🌟 Principal Month Spotlight: Olga Papadopoulos 🌟
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Olga Papadopoulos, who is serving as the Acting Principal at South High Community School this year.
Principal Papadopoulos is a proud graduate of WPS and South High, Class of 2000, and has spent over twenty years working in Worcester Public Schools. English is her favorite subject, and she enjoys visiting the culinary classroom at South. She finds joy in connecting with students and the school community, and her goal is to help every student recognize that they are significant and valued members of the school family.
Join us in welcoming Principal Papadopoulos!
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Olga Papadopoulos, who is serving as the Acting Principal at South High Community School this year.
Principal Papadopoulos is a proud graduate of WPS and South High, Class of 2000, and has spent over twenty years working in Worcester Public Schools. English is her favorite subject, and she enjoys visiting the culinary classroom at South. She finds joy in connecting with students and the school community, and her goal is to help every student recognize that they are significant and valued members of the school family.
Join us in welcoming Principal Papadopoulos!
🎧 Burncoat High’s Em Beeler Featured on The WPI Podcast!
Burncoat High School math teacher Em Beeler was featured in a recent episode of The WPI Podcast, where she shares her love of mathematics, what drew her to teaching, and her approach to creating team-based learning and offering real-world applications for math in the classroom.
🎙️ Listen here: https://www.wpi.edu/listen/wpi-podcast/e19-college-connections-em-beeler-class-2022
Burncoat High School math teacher Em Beeler was featured in a recent episode of The WPI Podcast, where she shares her love of mathematics, what drew her to teaching, and her approach to creating team-based learning and offering real-world applications for math in the classroom.
🎙️ Listen here: https://www.wpi.edu/listen/wpi-podcast/e19-college-connections-em-beeler-class-2022
📚🏆 EJ Bard Sets a New Kids World Record! 🏆📚
Congratulations to Eamonn John (EJ) Bard, a second grader at May Street School, who set a new Kids World Record for the most books stacked in 30 seconds!
As his mom, Kate Bard, Special Education Clinician & Behavior Specialist at Doherty Memorial High School, shared:
"He loves reading (especially 'Dog Man' books), but he’s always had a passion for stacking and building. He chose to break a world record by stacking books. It was a LOT harder than he thought — balancing against gravity is no joke — but he persevered!"
EJ’s achievement is a perfect example of creativity, focus, and perseverance — inspiring us all! 💪📚
Congratulations to Eamonn John (EJ) Bard, a second grader at May Street School, who set a new Kids World Record for the most books stacked in 30 seconds!
As his mom, Kate Bard, Special Education Clinician & Behavior Specialist at Doherty Memorial High School, shared:
"He loves reading (especially 'Dog Man' books), but he’s always had a passion for stacking and building. He chose to break a world record by stacking books. It was a LOT harder than he thought — balancing against gravity is no joke — but he persevered!"
EJ’s achievement is a perfect example of creativity, focus, and perseverance — inspiring us all! 💪📚
Senior Sunrise at Gerald Creamer Center 🌅
The Gerald Creamer Center’s Class of 2026 celebrated the start of their senior year with the first-ever Senior Sunrise!
Seniors and staff gathered in the crisp fall morning to watch the sunrise, enjoying hot chocolate, donuts, and muffins while sharing the moment with friends.
A special thank you to the Student Council, guided by Mrs. Cordero, for organizing this memorable event and making the morning extra special.
Here’s to the Gerald Creamer Center Class of 2026—let’s make this year unforgettable! 💛💙
The Gerald Creamer Center’s Class of 2026 celebrated the start of their senior year with the first-ever Senior Sunrise!
Seniors and staff gathered in the crisp fall morning to watch the sunrise, enjoying hot chocolate, donuts, and muffins while sharing the moment with friends.
A special thank you to the Student Council, guided by Mrs. Cordero, for organizing this memorable event and making the morning extra special.
Here’s to the Gerald Creamer Center Class of 2026—let’s make this year unforgettable! 💛💙
🎉 Celebrating Students at Nelson Place School! 🌟
Nelson Place School is highlighting the amazing character traits of its students each month through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
During the monthly assemblies for K–3 and 4–6, students are recognized for demonstrating the featured trait — from perseverance and self-control to kindness and more. 🏅
Teachers also honor students for achievements in ST Math, BOOST, and for maintaining perfect attendance throughout the month. 👏
📸 Check out our students being celebrated — way to go, Nelson Place students! 💚
🌟 Celebrating Perfect Attendance at South High! 🎉
743 students hit the mark for perfect attendance at South High School by the first 5-week checkpoint — and we’re celebrating their commitment! 📚✨
Students gathered on the football field for a group photo to honor their dedication, and we’ll be continuing this celebration every five weeks to recognize our students’ hard work and consistency. 💪🏽
Here’s to keeping the momentum going and celebrating every student who shows up and shines! 🌟📸
743 students hit the mark for perfect attendance at South High School by the first 5-week checkpoint — and we’re celebrating their commitment! 📚✨
Students gathered on the football field for a group photo to honor their dedication, and we’ll be continuing this celebration every five weeks to recognize our students’ hard work and consistency. 💪🏽
Here’s to keeping the momentum going and celebrating every student who shows up and shines! 🌟📸
🌟 Mental Health & Wellness Day at Polar Park! 💚
Worcester Public Schools middle school students spent last Friday morning at Polar Park in honor of World Mental Health Awareness Day!
They enjoyed a variety of fun, hands-on activities designed to support well-being and promote self-care, including:
💧 Aromatherapy
🎶 Polyrhythmic music station
🎨 Face & nail painting
🐾 Therapy dogs
🎧 DJ practice station
💬 Positive affirmations
⚾ Wiffle ball — and more!
The event gave students a chance to focus on mental health, connect with peers, and discover meaningful ways to care for themselves and others.
A heartfelt thank-you to Polar Park and our incredible community partners for making it such a memorable day! 💚
📸 Check out some photos from the event!
Worcester Public Schools middle school students spent last Friday morning at Polar Park in honor of World Mental Health Awareness Day!
They enjoyed a variety of fun, hands-on activities designed to support well-being and promote self-care, including:
💧 Aromatherapy
🎶 Polyrhythmic music station
🎨 Face & nail painting
🐾 Therapy dogs
🎧 DJ practice station
💬 Positive affirmations
⚾ Wiffle ball — and more!
The event gave students a chance to focus on mental health, connect with peers, and discover meaningful ways to care for themselves and others.
A heartfelt thank-you to Polar Park and our incredible community partners for making it such a memorable day! 💚
📸 Check out some photos from the event!
Hispanic Heritage Month at South High 🕺💃
Students at South High Community School recognized Hispanic Heritage Month with a dance workshop, learning the Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue as a way to deepen their exploration of Hispanic culture.
The dance lesson was taught by school secretary Jennyann Alicea Caraballo and Spanish teacher Natalie Vargas, and brought together students from Spanish I, Spanish II, Spanish III, and AP Spanish classes.
This dance activity was a reward for students’ hard work in the classroom, and gave them a chance to experience Hispanic dance traditions.
In recent weeks, students have also worked on projects that included identifying Hispanic idols and countries, comparing vocabulary across Hispanic countries, and more!
Students at South High Community School recognized Hispanic Heritage Month with a dance workshop, learning the Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue as a way to deepen their exploration of Hispanic culture.
The dance lesson was taught by school secretary Jennyann Alicea Caraballo and Spanish teacher Natalie Vargas, and brought together students from Spanish I, Spanish II, Spanish III, and AP Spanish classes.
This dance activity was a reward for students’ hard work in the classroom, and gave them a chance to experience Hispanic dance traditions.
In recent weeks, students have also worked on projects that included identifying Hispanic idols and countries, comparing vocabulary across Hispanic countries, and more!
🌟 Principal Month Spotlight: Angelina LaRose 🌟
This month, we’re introducing new principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Angelina LaRose, who is serving as the acting principal at Lake View School this year.
Principal LaRose has been working in Worcester since 2009. Her favorite part of working in education is sharing her love of learning and inspiring students to try new things with excitement and curiosity.
Join us in welcoming Principal LaRose!
This month, we’re introducing new principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Angelina LaRose, who is serving as the acting principal at Lake View School this year.
Principal LaRose has been working in Worcester since 2009. Her favorite part of working in education is sharing her love of learning and inspiring students to try new things with excitement and curiosity.
Join us in welcoming Principal LaRose!
🥗 It’s National School Lunch Week! 🥪
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrates our incredible Nutrition Services team for preparing healthy, delicious meals that fuel student learning every single day. 💚🍎
From the early mornings spent preparing breakfasts to the busy lunchtimes serving thousands of students across the district, our WPS Nutrition Services staff go above and beyond to make sure every child has access to nutritious meals that help them learn, grow, and thrive. 🌟
Their care and dedication make a lasting difference in our classrooms and communities — one meal at a time. 🍽️💪
A big thank-you to our WPS Nutrition Services team for nourishing our students and strengthening our schools! 👏🥗
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrates our incredible Nutrition Services team for preparing healthy, delicious meals that fuel student learning every single day. 💚🍎
From the early mornings spent preparing breakfasts to the busy lunchtimes serving thousands of students across the district, our WPS Nutrition Services staff go above and beyond to make sure every child has access to nutritious meals that help them learn, grow, and thrive. 🌟
Their care and dedication make a lasting difference in our classrooms and communities — one meal at a time. 🍽️💪
A big thank-you to our WPS Nutrition Services team for nourishing our students and strengthening our schools! 👏🥗
South High Students Spread Smiles at Gates Lane 😀
South High Community School students brought joy and plenty of energy to Gates Lane School of International Studies, welcoming students and families on World Smile Day!
Now in its fifth year, this South High tradition reminds us that giving back can be as simple as making someone else smile.
Students cheered, held up handmade signs, and shared smiley face stickers to honor the original smiley face design created by South High's own Harvey Ball.
Take a look at some of the amazing smiles!
💚 World Mental Health Day 💚
At Worcester Public Schools, we are committed to supporting the mental and emotional health of our students, staff, and families.
We have numerous health and wellness resources for students, families and staff on the WPS website, including healthy recipes, after-school care, and fitness activities 🍏🏫🌟, to adult wellness support with yoga, meditation, self-compassion and more. 🧘✍️
Our Health & Wellness Roadmap and Strategic Plan ensure emotional wellness is a priority for both students and staff, fostering a thriving and caring community for all.
For more resources and information, visit our website today at https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
At Worcester Public Schools, we are committed to supporting the mental and emotional health of our students, staff, and families.
We have numerous health and wellness resources for students, families and staff on the WPS website, including healthy recipes, after-school care, and fitness activities 🍏🏫🌟, to adult wellness support with yoga, meditation, self-compassion and more. 🧘✍️
Our Health & Wellness Roadmap and Strategic Plan ensure emotional wellness is a priority for both students and staff, fostering a thriving and caring community for all.
For more resources and information, visit our website today at https://buff.ly/4dGPLJG
🌟 Community Spotlight: NRIVA Gives Back! 🌟
A big thank you to NRIVA, a nationwide nonprofit with 55+ chapters, for donating 70 backpacks filled with school essentials to Worcester Public Schools! 🎒💪✏️
The backpacks were delivered to our Parent Information Center and will be distributed to students as they enroll, giving them a strong start to the school year. 💛
A big thank you to NRIVA, a nationwide nonprofit with 55+ chapters, for donating 70 backpacks filled with school essentials to Worcester Public Schools! 🎒💪✏️
The backpacks were delivered to our Parent Information Center and will be distributed to students as they enroll, giving them a strong start to the school year. 💛
🌟 Call for WooStar Nominations 🌟
It’s time to nominate this month’s WooStars — one student and one staff member who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in Worcester Public Schools!
🗓️ October Nomination Deadline: Monday, Oct. 27
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
It’s time to nominate this month’s WooStars — one student and one staff member who exemplify Vision of a Learner and Vision to Action in Worcester Public Schools!
🗓️ October Nomination Deadline: Monday, Oct. 27
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
🎶 WPS Students Shine at Berklee Modern Band Workshop! 🎶
On Saturday, October 4, 14 Worcester Public Schools students worked with Danielle Collins of InspireEd to prepare and perform two songs at a Modern Band Workshop hosted by Berklee College of Music. They also joined a panel with 40+ music educators from New England and New York, led by Dr. Bryan Powell of Music Will.
Students:
• Ginalee Diaz, Jazenaliz Cordova, Adriani Lovet, William Quinones Soliver, Caleb Opoku Ampong, Seerwan Al Shankal (North High School)
• Camilla Snyder, Jadiel Ortiz, Pavel Orellana (South High Community School)
• Giovanni LeBron, Maria Perez Hernandez, Marco Gambaccini, Ian Vigo Torres, Mia Santos (Burncoat Middle School)
Their talent, teamwork, and creativity left everyone amazed! 🌟👏
📸 Check out the photos from the workshop!
On Saturday, October 4, 14 Worcester Public Schools students worked with Danielle Collins of InspireEd to prepare and perform two songs at a Modern Band Workshop hosted by Berklee College of Music. They also joined a panel with 40+ music educators from New England and New York, led by Dr. Bryan Powell of Music Will.
Students:
• Ginalee Diaz, Jazenaliz Cordova, Adriani Lovet, William Quinones Soliver, Caleb Opoku Ampong, Seerwan Al Shankal (North High School)
• Camilla Snyder, Jadiel Ortiz, Pavel Orellana (South High Community School)
• Giovanni LeBron, Maria Perez Hernandez, Marco Gambaccini, Ian Vigo Torres, Mia Santos (Burncoat Middle School)
Their talent, teamwork, and creativity left everyone amazed! 🌟👏
📸 Check out the photos from the workshop!
No Hate Tour Visits Worcester Tech 🚲
The No Hate High School Tour made a stop at Worcester Technical High School as part of its national anti-bullying campaign.
The high-energy program, now in its 25th year, uses the excitement of action sports to deliver important messages about inclusion, kindness, problem-solving, and mental health awareness.
Students were treated to a BMX exhibition by professional riders Russel Summerville, Zach Newman, Logan Place, and Trevor Meyer. The show even included flips over Principal Drew Weymouth, Assistant Principal Stephanie Stockwell and PE Teacher Sean Mahoney.
The No Hate High School Tour made a stop at Worcester Technical High School as part of its national anti-bullying campaign.
The high-energy program, now in its 25th year, uses the excitement of action sports to deliver important messages about inclusion, kindness, problem-solving, and mental health awareness.
Students were treated to a BMX exhibition by professional riders Russel Summerville, Zach Newman, Logan Place, and Trevor Meyer. The show even included flips over Principal Drew Weymouth, Assistant Principal Stephanie Stockwell and PE Teacher Sean Mahoney.
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Donates Pumpkins to Gates Lane 🎃
Kindergarteners at Gates Lane School of International Studies recently received a donation of 77 pumpkins from the Worcester Sheriff’s Office.
Coordinated by school adjustment counselor Donatella Travaglio, the pumpkins were sent home with students to decorate and enjoy for the fall season.
Kindergarteners at Gates Lane School of International Studies recently received a donation of 77 pumpkins from the Worcester Sheriff’s Office.
Coordinated by school adjustment counselor Donatella Travaglio, the pumpkins were sent home with students to decorate and enjoy for the fall season.
🌟 Principal Month Spotlight: Emily Kokansky 🌟
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Emily Kokansky, who is serving as the acting Principal at Francis J. McGrath Elementary School this year.
Principal Kokansky is in her tenth year in WPS and has a passion for teaching English, particularly writing. Her favorite part of working in education is the connections she builds with students and families that last a lifetime. She especially enjoys seeing former students who still remember the impact she had years ago.
Join us in welcoming Principal Kokansky!
This month, we’re introducing newly appointed principals in WPS as part of National Principal Month! Principals work every day to support students, guide their staff, and build strong school communities.
Meet Emily Kokansky, who is serving as the acting Principal at Francis J. McGrath Elementary School this year.
Principal Kokansky is in her tenth year in WPS and has a passion for teaching English, particularly writing. Her favorite part of working in education is the connections she builds with students and families that last a lifetime. She especially enjoys seeing former students who still remember the impact she had years ago.
Join us in welcoming Principal Kokansky!
Doherty Defeats Westborough 38–8 on Homecoming Night 🏈
The Highlanders of Doherty Memorial High School celebrated Homecoming Night in style, earning a commanding 38–8 victory over Westborough!
Quarterback Connor Gentilucci recorded three touchdowns, including two through the air and one on the ground. Jayden Orhin returned a 99-yard kickoff to close out the game, while Ryan Dennis and Derek Mukuha each caught touchdown passes to help seal the win.
Friday night’s game was also a special occasion as it marked the first football game on Doherty’s new turf field, as many from the community filled the stands to cheer on the Highlanders. After the win, students and staff capped off the celebration with the Homecoming Dance at the school.
Check out a few sights from the game 📸
The Highlanders of Doherty Memorial High School celebrated Homecoming Night in style, earning a commanding 38–8 victory over Westborough!
Quarterback Connor Gentilucci recorded three touchdowns, including two through the air and one on the ground. Jayden Orhin returned a 99-yard kickoff to close out the game, while Ryan Dennis and Derek Mukuha each caught touchdown passes to help seal the win.
Friday night’s game was also a special occasion as it marked the first football game on Doherty’s new turf field, as many from the community filled the stands to cheer on the Highlanders. After the win, students and staff capped off the celebration with the Homecoming Dance at the school.
Check out a few sights from the game 📸
This Month's Staff WooStar: Natasha Mateo, New Citizens Program ESL Teacher at Clark Street Community School ⭐️
"Natasha has transformed the lives of countless students and families. Her classroom is a microcosm of the globe. Students arrive from every corner of the world, speaking different languages, entering at various academic levels, and often carrying the weight of disrupted schooling, trauma, and cultural transitions. Yet in the midst of this complexity, Natasha creates a space where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered. Through her expert guidance, these young learners gain the language skills and confidence they need to not only survive, but thrive; ultimately transitioning into mainstream classrooms ready to succeed. Natasha’s impact reaches far beyond academics. She teaches her students critical life skills, helps them navigate personal challenges, and advocates fiercely for their well-being. She routinely goes the extra mile conducting home visits, personally assisting families with everything from school paperwork to community resources, and making a genuine effort to understand and honor each student's cultural background. Her work is rooted in empathy, driven by purpose, and marked by extraordinary dedication. It’s not just what she does, it’s who she is. She doesn’t just change classrooms, she changes lives."
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
"Natasha has transformed the lives of countless students and families. Her classroom is a microcosm of the globe. Students arrive from every corner of the world, speaking different languages, entering at various academic levels, and often carrying the weight of disrupted schooling, trauma, and cultural transitions. Yet in the midst of this complexity, Natasha creates a space where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered. Through her expert guidance, these young learners gain the language skills and confidence they need to not only survive, but thrive; ultimately transitioning into mainstream classrooms ready to succeed. Natasha’s impact reaches far beyond academics. She teaches her students critical life skills, helps them navigate personal challenges, and advocates fiercely for their well-being. She routinely goes the extra mile conducting home visits, personally assisting families with everything from school paperwork to community resources, and making a genuine effort to understand and honor each student's cultural background. Her work is rooted in empathy, driven by purpose, and marked by extraordinary dedication. It’s not just what she does, it’s who she is. She doesn’t just change classrooms, she changes lives."
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
