💙🩺 Celebrating National Nurses Day at Worcester Public Schools
Today, Worcester Public Schools recognizes and celebrates our school nurses for the essential role they play in supporting student health, safety, and well-being across the district.
School nurses provide care, comfort, and guidance to students each day, while also supporting wellness, managing health needs, and helping ensure safe and healthy learning environments in every school.
We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the positive impact they make in the lives of students and staff every day. 💙
📸🩺💙 Take a look at photos of our dedicated school nurses. 👏💛✨
Today, Worcester Public Schools recognizes and celebrates our school nurses for the essential role they play in supporting student health, safety, and well-being across the district.
School nurses provide care, comfort, and guidance to students each day, while also supporting wellness, managing health needs, and helping ensure safe and healthy learning environments in every school.
We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the positive impact they make in the lives of students and staff every day. 💙
📸🩺💙 Take a look at photos of our dedicated school nurses. 👏💛✨
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Alda Torra, ESL Teacher and Department Head at North High School.
“Alda creates an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where all students feel valued and empowered to take risks with language,” said North High Principal Sam FanFan. “She is highly attuned to the diverse needs of her students and consistently adapts her approach to support both academic and social-emotional growth. Beyond her classroom, she is a trusted resource for colleagues, offering strategies, insights, and collaboration to better support multilingual learners across the building.”
Thank you, Ms. Torra for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Alda Torra, ESL Teacher and Department Head at North High School.
“Alda creates an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where all students feel valued and empowered to take risks with language,” said North High Principal Sam FanFan. “She is highly attuned to the diverse needs of her students and consistently adapts her approach to support both academic and social-emotional growth. Beyond her classroom, she is a trusted resource for colleagues, offering strategies, insights, and collaboration to better support multilingual learners across the building.”
Thank you, Ms. Torra for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Dozens participate in spin to benefit FitClub in Worcester Public Schools 🚴♀️✨
A wave of energy took over Worcester Fitness on Sunday morning, May 3, as nearly 100 participants gathered for the annual FitClub spin fundraiser! 🚴♂️💨
This community-led event provides vital support to FitClubs in 30 schools across the Worcester Public Schools district. 🏫🍎
The program reached a milestone this year, celebrating 10 years since its launch by Jocelyn Coughlin, a science teacher at Worcester Technical High School. 🧪🙌
What began as a single club to help students gain confidence through physical fitness has blossomed from 100 students to a district-wide effort to stay healthy! 📈🌟
Because the organization is operated entirely through donations and fundraisers, the turnout was a testament to the community’s commitment to student wellness. 🤝💖
A wave of energy took over Worcester Fitness on Sunday morning, May 3, as nearly 100 participants gathered for the annual FitClub spin fundraiser! 🚴♂️💨
This community-led event provides vital support to FitClubs in 30 schools across the Worcester Public Schools district. 🏫🍎
The program reached a milestone this year, celebrating 10 years since its launch by Jocelyn Coughlin, a science teacher at Worcester Technical High School. 🧪🙌
What began as a single club to help students gain confidence through physical fitness has blossomed from 100 students to a district-wide effort to stay healthy! 📈🌟
Because the organization is operated entirely through donations and fundraisers, the turnout was a testament to the community’s commitment to student wellness. 🤝💖
🏃♂️ Burncoat High and Worcester Tech Compete in Unified Track & Field Meet 🏃♀️
Worcester Public Schools student-athletes from Worcester Technical High School and Burncoat High School recently competed alongside Millbury in a Unified Track & Field meet at Foley Stadium!
Events included javelin, shot put, long jump, 100m, 400m, 800m, and the 4x100m relay, as teams gave it their all in their final contest before the sectional meet at Millbury High School, taking place today (May 5).
Unified Sports, supported by Special Olympics, brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete on the same team, promoting inclusion, teamwork, and mutual respect through athletics.
Great work to all of our student-athletes and coaches for representing WPS with pride! 💙
Worcester Public Schools student-athletes from Worcester Technical High School and Burncoat High School recently competed alongside Millbury in a Unified Track & Field meet at Foley Stadium!
Events included javelin, shot put, long jump, 100m, 400m, 800m, and the 4x100m relay, as teams gave it their all in their final contest before the sectional meet at Millbury High School, taking place today (May 5).
Unified Sports, supported by Special Olympics, brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete on the same team, promoting inclusion, teamwork, and mutual respect through athletics.
Great work to all of our student-athletes and coaches for representing WPS with pride! 💙
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Megan Joinville, Third Grade Teacher at Heard Street Discovery Academy.
“Meg Joinville has created a warm, welcoming classroom atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to learn,” said Heard Street Principal Cynthia Vail. “Beyond their impact on students, they also serve as a trusted mentor to a new teacher at our school, sharing their experience and fostering a strong, supportive school community.”
Thank you, Ms. Joinville for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Megan Joinville, Third Grade Teacher at Heard Street Discovery Academy.
“Meg Joinville has created a warm, welcoming classroom atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to learn,” said Heard Street Principal Cynthia Vail. “Beyond their impact on students, they also serve as a trusted mentor to a new teacher at our school, sharing their experience and fostering a strong, supportive school community.”
Thank you, Ms. Joinville for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
On Tuesday, May 5, from 5:30-6:30 PM, a virtual community forum will be held for the Worcester Public Schools' Boundary and Quadrant Alignment Project.
This session will include discussion around the project overview and timeline, with data shared about school capacity and locations of preschool programming. Language interpreters will be available.
More information: https://www.worcesterschools.org/events?id=55209749
An additional virtual forum will be held in Spanish on Wednesday, May 13, from 7:00-8:30 PM.
This session will include discussion around the project overview and timeline, with data shared about school capacity and locations of preschool programming. Language interpreters will be available.
More information: https://www.worcesterschools.org/events?id=55209749
An additional virtual forum will be held in Spanish on Wednesday, May 13, from 7:00-8:30 PM.
💙 Closing Out Autism Awareness Month with Wear Blue Day 💙
On April 30, Worcester Public Schools recognized the final day of Autism Awareness Month by wearing blue in support of inclusion and belonging for students.
Pictured here are students and staff from Roosevelt School and Gates Lane School, along with staff from the Special Education Department at the Dr. John E. Durkin Administration Building, wearing blue in support of Autism Awareness Month.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped close out Autism Awareness Month. 💙
On April 30, Worcester Public Schools recognized the final day of Autism Awareness Month by wearing blue in support of inclusion and belonging for students.
Pictured here are students and staff from Roosevelt School and Gates Lane School, along with staff from the Special Education Department at the Dr. John E. Durkin Administration Building, wearing blue in support of Autism Awareness Month.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped close out Autism Awareness Month. 💙
💚 Mental Health Awareness Month 💚
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Worcester Public Schools is highlighting the spaces and supports that help our students and staff recharge, reset, and refocus each day.
Across the district, our wellness rooms offer calming spaces where students can regulate, reset and return to learning with the support they need. These spaces are just one part of our ongoing commitment to supporting mental and emotional well-being in every school, every day.
At WPS, wellness is more than a monthly message—it is part of how we care for our community all year long.
✨ This month, we encourage everyone to:
✅ Check in with yourself
✅ Make time to reset and recharge
✅ Support someone who may need a listening ear
✅ Prioritize mental wellness at school, at home, and in your community
From wellness rooms and student support services to healthy meals, movement, mindfulness, and family resources, WPS is committed to supporting the whole child and the whole community. 💚
📘 Explore wellness resources and supports available across WPS: https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Worcester Public Schools is highlighting the spaces and supports that help our students and staff recharge, reset, and refocus each day.
Across the district, our wellness rooms offer calming spaces where students can regulate, reset and return to learning with the support they need. These spaces are just one part of our ongoing commitment to supporting mental and emotional well-being in every school, every day.
At WPS, wellness is more than a monthly message—it is part of how we care for our community all year long.
✨ This month, we encourage everyone to:
✅ Check in with yourself
✅ Make time to reset and recharge
✅ Support someone who may need a listening ear
✅ Prioritize mental wellness at school, at home, and in your community
From wellness rooms and student support services to healthy meals, movement, mindfulness, and family resources, WPS is committed to supporting the whole child and the whole community. 💚
📘 Explore wellness resources and supports available across WPS: https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month ✨
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities here in Worcester and the United States.
Learn more about Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month: https://www.history.com/articles/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities here in Worcester and the United States.
Learn more about Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month: https://www.history.com/articles/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
Jewish American Heritage Month ✡️
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish American communities here in Worcester and across the United States.
For more than 370 years, Jewish Americans have helped shape our nation, with achievements spanning science, the arts, government, and civil rights.
Established in 2006, Jewish American Heritage Month also serves as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and stand against antisemitism.
Learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month: https://jewishamericanheritage.org/
This May, we recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish American communities here in Worcester and across the United States.
For more than 370 years, Jewish Americans have helped shape our nation, with achievements spanning science, the arts, government, and civil rights.
Established in 2006, Jewish American Heritage Month also serves as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and stand against antisemitism.
Learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month: https://jewishamericanheritage.org/
🍎🦸♀️ Happy School Lunch Hero Day! 🦸♂️🥪
Today we are celebrating our amazing Worcester Public Schools Nutrition Services team, our everyday School Lunch Heroes 💚
They are up early, working hard, and serving more than just meals. They bring care, dedication, and consistency to every cafeteria, helping fuel our students for a successful school day.
From preparing healthy and delicious meals to meeting special dietary needs and supporting thousands of students each day, our nutrition staff make a meaningful impact across our schools. 💪🍽️
We are so grateful for the hard work and heart they bring to our school communities. Join us in saying a big THANK YOU to the team behind the lunch line! 💚🙌
Meet some of our School Lunch Heroes 🍎💚
🎓✨ Happy School Principals Day!
Today we are celebrating the school leaders who show up every day to support students, staff, and families and help our schools thrive 🌟
From greeting students in the morning 🚪😊 to guiding teachers, supporting families, and leading their school communities, our principals bring care, commitment, and purpose to everything they do. Their leadership helps create strong and positive learning environments where students can grow and succeed 📚💙
Today’s Principal Spotlight highlights three outstanding leaders:
👩🏫 Dr. Karrie Allen
“I believe my primary role as principal is to provide unwavering support to talented, dedicated staff and families, in order that students can engage in a top-notch learning environment. If we all do our part, we’ll extinguish all barriers, and these amazing children will have equal opportunities so well deserved.”
👩🏫 Cynthia Vail, Principal of Heard Street Discovery Academy
“As principal, I strive to make our school a place where every child, family, and teacher feels genuinely seen, heard, and cared for. I lead with compassion and purpose, building a community where everyone belongs and can thrive together.”
👩🏫 Susan Donahue, Principal of Thorndyke Road School
“I love being a principal because I get to spend each day surrounded by students whose curiosity and excitement for learning are contagious. It’s equally rewarding to work alongside dedicated adults who are committed to supporting, uplifting, and believing in every child.”
💐 A huge thank you to these principals and to all of our school principals across the district for your leadership, dedication, and the many ways you support your school communities every day. Your work truly makes a difference 💙
Today we are celebrating the school leaders who show up every day to support students, staff, and families and help our schools thrive 🌟
From greeting students in the morning 🚪😊 to guiding teachers, supporting families, and leading their school communities, our principals bring care, commitment, and purpose to everything they do. Their leadership helps create strong and positive learning environments where students can grow and succeed 📚💙
Today’s Principal Spotlight highlights three outstanding leaders:
👩🏫 Dr. Karrie Allen
“I believe my primary role as principal is to provide unwavering support to talented, dedicated staff and families, in order that students can engage in a top-notch learning environment. If we all do our part, we’ll extinguish all barriers, and these amazing children will have equal opportunities so well deserved.”
👩🏫 Cynthia Vail, Principal of Heard Street Discovery Academy
“As principal, I strive to make our school a place where every child, family, and teacher feels genuinely seen, heard, and cared for. I lead with compassion and purpose, building a community where everyone belongs and can thrive together.”
👩🏫 Susan Donahue, Principal of Thorndyke Road School
“I love being a principal because I get to spend each day surrounded by students whose curiosity and excitement for learning are contagious. It’s equally rewarding to work alongside dedicated adults who are committed to supporting, uplifting, and believing in every child.”
💐 A huge thank you to these principals and to all of our school principals across the district for your leadership, dedication, and the many ways you support your school communities every day. Your work truly makes a difference 💙
This Month’s Staff WooStar: David Romero, Spanish Teacher & Department Head at Forest Grove Middle School ⭐️
“David is a dynamic language teacher who always goes above and beyond! His lessons are engaging and give our students lots of opportunity to build their language skills and cultural understanding. As a colleague, he shares resources and is always willing to lend a hand. He and the Forest Grove World Language team have created amazing family engagement events to celebrate the languages and cultures of our students.”
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
“David is a dynamic language teacher who always goes above and beyond! His lessons are engaging and give our students lots of opportunity to build their language skills and cultural understanding. As a colleague, he shares resources and is always willing to lend a hand. He and the Forest Grove World Language team have created amazing family engagement events to celebrate the languages and cultures of our students.”
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: Chloe Eyaguobor, Fifth Grade, Effective Communicator at Vernon Hill School ⭐️
“Chloe is a multitalented 5th grade student, who has a generous heart and is always willing to help others. In addition to being a fabulous student, she has recently added “Published Author” to her resume! She recently wrote her first children’s book: “Panda Loves Bamboo” with illustrations done by a peer of hers. Panda Loves Bamboo is a heartwarming children’s story about kindness, honesty, and second chances. Since releasing her first book, she has had the opportunity to serve as a reader for a 2nd grade classroom for Read Across America. She then inspired that classroom teacher to use her book for a focused book study with those students. Finally, she has had the opportunity to present at Clark University alongside her principal Tammy Boyle, her peer illustrator, and another VH educator. They presented a project to a Children’s Literature Class to share about the importance of centering books with diverse authors in the classroom and community.”
This demonstrates that Chloe is an Effective Communicator, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Chloe can express complex ideas with clarity and purpose in a variety of formats based on the audience (EC 2).
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
“Chloe is a multitalented 5th grade student, who has a generous heart and is always willing to help others. In addition to being a fabulous student, she has recently added “Published Author” to her resume! She recently wrote her first children’s book: “Panda Loves Bamboo” with illustrations done by a peer of hers. Panda Loves Bamboo is a heartwarming children’s story about kindness, honesty, and second chances. Since releasing her first book, she has had the opportunity to serve as a reader for a 2nd grade classroom for Read Across America. She then inspired that classroom teacher to use her book for a focused book study with those students. Finally, she has had the opportunity to present at Clark University alongside her principal Tammy Boyle, her peer illustrator, and another VH educator. They presented a project to a Children’s Literature Class to share about the importance of centering books with diverse authors in the classroom and community.”
This demonstrates that Chloe is an Effective Communicator, a key disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Chloe can express complex ideas with clarity and purpose in a variety of formats based on the audience (EC 2).
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
On Tuesday, May 5, from 5:30-6:30 PM, a virtual community forum will be held for the Worcester Public Schools' Boundary and Quadrant Alignment Project.
This session will include discussion around the project overview and timeline, with data shared about school capacity and locations of preschool programming. Language interpreters will be available.
More information: https://www.worcesterschools.org/events?id=55209749
An additional virtual forum will be held in Spanish on Wednesday, May 13, from 7:00-8:30 PM.
This session will include discussion around the project overview and timeline, with data shared about school capacity and locations of preschool programming. Language interpreters will be available.
More information: https://www.worcesterschools.org/events?id=55209749
An additional virtual forum will be held in Spanish on Wednesday, May 13, from 7:00-8:30 PM.
Professionals: Speak with Worcester Public Schools Students! 📢🏫
Are you a professional who is interested in speaking with our students? 🤔💼
The Worcester Public Schools is launching the Career Speaker Series as a way for local professionals to help seventh-grade students begin exploring the wide range of career opportunities available in our community. 🌎🔭
We are looking for professionals who can speak to students about their current roles, their professional journeys, and the challenges and successes you’ve experienced along the way. 🛣️🏆
Your real-world perspective can have a big impact! 🌟🙌
The Career Speaker Series will take place at all WPS middle schools through May and June. 🗓️🎓
Details and online sign-up form: 👇🔗
🚌💛 Worcester Public Schools Celebrates Our School Bus Drivers
As we navigate another busy school year, it is important to recognize the dedicated individuals who are the first and last friendly faces our students see each day: our school bus drivers.
Worcester Public Schools is proud to recognize that our drivers do so much more than operate a vehicle. They are mentors, peacekeepers, and a vital bridge between home and school. Every day, they navigate traffic, weather challenges, and early mornings to ensure our students arrive safely and ready to learn.
Our school community is stronger because of their hard work and commitment to student safety. Let’s make sure they know how much they are valued!
How You Can Help Celebrate:
To show our collective appreciation, we encourage you to join us in the following ways:
💬 A Simple Thank You – If you see a driver in the hallways or during drop-off and pick-up, a quick word of thanks goes a long way.
✏️ Student Notes – Encourage your students to write a short note or draw a picture for their driver. These are often the most cherished gifts a driver can receive.
📸🚌 Take a look at a few photos of our dedicated bus drivers. 👏💛
As we navigate another busy school year, it is important to recognize the dedicated individuals who are the first and last friendly faces our students see each day: our school bus drivers.
Worcester Public Schools is proud to recognize that our drivers do so much more than operate a vehicle. They are mentors, peacekeepers, and a vital bridge between home and school. Every day, they navigate traffic, weather challenges, and early mornings to ensure our students arrive safely and ready to learn.
Our school community is stronger because of their hard work and commitment to student safety. Let’s make sure they know how much they are valued!
How You Can Help Celebrate:
To show our collective appreciation, we encourage you to join us in the following ways:
💬 A Simple Thank You – If you see a driver in the hallways or during drop-off and pick-up, a quick word of thanks goes a long way.
✏️ Student Notes – Encourage your students to write a short note or draw a picture for their driver. These are often the most cherished gifts a driver can receive.
📸🚌 Take a look at a few photos of our dedicated bus drivers. 👏💛
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Alexi Rosa, South High Community School 🎓
After graduating this spring, Alexi plans to attend college and pursue a future career in forensic nursing.
She would like to be a nurse who can help people at times of need, specializing in forensics to provide a unique and specialized level of support to future patients.
Before starting college next fall, Alexi will be savoring summer by spending as much time as possible with her loved ones.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Your whole life is focused on making money or your career; be a kid as long as you can because when things get serious you would wish to go back.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
🃏✨ Math Games at City View Discovery School! 📐
City View Discovery School was full of energy as students and families came together for a fun and interactive Math Games event! From card games to friendly competition, students strengthened their math skills while having a great time.
🎲 Families learned simple games they can continue playing at home—showing that math practice can be fun, engaging, and meaningful.
🧠 Events like this help build math fluency, boost confidence, and create positive connections to learning.
Thank you to all the families and staff who made the event such a success!
📸 Take a look at some highlights from the event and see the fun in action!
City View Discovery School was full of energy as students and families came together for a fun and interactive Math Games event! From card games to friendly competition, students strengthened their math skills while having a great time.
🎲 Families learned simple games they can continue playing at home—showing that math practice can be fun, engaging, and meaningful.
🧠 Events like this help build math fluency, boost confidence, and create positive connections to learning.
Thank you to all the families and staff who made the event such a success!
📸 Take a look at some highlights from the event and see the fun in action!
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: William Roman Polanco, Burncoat High School 🎓
William plans to attend a four-year college and one day graduate school to major in Business Marketing with a focus on fashion and graphic design.
His goal is to one day create a clothing brand that represents his community in Worcester, and inspire pride in those who wear it.
During his time in WPS, William has been deeply involved in his school community. He co-founded the first Latino Unity Group at Burncoat High and participated in programs such as the Torch Foundation and Dynamic Futures.
A recipient of the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship, William says that art-based workshops, clubs, and community-building experiences helped him build the skills and confidence needed for life after high school.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Take every opportunity that is being offered to you and use the people and resources that are around you to help you be successful.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
William plans to attend a four-year college and one day graduate school to major in Business Marketing with a focus on fashion and graphic design.
His goal is to one day create a clothing brand that represents his community in Worcester, and inspire pride in those who wear it.
During his time in WPS, William has been deeply involved in his school community. He co-founded the first Latino Unity Group at Burncoat High and participated in programs such as the Torch Foundation and Dynamic Futures.
A recipient of the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship, William says that art-based workshops, clubs, and community-building experiences helped him build the skills and confidence needed for life after high school.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Take every opportunity that is being offered to you and use the people and resources that are around you to help you be successful.”
✨ Seniors, we want to celebrate you next! If you'd like to be featured in our Senior Spotlight series, please fill out the form here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/forms/26678
