Worcester Public Schools - From Here, Anywhere... Together

🎉 Juniper Outreach Foundation Opens Food Pantry at Doherty Memorial High School The Juniper Outreach Foundation has officially opened its eighth in-school food pantry at Doherty Memorial High School, providing students with access to food 🍎, snacks 🍪, clothing 👚, and other essential items. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Joseph Petty, Principal John Staley, Tim Murray, President/CEO of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Julie McDonald, Executive Director of the Juniper Outreach Foundation. ✂️🎤 With generous support from the Fairlawn Foundation, this new pantry joins Juniper’s growing network of school-based pantries at Burncoat Preparatory School, Lincoln Street School, City View Discovery School, Elm Park Community School, Vernon Hill School, Gerald Creamer Center, and South High School—ensuring more students have the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom. 📚🌟

🌟 Student Spotlight: Caleigh Moriarty’s Field Hockey Clinic 🌟 Caleigh Moriarty, an 11th grader at Doherty Memorial High School, launched a Field Hockey Clinic at May Street School for 5th and 6th grade girls! 🏑 This initiative, developed as part of her AP Seminar project, introduces young athletes to the sport and encourages more girls from diverse backgrounds to get involved in athletics. The clinic has been a huge success, with nearly every participant joining in—and many asking for even more sessions! As Principal Luke Robert shared, "None of the students quit, and many asked for more sessions!" Caleigh, along with her friend and teammate Sarah Defusco, hopes to expand the program to other schools, providing more students with opportunities to explore new activities and stay active. 🎉 A big shoutout to Caleigh and Sarah for their commitment to empowering young athletes!

Worcester Technical High School Partners with NEI General Contracting to Train Future Builders 🏗️ Worcester Technical High School has partnered with NEI General Contracting, an award-winning firm, to provide students with hands-on training in the construction industry. Through this initiative, NEI General Contracting has placed three students in co-op positions and connected many more with subcontractors.

Alumna and Author Tika Smith Visits Scholars at Burncoat High School 📚 Thank you to Tika Smith, a Burncoat High School Class of 1991 graduate and published author, for taking the time to visit students at Burncoat High! During her visit, Tika met with journalism students to answer questions about her books, share her experiences, and inspire the next generation of writers and readers. Tika Smith is an author, nonprofit leader, and senior lab tech currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Health and Human Services at Antioch University in Seattle, WA.

Doherty’s Dea Kamberi Named 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts! 🎉 Doherty Memorial High School senior and valedictorian Dea Kamberi has earned the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts title—marking a first for Worcester Public Schools! This prestigious honor recognizes Dea’s excellence in academics, talent, leadership, fitness, and self-expression. She will now represent Massachusetts at the national competition in Alabama this summer! A standout scholar, Dea excels in dual enrollment courses at Quinsigamond Community College, showcases her musical talent through piano performance, and leads in her community through the Bank of America Student Leaders Program and her internship at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester. Congratulations to Dea on this achievement! 👏🎶📚

Student Superintendent Advisory Council Meeting at Worcester Technical High School 💭 The Student Superintendent Advisory Council (SSAC) came together at Worcester Technical High School for its latest monthly meeting. Made up of scholars from WPS high schools, SSAC meets each month during the school year to discuss topics focused on improving the student experience in WPS. This month, scholars enjoyed a blindfold icebreaker before diving into collaborative activities, including "problem trees" and a fun budget-related activity led by WPS Deputy Superintendent Brian Allen.

⭐ Brenda Dubrey, Third Grade Educator at Thorndyke Road School ⭐ “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.” ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N

💲🚌CPPAC Gets Budget and Transportation Update Deputy Superintendent Brian Allen and Transportation Director Mike Freeman gave presentations to the Citywide Parent Planning Advisory Council on Wednesday evening at Worcester Dual Language Magnet School. Mr. Allen (pictured fifth from left) explained that WPS is projected to receive an additional $38 million next school year, fiscal year 2026. He said there will be no elimination of classroom teaching positions due to budget cuts, and in some schools there will be additional teachers, a reversal from the budget reductions experienced this year. Mr. Freeman (pictured second from right) said 2024-25 has been the best year ever for the Transportation Department, reflecting major improvements since operations were moved in-house. In addition to on-time performance rate of 98% and a fully staffed workforce, Transportation is planning to implement new technology in the next 1-2 years that will include a swipe-card system for students and a new bus locator mobile app.

🛑🚸 Today, we celebrate the incredible crossing guards in Worcester Public Schools who play a vital role in getting our students to and from school safely throughout the school year. 👏 Pictured are a few of the dedicated crossing guards in our schools: 🛑🚸 Brenda Davin – Crossing Guard at Flagg Street School Principal Genese says, "We are so fortunate to have Ms. Brenda Davin as the crossing guard for the Flagg Street School community. She not only ensures students arrive safely but also brightens everyone's day with her kindness." Parent Zack Kennedy adds, "Rain or shine, snow or sleet, Brenda greets everyone with a smile and kind words. She decorates the tree and post with holiday cheer, and her genuine affection for the kids is felt by all. We are lucky to have her as part of the Flagg community." 🛑🚸 Lilian Garcia – Crossing Guard at Union Hill School Principal Tabales says, "At one of the busiest intersections in town, Ms. Lillian Garcia is more than just a crossing guard—she’s a community guardian. Rain or shine, she ensures the safety of children with a warm smile and a watchful eye, even carrying spare mittens for those who forget theirs." 🛑🚸 Kashanda Harris – Crossing Guard at Goddard School of Science & Technology Principal Dr. Allen says, "Kashanda Harris is one of our veteran crossing guards who crosses Goddard School students at the very busy intersection of Main Street at Freeland Street. We appreciate Kashanda's many years of service to the Goddard School community, ensuring that our students arrive at school and return home safely each and every day, regardless of the weather." 🛑🚸 Al Ruiz – Crossing Guard at Grafton Street School Principal Hebert says, “Al Ruiz is the first face greeting students and families at Grafton Street School. He has built positive and trusting relationships with the Grafton Street Community. We are lucky to have him keeping our students safe.” Sending a thank you to all of our WPS crossing guards for their dedication and hard work in keeping our students safe every day!

⭐ Arianna Santiago, Second Grade Scholar at Union Hill School ⭐ “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.” This demonstrates that Arianna is an Engaged Community Member, a disposition of the Vision of a Learner framework. Arianna shows an ability to interact with others in varied social, cultural and multilingual backgrounds (ECM3). ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N

Burncoat High School Drama Club Moves Onto State Finals 🎭 Burncoat High School's drama club has advanced to the finals in the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild's (METG) state-wide competition for its performance of The Price by Don Zolidis! Catch Burncoat on stage for the state finals on Saturday, March 29 at 12:30 PM at John Hancock Hall in Boston! Get your tickets now: https://www.ticketstage.com/bin/f.wk?ts.performance.gen There will also be two chances to watch the show at Burncoat Middle School on March 21 and March 22 at 7:00 PM.

Alumni Spotlight: Timothy Lavoie ‘17 Becomes First to Earn Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine Through Tufts at Tech Experience Worcester Technical High School Class of 2017 alumnus Timothy Lavoie recently became the first to earn a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) since the veterinary assisting partnership with Tufts University—known as Tufts at Tech—was established in 2012. Tim shared his journey with us in a recent interview and discussed how his Tufts at Tech experience paved the way for his young veterinary career. Read the full story here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2087305

Friendly Faces of Belmont Street Community School 🤗 We recently stopped by Belmont Street Community School to visit our young learners! Belmont Street School is a vibrant community where students grow, thrive, and achieve their full potential. Belmont Street School sets high standards for learning, ensuring that every student is challenged and supported on their educational journey. The inclusive environment at Belmont Street School values diversity, respects every family and culture and celebrates the progress of learners each year. Together, Belmont Street builds a strong foundation for lifelong success! Belmont Street School is located in the North Quadrant of the Worcester Public Schools and hosts 615 students from PreK to Grade 6.

South High Community School Girls Basketball Advances to Division 2 State Championship 🏀 South High secured a spot in the state championship game with a 42-39 win over #7 Whitman-Hanson in the semifinal round! The #6 Colonels will now face top-seeded Medfield in a rematch of last year's state championship. The Division 2 State Championship is Saturday, March 15 at 4:00 PM at Tsongas Center on the campus of UMass Lowell. Get your tickets now ➡️: https://tsongascenter.evenue.net/events/MIAAB

Principal for a Day at Worcester Public Schools 🍎 Business and civic leaders from the Worcester community were recently invited to step into the role of Principal for a Day in WPS! This event, organized by the Worcester Education Collaborative, offers local leaders the opportunity to experience firsthand how our schools operate on a daily basis. This year, ten WPS schools and 35 Principals for a Day took part in the event, which concluded with a luncheon at Doherty Memorial High School. The luncheon featured a panel discussion on project-based learning. Pictured above are our Principal for a Day guests at City View Discovery School, Doherty Memorial High School and Lincoln Street School. A huge thank you to all of our Principals for a Day!

⭐ Jessica Spencer, Guidance Counselor at New Citizens Center Secondary ⭐ “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.” ⭐ 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. 👉 Nominate a student at https://buff.ly/4g5M2aW 👉 Nominate a staff member at https://buff.ly/3Mlru0N

🏫🎾 Worcester Public Schools Receives USA Pickleball Grant to Expand Physical Education Curriculum Worcester Public Schools has been awarded a grant from USA Pickleball’s inaugural “Grow the Game” program! This initiative will help expand access to pickleball in our schools and communities by providing essential equipment and resources. As part of the grant, WPS will receive 72 paddles, 3 nets, and 200 pickleballs, plus educational materials to support the integration of pickleball into the physical education curriculum. PE teachers recently participated in professional development at Doherty Memorial High School, learning how to teach pickleball to students. This program will help students get active and engaged in a fun, growing sport that promotes fitness and social interaction. 🎾💪 Read more: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2075969

📚 Read Across America at Rice Square School! Rice Square School celebrated Read Across America Day with guest readers from the Worcester community, including Joseph M. Petty, Mayor of Worcester; Eric D. Batista, City Manager of Worcester; Worcester Police and Fire Departments, and many others. The readers shared stories highlighting perseverance, community systems, and the importance of a growth mindset in overcoming challenges. Thank you to all the volunteers for making this event a success for Rice Square scholars and staff!

School Social Worker / Adjustment Counselor Appreciation Week 🧑‍🏫💙 This week, we recognize and celebrate the contributions of our School Social Workers / Adjustment Counselors. 💙 They support students, families, and educators in creating a safe and inclusive learning environment. 🌱📚 School Adjustment Counselors address social, emotional, and behavioral challenges, helping students succeed. 🎯 Their work helps bridge gaps, provide resources, and support resilience in our school communities. 🤝💪 To all our School Adjustment Counselors—thank you for your work and support. 🙏 We appreciate everything you do! 🌟 Check out some of the photos of our dedicated team! 📸

Read Across America Week at Canterbury Street Magnet Computer-Based School 📚 Volunteer readers from the Worcester community recently visited Canterbury Street Magnet School to celebrate Read Across America Week! Scholars enjoyed visits from Smiley Ball of the Worcester Red Sox, Fela & Pete the Cat, Jen Carter from WXLO, Sgt. Roche from the Worcester Police Department, and many more. Thank you to all the volunteers for making Read Across America Week a success for Canterbury students and staff!