Worcester Public Schools’ annual Evening of Celebration was held Tuesday, May 9, 2023 in the auditorium of South High Community School. This memorable event recognized outstanding contributions made by individuals to Worcester Public Schools.
Congratulations to all award recipients!
Awards
Administrative Secretary of the Year Award
Kathy Worrick, Forest Grove Middle School
Kathy is a great person to work with as she is always willing to help out when needed. She is professional and courteous toward other staff and students alike. She is the last one to leave and the first to arrive. Kathy is a stellar worker who is retiring this year.
Bus Driver of the Year Award
Robert Murphy
Robert has a positive attitude and goes above and beyond at all times. He is always available to take on extra coverage and does it with a smile on his face. Robert is amazing with the students and is always available in the bus yard when needed. Each and every day he shares his positivity with those around him. He is a team player who is always willing to help whenever he is needed.
Bus Monitor of the Year Award
Cherrol Bennett
Cherrol has an awesome attitude and is always willing to help, making sure every student is safe. She arrives to work each and every day with a positive attitude and mindset, ready to tackle the day’s events and willing to help out on other routes. She is amazing with the students and available in the bus yard whenever needed. Cherrol always has a kind word and a smile on her face.
Community Service Award
Katie Chaffee
Ms. Chaffee has been the PTO President at West Tatnuck School for the last 8 years. She has worked tirelessly to support all aspects of the school's system from volunteering her time to covering classrooms, chaperoning field trips, facilitating monthly PTO meetings, leading many fundraising events with community members, assisting teachers during school-wide events such as the science fair, and co leading a school library and playground project at West Tatnuck School.
Educational Secretary of the Year Award
Briana Neves-Marquez, Grafton Street School
Briana goes above and beyond in her duties. She is always willing to help students, families, and staff feel comfortable and have their needs met. She does much more than what is in her job description and goes above and beyond every day!
Instructional Assistant of the Year Award
Allen (Al) Jenkins, North High School
Allen (Al) Jenkins was an instructional assistant for many years within the Worcester Public Schools. For the past five years at North High School, Al supported the Special Education Department specifically in Math and Science classes. He was an unsung hero with these content areas servicing students with special needs in various settings like inclusion, STEP and resource room. Creatively, he would articulate himself to engage students in these subject areas. Al gave these content areas a positive spin and purpose. Al was also known within the department to be wherever he was needed to support students and learning.
Al had a passion for sports particularly basketball which motivated him through his education as a student within the Worcester Public Schools. As a native to the city of Worcester, students could see Al’s investment in them, through a completely different lens. Al would attend various sporting events even if he was the only one in the stands.
Even with his death, there is no one that is more deserving of this award than Al Jenkins. In and beyond the classroom setting, his connections with students continue to motivate and inspire others to become more productive members of their community today. The potential impact he has made from his passing shows the depth and impeccable influence that he has built among staff and students here at North High School and the city of Worcester.
John F. Doherty Award
Vincent Barron, School Shop
Vincent is a second-shift Painter and has been an invaluable member of the Facilities Management family since 2018. He is committed to the school department and has demonstrated excellence and determination on a daily basis. Among his peers, Vincent is an amiable co-worker, and is known for his subtle sense of humor and easy-going demeanor. Vincent’s strengths in the painting field are coupled with his spirit of teamwork, dependability, and accountability.
Vincent does not seek kudos and he is not interested in the limelight. Most of his work is done in the evening when most of us are home with our families and friends. Like John Doherty, Vincent Barron is a man who takes pride in his work, which can be seen system-wide. He is dedicated to the care and custody of this district and his legacy can easily be seen in the way that he carries himself as a responsible, respectful professional.
John Lapomardo Award
Joseph Mastrototaro, Challenge and Reach Academy
Joe is an all in custodian. He has donned a lot of 'hats' this year working in the cafeteria and doing lavatory duty. Personable, resourceful, kind and dedicated, Joe is the grandfather of the Challenge and Reach Academy in Worcester. He takes care of all his staff and takes the initiative to get things done. We never worry about an icy sidewalk for our students. Hardworking and reliable, Joe thinks ahead and takes on whatever the building needs. He is loved by students and adults. We are absolutely lucky and blessed to have a person like him around! Joe is available at any time of the school day to help out with messy classrooms and broken furniture. Challenge and Reach would be falling apart at the seams (possibly literally) without Joe's tremendous effort each day. Friendly and helpful, he makes sure to prep your room and keep it clean all day. He is funny and takes pride in his job. Joe is always ready to help others around the building with a smile on his face. He is a vital part of our building at Challenge and Reach and we couldn't do what we do without Joe! He keeps our school spotless and clean. He goes above and beyond without being asked. He is always willing to go the extra mile to help any staff with classrooms and celebration day set-ups. He builds a relationship with all staff and students.
Non-Instructional Staff of the Year Award
Yolanda Lopez, Union Hill School
Yolanda Lopez has exceptional skills in developing and implementing strategies to support the social, emotional, and academic success of our students at Union Hill. Yolanda has worked tirelessly to build positive relationships with students, families, and community partners, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration that is essential to the success of our school.
Yolanda consistently demonstrates the ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating with teachers, counselors, and community partners to ensure that students and families receive the necessary support and services to thrive. She is always willing to go above and beyond to support our students, taking the initiative to develop and implement new programs and services as needed. She has a deep commitment to her work and a passion for making a positive difference in the lives of our students through her hands-on approach, work ethic, and dedication.
School Nurse of the Year Award
Kaitlyn Curtin, North High School
Katie Curtin has been with the Worcester Public Schools since 2013, marking 9½ years of service. While at North, she has demonstrated compassion to our life skills students and patience and understanding with the student body at NHS. Katie goes beyond her duties as a school nurse helping out at and attending before and after school events and donating athletic equipment when able. This school year, Katie was faced with a situation that she has trained for her entire career, but no person ever wants to put into action. Without hesitation, Katie performed life-saving administration of the AED until the paramedics were able to arrive. Due to her efforts she was able to save the staff’s life.
Administrator of the Year Award
Fjodor Dukaj, Clark Street Community School
As the leader of Clark Street School, Mr. Dukaj has demonstrated unwavering focus, strategic thinking, and deliberate action toward achieving excellence in education. He is a hard-working and dedicated principal who continuously challenges himself and his team to achieve greater heights.
Under Mr. Dukaj’s leadership, the school has achieved remarkable success. His ability to ask the right questions and make data-driven decisions has helped the school move out from under its underperforming status and continue to grow and improve. Mr. Dukaj is not only focused on academic excellence but also deeply cares about his school community, students, families, and staff. He has created a warm and welcoming school environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Mr. Dukaj’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming the school into a vibrant and thriving community of learners.
His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to the school community make him an exceptional principal. He is a role model for educators and his leadership is an inspiration to all. His ability to create a positive and inclusive school culture, his focus on academic excellence, and his care for the well-being of his students and staff make him a deserving candidate for this award.
Teacher of the Year Award
Michael Jesse Garcia, Doherty Memorial High School
An outstanding teacher, Jesse is adored by his students, present and past. He offers students extra help every day after school and provides for all of his students’ needs. He serves as advisor for our Intellectual Discourse Club which emphasizes respectful dialogue between students and the Doherty Food Drive Club which has donated approximately 5000 items to Jeremiah's Inn. He holds his students to a high academic and moral standing, demanding that they treat each other with respect and kindness at all times.
Thomas Jefferson Award Honorees
Academic Center for Transition
Honoree: Katie Fleming
Katie works tirelessly to ensure that our school community feels supported and loved. Her work on the board of Joseph’s Project, a food pantry serving the Wachusett community, has provided all families at ACT the opportunity to receive a full Thanksgiving meal each year, along with providing families who may experience food insecurities throughout the year with food or gift cards for food. Katie is also our biggest cheerleader, boosting morale simply by walking into the room!
Belmont Street Community School
Honoree: Dana Finberg
Dana is a second grade teacher at Belmont Street Community School. She is patient, understanding, and always willing to go the extra mile to help her students achieve their goals. She takes the time to understand each student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles to personalize her teaching approach and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Burncoat High School
Honoree: Jean Stone
Jean Stone is retiring this year after a distinguished career serving students in the WPS as a math teacher at WEMS/BHS and AP at BHS. She has had a tremendous impact on tireless efforts with community agencies to build our food and clothing pantry and support students and families. Hundreds if not thousands of gift baskets full of food, gift cards, and clothing have been distributed to families. Jean is respected and loved by her colleagues, putting others first and supporting faculty during difficult times.
Burncoat Middle School
Honoree: Dr. Lauren Capotosto
Dr. Lauren Capotosto of Holy Cross College is a contributing member of the BMS School Council and a valued community partner that works with our ELA department researching adolescent literacy. Her work has evolved into a project that enabled students to curate their own classroom libraries. She is currently collaborating with teachers to create classroom cultures that build student interest and a love of reading. Her ongoing commitment puts books into the hands of students and inspires our teachers!
Burncoat Street Preparatory School
Honoree: Janet Mercedes
Janet is a consummate professional. She goes above and beyond to support students and staff at Burncoat Prep. Janet gives positive encouragement to all of the students she encounters throughout the day. She genuinely cares about all of our students and they know she loves them. She is always willing to give support when needed. Janet is dedicated to boosting student success and staff morale. You can always count on her to lift up spirits during the most challenging times.
Canterbury Street Magnet Computer-Based School
Honoree: Julie Lee
Julie Lee exemplifies the qualities of a Thomas Jefferson Award recipient. Julie is our school nurse at Canterbury Street School and has been a wonderful addition to our school community over the past two years. We were so lucky to have her support during our return to school after COVID. She is a constant liaison to our families and has an innate willingness to help by going above and beyond her duties. In addition to her daily responsibilities, Julie works the after school program to support a diabetic student after school. We are proud to nominate her for this award.
Challenge and Reach Academy
Honoree: Tammy Bailey
Tammy’s daily, positive attitude fuels our building. She is loved by staff and students alike. Her main role is to support curriculum, but she is always willing to help in any capacity. She consistently brings positive vibes even on our darkest days.
Chandler Elementary Community School
Honoree: Ronald Cousineau
Ron has been working as our custodian at Chandler Elementary for the past few years. He is always reliable, caring, helpful and respectful to all students and staff as he carries out his duties each day. He takes pride in his job and keeps our building impeccably clean. He always puts a smile on the children's faces with his fun personality and witty sense of humor. Ron is a valued member of our Chandler Elementary Community. We are so lucky to have him.
Chandler Magnet School
Honoree: Libertad Villarreal
Libertad demonstrates rigorous teaching practices and high expectations for language acquisition in both English and Spanish. She has positive relationships with colleagues, students, and parents. She encourages students to be their best every single day. She goes out of her way to support student needs and is a strong advocate for her students.
City View Discovery School
Honoree: Roberta Rey
Roberta is professional, compassionate and respectful in all of her interactions. She is a fierce advocate for those who are in need of support and makes everyone feel that they are special and an integral part of the school community.
Clark Street Community School
Honoree: Charlene Preston
Mrs. Preston is an essential member of our school and key member of both our ILT and PBIS Team. She is also the lead advisor for our Gardening Club. Charlene exhibits all of our core values: Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Perseverance and especially Community. She is positive, encouraging and always looking for solutions to any challenges that may arise. Mrs. Preston is one of the most humble members of our community, a role model for our students, and an inspiration for us all.
Columbus Park School
Honoree: Kim D’Acri
I am nominating Ms. D'Acri who is an Instructional Assistant in our STEP INT room. There is not one day that Ms. D’Acri does not go above and beyond for her students and school community. Her dedication and commitment to our students never goes unnoticed. She treats her students as one of her own. She provides them with love and encouragement when things get difficult for them. Ms. D’Acri will make sure they are a part of extra activities, so they feel part of our school community.
Doherty Memorial High School
Honoree: Katherine Simmarano
With the move to WooEdu, Katie shared her expertise with staff to create critical, custom reports. She met with departments to identify their needs, then worked off-hours to pull WooEdu into a user-friendly interface for many school related needs.
Elm Park Community School
Honoree: Maegan Cook
Unwavering and contagious positive attitude despite being a PE teacher with no gym
Excellent unofficial mentor to new specialist
Tireless, sharp, and always ready when managing students
Always in the middle of the action (helping at student celebrations, students needs to consult with trusted adult, etc.)
Supports team building efforts (Holiday party, kickball, etc.)
Shows up with fast Google and IT support as the Google Trainer
Flagg Street School
Honoree: Sheila Egan
Ms. Sheila Egan, the Literacy Tutor at Flagg Street School, is the epitome of professionalism. She has dedicated her life to educating the students of Worcester and she deserves to be recognized with this distinguished award. She is a brilliant, caring, and thoughtful teacher who ensures that her students succeed at high levels. Ms. Egan is admired and respected by every parent and staff member. As a source of inspiration, we all aspire to be like the spectacular Ms. Egan!
Forest Grove Middle School
Honoree: Andrea Sullivan
Andrea has been a longstanding member and co-chair of our FGMS Site Council, and an alternate delegate to CPPAC. Andrea has shared her time and talent in many ways including twice arranging and coordinating a faculty and staff brunch at Forest Grove provided by our FGMS families.
Francis J. McGrath Elementary School
Honoree: Stefanie Furlong
Stefanie Furlong leads our new preschool special education classroom at Francis J. McGrath, where her dedication and love for her students is evident in everything she does. Her positivity and patience towards their growth and development are inspiring. Stefanie is an excellent team player and has been instrumental in establishing a supportive and effective learning environment for her students.
Gates Lane School of International Studies
Honoree: Keisha Dykes
Keisha Dykes is an amazing PTO President. She gives her time graciously and is always there for everyone. A good leader inspires others to be their best and Keisha definitely inspires! With her giving heart, she is an exceptional woman! Keisha makes Gates Lane a better school for the children, parents, teachers and administrators! Thank you Keisha, for all you do!
Goddard School of Science and Technology
Honoree: Ryan Simoncini
Our Student Council and faculty nominate Ryan due to his upstanding commitment to Goddard School. Ryan's attention to detail both inside and outside our school consistently brings forth praise from all who come to our campus. Ryan is highly organized. He supervises three custodians, maintains critical notes to ensure items are addressed, follows-through with all requests and closely collaborates with our entire team. Ryan has high expectations for himself and as a result, our school shines.
Grafton Street School
Honoree: Richard Nieves
Mr. Nieves is an ESL teacher that has consistently gone above and beyond for the students of Grafton Street School. In addition to supporting and engaging our students, he greets students every morning at the door, has organized holiday gifts and reaches out to families. He not only supports his students, but all of the students of the Grafton Street School community.
Heard Street Discovery Academy
Honoree: Amy DeFeudis
It is with great pleasure that the staff at Heard Street School nominates Amy DeFeudis for the Thomas Jefferson Award. Amy brings a warm and loving touch to every school day. She knows every student, staff, and community member by name. Amy always goes above and beyond to find the answer to the questions or to make someone smile. Amy understands the policies and systems that allow her to create a safe, supportive environment for staff and students alike. We appreciate all she does for Heard Street School.
Jacob Hiatt Magnet School
Honoree: Kathleen Karpowicz
Ms. Karpowicz immediately embraced SAIL when the program came to Jacob Hiatt. She welcomed SAIL inclusion students into her classroom and she ensured they immediately became HER students. She did not rely on the IA but instead made sure those students were by her side and she was providing instruction. In addition to this, Kat is a critical member of our PBIS team- always reminding us to be positive, not just through words, but through modeling. She is the epitome of team player.
La Familia Dual Language School
Honoree: Paula Pietro-Malmquist
Paula's a veteran educator, passionate and dedicated to her work as an IA. She comes to work more than her contracted time to ensure that her students are accessing and supported. Paula loves La Familia and we love her! She is a lifeforce in our community!
Lake View School
Honoree: Suzie Murray
Suzie is not only the first face you see when entering our office, she is also a behind the scenes magician. Her ability to multitask in a variety of ways makes her a go to for everyone. Often performing tasks outside of her job description, her first priority is to foster a warm and welcoming atmosphere upon entering the doors of Lake View. She is an office assistant, operator, greeter, nurse, mother, cook and hand holder. We would be lost without her.
Lincoln Street School
Honoree: Cheryl Burke
Cheryl Burke is an outstanding head of cafeteria at Lincoln Street School. She consistently ensures student breakfast and lunch are prepared in a timely manner. Her friendly demeanor with all staff and students is welcome and refreshing. She carefully monitors and accommodates dietary restrictions and food allergies on a daily basis.
Cheryl ensures every student has a full belly and is ready for learning at Lincoln Street School.
May Street School
Honoree: Jennifer Sheils
Jen has been the face of May Street for the past 3 years as the school administrative assistant. Her morning breakfast dance is a huge hit with the students and the steady stream of students who stop by the office to visit with her is a testament to her influence and impact on the student body. She is also a great listener as staff often vent to her. Jen never reveals her sources. Jen is also our tech problem solver, always making sure that student Chromebooks are ready for our learners.
Midland Street School
Honoree: Jessica Farmer
Jessica Farmer is a new addition to Midland Street, yet not new to the Worcester Public Schools. This year (22/23), Jess has created relationships, led the Co-Teaching Pilot, created and implemented PD, collaborated with colleagues and coached teachers on how to enhance their lesson planning for ALL learners. Jess is an invaluable member of the ILT, Social Committee, SSP Team and Climate and Culture Team. Jess advocates for ALL learners and her expertise is second to none.
New Citizen Center Secondary
Honoree: Brendan Welsh
As a math teacher at NCC, Mr. Welsh has established himself as more than a team player, he's become the head cheerleader and mascot of our school! He lends a helping hand to everyone and encourages student participation by example. Brendan jumps in with enthusiasm regardless of personal well-being or pride, which is very much appreciated. With his open heart and mind and enthusiasm, Mr. Welsh makes lasting connections with students and staff. We're very lucky to have him.
Norrback Avenue School
Honoree: Elizabeth Dunn
Norrback Avenue School proudly nominates Elizabeth Dunn as our Thomas Jefferson Award winner. Throughout her years at Norrback Mrs. Dunn has had a tremendous impact on staff and students. She is a coach, a mentor, and unofficial tech help who is always there to support. She brings people together to collaborate on any challenge and does it with a quiet and humble demeanor. Mrs. Dunn is an essential member of our Norrback family and we would not be who we are without her! Congratulations Mrs. Dunn!
North High School
Honoree: The Wetherbee Family
North High would like to recognize The Wetherbee Family with the Thomas Jefferson Award. Coach Weatherbee and his family have been nothing short of spectacular with regards to their commitment, dedication, and overall love and admiration for the Boys’ Basketball program and most importantly, our student athletes. The Wetherbee Family has made the ultimate sacrifices to promote stability and togetherness within our program. They ensure that our athletes are hydrated and fed, they update the community through the NHS Polar Bears Facebook page, and have spent countless hours advising and encouraging our student athletes. The family’s passion is infectious and we are lucky to have them as a member of our Polar Bear family.
Quinsigamond School
Honoree: Sara Godin
Sara is a model of excellence for all at Quinsigamond School. Sara approaches her work as a School Adjustment Counselor with integrity, kindness, love, and professionalism in all that she does each day. Sara is willing to listen and problem solve a situation to help using any resources available. Sara builds trusting relationships and follows through on her word even when the conversation is a difficult one. She is an amazing advocate for our students at Quinsig.
Rice Square School
Honoree: Matthew Wright
Matt is an outstanding custodian who works exceptionally hard to maintain our one hundred and eleven years old facility and to provide our students, families and staff with a safe and clean school environment that is conducive to learning. In addition, Matt is the most committed, helpful and positive school custodian anyone could ask for. Matt always has a smile, a positive attitude, never complains and is always willing to do whatever needs to be done to support our Rice Square community.
Roosevelt School
Honoree: Kara Wroblewski
Kara is a longtime employee of the WPS and a current Focused Instructional Coach at Roosevelt. Kara's work is outstanding. She works tirelessly during and after school hours keeping us up to date on curriculum, data, and teaching strategies that promote achievement. Kara is a wealth of knowledge and a great resource for all at Roosevelt. Kara is an instrumental part of the Roosevelt team and her hard work, dedication and consistent support of staff and students is noticed and appreciated.
South High Community School
Honoree: Timothy Fournier
For the past 4 years Tim has gone above and beyond handling the move from the former South High to opening the new South High. His positive "can do" attitude has been a breath of fresh air, easing the stress of closing and opening a building. Tim's pride in South High is evident in his work. His efforts are greatly appreciated by the staff and students.
Sullivan Middle School
Honoree: Robyn Vautour
Mrs. Vautour's role as Wrap-Around Coordinator at Sullivan Middle School has her organizing food and clothing drives, doing home visits to provide much needed supplies and always promoting the power of education to change lives. She is an individual who others seek out for advice and a person we call upon to provide insight. She has always made a special place for students to express themselves and Sullivan students leave her knowing that they can make a difference in the world.
Tatnuck Magnet School
Honoree: Dr. Caryn McCrohon
Dr. Caryn McCrohon is a devoted member of the Tatnuck Magnet School community. As assistant principal, Caryn has been a positive leader and role model for students and staff. Caryn's commitment to teaching and learning is coupled with her ability to easily form positive relationships with students, parents and staff. Her dedication to the well-being of our students is evident through her patience, kindness and loyalty. Tatnuck Magnet is a better place because of Dr. McCrohon's contributions.
Thorndyke Road School
Honoree: Brenda Dubrey
Brenda is known at Thorndyke Road for her enthusiasm for teaching as well as her commitment to students and families. Brenda's third grade classroom serves as model for how to build a classroom community through deep, trusting relationships. In her instructional practice, she is skilled at using data to meet the needs of her learners. Brenda serves on the school's Belonging Network, and also supports pre-service and first year educators as a mentor and supervising practitioner.
Union Hill School
Honoree: Heath Squires
Mr. Squires is a grade 6 Math teacher. He has also been our STMath champion since we began the program and goes above and beyond his duties as a teacher. Students respect him as he has built great relationships with his students and families. He has a great relationship with his colleagues as well as administration as he is always willing to assist wherever needed.
University Park Campus School
Honoree: Lynnel Reed-Powell
Lynnel Reed-Powell is an incredible educator who has dedicated her career to making a positive impact in the Worcester community. Lynnel is a trusted guidance counselor who goes above and beyond to ensure that her students have every possible opportunity. Lynnel deeply cares about the success of her students, she has organized field trips, career days, employment opportunities and other events to make sure all her students have access to a wide range of experiences.
Vernon Hill School
Honoree: Kate Aselton
Vernon Hill School is proud to recognize Kate Aselton for the Thomas Jefferson Award. Kate embodies Vernon Hill's core values of persistence and determination. Her relentless approach to her work and her unwavering conviction are qualities that are an inspiration to others. She leads by example, and her actions serve as a model for others.
Wawecus Road School
Honoree: Donna Anderson
Donna possesses outstanding qualities as an educator, mentor, and leader. She is highly knowledgeable, passionate, and enthusiastic, continually seeking ways to improve her practice. She consistently sets high expectations for herself and her colleagues and works tirelessly to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic inspire those around her. She is well-respected among her peers for her professionalism, dedication, and expertise.
West Tatnuck School
Honoree: Daniel Hayes
Dan has been an educator in the Worcester public schools for over 25 years. He is dynamic, hardworking, dedicated, and goes above and beyond for his students. He has initiated both school-wide and district wide projects. Dan adapted and enriched the math olympiad and initiated the WPS math tournament. He built mentoring relationships between high school and elementary school students. Dan coordinates over 40 community members for the WT science fair and provides rigorous after school programs.
Woodland Academy
Honoree: Sarah Belisea
Sarah Belisea has been part of the Woodland Community for the past eight years as our Wrap Around Coordinator. She has created trusting relationships and effective partnerships with students, families, staff, and the Main South community. Sarah works to ensure our families have a voice in their child's educational experience. She provides them with tools and training to best support their children, which must be commended. We appreciate all the work she has done for our entire school community.
Worcester Arts Magnet School
Honoree: Cathy Taylor
Ms. Taylor choreographs and organizes the Holiday Show, Spring Show, and the school's Special Chorus. She eagerly awaits the arrival of the Special Chorus at 7:15 every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning to begin rehearsal. Ms. Taylor organizes the yearly clothing drive that provides funds for the Special Chorus to compete at various festivals across the state. Ms. Taylor promotes excellence and collaborates with the faculty to provide rich experiences in arts education for our students.
Worcester East Middle School
Honoree: Linda Foley
Linda works as an instructional assistant at Worcester East Middle. Linda is hard working, flexible, and kind. She is willing to jump in whenever an extra hand is needed, whether it is in a classroom, the office, or for a duty. Linda is well regarded by both students and staff in the building. We are lucky to have her here at WEMS!
Worcester Technical High School
Honoree: Caroline Bigelow
Caroline Bigelow is a paraprofessional who exceeds expectations in every way. She shows up early to greet parents and direct traffic, supports students during the day and in after school tutoring, and teaches in our after school program. She connects with students to identify their needs and even uses her skills to help repair clothing or donate items. Caroline is instrumental in the operation and success of our school and programs and does this all with unfailing positivity!
A special thank you to:
South High School for hosting this event
Each and every WPS employee for their dedication to the students of the district
The WPS families for all of their support
Members of the School Committee
The WPS Administration