningful difference for our students and families 🌟.

Check out some of the photos of our dedicated team! 📸
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A woman smiles in front of a bulletin board with superhero cutouts and the words 'BE AN ATTEND HERO'.
Three women smile for a photo, standing close together indoors.
Six people stand together in front of a tiled wall, smiling.
Two smiling women stand back-to-back in front of a bulletin board decorated with colorful confetti and posters about emotions.
Four women stand together in front of a banner that reads 'I Am Someone Who Makes A Difference'.
A woman smiles broadly in front of a wall decorated with "Healthy Calming Strategies" and "Rainbow Breathing" posters.
Two smiling women stand in front of a banner that reads "PROGRESS IS NOT LINEAR" with blue wavy lines and flowers.
Quarter 2 Honor Roll!

Congratulations to all WPS students being recognized for their hard work and academic achievement in the second quarter. We’re proud to celebrate your success!

Find your student: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2739056
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A graphic that says 'Second Quarter Honor Roll' with the Worcester Public Schools logo.
🍎🥣 Rise, Shine, and Eat! It’s National School Breakfast Week!

Nothing kicks off a school day like a yummy breakfast 🍌🥪! This week we’re celebrating all the ways breakfast helps our students fuel up, focus, and tackle the day like champions. 💪

From fresh fruit and whole grains to warm favorites, the Worcester Public Schools Nutrition team is serving up delicious meals that make mornings brighter for our students. 💛

Families, breakfast is available for all students, so remind your kids to grab a bite and start the day strong! 🌟
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A breakfast spread includes a yogurt parfait with berries, two clementines, a small carton of DairyPure milk featuring Stitch, and a packet of Jeff's Granola.
A foil container holds a breakfast sandwich with melted cheese, next to an orange and a carton of TruMoo chocolate milk featuring Disney's Stitch.
A single-serving cup of Cocoa Puffs cereal, two tangerines, and a carton of DairyPure 1% lowfat milk.
A blueberry muffin, an orange, and a carton of Garelick Farms fat-free milk are arranged on a white surface.
A breakfast sandwich with cheese, a carton of TruMoo chocolate milk featuring Stitch, and a pear are arranged on a white surface.
A box of Post Shredded Wheat Frosted Cereal, two tangerines, and a carton of DairyPure 1% Lowfat Milk with Stitch characters.
Women’s History Month! 💜

March is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women across the nation. This Women’s History Month, we honor the trailblazers who paved the way and uplift the leaders shaping tomorrow.

Learn more about Women’s History Month ➡️ https://buff.ly/2FuPVEI

Social media graphic created by Worcester Technical High School 11th grade Finance, Marketing and Business Management student Julio Cesar Barros.
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A social media graphic that says 'Happy Women's History Month' with the Worcester Public Schools logo.

🎓High School Graduation Dates for the Class of 2026!

The time is almost here! Check out the graduation dates for Worcester Public Schools’ Class of 2026:

• Wednesday, May 27: North High School

• Friday, May 29: University Park Campus School

• Monday, June 1: Doherty Memorial High School

• Tuesday, June 2: Gerald Creamer Center & Evening High School

• Tuesday, June 2: Worcester Technical High School

• Wednesday, June 3: South High Community School

• Thursday, June 4: Worcester Alternative School

• Friday, June 5: Burncoat High School

• Monday, June 8: Claremont Academy

• Tuesday, June 9: Adult Learning Center

Celebrate the hard work and dedication of our graduates as they move on to their next chapter! 🎓🌟

For full details on graduation dates, visit: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2734401

3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
High School Graduation Dates 2026 announced by Worcester Public Schools.
🌟 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!

🗓️ February Nomination Deadline: Monday, Feb. 23

👉 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!
3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A graphic that says 'WooStars Nominations' with the text 'February Nomination Deadline: Monday, February 23' and images of previous WooStars.

WPS Spirit Wear Store Launches 🎉

The Worcester Public Schools has launched the WPS Spirit Wear Store! You can purchase WPS-branded hoodies, t-shirts, pajama pants, backpacks, and more to show your Worcester Public Schools pride!

Please note that WPS makes no profit from these items. The prices reflect the cost only.

 'Product of a Worcester Public School' ​logo designed by Erin Flemming Baffuto, Doherty Memorial High School Class of '01 and current Guidance Counselor and Student Council Advisor at Worcester Technical High School.

🛍️ Pre-sale until March 3rd! Shop now 👉 https://sistersbrandingco.com/col.../worcester-public-school

3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Worcester Public Schools announces the launch of its spirit wear store, featuring a hoodie, tote bag, and logo.

This Month’s Student WooStar: Marly Carries, 12th Grade, Engaged Community Member at North High School ⭐️

“Marly is an exemplary student who is actively engaged with the Worcester community. She has demonstrated her strong engagement by actively being involved in the African Community Education (ACE) Organization, and various after school programs. As a North High Senior, Marly embodies all the characteristics of a Student Leader; problem solving skills, change agent, communication skills, and thoughtful leader all while being humble, graceful, and willing to always learn.”

This demonstrates that Marly is an Engaged Community Member, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Marly can identify a need in her 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

3 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A WooStars graphic of Marly Carries of North High School.
Give Us Your Feedback on WPS Communications!

The WPS Communications Survey will be open through next week!

If you are a community member or alumni, parent/caregiver, students, or staff member, please take five minutes to let us know how we’re doing!

Thank you for your feedback

Find your survey: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2642550
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A graphic with the text 'YOUR OPINION MATTERS!' inside a speech bubble, promoting a Communications Survey.
Worcester Technical High School BSU Hosts 5th Annual Black History Month Opening Celebration ✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿

Worcester Technical High School’s Black Student Union co-hosted its fifth annual Black History Month Opening Celebration yesterday, marking 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson first started the month in 1926.

The student-led event featured a musical and drum performance by Crocodile River Music, a powerful message from Larry Shyler, and a high-energy, cross-cultural dance by WTHS students. Students also enjoyed Musical Bingo and Jeopardy while connecting over food and desserts.

Students from Burncoat High School, Doherty Memorial High School, North High School, South High Community School, Worcester Technical High School, and Abby Kelley Foster came together to celebrate culture, community, and student voice, joined by Superintendent Brian E. Allen, School Committee members, and school leaders. The celebration created a safe space for students to unify, collaborate, and move beyond stereotypes ✨.

A big thank you to the counselors and staff who supported students and made the event possible.

✨ A powerful start to Black History Month! ✨
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Two young Black women smile while sitting at a table, one wearing a shirt that says "BRAVE BLESSED BLACK".
A smiling man in a black jacket with a Worcester Public Schools logo stands between two smiling young people.
A diverse group of people stand together in front of a vibrant Black History Month banner.
A group of young people are gathered around a table, laughing and playing a game of bingo.
Two young women pose for a photo, both making peace signs with their hands.
Three young men stand together, posing for a photo indoors.
Four people, two adults and two young people, pose for a photo in a room with chairs and decorations.
Two young people give a thumbs up, smiling at the camera.
A speaker addresses a group of students seated at tables, with balloons and a presentation screen in the background.
Musicians play drums and a xylophone during a Black History Month event at Worcester Technical High School.
🚘 Driver's Education Course - Winter Break Course🚘

The Central Massachusetts Safety Council (CMSC) Driving School is offering a driver's education course for WPS students from February 16-20, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, at Doherty Memorial High School (299 Highland Street).

Through CMSC’s partnership with Worcester Public Schools, students can enroll at discounted rates.

Visit worcesterschools.org/drivers-ed to sign-up and learn more!
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Graphic promoting a Winter Break Driving Course with CMSSC, presented by Worcester Public Schools.

Vision to Action: Grow Your Own Program Begins 🌱

Worcester Public Schools has begun its first cycle of the Grow Your Own Program, a new student-to-teacher pathway designed to prepare the next generation of educators from within the Worcester community.

Through this program, students will have opportunities to:

✅ Take early college education courses at Worcester State

✅ Build skills through hands-on classroom and enrichment experiences

✅ Prepare to one day return to WPS as future educators

The Grow Your Own Program reflects a long-term collaboration between Worcester Public Schools and Worcester State University, strengthening opportunities for students while addressing the growing need for educators in urban school districts.

4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Three students smile for a photo during the first class of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
One student smiles for a photo during the first class of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
An adult talks to the class during the first day of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
An adult talks to the class during the first day of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
Two students smile for a photo during the first class of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
Two students smile for a photo during the first class of the WPS Grow Your Own Program.
✨ Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Today we celebrate his vision of kindness, fairness, and respect for everyone. His words and actions continue to inspire us to make a positive difference in our communities. 💛

📖 To learn more on why we honor Dr. King: https://buff.ly/2RDvkbv
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
Illustration of Martin Luther King Jr. with text 'Martin Luther King Jr. Day' and 'Worcester Public Schools'.
North High School Seniors Earn Local Community Service Awards 🏆

Congratulations to North High School’s Lilianna Medeiros and Chelsea Okantey, recently recognized with prestigious community service awards for their leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to helping others!

🎓 Lilianna will receive the Dr. George Storms Smith Community Service Award

🎓 Chelsea is the inaugural recipient of the Isaiah Thomas Youth Community Service Award

“I am extremely proud of Chelsea and Lilianna, and of the dedication, leadership, and character they demonstrate each day,” said Principal Dr. Sam FanFan. “Their commitment to excellence both academically and through service reflects the very best of our school community.”
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
North High School seniors Lilianna Medeiros (left) and Chelsea Okantey (right) were named recipients of the Dr. George Storms Smith Community Award and Isaiah Thomas Youth Community Service Award respectively.
Chelsea Okantey.
Lilianna Medeiros.
🌎 WPS Students Participate in Model UN 🌎

117 student delegates from Worcester Public Schools middle and high schools recently took part in Model United Nations at Clark University, simulating UN committees and representing 40 countries.

Students delivered opening speeches, participated in caucuses, and developed resolutions to address pressing global issues.

They worked in four classrooms, three for high school and one for middle school, delivered 62 speeches, and passed 16 resolutions while building skills in public speaking, negotiation, leadership, and collaboration.

Awards were presented in each room for Best Public Speaker, Best Negotiator, Best Delegate, and Honorable Mention. Everyone should feel proud of their accomplishments.

The experience reflected all five Vision of a Learner dispositions, highlighting students as Engaged Community Members, Curious Learners, Empowered Individuals, Problem Solvers, and Effective Communicators.
4 months ago, Worcester Public Schools
A student delegate debates with a group of three students representing a different country in a Model UN simulation.
Students give a speech during a Model UN simulation.
A high school student holds up their country nameplate to cast their vote in a Model UN simulation.
Students take notes during a Model UN simulation.
A student looks at their paper while sitting behind a United States of America nameplate during a Model UN simulation.
High school students engaged during a debate.
Middle school students hold up their country nameplate to cast their vote in a Model UN simulation.