🏛️ Jim McGovern Visits Students at North High School 🏛️
Students in the Legal Aspects classes at North High School welcomed Jim McGovern for a student-led Q&A discussion, organized after students wrote letters to the Congressman as part of a unit on how laws are made.
Written in November, the letters encouraged civic engagement and shared student perspectives on real-world issues. After receiving the letters, Congressman McGovern’s office connected with the class to arrange a visit, giving students the opportunity to speak with him directly.
During the visit, students asked questions on topics such as international relations, the election process, federal agencies, and access to higher education, while also raising concerns about youth mental health and changes to DEI-funded programs.
A Worcester native representing Massachusetts’ 2nd District, Congressman McGovern spoke about his role in government and the importance of civic engagement, helping students connect their classroom learning to real-world issues.
💙 World Autism Awareness Day 💙
Today marks World Autism Awareness Day and the start of Autism Acceptance Month. It is a time to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and celebrate the strengths and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum.
At Worcester Public Schools, we remain committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. 💙
Midland Street Student Council Leads Toiletries Donation 🧴📦
Students at Midland Street School are finding ways to help local community organizations through the school's Student Council, led this year by Ms. Katelyn Friend.
Open to all students at the school, the Student Council engages the student body in service projects. Through their participation in 365z, a Worcester-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting daily acts of kindness, students plan initiatives each month ranging from a recent toiletries donation drive in support of Central Mass. Housing Alliance, donations to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, and winter item donations for Andy's Attic.
Students have also organized letter-writing campaigns for local veterans, and created Valentine's cards for residents of local nursing homes. Each project is selected by Student Council members, who work together to plan and carry out these efforts.
The Midland Street Student Council highlights students as Engaged Community Members, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Students can identify a need in their community, articulate and communicate solutions, and develop an action plan (ECM 1).
Students at Midland Street School are finding ways to help local community organizations through the school's Student Council, led this year by Ms. Katelyn Friend.
Open to all students at the school, the Student Council engages the student body in service projects. Through their participation in 365z, a Worcester-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting daily acts of kindness, students plan initiatives each month ranging from a recent toiletries donation drive in support of Central Mass. Housing Alliance, donations to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, and winter item donations for Andy's Attic.
Students have also organized letter-writing campaigns for local veterans, and created Valentine's cards for residents of local nursing homes. Each project is selected by Student Council members, who work together to plan and carry out these efforts.
The Midland Street Student Council highlights students as Engaged Community Members, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner. Students can identify a need in their community, articulate and communicate solutions, and develop an action plan (ECM 1).
Celebrating Our WPS Paraeducators! 🎉
Today, on Paraeducator Appreciation Day, we recognize the many paraeducators across Worcester Public Schools whose dedication and care help students thrive. We are so grateful for all you do to support students, staff, and school communities each day.
Thank you for making a difference in our schools every single day! 💛
Today, on Paraeducator Appreciation Day, we recognize the many paraeducators across Worcester Public Schools whose dedication and care help students thrive. We are so grateful for all you do to support students, staff, and school communities each day.
Thank you for making a difference in our schools every single day! 💛
Happy Passover! 🌿
Passover is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their journey from slavery to freedom.
Wishing all who celebrate a meaningful and joyful holiday.
Learn more about Passover: https://www.history.com/articles/passover
Passover is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their journey from slavery to freedom.
Wishing all who celebrate a meaningful and joyful holiday.
Learn more about Passover: https://www.history.com/articles/passover
🎉 Union Hill School geared up for success at the 2026 MCAS Rally! 📚✨
Students and staff came together for an exciting, high-energy event featuring special guest Smiley, the WooSox mascot! 🐾🎶💃 With music, singing, and dancing, the rally helped build excitement and confidence as students prepare for the MCAS.
This celebration brought the school community together to boost school spirit, reinforce test-taking strategies, and remind students that they are ready to shine ⭐
Thank you to everyone who made this event such a success! 💪🔥
Students and staff came together for an exciting, high-energy event featuring special guest Smiley, the WooSox mascot! 🐾🎶💃 With music, singing, and dancing, the rally helped build excitement and confidence as students prepare for the MCAS.
This celebration brought the school community together to boost school spirit, reinforce test-taking strategies, and remind students that they are ready to shine ⭐
Thank you to everyone who made this event such a success! 💪🔥
Students at University Park Campus School had the opportunity to explore a wide range of careers during Career Day, connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. 🎓➡️🌍
Through engaging with guest speakers, students learned about different professions, asked questions, and discovered new possibilities for their futures. This valuable experience helps build motivation, expand awareness of career options, and inspire students to think about their goals and interests. 💡
This year’s presenters included professionals from the Worcester Police Department, nonprofit organizations, barbers, electricians, attorneys, and more. 👮♂️⚖️🔧✂️
Thank you to all the presenters who shared their time and expertise to inspire our students and help them envision their future paths! 🙌
📸 Check out some photos from Career Day!
Through engaging with guest speakers, students learned about different professions, asked questions, and discovered new possibilities for their futures. This valuable experience helps build motivation, expand awareness of career options, and inspire students to think about their goals and interests. 💡
This year’s presenters included professionals from the Worcester Police Department, nonprofit organizations, barbers, electricians, attorneys, and more. 👮♂️⚖️🔧✂️
Thank you to all the presenters who shared their time and expertise to inspire our students and help them envision their future paths! 🙌
📸 Check out some photos from Career Day!
⛳ Mini Golf Night at Worcester Arts Magnet School ⛳
Students, families, and caregivers recently came together for a fun after-school Mini Golf Night, organized by the PTG at Worcester Arts Magnet School.
The hand-built course featured a mix of traditional putting and stand-up “hand golf” holes, complete with scorecards and handmade putters. The collapsible frames were designed to travel, with the goal of loaning the equipment so other WPS schools can host their own mini golf nights!
The gym was buzzing as students enjoyed mini-golfing, arts and crafts, and snacks. Check out some highlights from a night full of fun, creativity, and community at WAMS!
Students, families, and caregivers recently came together for a fun after-school Mini Golf Night, organized by the PTG at Worcester Arts Magnet School.
The hand-built course featured a mix of traditional putting and stand-up “hand golf” holes, complete with scorecards and handmade putters. The collapsible frames were designed to travel, with the goal of loaning the equipment so other WPS schools can host their own mini golf nights!
The gym was buzzing as students enjoyed mini-golfing, arts and crafts, and snacks. Check out some highlights from a night full of fun, creativity, and community at WAMS!
🏫 FAFSA Friday Held at Burncoat High School 🏫
Guidance counselors at Burncoat High School, in collaboration with MassEdCO, recently hosted a FAFSA Friday event to support students and families through the financial aid process.
During the session, families met with counselors and financial aid experts to review award packages, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of their options.
40 families participated throughout the day with the goal of narrowing down their choices as they prepare to commit to a school for the fall.
Burncoat High School has hosted FAFSA Friday events throughout the school year, with each session tailored to the needs of students and families. Earlier sessions focused on completing financial aid applications, with additional support planned for after April vacation.
Guidance counselors at Burncoat High School, in collaboration with MassEdCO, recently hosted a FAFSA Friday event to support students and families through the financial aid process.
During the session, families met with counselors and financial aid experts to review award packages, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of their options.
40 families participated throughout the day with the goal of narrowing down their choices as they prepare to commit to a school for the fall.
Burncoat High School has hosted FAFSA Friday events throughout the school year, with each session tailored to the needs of students and families. Earlier sessions focused on completing financial aid applications, with additional support planned for after April vacation.
❄️ WPS Snow Day Spotlight: Worcester Family Partnership
We continued our celebration tour visiting the families of Worcester Family Partnership, who shared a creative video from one of their weekly playgroups. It was a joy to stop by and deliver some well-earned swag! 💙❄️
Their video captured children and families enjoying playtime while singing Frosty the Snowman, before sharing a “No School” announcement in their home languages.
Thanks for representing Worcester Family Partnership with so much creativity and heart. Keep it up! 🌟
Check out all of the WPS snow day video contest submissions here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/page/wps-snow-day-video-contest
🚘 Learn to Drive in April!
🛣️ Driving courses available at a discounted rate are available to any eligible student in Worcester Public Schools through a partnership with the Central Mass. Safety Council Driving School.
✅ April 6-17 from 2:00-5:15 PM: Classes held at Burncoat High School
✅ April 21-24 from 7:30 AM-3:30 PM: Classes held at Worcester Technical High School
Visit worcesterschools.org/drivers-ed
🛣️ Driving courses available at a discounted rate are available to any eligible student in Worcester Public Schools through a partnership with the Central Mass. Safety Council Driving School.
✅ April 6-17 from 2:00-5:15 PM: Classes held at Burncoat High School
✅ April 21-24 from 7:30 AM-3:30 PM: Classes held at Worcester Technical High School
Visit worcesterschools.org/drivers-ed
📚 CKLA Skills Block Hour at Worcester Arts Magnet School 📚
First grade students at Worcester Arts Magnet School are strengthening their reading skills during the school’s CKLA Skills Block Hour, a daily targeted literacy period built around small-group, hands-on instruction.
Each session begins with a quick sound drill before students move into collaborative activities tailored to their needs. Some groups receive extra support with foundational skills, while others build on grade-level reading to continue progressing.
Results are already showing. Based on middle-of-year DIBELS data, 85% of Grade 1 students at Worcester Arts Magnet School are now reading at or above benchmark.
Following early success in first grade, the model is already expanding to second grade and will continue to roll out thoughtfully where it can best support student learning.
First grade students at Worcester Arts Magnet School are strengthening their reading skills during the school’s CKLA Skills Block Hour, a daily targeted literacy period built around small-group, hands-on instruction.
Each session begins with a quick sound drill before students move into collaborative activities tailored to their needs. Some groups receive extra support with foundational skills, while others build on grade-level reading to continue progressing.
Results are already showing. Based on middle-of-year DIBELS data, 85% of Grade 1 students at Worcester Arts Magnet School are now reading at or above benchmark.
Following early success in first grade, the model is already expanding to second grade and will continue to roll out thoughtfully where it can best support student learning.
📍School Boundary and Quadrant Alignment Project
💬Worcester Public Schools held its first of several community forums about the recently-launched School Boundary and Quadrant Alignment Project.
The first meeting was held March 23 at South High Community School, which brought about 150 attendees: parents, caregivers, staff, and community members.
Facilitated by Dillinger Research and Applied Data, a non-profit research and data analysis organization, the project is District Goal #3 for this school year, and will continue through 2027-28.
Through the project, the district will consider adjusting school boundaries and related systems to more efficiently assign students to schools and improve the experiences of students and families. This could include a student’s walk to school, the school they are assigned to, and various feeder patterns.
The project seeks to:
✅ Reduce the student population in schools that are over capacity
✅ Increase the student population in schools that are under-enrolled
✅ Ensure school programming aligns with each school’s building capacity, along with student and community needs
✅ Improve school feeder patterns (meaning the series of schools students matriculate to based on their residential addresses)
✅ And improve citywide/magnet school designations to best reflect the needs of the community
Visit the project website, worcesterschools.org/alignment, which will be continuously updated with more information throughout the life of the project.
💬Worcester Public Schools held its first of several community forums about the recently-launched School Boundary and Quadrant Alignment Project.
The first meeting was held March 23 at South High Community School, which brought about 150 attendees: parents, caregivers, staff, and community members.
Facilitated by Dillinger Research and Applied Data, a non-profit research and data analysis organization, the project is District Goal #3 for this school year, and will continue through 2027-28.
Through the project, the district will consider adjusting school boundaries and related systems to more efficiently assign students to schools and improve the experiences of students and families. This could include a student’s walk to school, the school they are assigned to, and various feeder patterns.
The project seeks to:
✅ Reduce the student population in schools that are over capacity
✅ Increase the student population in schools that are under-enrolled
✅ Ensure school programming aligns with each school’s building capacity, along with student and community needs
✅ Improve school feeder patterns (meaning the series of schools students matriculate to based on their residential addresses)
✅ And improve citywide/magnet school designations to best reflect the needs of the community
Visit the project website, worcesterschools.org/alignment, which will be continuously updated with more information throughout the life of the project.
👑 CKLA Kings & Queens Lesson at Columbus Park 👑
Kindergarten students at Columbus Park Preparatory Academy took to the throne after completing their Kings & Queens lesson block as part of the CKLA curriculum.
Throughout the unit, students listened to engaging read-aloud stories, both fiction and nonfiction, while learning about kings, queens, and royal families. The lessons helped students explore the roles, responsibilities, and traditions associated with royalty.
To celebrate the end of the unit, students arrived dressed in their finest royal attire. They created crowns, practiced their royal manners, and sipped “tea”. The celebration also included a royal parade and a special photo opportunity where students could sit on the royal throne.
It was a joyful way to celebrate both their learning and the many literacy skills they developed throughout the unit. A truly royal time was had by all!
Kindergarten students at Columbus Park Preparatory Academy took to the throne after completing their Kings & Queens lesson block as part of the CKLA curriculum.
Throughout the unit, students listened to engaging read-aloud stories, both fiction and nonfiction, while learning about kings, queens, and royal families. The lessons helped students explore the roles, responsibilities, and traditions associated with royalty.
To celebrate the end of the unit, students arrived dressed in their finest royal attire. They created crowns, practiced their royal manners, and sipped “tea”. The celebration also included a royal parade and a special photo opportunity where students could sit on the royal throne.
It was a joyful way to celebrate both their learning and the many literacy skills they developed throughout the unit. A truly royal time was had by all!
WEMS Teachers Bring Mount Washington Summit to Students 🏔️
Science teachers Megan Rogozenski and Colleen Cutting from Worcester East Middle School recently traded the classroom for the “Home of the World’s Worst Weather.” ❄️
As part of the Arctic Wednesday program at the Mount Washington Observatory, they traveled by snowcat to the 6,288-foot summit to explore advanced meteorology, extreme air pressure, and how elevation shapes climate conditions.
Back at WEMS, students joined virtually to follow along, ask questions, and analyze real-time data from the summit. Seeing their teachers in action gave students a firsthand look at how science happens in the real world.
It’s a reminder that learning can happen anywhere, even in the clouds! ☁️✨
Science teachers Megan Rogozenski and Colleen Cutting from Worcester East Middle School recently traded the classroom for the “Home of the World’s Worst Weather.” ❄️
As part of the Arctic Wednesday program at the Mount Washington Observatory, they traveled by snowcat to the 6,288-foot summit to explore advanced meteorology, extreme air pressure, and how elevation shapes climate conditions.
Back at WEMS, students joined virtually to follow along, ask questions, and analyze real-time data from the summit. Seeing their teachers in action gave students a firsthand look at how science happens in the real world.
It’s a reminder that learning can happen anywhere, even in the clouds! ☁️✨
🎉 Caught Ya Assembly at Wawecus Road School 🎉
Wawecus Road School recently hosted its monthly Caught Ya Assembly, recognizing students who demonstrate actions tied to the five Vision of a Learner (VOL) dispositions: Empowered Individuals, Curious Learners, Effective Communicators, Problem Solvers, and Engaged Community Members.
Throughout the month, students earn Caught Ya Cards for actions related to each disposition. At the full-school assembly, students with the most cards in each category were recognized, and teachers shared a few words about each student’s efforts.
The assembly ended on a fun note, as students got the chance to pie their teachers for Pi Day on March 14!
Wawecus Road School recently hosted its monthly Caught Ya Assembly, recognizing students who demonstrate actions tied to the five Vision of a Learner (VOL) dispositions: Empowered Individuals, Curious Learners, Effective Communicators, Problem Solvers, and Engaged Community Members.
Throughout the month, students earn Caught Ya Cards for actions related to each disposition. At the full-school assembly, students with the most cards in each category were recognized, and teachers shared a few words about each student’s efforts.
The assembly ended on a fun note, as students got the chance to pie their teachers for Pi Day on March 14!
📢 TODAY: Help Shape the Future of Worcester Public Schools! 🏫✨
WPS is hosting the Community Forum for the School Boundary & Quadrant Alignment Project. Our goal is to create better pathways for students from preschool through grade 12 by focusing on:
✅ Building Capacity
✅ Feeder Patterns
✅ Program Placement
Please bring your smartphone or laptop to participate in this interactive event. Flyers with QR codes and a limited number of district-issued devices will also be available.
Don’t miss this chance to share your thoughts and help improve student opportunities across the district!
🗓️ Monday, March 23
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 South High Community School, 170 Apricot St
👥 Translation services and childcare will be provided
🔗 Learn more & stay informed - check the link in our bio!
WPS is hosting the Community Forum for the School Boundary & Quadrant Alignment Project. Our goal is to create better pathways for students from preschool through grade 12 by focusing on:
✅ Building Capacity
✅ Feeder Patterns
✅ Program Placement
Please bring your smartphone or laptop to participate in this interactive event. Flyers with QR codes and a limited number of district-issued devices will also be available.
Don’t miss this chance to share your thoughts and help improve student opportunities across the district!
🗓️ Monday, March 23
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 South High Community School, 170 Apricot St
👥 Translation services and childcare will be provided
🔗 Learn more & stay informed - check the link in our bio!
📚 Voices of Empowerment Project for Women’s History Month at Jacob Hiatt 📚
In recognition of Women’s History Month, fifth grade students at Jacob Hiatt Magnet School are exploring the lives and legacies of influential women in history.
Throughout the project, students selected a woman to research, writing an essay that examines her early life, impact, and legacy while building skills in identifying reliable sources.
In part two of the project, students will choose a single adjective to define their figure, such as brave, determined, or resilient, and will record their reasoning. These pieces will come together in a technology-based project that incorporates art and music and will be displayed for families at the school’s STEM Night in May.
Students are researching figures such as Ada Lovelace, Frida Kahlo, Sacagawea, Shirley Chisholm, Simone Biles, and more.
In recognition of Women’s History Month, fifth grade students at Jacob Hiatt Magnet School are exploring the lives and legacies of influential women in history.
Throughout the project, students selected a woman to research, writing an essay that examines her early life, impact, and legacy while building skills in identifying reliable sources.
In part two of the project, students will choose a single adjective to define their figure, such as brave, determined, or resilient, and will record their reasoning. These pieces will come together in a technology-based project that incorporates art and music and will be displayed for families at the school’s STEM Night in May.
Students are researching figures such as Ada Lovelace, Frida Kahlo, Sacagawea, Shirley Chisholm, Simone Biles, and more.
❄️ WPS Snow Day Spotlight: Columbus Park Preparatory Academy
We made a stop at Columbus Park to drop off some well-deserved swag bags for the talented sixth grade students who created a news-inspired snow day broadcast, with help from Mrs. Henry. 🎤🌨️
Their video put a fun, humorous twist on the classic breaking news announcement, delivering the message of a districtwide snow day in a creative way. Thanks for showing off your creativity and representing Columbus Park with so much talent. Keep up the great work! 💙
We made a stop at Columbus Park to drop off some well-deserved swag bags for the talented sixth grade students who created a news-inspired snow day broadcast, with help from Mrs. Henry. 🎤🌨️
Their video put a fun, humorous twist on the classic breaking news announcement, delivering the message of a districtwide snow day in a creative way. Thanks for showing off your creativity and representing Columbus Park with so much talent. Keep up the great work! 💙
WPS at the Annual Wellness and Resilience Summit 🌟
🌟 Last week, Worcester Public Schools joined the Worcester Department of Public Health and local partners for the Annual Wellness & Resilience Summit.
💬 Information on the HOPE Framework was shared, highlighting how positive experiences and strong communication help youth grow and thrive.
🎭 Highlights included interactive youth participation and an inspiring performance by the Drug Store Theater Group.
🤝 We’re proud to strengthen these community connections to make sure our students have the support they need to succeed.
🌟 Last week, Worcester Public Schools joined the Worcester Department of Public Health and local partners for the Annual Wellness & Resilience Summit.
💬 Information on the HOPE Framework was shared, highlighting how positive experiences and strong communication help youth grow and thrive.
🎭 Highlights included interactive youth participation and an inspiring performance by the Drug Store Theater Group.
🤝 We’re proud to strengthen these community connections to make sure our students have the support they need to succeed.
