Worcester Tech demand keeps climbing
Worcester Technical High School is facing rising demand as applications continue to outpace available freshman seats. Roughly 700 students were placed on the waitlist in 2025, up significantly from the year before, while some recent cycles have drawn more than 1,000 applicants for about 400 openings. The surge is pushing Worcester’s schools to expand career and technical education options elsewhere as families continue to compete for limited spots.
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Disability advocacy group rebrands to reflect mission
The organization formerly known as the Center for Living & Working has rebranded as Your Access Advocates while continuing its work supporting people with disabilities. Leaders said the new name better reflects its role in helping individuals navigate services, employment and independent living. The Worcester-based nonprofit is also working to broaden awareness of its programs across Central Massachusetts.
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QCC expands co-op pipeline into local jobs
Quinsigamond Community College connected more than 50 students with co-op placements during the 2025-26 academic year. The program places students in fields such as manufacturing, business and information systems, with some positions leading directly to employment. College officials say the effort is designed to better align classroom learning with workforce demand.
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Legal Aid receives $30K in flexible funding
Community Legal Aid received $30,000 in unrestricted funding from regional donors to support free legal services for low-income and elderly residents. Unlike program-specific grants, the funding can be directed to areas of greatest need. The support comes as legal aid organizations continue to face growing demand and funding uncertainty.
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Dan Shaughnessy brings blunt takes to Polar Park
Boston Globe columnist Dan Shaughnessy shared candid views on the Red Sox, media and baseball history during a Polar Park appearance. He also reflected on the legacy of Larry Lucchino and his impact on baseball in Worcester. The event drew a crowd interested in both sports commentary and the city’s connection to the game.
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Worcester runners prepare for Boston Marathon
Thirty-three Worcester residents are set to run the Boston Marathon on April 20, joining thousands of participants from around the world. For many, the race represents personal milestones, fundraising efforts or tributes to loved ones. The local group includes both first-time runners and experienced marathoners.
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Weekend lineup mixes film, history and science
This week’s “five things to do” roundup featured a Robin Williams film tribute, Earth Day events, a Mechanics Hall history talk, a science-themed culinary program and a local college baseball game. The events offer a mix of cultural, educational and outdoor options across the region. The lineup reflects a busy spring calendar in Worcester and nearby communities.
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Everyday artifacts reveal 19th-century life
A feature from the American Antiquarian Society highlighted how items like tickets, labels and advertisements provide insight into daily life in the 1800s. Materials once considered disposable now help historians track consumer habits, trade and communication. The collection offers a detailed look at how ordinary people lived and worked.
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Firefighter takes on back-to-back marathon challenge
Worcester firefighter and Air Force veteran Andrew Staruk is preparing to run the Tough Ruck and the Boston Marathon on consecutive days. He plans to carry the names of fallen firefighters while raising money for military families. The effort combines endurance, remembrance and fundraising across a demanding two-day stretch.
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Veteran teacher honored after 40-year career
Lake View Elementary teacher Linda McSweeney was recognized for more than four decades in Worcester classrooms. The honor included recognition from state and local officials, along with a tribute from a former student. Her career reflects a long-standing presence in the city’s public education system.
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Wellness rooms see heavy use in Worcester schools
Worcester Public Schools reported significant use of student wellness rooms, particularly in middle and high schools. The spaces provide students with support for stress, anxiety and behavioral needs during the school day. School officials are continuing to review usage data as they consider future expansion.
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State budget directs funding toward Worcester needs
A $1.57 billion supplemental state budget approved by the senate includes funding tied to Worcester alongside broader statewide investments. The package addresses areas such as housing, health care and education through the Fair Share surtax. Local impacts are part of a wider effort to respond to cost and access challenges across Massachusetts.
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Police response times average under 10 minutes, according to a recent report
A Worcester report analyzing nearly 158,000 calls found an average police response time of 9.65 minutes. Data showed that high-call areas such as Main South still recorded relatively quick response times. Officials said the findings provide a clearer view of how resources are deployed across the city.
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Stretch code debate dominates council discussion
Worcester city councilors spent nearly two hours debating whether to pause enforcement of the Specialized Stretch Energy Code. City officials argued the code adds cost and complexity at a time when more housing is needed. While several councilors signaled support for a pause, no vote was taken that night.
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Worcester joins statewide Space Week events
Worcester is taking part in Massachusetts Space Week, a statewide series of events running April 20-26. Local programming includes a Mechanics Hall concert tied to Robert Goddard and a family-focused event at the Museum of Worcester. The city’s participation connects Worcester to a broader celebration of science and innovation.
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Charlene Arsenault can be reached at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
