We are excited to celebrate the outstanding staff and students selected as WooStars for the month of March! Below, you will find the list of this month’s honorees, along with their photos and shared insights about their contributions from our school communities.
For a full list of WooStars for the 2024-25 academic year, visit the WooStars Archives webpage.
Do you know a WooStar? We are looking for students and staff who have gone above and beyond to feature on our social media channels.
Levi Kasten, 11th Grade Scholar at Doherty Memorial High School - Week of 03/03 to 03/07
“Levi transferred to Doherty last year and immediately saw the need for a student newspaper. He found a faculty advisor and developed a proposal which got approved. The paper went live a few months ago and Levi has been working hard as editor-in-chief. The newspaper is fully online with a staff of six students.”
Jessica Spencer, Guidance Counselor at New Citizens Center Secondary - Week of 03/10 to 03/14
“Jess always goes above and beyond to help students navigate the many, many paths they need to take through our very large district, various other organizations, and community groups. She unfailingly listens to the student's needs and perspective and advocates for them with tact and persistence. She is always positive and optimistic and models putting the student first. She has been a hero for a lot of our students, making their dreams possible. She is the first person you go to when you need help for a student. Always a team player, Jess is always willing to lend a hand to colleagues, too.”
"Jessica is a very committed guidance counselor for our students. She takes the time to get to know each and every student well so that she can support them as much as possible," said NCC coordinator Erin Goldstein. “She works hard to help each student navigate school here and to help them plan for their future both here in WPS and then after graduating. She's also supportive of colleagues throughout the school. She's an important part of our school success.”
Arianna Santiago, Second Grade Scholar at Union Hill School - Week of 03/17 to 03/21
“Arianna is kind and patient. She tries to uplift her peers and always goes out of her way to help her classmates. Arianna loves to share and loves the diversity in her classroom. When a new student arrives in the classroom and she realizes they have troubles understanding our language she tries to help in any way she can.”
Brenda Dubrey, Third Grade Educator at Thorndyke Road School - Week of 03/24 to 03/28
"Mrs. Dubrey’s dedication to her students, outstanding communication skills, and her kind-hearted, fun-loving nature make her truly one of a kind. Mrs. Dubrey is not just a teacher; she is a catalyst for joy and excitement in the classroom. She has the remarkable ability to make learning fun, fostering an environment where every student feels engaged and motivated. Her innovative teaching methods and enthusiasm for education inspire her students to not only excel academically but also to love the process of learning. One of Mrs. Dubrey’s greatest strengths is her ability to make each child feel seen, valued, and special. She creates a classroom culture that is inclusive and nurturing, ensuring that every student feels confident to participate and express themselves. This sense of belonging that she fosters is truly impactful, both for the students and their families."
“Her communication with parents is equally commendable. She keeps us informed, involved, and reassured that our children are in the best hands. Mrs. Dubrey’s approachability and warmth make it easy for parents to collaborate with her, which is a crucial aspect of our children’s education. I wish every student and parent could experience the extraordinary influence of Mrs. Dubrey. She is more than deserving of recognition for the countless lives she touches with her passion, kindness, and commitment to education.”