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
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
Superintendent Allen Visits Our Recent WooStars!
Superintendent Brian E. Allen visited Quinsigamond School and Claremont Academy to congratulate our recent WooStars!
Pictured here with Quinsigamond School fourth grader Januel Rivera and Woodland Academy & Claremont Academy music teacher Luis Maldonado, Superintendent Allen recognized their outstanding contributions to their school communities.
Our next WooStars will be announced on Monday! Nominations are also open for February's WooStars, links below:
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
Superintendent Brian E. Allen visited Quinsigamond School and Claremont Academy to congratulate our recent WooStars!
Pictured here with Quinsigamond School fourth grader Januel Rivera and Woodland Academy & Claremont Academy music teacher Luis Maldonado, Superintendent Allen recognized their outstanding contributions to their school communities.
Our next WooStars will be announced on Monday! Nominations are also open for February's WooStars, links below:
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
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! ✨
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! ✨
Happy National School Counseling Week! 💙
Worcester Public Schools proudly recognizes and thanks our school counselors for the guidance, care, and support they provide to students every day.
From helping students navigate academic goals to supporting their social-emotional well-being and planning for the future, our counselors play a vital role in helping every learner thrive.
Thank you for all you do for students in WPS!
Worcester Public Schools proudly recognizes and thanks our school counselors for the guidance, care, and support they provide to students every day.
From helping students navigate academic goals to supporting their social-emotional well-being and planning for the future, our counselors play a vital role in helping every learner thrive.
Thank you for all you do for students in WPS!
🚘 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!
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!
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.
🎓 Burncoat High School Hosts MCAC Day 🎓
Burncoat High School held its annual Massachusetts College Application Celebration (MCAC) Day to recognize the many postsecondary pathways students will take after graduation.
Nearly 50 community partners attended, including colleges, trade programs, local employers, military representatives, and civil service organizations. Students had the chance to make connections and some even received on-the-spot acceptances and scholarships.
Seniors also took part in a “Paint Your Future” activity, adding a handprint to a Class of 2026 mural representing their plans after graduation.
Burncoat High School held its annual Massachusetts College Application Celebration (MCAC) Day to recognize the many postsecondary pathways students will take after graduation.
Nearly 50 community partners attended, including colleges, trade programs, local employers, military representatives, and civil service organizations. Students had the chance to make connections and some even received on-the-spot acceptances and scholarships.
Seniors also took part in a “Paint Your Future” activity, adding a handprint to a Class of 2026 mural representing their plans after graduation.
📚 Doherty Memorial High School Students Bring Latin Lessons to Forest Grove Middle School 📚
Students from Doherty Memorial High School recently visited Forest Grove Middle School to share their interest in Latin, presenting educational activities as part of their Latin class to the middle school students.
The student-led presentation, guided by Doherty Latin teacher Steliane Thompson, featured a skit titled Pandora's Box. Students also hosted a Latin version of Jeopardy, challenging middle school students to answer Latin-themed questions.
This is an example of Vision of a Learner showcasing high school and middle school students as Curious Learners and Effective Communicators.
Students from Doherty Memorial High School recently visited Forest Grove Middle School to share their interest in Latin, presenting educational activities as part of their Latin class to the middle school students.
The student-led presentation, guided by Doherty Latin teacher Steliane Thompson, featured a skit titled Pandora's Box. Students also hosted a Latin version of Jeopardy, challenging middle school students to answer Latin-themed questions.
This is an example of Vision of a Learner showcasing high school and middle school students as Curious Learners and Effective Communicators.
🏈 The Worcester Cowboys 12U Football Team has been formally recognized by the Worcester School Committee for recently advancing to the national championship in Naples, Florida.
Several of the players are WPS students. Great job, everyone!
🔬✨ Family Science Night at Lake View School ✨🔬
Lake View School hosted an after-school Family Science Night that brought students and families together for hands-on learning and plenty of educational fun.
The event was hosted by Top Secret Science, an educational nonprofit organization that led those in attendance through seven interactive science experiments designed to spark curiosity and excitement.
This engaging experience highlighted students and caregivers as Curious Learners, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner.
Lake View School hosted an after-school Family Science Night that brought students and families together for hands-on learning and plenty of educational fun.
The event was hosted by Top Secret Science, an educational nonprofit organization that led those in attendance through seven interactive science experiments designed to spark curiosity and excitement.
This engaging experience highlighted students and caregivers as Curious Learners, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner.
🏫 Worcester Public Schools Pre-K, Dual Language, and Magnet Open Houses 🏫
Worcester Public Schools is hosting open houses at elementary schools across the district through January 27 for families planning to enroll students for the 2026–27 school year.
These open houses give parents and caregivers a chance to learn more about Pre-K, dual language programs, and magnet elementary schools with citywide admission, and ask questions directly to school-based staff.
✨ 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
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
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.”
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.”
🎉 Celebrating Outstanding Attendance at Worcester East Middle School!
Students at Worcester East Middle School were celebrated for their outstanding attendance! They took part in a fun Minute to Win It event, cheering each other on, working together as teams, and showing incredible school spirit.
It was a joyful way to recognize their dedication to showing up and staying engaged and a great reminder that every day counts! 💙👏
📸 Check out some of the photos from the event!
Students at Worcester East Middle School were celebrated for their outstanding attendance! They took part in a fun Minute to Win It event, cheering each other on, working together as teams, and showing incredible school spirit.
It was a joyful way to recognize their dedication to showing up and staying engaged and a great reminder that every day counts! 💙👏
📸 Check out some of the photos from the event!
🌎 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.
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.
Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council Kicks Off 2026 at Doherty 🎓
On January 8, 2026, student leaders gathered at Doherty Memorial High School for the first Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) meeting of the new year to explore an essential leadership principle: ‘Before you can lead others, you must know yourself.’
Through interactive activities like the “Stranded on an Island” icebreaker and the Priority Matrix exercise, students practiced teamwork, communication, and collaborative decision-making while identifying a shared focus for the year.
✅ Analyzed and compared school-based issues
✅ Practiced collaborative decision-making
✅ Reflected on how leaders prioritize time, energy, and impact
✅ Engaged in respectful dialogue to build consensus
With purpose, teamwork, and a clear focus, our student leaders are prepared to make a real difference in 2026.
On January 8, 2026, student leaders gathered at Doherty Memorial High School for the first Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) meeting of the new year to explore an essential leadership principle: ‘Before you can lead others, you must know yourself.’
Through interactive activities like the “Stranded on an Island” icebreaker and the Priority Matrix exercise, students practiced teamwork, communication, and collaborative decision-making while identifying a shared focus for the year.
✅ Analyzed and compared school-based issues
✅ Practiced collaborative decision-making
✅ Reflected on how leaders prioritize time, energy, and impact
✅ Engaged in respectful dialogue to build consensus
With purpose, teamwork, and a clear focus, our student leaders are prepared to make a real difference in 2026.
🚆🎓 All Aboard the MCAC Express at North High School!
The Office of College & Careers and the North High Guidance Department proudly hosted the Massachusetts College Application Celebration (MCAC) for North High School juniors and seniors, reimagined this year as “The MCAC Express.” Inspired by the Polar Express, the event created a welcoming, student-centered space focused on life after high school.
Throughout the day, students explored 25+ postsecondary pathways, including four-year colleges, community colleges, workforce and trade programs, military options, and postsecondary support programs. Using “train tickets,” students rotated through themed stations, encouraging meaningful conversations and exploration around life after high school.
The MCAC Express was designed to meet students where they are, whether applying to college, exploring career options, or seeking additional support after graduation, while reinforcing Worcester Public Schools’ commitment to college, career, and life readiness through access, choice, and opportunity.
✨ Huge thanks to Anita DiPilato for bringing the MCAC Express to life and creating an unforgettable experience for students!
💙 Thank you to all the students, staff, and participants who made the MCAC Express a success!
The Office of College & Careers and the North High Guidance Department proudly hosted the Massachusetts College Application Celebration (MCAC) for North High School juniors and seniors, reimagined this year as “The MCAC Express.” Inspired by the Polar Express, the event created a welcoming, student-centered space focused on life after high school.
Throughout the day, students explored 25+ postsecondary pathways, including four-year colleges, community colleges, workforce and trade programs, military options, and postsecondary support programs. Using “train tickets,” students rotated through themed stations, encouraging meaningful conversations and exploration around life after high school.
The MCAC Express was designed to meet students where they are, whether applying to college, exploring career options, or seeking additional support after graduation, while reinforcing Worcester Public Schools’ commitment to college, career, and life readiness through access, choice, and opportunity.
✨ Huge thanks to Anita DiPilato for bringing the MCAC Express to life and creating an unforgettable experience for students!
💙 Thank you to all the students, staff, and participants who made the MCAC Express a success!
This Month’s Staff WooStar: Luis Maldonado, Music Teacher at Claremont Academy & Woodland Academy
“Over his time at Woodland, Mr. Maldonado has shown remarkable growth, transforming our music program into a vibrant centerpiece of the school. His concerts are nothing short of impressive, showcasing both his creativity and the dedication he inspires in students. Mr. Maldonado holds high expectations for every learner and provides the encouragement and support they need to reach – and often exceed — those goals. His hard work extends far beyond the music room, enriching classroom teachers’ work and elevating the entire school community. Through his daily interactions, Mr. Maldonado instills a deep sense of respect and responsibility in students, modeling kindness and professionalism. His friendly presence, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to students make him a true asset to Woodland Academy."
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
“Over his time at Woodland, Mr. Maldonado has shown remarkable growth, transforming our music program into a vibrant centerpiece of the school. His concerts are nothing short of impressive, showcasing both his creativity and the dedication he inspires in students. Mr. Maldonado holds high expectations for every learner and provides the encouragement and support they need to reach – and often exceed — those goals. His hard work extends far beyond the music room, enriching classroom teachers’ work and elevating the entire school community. Through his daily interactions, Mr. Maldonado instills a deep sense of respect and responsibility in students, modeling kindness and professionalism. His friendly presence, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to students make him a true asset to Woodland Academy."
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
This Month’s Student WooStar: Januel Rivera, Fourth Grade, Empowered Individual at Quinsigamond School
“Jon Jon consistently demonstrates confidence, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate challenging moments in healthy and meaningful ways. Jon Jon comes to school each day with a positive attitude and a genuine excitement for learning, showing confidence in himself and his ability to grow. What sets Jon Jon apart is his ability to independently recognize challenges—both his own and those of others—and respond with calm, thoughtful action. When classmates are struggling, he naturally steps in to help, whether that means assisting a peer with tying their shoe, partnering with a shy student to help them feel comfortable, or offering reassurance and support. These moments reflect his strong emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential to navigating a complex world. Jon Jon’s empowerment extends beyond his classroom. Each afternoon, he takes responsibility for helping preschool students safely get onto the bus, demonstrating confidence, accountability, and leadership. During dismissal, when younger students are upset, Jon Jon is often the first to approach them, calmly helping them regulate their emotions and feel safe. He approaches these situations with patience and maturity, learning from each experience and applying those skills the next time a challenge arises.”
This demonstrates that Januel is an Empowered Individual, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner. He can monitor his emotional state and apply a variety of self-regulation strategies to navigate challenges and support others (EI 1).
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
“Jon Jon consistently demonstrates confidence, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate challenging moments in healthy and meaningful ways. Jon Jon comes to school each day with a positive attitude and a genuine excitement for learning, showing confidence in himself and his ability to grow. What sets Jon Jon apart is his ability to independently recognize challenges—both his own and those of others—and respond with calm, thoughtful action. When classmates are struggling, he naturally steps in to help, whether that means assisting a peer with tying their shoe, partnering with a shy student to help them feel comfortable, or offering reassurance and support. These moments reflect his strong emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential to navigating a complex world. Jon Jon’s empowerment extends beyond his classroom. Each afternoon, he takes responsibility for helping preschool students safely get onto the bus, demonstrating confidence, accountability, and leadership. During dismissal, when younger students are upset, Jon Jon is often the first to approach them, calmly helping them regulate their emotions and feel safe. He approaches these situations with patience and maturity, learning from each experience and applying those skills the next time a challenge arises.”
This demonstrates that Januel is an Empowered Individual, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner. He can monitor his emotional state and apply a variety of self-regulation strategies to navigate challenges and support others (EI 1).
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
📚 Worcester Public Schools Open Houses and Enrollment Info Sessions
Worcester Public Schools (WPS) is hosting open houses for preschool (Pre-K) and dual language programs, along with magnet elementary schools with citywide admission. WPS will also provide online information sessions about the overall enrollment process for Pre-K through grade 12.
📅 Mark These Dates:
• January 8-26: Open houses will be held for schools with pre-K, dual language, and/or a magnet/citywide lottery admission application process
• January 16-23: Online enrollment information session
• January 26: Enrollment for grades K-12 opens for the 2026-27 school year
📌 Full schedule & details: https://buff.ly/iesoIwg
Worcester Public Schools (WPS) is hosting open houses for preschool (Pre-K) and dual language programs, along with magnet elementary schools with citywide admission. WPS will also provide online information sessions about the overall enrollment process for Pre-K through grade 12.
📅 Mark These Dates:
• January 8-26: Open houses will be held for schools with pre-K, dual language, and/or a magnet/citywide lottery admission application process
• January 16-23: Online enrollment information session
• January 26: Enrollment for grades K-12 opens for the 2026-27 school year
📌 Full schedule & details: https://buff.ly/iesoIwg
