🎓 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!
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Cameron Christie, 7th Grade Science Teacher at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School.
“Since joining the team at Sullivan this year, Cameron Christie has hit the ground running, making a remarkable impact in a very short time,” said Principal Kendra Cox. “Cameron brings a refreshingly student-centered approach to his classroom, blending high expectations with a genuine, strong rapport that makes his students feel both challenged and supported.
“Beyond his instructional prowess, Cameron is a true collaborator who is constantly seeking out ways to contribute to the wider school community. His energy and dedication to fostering a positive environment have already made him an invaluable asset to Sullivan.”
Thank you, Mr. Christie for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Cameron Christie, 7th Grade Science Teacher at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School.
“Since joining the team at Sullivan this year, Cameron Christie has hit the ground running, making a remarkable impact in a very short time,” said Principal Kendra Cox. “Cameron brings a refreshingly student-centered approach to his classroom, blending high expectations with a genuine, strong rapport that makes his students feel both challenged and supported.
“Beyond his instructional prowess, Cameron is a true collaborator who is constantly seeking out ways to contribute to the wider school community. His energy and dedication to fostering a positive environment have already made him an invaluable asset to Sullivan.”
Thank you, Mr. Christie for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Thomas O’Neil, History Teacher at Doherty Memorial High School.
"Doherty High wants to recognize Mr. O'Neil for his commitment to maintaining a high bar for excellence in the classroom,” said Doherty High Principal John Staley. “We consistently observe him challenging his students with rigorous lessons while providing the necessary support to ensure everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed. It is clear that his high expectations are driving meaningful growth and helping his students reach their full potential."
Thank you, Mr. O’Neil, for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Thomas O’Neil, History Teacher at Doherty Memorial High School.
"Doherty High wants to recognize Mr. O'Neil for his commitment to maintaining a high bar for excellence in the classroom,” said Doherty High Principal John Staley. “We consistently observe him challenging his students with rigorous lessons while providing the necessary support to ensure everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed. It is clear that his high expectations are driving meaningful growth and helping his students reach their full potential."
Thank you, Mr. O’Neil, for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Quarter 3 Honor Roll!
Congratulations to all WPS students being recognized for their hard work and academic achievement in the third quarter. We’re proud to celebrate your success!
Find your student: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2863347
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Eileen Doyle, First Grade Teacher at Burncoat Street Preparatory School.
“Eileen is a long-time member of the Burncoat Prep family. Her warm first grade heart extends beyond her students to Burncoat Prep families and staff,” said Principal Emily Plante. “Eileen steps up to welcome new students and adults, and help her colleagues. She is always willing to try something new to meet her student's needs. The Burncoat Prep community appreciates Mrs. Doyle!”
Thank you, Mrs. Doyle for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
💙🩺 Celebrating National Nurses Day at Worcester Public Schools
Today, Worcester Public Schools recognizes and celebrates our school nurses for the essential role they play in supporting student health, safety, and well-being across the district.
School nurses provide care, comfort, and guidance to students each day, while also supporting wellness, managing health needs, and helping ensure safe and healthy learning environments in every school.
We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the positive impact they make in the lives of students and staff every day. 💙
📸🩺💙 Take a look at photos of our dedicated school nurses. 👏💛✨
Today, Worcester Public Schools recognizes and celebrates our school nurses for the essential role they play in supporting student health, safety, and well-being across the district.
School nurses provide care, comfort, and guidance to students each day, while also supporting wellness, managing health needs, and helping ensure safe and healthy learning environments in every school.
We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the positive impact they make in the lives of students and staff every day. 💙
📸🩺💙 Take a look at photos of our dedicated school nurses. 👏💛✨
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Alda Torra, ESL Teacher and Department Head at North High School.
“Alda creates an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where all students feel valued and empowered to take risks with language,” said North High Principal Sam FanFan. “She is highly attuned to the diverse needs of her students and consistently adapts her approach to support both academic and social-emotional growth. Beyond her classroom, she is a trusted resource for colleagues, offering strategies, insights, and collaboration to better support multilingual learners across the building.”
Thank you, Ms. Torra for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Alda Torra, ESL Teacher and Department Head at North High School.
“Alda creates an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where all students feel valued and empowered to take risks with language,” said North High Principal Sam FanFan. “She is highly attuned to the diverse needs of her students and consistently adapts her approach to support both academic and social-emotional growth. Beyond her classroom, she is a trusted resource for colleagues, offering strategies, insights, and collaboration to better support multilingual learners across the building.”
Thank you, Ms. Torra for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Megan Joinville, Third Grade Teacher at Heard Street Discovery Academy.
“Meg Joinville has created a warm, welcoming classroom atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to learn,” said Heard Street Principal Cynthia Vail. “Beyond their impact on students, they also serve as a trusted mentor to a new teacher at our school, sharing their experience and fostering a strong, supportive school community.”
Thank you, Ms. Joinville for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Megan Joinville, Third Grade Teacher at Heard Street Discovery Academy.
“Meg Joinville has created a warm, welcoming classroom atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to learn,” said Heard Street Principal Cynthia Vail. “Beyond their impact on students, they also serve as a trusted mentor to a new teacher at our school, sharing their experience and fostering a strong, supportive school community.”
Thank you, Ms. Joinville for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
💙 Closing Out Autism Awareness Month with Wear Blue Day 💙
On April 30, Worcester Public Schools recognized the final day of Autism Awareness Month by wearing blue in support of inclusion and belonging for students.
Pictured here are students and staff from Roosevelt School and Gates Lane School, along with staff from the Special Education Department at the Dr. John E. Durkin Administration Building, wearing blue in support of Autism Awareness Month.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped close out Autism Awareness Month. 💙
On April 30, Worcester Public Schools recognized the final day of Autism Awareness Month by wearing blue in support of inclusion and belonging for students.
Pictured here are students and staff from Roosevelt School and Gates Lane School, along with staff from the Special Education Department at the Dr. John E. Durkin Administration Building, wearing blue in support of Autism Awareness Month.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped close out Autism Awareness Month. 💙
💚 Mental Health Awareness Month 💚
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Worcester Public Schools is highlighting the spaces and supports that help our students and staff recharge, reset, and refocus each day.
Across the district, our wellness rooms offer calming spaces where students can regulate, reset and return to learning with the support they need. These spaces are just one part of our ongoing commitment to supporting mental and emotional well-being in every school, every day.
At WPS, wellness is more than a monthly message—it is part of how we care for our community all year long.
✨ This month, we encourage everyone to:
✅ Check in with yourself
✅ Make time to reset and recharge
✅ Support someone who may need a listening ear
✅ Prioritize mental wellness at school, at home, and in your community
From wellness rooms and student support services to healthy meals, movement, mindfulness, and family resources, WPS is committed to supporting the whole child and the whole community. 💚
📘 Explore wellness resources and supports available across WPS: https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Worcester Public Schools is highlighting the spaces and supports that help our students and staff recharge, reset, and refocus each day.
Across the district, our wellness rooms offer calming spaces where students can regulate, reset and return to learning with the support they need. These spaces are just one part of our ongoing commitment to supporting mental and emotional well-being in every school, every day.
At WPS, wellness is more than a monthly message—it is part of how we care for our community all year long.
✨ This month, we encourage everyone to:
✅ Check in with yourself
✅ Make time to reset and recharge
✅ Support someone who may need a listening ear
✅ Prioritize mental wellness at school, at home, and in your community
From wellness rooms and student support services to healthy meals, movement, mindfulness, and family resources, WPS is committed to supporting the whole child and the whole community. 💚
📘 Explore wellness resources and supports available across WPS: https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month ✨
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities here in Worcester and the United States.
Learn more about Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month: https://www.history.com/articles/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities here in Worcester and the United States.
Learn more about Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month: https://www.history.com/articles/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
Jewish American Heritage Month ✡️
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish American communities here in Worcester and across the United States.
For more than 370 years, Jewish Americans have helped shape our nation, with achievements spanning science, the arts, government, and civil rights.
Established in 2006, Jewish American Heritage Month also serves as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and stand against antisemitism.
Learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month: https://jewishamericanheritage.org/
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish American communities here in Worcester and across the United States.
For more than 370 years, Jewish Americans have helped shape our nation, with achievements spanning science, the arts, government, and civil rights.
Established in 2006, Jewish American Heritage Month also serves as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and stand against antisemitism.
Learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month: https://jewishamericanheritage.org/
🎓✨ Happy School Principals Day!
Today we are celebrating the school leaders who show up every day to support students, staff, and families and help our schools thrive 🌟
From greeting students in the morning 🚪😊 to guiding teachers, supporting families, and leading their school communities, our principals bring care, commitment, and purpose to everything they do. Their leadership helps create strong and positive learning environments where students can grow and succeed 📚💙
Today’s Principal Spotlight highlights three outstanding leaders:
👩🏫 Dr. Karrie Allen
“I believe my primary role as principal is to provide unwavering support to talented, dedicated staff and families, in order that students can engage in a top-notch learning environment. If we all do our part, we’ll extinguish all barriers, and these amazing children will have equal opportunities so well deserved.”
👩🏫 Cynthia Vail, Principal of Heard Street Discovery Academy
“As principal, I strive to make our school a place where every child, family, and teacher feels genuinely seen, heard, and cared for. I lead with compassion and purpose, building a community where everyone belongs and can thrive together.”
👩🏫 Susan Donahue, Principal of Thorndyke Road School
“I love being a principal because I get to spend each day surrounded by students whose curiosity and excitement for learning are contagious. It’s equally rewarding to work alongside dedicated adults who are committed to supporting, uplifting, and believing in every child.”
💐 A huge thank you to these principals and to all of our school principals across the district for your leadership, dedication, and the many ways you support your school communities every day. Your work truly makes a difference 💙
Today we are celebrating the school leaders who show up every day to support students, staff, and families and help our schools thrive 🌟
From greeting students in the morning 🚪😊 to guiding teachers, supporting families, and leading their school communities, our principals bring care, commitment, and purpose to everything they do. Their leadership helps create strong and positive learning environments where students can grow and succeed 📚💙
Today’s Principal Spotlight highlights three outstanding leaders:
👩🏫 Dr. Karrie Allen
“I believe my primary role as principal is to provide unwavering support to talented, dedicated staff and families, in order that students can engage in a top-notch learning environment. If we all do our part, we’ll extinguish all barriers, and these amazing children will have equal opportunities so well deserved.”
👩🏫 Cynthia Vail, Principal of Heard Street Discovery Academy
“As principal, I strive to make our school a place where every child, family, and teacher feels genuinely seen, heard, and cared for. I lead with compassion and purpose, building a community where everyone belongs and can thrive together.”
👩🏫 Susan Donahue, Principal of Thorndyke Road School
“I love being a principal because I get to spend each day surrounded by students whose curiosity and excitement for learning are contagious. It’s equally rewarding to work alongside dedicated adults who are committed to supporting, uplifting, and believing in every child.”
💐 A huge thank you to these principals and to all of our school principals across the district for your leadership, dedication, and the many ways you support your school communities every day. Your work truly makes a difference 💙
This Month’s Staff WooStar: David Romero, Spanish Teacher & Department Head at Forest Grove Middle School ⭐️
“David is a dynamic language teacher who always goes above and beyond! His lessons are engaging and give our students lots of opportunity to build their language skills and cultural understanding. As a colleague, he shares resources and is always willing to lend a hand. He and the Forest Grove World Language team have created amazing family engagement events to celebrate the languages and cultures of our students.”
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
“David is a dynamic language teacher who always goes above and beyond! His lessons are engaging and give our students lots of opportunity to build their language skills and cultural understanding. As a colleague, he shares resources and is always willing to lend a hand. He and the Forest Grove World Language team have created amazing family engagement events to celebrate the languages and cultures of our students.”
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
