🎓 Where Are They Headed? | Class of 2026
August is here, which means many of our recent Worcester Public Schools graduates are getting ready to begin college, settle into their first jobs and careers, deepen their technical skills at trade schools, or embark on military service.
We are proud to celebrate the success of the WPS Class of 2026 one more time and wish you the very best in this next chapter. Class of 2027, you're up next!
Check out a complete list of where the Class of 2026 is headed next: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2984362
🔬 AbbVie, Heart of America Bring New STEAM Learning Space and School Enhancements to Norrback Avenue School 🔬
AbbVie and the Heart of America Foundation donated a new STEAM Lab and completed a series of school improvements at Norrback Avenue School, increasing access to engaging learning spaces and educational resources for students in Worcester Public Schools as part of AbbVie’s Week of Possibilities annual community outreach event.
More than 150 volunteers from AbbVie, Heart of America, and Worcester Public Schools worked together to transform a classroom space originally designed as a science classroom and return it to its original purpose as a new STEAM Lab. Additional volunteers also supported enhancements to indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the school.
The new STEAM Lab, a redesigned classroom space, will support fifth grade science and social studies instruction beginning in the 2026-27 school year. The space features new technology and instructional materials, including 3D printers, Chromebooks, electronic microscopes, and other STEAM-related resources.
Additional improvements included freshly painted walls, updated furniture, murals throughout the school, refreshed outdoor murals, an enhanced outdoor patio space, a more accessible location for the school’s clothes closet, and a new STEAM Corner within the library featuring hands-on activities for students across all grade levels.
Read more on our website: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/3011777
AbbVie and the Heart of America Foundation donated a new STEAM Lab and completed a series of school improvements at Norrback Avenue School, increasing access to engaging learning spaces and educational resources for students in Worcester Public Schools as part of AbbVie’s Week of Possibilities annual community outreach event.
More than 150 volunteers from AbbVie, Heart of America, and Worcester Public Schools worked together to transform a classroom space originally designed as a science classroom and return it to its original purpose as a new STEAM Lab. Additional volunteers also supported enhancements to indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the school.
The new STEAM Lab, a redesigned classroom space, will support fifth grade science and social studies instruction beginning in the 2026-27 school year. The space features new technology and instructional materials, including 3D printers, Chromebooks, electronic microscopes, and other STEAM-related resources.
Additional improvements included freshly painted walls, updated furniture, murals throughout the school, refreshed outdoor murals, an enhanced outdoor patio space, a more accessible location for the school’s clothes closet, and a new STEAM Corner within the library featuring hands-on activities for students across all grade levels.
Read more on our website: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/3011777
☀️ Summer fun starts with a healthy meal! 🍎
From June 23 through August 21, Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is offering FREE meals for all children and teens 18 and under.
✅ No registration
✅ No ID
✅ No paperwork
📲 Scan the QR code or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
See you this summer! 🍉
From June 23 through August 21, Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is offering FREE meals for all children and teens 18 and under.
✅ No registration
✅ No ID
✅ No paperwork
📲 Scan the QR code or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
See you this summer! 🍉
🎶 Burncoat High School Chorus Performs at Fenway Park! ⚾
This past Saturday, members of the Burncoat High School Quadrivium Chorus had the incredible honor of performing the National Anthem before the Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park, showcasing their talent on one of the country's most iconic stages. 🇺🇸
Congratulations to these outstanding student musicians and their directors on this unforgettable experience and for representing Worcester Public Schools with pride!
📷 Swipe through to see highlights from this unforgettable day at Fenway Park!
📸 Photo credit: Max Berger
This past Saturday, members of the Burncoat High School Quadrivium Chorus had the incredible honor of performing the National Anthem before the Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park, showcasing their talent on one of the country's most iconic stages. 🇺🇸
Congratulations to these outstanding student musicians and their directors on this unforgettable experience and for representing Worcester Public Schools with pride!
📷 Swipe through to see highlights from this unforgettable day at Fenway Park!
📸 Photo credit: Max Berger
🍎 Summer Eats Is in Full Swing! ☀️
Summer is here, and Worcester Public Schools is helping kids and teens stay fueled all season long! Through the Summer Eats program, we’re serving fresh, delicious, FREE meals throughout the community with no registration or ID required.
A huge shoutout to our incredible Nutrition Services staff who prepare these healthy meals and help make Summer Eats possible all summer long. 💚
Swipe to see some of our Nutrition Services staff in action and the smiles they help create along the way! 🥪🥦🍏
📍 Visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
Summer is here, and Worcester Public Schools is helping kids and teens stay fueled all season long! Through the Summer Eats program, we’re serving fresh, delicious, FREE meals throughout the community with no registration or ID required.
A huge shoutout to our incredible Nutrition Services staff who prepare these healthy meals and help make Summer Eats possible all summer long. 💚
Swipe to see some of our Nutrition Services staff in action and the smiles they help create along the way! 🥪🥦🍏
📍 Visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
🍎 Summer Eats Is Serving Up Smiles! ☀️
We’ve been visiting some of our Summer Eats locations across Worcester and seeing the program in action! From nutritious meals to friendly faces, it’s great to see our community coming together to keep kids and teens fueled all summer long. 🥪🍏
Through Summer Eats, free meals are available for children and teens ages 18 and younger. No registration or ID is required!
📍 Visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
We’ve been visiting some of our Summer Eats locations across Worcester and seeing the program in action! From nutritious meals to friendly faces, it’s great to see our community coming together to keep kids and teens fueled all summer long. 🥪🍏
Through Summer Eats, free meals are available for children and teens ages 18 and younger. No registration or ID is required!
📍 Visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to find a Summer Eats location near you.
Quarter 4 Honor Roll!
Congratulations to all WPS students being recognized for their hard work and academic achievement in the fourth quarter. We’re proud to celebrate your success!
Find your student here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/3013300
Congratulations to all WPS students being recognized for their hard work and academic achievement in the fourth quarter. We’re proud to celebrate your success!
Find your student here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/3013300
🏃♂️ Every Day Is Recess with Summer Eats! 🏃♀️
Keep the fun going all summer long! Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is making sure your days are filled with full plates and great energy. 🍔🍕🍇
With Summer Eats, kids and teens eat completely FREE every single day. No sign-ups, no ID required—just show up, grab some delicious food, and enjoy your summer recess!
Finding a location is easier than ever:
📱 Scan the QR code
👉 Or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to view locations and meal times.
Let's make this summer full of good food and great times. Share this with your friends and neighbors so no one misses out! ☀️✨
Keep the fun going all summer long! Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services is making sure your days are filled with full plates and great energy. 🍔🍕🍇
With Summer Eats, kids and teens eat completely FREE every single day. No sign-ups, no ID required—just show up, grab some delicious food, and enjoy your summer recess!
Finding a location is easier than ever:
📱 Scan the QR code
👉 Or visit worcesterschools.org/summer-eats to view locations and meal times.
Let's make this summer full of good food and great times. Share this with your friends and neighbors so no one misses out! ☀️✨
📚☀️ Summer Reading Starts Here! ☀️📚
Whether your child loves mystery, sports, fantasy, novels, or learning something new, summer is the perfect time to discover new books, strengthen literacy skills, and keep their imagination growing.
Looking for ideas? Worcester Public Schools offers summer reading resources for students and families, including recommended book lists to help make reading part of your summer routine.
Visit our Summer Reading page to get started and discover your next great read!
🔗 worcesterschools.org/summerreading
Whether your child loves mystery, sports, fantasy, novels, or learning something new, summer is the perfect time to discover new books, strengthen literacy skills, and keep their imagination growing.
Looking for ideas? Worcester Public Schools offers summer reading resources for students and families, including recommended book lists to help make reading part of your summer routine.
Visit our Summer Reading page to get started and discover your next great read!
🔗 worcesterschools.org/summerreading
☀️ 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
🎓 Middle School Jump Start: Preparing Students for High School 🎓
Before the end of the school year, Worcester Public Schools’ Middle School Jump Start welcomed rising ninth grade students across the district for a closer look at their future high schools before the start of the 2026-27 school year.
Students visited their new school communities, connected with staff, and learned more about the transition to high school.
Students from Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School visited South High Community School, where more than 400 future Colonels participated in sessions held over several days to prepare for the year ahead. Students enjoyed lunch in the cafeteria, explored fall sports and extracurricular opportunities, and learned more about life as a high school student.
Students also participated in rotating sessions focused on school expectations, attendance, understanding their schedules, summer reading, and other resources to support a successful start to ninth grade.
We look forward to welcoming these students back in August as they begin their high school journey!
Before the end of the school year, Worcester Public Schools’ Middle School Jump Start welcomed rising ninth grade students across the district for a closer look at their future high schools before the start of the 2026-27 school year.
Students visited their new school communities, connected with staff, and learned more about the transition to high school.
Students from Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School visited South High Community School, where more than 400 future Colonels participated in sessions held over several days to prepare for the year ahead. Students enjoyed lunch in the cafeteria, explored fall sports and extracurricular opportunities, and learned more about life as a high school student.
Students also participated in rotating sessions focused on school expectations, attendance, understanding their schedules, summer reading, and other resources to support a successful start to ninth grade.
We look forward to welcoming these students back in August as they begin their high school journey!
🛑 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
⚡🌱 Worcester Public Schools is launching a new Clean Energy Pathway for grades 10-12 in the 2026-27 school year!
Through Innovation Career Pathways, students will gain hands-on experience, earn industry certifications, and explore careers in the growing clean energy sector.
📖 Read more: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2963804
Through Innovation Career Pathways, students will gain hands-on experience, earn industry certifications, and explore careers in the growing clean energy sector.
📖 Read more: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2963804
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.
🎓🌟 Congratulations to the University Park Campus School Class of 2026!
We’re proud to introduce Rediet Habtamu Abayneh as this year’s Valedictorian! 🎉
Originally from Ethiopia, Rediet has earned an outstanding 4.9 GPA while completing 6 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 9 college classes. Driven by her passion for advocacy and creating spaces where all students feel seen and heard, she has taken on meaningful leadership roles throughout her high school journey. 💬🤝
Rediet serves as Vice President of Model United Nations, Class President, Treasurer of the National Honor Society, Founder and President of the Student of Color Union, and Captain of the Girls Soccer team. She is also an Upward Bound scholar and Leadership Next Gen Fellow. Her achievements include winning the Martin Luther King Jr. Poetry Contest twice, receiving the Harvard Book Award, conducting research through a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) project at Clark University, and interning at the U.S. District Court in the Chambers of Judge Guzman.
This fall, Rediet will attend Columbia University on a full scholarship, where she will study political science on the pre-law track and pursue her goal of becoming a lawyer.
👏 Join us in celebrating Rediet Habtamu Abayneh and all of University Park Campus School’s incredible graduates!
🎓 Commencement takes place Friday, May 29, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Clark University, Atwood Hall, 950 Main Street.
We’re proud to introduce Rediet Habtamu Abayneh as this year’s Valedictorian! 🎉
Originally from Ethiopia, Rediet has earned an outstanding 4.9 GPA while completing 6 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 9 college classes. Driven by her passion for advocacy and creating spaces where all students feel seen and heard, she has taken on meaningful leadership roles throughout her high school journey. 💬🤝
Rediet serves as Vice President of Model United Nations, Class President, Treasurer of the National Honor Society, Founder and President of the Student of Color Union, and Captain of the Girls Soccer team. She is also an Upward Bound scholar and Leadership Next Gen Fellow. Her achievements include winning the Martin Luther King Jr. Poetry Contest twice, receiving the Harvard Book Award, conducting research through a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) project at Clark University, and interning at the U.S. District Court in the Chambers of Judge Guzman.
This fall, Rediet will attend Columbia University on a full scholarship, where she will study political science on the pre-law track and pursue her goal of becoming a lawyer.
👏 Join us in celebrating Rediet Habtamu Abayneh and all of University Park Campus School’s incredible graduates!
🎓 Commencement takes place Friday, May 29, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Clark University, Atwood Hall, 950 Main Street.
🏅 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! 👏🌟
