School committee looks at budget, properties, inclusive bathrooms

Worcester Public Schools enters next phase of equity-based budgeting, continues movement on Sever Street sites

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Jun 3, 2025

WORCESTER—The Worcester School Committee meets Thursday, June 5, with a packed agenda that includes the district’s fiscal year 2026 budget and the potential future use of two former Becker College properties.

The committee’s work begins at 4 p.m. with a public hearing on the proposed $586.3 million FY2026 budget. The full committee convenes at 7 p.m., following a 6 p.m. executive session. The budget—developed by Deputy Superintendent Brian Allen and Superintendent Rachel H. Monárrez—represents a 6.1% increase over FY25 and introduces a new equity-based approach to funding, prioritizing schools with the greatest need.

A final vote is scheduled for June 18, and Thursday’s meeting includes an agenda item to approve the plan.

The committee also revisits a motion related to the potential school use of 51 and 61 Sever St., two former Becker College properties now owned by the city. The item, submitted by City Councilor Khrystian King and introduced by Committee Member Sue Mailman, asks the district to evaluate the buildings for possible short-term use for the transition or alternative programs—or as overflow space for overcrowded elementary schools.

Monárrez previously estimated renovations to 61 Sever St. alone could cost up to $6 million, citing HVAC, ADA, and structural upgrades. The agenda calls for the committee to accept and file the motion after receiving requested cost estimates and feasibility assessments.

Also on the docket: updates from several standing committees, discussions on inclusive bathrooms and anti-bullying programs, and recognition for graduating student representatives.

More highlights on the agenda:

Inclusive bathrooms at North High: A petition led by a North High behaviorist to make all student bathrooms gender inclusive was approved and filed.
Anti-bullying program follow-Up: The committee voted to receive advanced data on current anti-bullying efforts and explore tracking services for student victims.
Non-discrimination policy review: The committee reviews updates to its non-discrimination policies, including those addressing harassment and retaliation, to align with recent changes from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). Member Molly McCullough brought the item forward, prompting discussion on updates to Policy AC (non-discrimination including harassment and retaliation) and Policy ACA (Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex). The goal is to ensure district policies remain compliant and reflective of best practices. The item is recommended to be approved and filed.
Recognition of student representatives: Committee Member Molly McCullough called for recognition of graduating seniors who served as school committee representatives.
Public petition for solar panels: A student-led petition with 282 signatures from Forest Grove Middle School calls for installing solar panels to reduce the school’s carbon footprint. It was referred to the Finance, Operations, and Governance Committee (FOG).
New school nutrition equipment: The committee considers accepting a $10,598 grant from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to purchase insulated Cambro food carriers for Grafton Street School and Worcester Arts Magnet. Requested by School Nutrition Program Coordinator Samantha D’Angelo, the funding aims to boost the number of hot meals served by improving food transport and temperature retention. The grant is part of the FC722 School Nutrition Equipment Assistance initiative.
Support for foster care students: McCullough asked the district to explore piloting the COMPASS program, designed to support students in foster care. WPS currently serves more than 400 such students.
Donations for school support: The committee considers accepting a $300 donation from the Greek Ladies Philoptochos Society for Worcester Dual Language School, and $3,500 from DA Joseph Early Jr.’s office to Forest Grove Middle School.

Have news, tips, or a story worth telling? Reach Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org—because good stories (and great scoops) deserve to be shared.