🌱 Future Educators Take the Next Step! ✍️📚
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrated students in the Grow Your Own Program as they participated in a special signing event, pledging their commitment to pursuing careers in education and one day returning to serve the Worcester community.
The Grow Your Own Program is creating a pathway for students to become the next generation of educators through:
✅ Early college education courses at Worcester State University
✅ Hands-on classroom and enrichment experiences
✅ Opportunities to build a future with Worcester Public Schools
This signing event marks an important milestone as students commit to a future in education and continue their journey toward making a difference in the lives of Worcester students.
Congratulations to our Grow Your Own students as they take this exciting step toward becoming future educators! 💙💛
Take a look at photos from the event! 📸
This week, Worcester Public Schools proudly celebrated students in the Grow Your Own Program as they participated in a special signing event, pledging their commitment to pursuing careers in education and one day returning to serve the Worcester community.
The Grow Your Own Program is creating a pathway for students to become the next generation of educators through:
✅ Early college education courses at Worcester State University
✅ Hands-on classroom and enrichment experiences
✅ Opportunities to build a future with Worcester Public Schools
This signing event marks an important milestone as students commit to a future in education and continue their journey toward making a difference in the lives of Worcester students.
Congratulations to our Grow Your Own students as they take this exciting step toward becoming future educators! 💙💛
Take a look at photos from the event! 📸
🎓✨ Alumni Spotlight: From Worcester Tech to Community Impact
Meet, a proud Worcester Public Schools graduate whose journey has been shaped by creativity, mentorship, and a passion for building stronger communities.
A graduate of, as well as and, Jose is now the Director of Community Engagement and Design Justice at Utile.
From hands-on carpentry projects at Worcester Tech to leading community-centered design work in Worcester and beyond, Jose’s career reflects the power of education, mentorship, and giving back.
“Design could be a tool for justice and opportunity,” he shared. “That changed everything for me.”
Today, he is helping shape the future of Worcester through community engagement efforts connected to Great Brook Valley while continuing to inspire young people through creativity and leadership.
Thank you, Jose, for representing Worcester Public Schools with purpose and heart! 💙💛
🔗 Read more here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/291481
Meet, a proud Worcester Public Schools graduate whose journey has been shaped by creativity, mentorship, and a passion for building stronger communities.
A graduate of, as well as and, Jose is now the Director of Community Engagement and Design Justice at Utile.
From hands-on carpentry projects at Worcester Tech to leading community-centered design work in Worcester and beyond, Jose’s career reflects the power of education, mentorship, and giving back.
“Design could be a tool for justice and opportunity,” he shared. “That changed everything for me.”
Today, he is helping shape the future of Worcester through community engagement efforts connected to Great Brook Valley while continuing to inspire young people through creativity and leadership.
Thank you, Jose, for representing Worcester Public Schools with purpose and heart! 💙💛
🔗 Read more here: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/291481
🎓 Bay State Bank Awards Book Scholarships to Seven WPS Seniors
🎓📚 Congratulations to seven Worcester Public Schools seniors who each received a $500 book scholarship from Bay State Bank as they prepare to begin their college journeys!
This year’s scholarship recipients are Jorgea Nico of Doherty Memorial High School, Isabella Ortiz of Burncoat High School, Abigail Quinlivan of Worcester Technical High School, Nathan Muratwa of University Park Campus School, Naomi Hylton of South High Community School, Alba Sencion Aguero of North High School, and Nikki Perritt of Claremont Academy.
During a special luncheon hosted by Bay State Bank, students enjoyed lunch, connected with banking professionals, and heard inspiring remarks from Seth Pitts, President and CEO of Bay State Bank and a proud Worcester Public Schools alumnus.
The scholarship recipients will attend colleges including the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester State University, and Olin College of Engineering to study nursing, engineering, biology, and more.
📸 Students pictured are Jorgea Nico, Nathan Muratwa, Naomi Hylton, Alba Sencion Aguero, and Nikki Perritt. Isabella Ortiz and Abigail Quinlivan are not pictured.
Thank you to Bay State Bank for investing in our students and supporting their bright futures!
🎓📚 Congratulations to seven Worcester Public Schools seniors who each received a $500 book scholarship from Bay State Bank as they prepare to begin their college journeys!
This year’s scholarship recipients are Jorgea Nico of Doherty Memorial High School, Isabella Ortiz of Burncoat High School, Abigail Quinlivan of Worcester Technical High School, Nathan Muratwa of University Park Campus School, Naomi Hylton of South High Community School, Alba Sencion Aguero of North High School, and Nikki Perritt of Claremont Academy.
During a special luncheon hosted by Bay State Bank, students enjoyed lunch, connected with banking professionals, and heard inspiring remarks from Seth Pitts, President and CEO of Bay State Bank and a proud Worcester Public Schools alumnus.
The scholarship recipients will attend colleges including the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester State University, and Olin College of Engineering to study nursing, engineering, biology, and more.
📸 Students pictured are Jorgea Nico, Nathan Muratwa, Naomi Hylton, Alba Sencion Aguero, and Nikki Perritt. Isabella Ortiz and Abigail Quinlivan are not pictured.
Thank you to Bay State Bank for investing in our students and supporting their bright futures!
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Yashfa Bashir, Doherty Memorial High School 🎓
This fall, Yashfa will attend college and major in Biology/Biotechnology. She has a deep interest in laboratory work and aims to pursue a long-term career in the health sciences field.
During her time in high school, Yashfa focused on seeking out opportunities that helped her develop professional skills and build her confidence.
Before beginning her studies, she plans to travel to England and Pakistan this summer to visit her family.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Always seek for opportunities that will be beneficial for you in high school. Most likely you would be able to learn new skills that would help you with professional environments and build your confidence.”
✨ 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
This fall, Yashfa will attend college and major in Biology/Biotechnology. She has a deep interest in laboratory work and aims to pursue a long-term career in the health sciences field.
During her time in high school, Yashfa focused on seeking out opportunities that helped her develop professional skills and build her confidence.
Before beginning her studies, she plans to travel to England and Pakistan this summer to visit her family.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Always seek for opportunities that will be beneficial for you in high school. Most likely you would be able to learn new skills that would help you with professional environments and build your confidence.”
✨ 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
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Chol Chol, South High Community School 🎓
Chol plans to attend Assumption University and hopes to one day enter the field of nursing with a goal of one day becoming a physician. His ultimate dream is to own a home and provide a comfortable life for his family.
Chol’s work in the classroom has earned him a scholarship to Assumption. He credits his time in high school with teaching him the importance of working hard and staying disciplined in working toward his personal and professional goals.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Do your work on time so you won't have to worry about it later so it won't add up.”
✨ 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
Chol plans to attend Assumption University and hopes to one day enter the field of nursing with a goal of one day becoming a physician. His ultimate dream is to own a home and provide a comfortable life for his family.
Chol’s work in the classroom has earned him a scholarship to Assumption. He credits his time in high school with teaching him the importance of working hard and staying disciplined in working toward his personal and professional goals.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Do your work on time so you won't have to worry about it later so it won't add up.”
✨ 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
Open Houses for Pre-K and Kindergarten on Wednesday, June 3 🖍️
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, every elementary school in the Worcester Public Schools will hold an open house for children who will attend pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten in the fall of 2026, along with their parents and caregivers.
Visit worcesterschools.org/openhouse for a full list of times for each school!
The open houses are a chance for young students to see their new schools and for parents to speak with teachers and administrators about what school will be like.
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Kamrie Ababio, Burncoat High School 🎓
This fall, Kamrie plans to attend college to study music education. Her goal is to one day become a music teacher and band director, sharing her passion for performance with future students.
Kamrie has been deeply involved in the musical community at Burncoat, performing as a member of the concert band, symphony orchestra, and jazz band. She has also taken on significant leadership roles, serving as the artistic director of Worcester UNITES and the treasurer of the Burncoat High School band.
Reflecting on her time in high school, Kamrie credits her success to taking advantage of the many opportunities available to her within the WPS music programs.
✨ 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
This fall, Kamrie plans to attend college to study music education. Her goal is to one day become a music teacher and band director, sharing her passion for performance with future students.
Kamrie has been deeply involved in the musical community at Burncoat, performing as a member of the concert band, symphony orchestra, and jazz band. She has also taken on significant leadership roles, serving as the artistic director of Worcester UNITES and the treasurer of the Burncoat High School band.
Reflecting on her time in high school, Kamrie credits her success to taking advantage of the many opportunities available to her within the WPS music programs.
✨ 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
🎨 Worcester Public Schools 69th Annual Arts Festival 🎨
We had an amazing time celebrating the opening of the 69th Annual WPS Arts Festival at the Worcester Arts Museum!
With over 500 pieces on display, the museum is bursting with the creativity and artistic vision of our talented WPS students. 🌟
If you couldn't make it to opening night, you still have time to see these incredible student artworks! The exhibition is open until May 28.
Check out some of the highlights from opening night! 📸
We had an amazing time celebrating the opening of the 69th Annual WPS Arts Festival at the Worcester Arts Museum!
With over 500 pieces on display, the museum is bursting with the creativity and artistic vision of our talented WPS students. 🌟
If you couldn't make it to opening night, you still have time to see these incredible student artworks! The exhibition is open until May 28.
Check out some of the highlights from opening night! 📸
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Bernardo Pena dos Santos, Doherty Memorial High School 🎓
This fall, Bernardo will attend Centre College in Kentucky where he plans to study economics or political science with a minor in math.
Bernardo hopes to one day be a teacher or work with organizations that support students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential.
Bernardo is a recipient of the Posse Scholarship, a prestigious scholarship which provides full-tuition to high school seniors that demonstrate leadership, academic potential and teamwork.
Bernardo says that navigating a new language and testing out of ESL helped him develop the strong communication skills and confidence he carries with him today.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Get involved in as many clubs, activities, and sports as you can, because they help you meet new people and develop lifelong friendships, connections, and find new passions.”
✨ 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
This fall, Bernardo will attend Centre College in Kentucky where he plans to study economics or political science with a minor in math.
Bernardo hopes to one day be a teacher or work with organizations that support students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential.
Bernardo is a recipient of the Posse Scholarship, a prestigious scholarship which provides full-tuition to high school seniors that demonstrate leadership, academic potential and teamwork.
Bernardo says that navigating a new language and testing out of ESL helped him develop the strong communication skills and confidence he carries with him today.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Get involved in as many clubs, activities, and sports as you can, because they help you meet new people and develop lifelong friendships, connections, and find new passions.”
✨ 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
Registrations for the 2026 Worcester UNITES Performing Arts Summer Program are Now Open 🎶
Worcester UNITES is a free music program for Worcester Public Schools students in grades 4-12 who have studied an instrument for at least one year. 🎻
Students will participate in sectionals, lessons, and ensemble work with other students from throughout the district. In addition to musical instruction, there will also be plenty of summer fun!
The program will be held at South High Community School, 170 Apricot Street on June 23, 24, 25 and 26. A public concert will be held on June 26.
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHWzABnhKQU1KnkDmG53EmbnflGbXM1R5vG0868EYznF_z5Q/viewform
Worcester UNITES is a free music program for Worcester Public Schools students in grades 4-12 who have studied an instrument for at least one year. 🎻
Students will participate in sectionals, lessons, and ensemble work with other students from throughout the district. In addition to musical instruction, there will also be plenty of summer fun!
The program will be held at South High Community School, 170 Apricot Street on June 23, 24, 25 and 26. A public concert will be held on June 26.
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHWzABnhKQU1KnkDmG53EmbnflGbXM1R5vG0868EYznF_z5Q/viewform
🎓 WPS Senior Spotlight: Nathalia Mervilus, North High School 🎓
After graduation this spring, Nathalia plans to attend a four-year college with the goal of becoming a nurse and pursuing a career in radiology.
During her time in WPS, she has exemplified leadership by serving as Cheer Captain and President of the Black Student Union. She also earned her CNA certification while balancing college-level and AP courses, managing an impressive mix of academics and career prep.
Nathalia credits her dual enrollment and leadership roles with building the confidence she needs for the next level.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Practice the art of not procrastinating and stay on top of your classes. Keep a calendar and use reminders or a notebook to stay organized.”
✨ 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
After graduation this spring, Nathalia plans to attend a four-year college with the goal of becoming a nurse and pursuing a career in radiology.
During her time in WPS, she has exemplified leadership by serving as Cheer Captain and President of the Black Student Union. She also earned her CNA certification while balancing college-level and AP courses, managing an impressive mix of academics and career prep.
Nathalia credits her dual enrollment and leadership roles with building the confidence she needs for the next level.
Advice to incoming freshmen: “Practice the art of not procrastinating and stay on top of your classes. Keep a calendar and use reminders or a notebook to stay organized.”
✨ 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
Currently a 9th grader at another Worcester high school? Thinking about a different path for next year?
Come explore Worcester Tech and see how hands-on learning can connect directly to your future career. Tour our shops, learn about our programs, and discover new opportunities for your future.
Available programs include Drafting (CAD), Environmental Tech, Hospitality Management, Painting & Design, and Programming & Web Development.
🎓 Alumni Spotlight: Jupiter Montalvo ’22 🎶
Jupiter Montalvo’s path to graduation from Berklee College of Music started right here in Worcester Public Schools, through accessible arts programs like the Burncoat Music Magnet and Worcester UNITES.
Now, as they prepare for their next step as a music educator, Montalvo has experienced firsthand how impactful access to the arts can be.
“(WPS) gave me ensemble skills, it gave me the opportunity to grow my own personal style of singing and playing, and it gave me theory skills,” Montalvo said. “It set me up in a good spot once I started college.”
🔗 Read more at worcesterschools.org
Jupiter Montalvo’s path to graduation from Berklee College of Music started right here in Worcester Public Schools, through accessible arts programs like the Burncoat Music Magnet and Worcester UNITES.
Now, as they prepare for their next step as a music educator, Montalvo has experienced firsthand how impactful access to the arts can be.
“(WPS) gave me ensemble skills, it gave me the opportunity to grow my own personal style of singing and playing, and it gave me theory skills,” Montalvo said. “It set me up in a good spot once I started college.”
🔗 Read more at worcesterschools.org
🌟 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!
🗓️ This Month's Nomination Deadline: Monday, May 25
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
Your nominations ensure we can spotlight individuals who are putting Vision to Action across WPS!
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!
🗓️ This Month's Nomination Deadline: Monday, May 25
👉 Nominate a student: https://buff.ly/levYdnc
👉 Nominate a staff member: https://buff.ly/gigMJcA
Your nominations ensure we can spotlight individuals who are putting Vision to Action across WPS!
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Cameron Christie, 7th Grade Science Teacher at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School.
“Since joining the team at Sullivan this year, Cameron Christie has hit the ground running, making a remarkable impact in a very short time,” said Principal Kendra Cox. “Cameron brings a refreshingly student-centered approach to his classroom, blending high expectations with a genuine, strong rapport that makes his students feel both challenged and supported.
“Beyond his instructional prowess, Cameron is a true collaborator who is constantly seeking out ways to contribute to the wider school community. His energy and dedication to fostering a positive environment have already made him an invaluable asset to Sullivan.”
Thank you, Mr. Christie for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Cameron Christie, 7th Grade Science Teacher at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School.
“Since joining the team at Sullivan this year, Cameron Christie has hit the ground running, making a remarkable impact in a very short time,” said Principal Kendra Cox. “Cameron brings a refreshingly student-centered approach to his classroom, blending high expectations with a genuine, strong rapport that makes his students feel both challenged and supported.
“Beyond his instructional prowess, Cameron is a true collaborator who is constantly seeking out ways to contribute to the wider school community. His energy and dedication to fostering a positive environment have already made him an invaluable asset to Sullivan.”
Thank you, Mr. Christie for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re celebrating the incredible educators who make a difference every single day! 🍎✨
A big thank-you to Kelly’s Roast Beef for generously donating delicious roast beef sandwiches to the amazing teachers at Worcester Technical High School. Your support helped make this week even more special.
To all our teachers: your dedication, passion, and impact do not go unnoticed. We appreciate everything you do for our students and community—this week and every week!💙
A big thank-you to Kelly’s Roast Beef for generously donating delicious roast beef sandwiches to the amazing teachers at Worcester Technical High School. Your support helped make this week even more special.
To all our teachers: your dedication, passion, and impact do not go unnoticed. We appreciate everything you do for our students and community—this week and every week!💙
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Thomas O’Neil, History Teacher at Doherty Memorial High School.
"Doherty High wants to recognize Mr. O'Neil for his commitment to maintaining a high bar for excellence in the classroom,” said Doherty High Principal John Staley. “We consistently observe him challenging his students with rigorous lessons while providing the necessary support to ensure everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed. It is clear that his high expectations are driving meaningful growth and helping his students reach their full potential."
Thank you, Mr. O’Neil, for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Today, we’re proud to recognize Thomas O’Neil, History Teacher at Doherty Memorial High School.
"Doherty High wants to recognize Mr. O'Neil for his commitment to maintaining a high bar for excellence in the classroom,” said Doherty High Principal John Staley. “We consistently observe him challenging his students with rigorous lessons while providing the necessary support to ensure everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed. It is clear that his high expectations are driving meaningful growth and helping his students reach their full potential."
Thank you, Mr. O’Neil, for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
Big news! 🎉
Worcester Technical High School, in partnership with Worcester Public Schools, has been awarded a $3.75 million Career Technical Education Expansion Grant to modernize and expand our Plumbing & HVAC programs.
“This grant represents a transformative investment in our students and our region’s future,” said Dr. Patricia Suomala, Director of Career and Technical Education.
This investment will bring upgraded labs, advanced technology, and more opportunities for students preparing for high-demand careers in the skilled trades, energy efficiency, and infrastructure modernization. 🔧💡
#WorcesterTech #CTE #SkilledTrades #HVAC #Plumbing #FutureReady
Worcester Technical High School, in partnership with Worcester Public Schools, has been awarded a $3.75 million Career Technical Education Expansion Grant to modernize and expand our Plumbing & HVAC programs.
“This grant represents a transformative investment in our students and our region’s future,” said Dr. Patricia Suomala, Director of Career and Technical Education.
This investment will bring upgraded labs, advanced technology, and more opportunities for students preparing for high-demand careers in the skilled trades, energy efficiency, and infrastructure modernization. 🔧💡
#WorcesterTech #CTE #SkilledTrades #HVAC #Plumbing #FutureReady
Quarter 3 Honor Roll!
Congratulations to all WPS students being recognized for their hard work and academic achievement in the third quarter. We’re proud to celebrate your success!
Find your student: https://www.worcesterschools.org/article/2863347
🍎 Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎
Today, we’re proud to recognize Eileen Doyle, First Grade Teacher at Burncoat Street Preparatory School.
“Eileen is a long-time member of the Burncoat Prep family. Her warm first grade heart extends beyond her students to Burncoat Prep families and staff,” said Principal Emily Plante. “Eileen steps up to welcome new students and adults, and help her colleagues. She is always willing to try something new to meet her student's needs. The Burncoat Prep community appreciates Mrs. Doyle!”
Thank you, Mrs. Doyle for the care, dedication, and passion you bring to your students and school community each and every day!
