The Worcester Public Schools (WPS) offers a wide range of performing arts opportunities, both in-school, after school, and with community partners, for scholars in grades K-12. The Burncoat Arts Magnet Program offers a greater focus on the arts.

Worcester Public Schools (WPS) offers a K-12 visual and performing arts pathway for students in the Burncoat Quadrant at the following schools: Worcester Arts Magnet Elementary (grades K-6), Burncoat Middle (7-8) and Burncoat High (9-12).

• Worcester Arts Magnet Elementary (grades K-6) is both a neighborhood-enrollment and citywide-enrollment school.

• Burncoat Middle (grades 7-8) and Burncoat High (grades 9-12) are neighborhood-enrollment schools that also accept students who live outside the enrollment zone through the Voluntary Transfer process.

• How to Apply? View our Enrollment and Specialized Program pages for more information.

The Burncoat Arts Magnet Program allows students citywide to study visual and performing arts in depth. Students have more rigorous arts courses and performance opportunities, and the ability to work with professionals from their art form.

Many students who complete the program go on to study the arts in college, enter the field upon graduation, or study any range of majors in college.

The program cultivates 21st-century essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity, empowering students to excel in any chosen path. If you have questions about the program, please email Aimee Kewley, Arts Department Head for Burncoat High School. For questions about enrollment, visit the Enrollment or Specialized Program pages, or call the Parent Information Center at 508-799-3194.

Unifying New Instrumentalists Through El Sistema (UNITES)  is an afterschool music program for students in grades 4-8 throughout the Worcester Public Schools. Visit the 2025 Worcester UNITES Registration Form to sign-up.

Students will participate in small group lessons and  ensembles Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 - 5:00 PM from January 15 - April 17 at Burncoat Middle School.

Our musical groups or ensembles include:

• Citywide Band

• Citywide Orchestra

Each ensemble is limited to 50 students.

This program is free for students enrolled in our elementary/middle school  instrumental music program or who have studied an instrument for at least one year.

Transportation is not available unless you attend Worcester Arts Magnet School.

The following performing arts programs are offered for youth in the City of Worcester but are not operated by the Worcester Public Schools:

Our community partners make us successful and remind our students of the power of partnership. They provide financial and artistic support , including master classes, organizational advice, guest conducting and more.