Message from Mary Sealey, Principal of Nelson Place School:

Dear Nelson Place School Families,

The students of Nelson Place School have been my highest priority from the moment I began serving as principal. They are bright, capable, resilient, and full of promise. It has been a privilege to work on their behalf, and as a former Nelson Place parent, I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served a school community in the part of the city that I call home.

Over the past year, we have worked to move Nelson Place forward instructionally and organizationally, always with the goal of strengthening outcomes for students. That work matters, and I am proud of the progress that was made despite the significant challenges we faced.

At the same time, this year has also been marked by much unrest and distraction, which has not been productive for students or staff. I do not want this to continue. For that reason, I have requested to be placed in another leadership position within Worcester Public Schools for the coming school year.

This decision was not easy. I care deeply about Nelson Place, its students, and families and staff who have supported the school in good faith — it is all of you who kept me going this year, with your support. I also believe that leadership sometimes requires choosing the path that reduces harm, protects students from further adult conflict, and allows a school community the opportunity to move forward.

I leave Nelson Place proud of the work we started and hopeful for the continued success of its students. I will continue my work as a principal in Worcester Public Schools with the same commitment that has guided me throughout my career: improving student outcomes so that all students may reach their full potential.

Thank you all who welcomed me, supported the work, and remained focused on what matters most.

Sincerely,

Mary Sealey

Message from Brian E. Allen, Superintendent of Worcester Public Schools:

I commend Mary Sealey for her efforts at Nelson Place School and her desire to remove the distractions going forward that have occurred at the school this year. Mary Sealey has a demonstrated history of improving student achievement in all of her previous schools. At her request, and in the best interest of the students of Nelson Place School, I am providing her with a new placement as a school administrator next year.  

As a stabilizing measure for Nelson Place School, Ellen Moynihan intends to remain as the Interim Principal for the 2026-27 school year, so a new leader with extensive elementary principal experience can be selected for the following year. I look forward to working with the Nelson Place School staff and community on the future leadership of the school.