WORCESTER—The Worcester School Committee convenes on Thursday, March 20, to discuss a range of topics, including updates on special education reorganization, a financial literacy grant, and a request from a local resident regarding school bus noise.
One of the agenda items includes a request from the Doherty Memorial High School Class of 1972 for a replacement tree in memory of a deceased classmate. The class originally planted a memorial tree in 1971, which was lost during the construction of the new school building.
In a letter to the committee, class representatives explained that a new tree and memorial plaque would honor their classmates, many of whom have passed away. The committee will review the request and determine the next steps.
School Committee Member Susan Coghlin Mailman requested in December of last year an update on various reorganization strategies within special education and other departments. These changes were made to better serve Worcester Public Schools students while also addressing financial challenges tied to state-level budgeting issues.
The committee also considers approving a Financial Education Innovation Fund Continuation Grant from the Massachusetts Treasury Department. The $2,296 grant would support financial literacy programming at Worcester Technical High School, including interactive events such as the “Credit for Life Fair.” The initiative aims to help students understand real-world financial decisions, including budgeting, saving, and spending.
Another discussion focuses on a complaint from Worcester resident Nathalie Gibson regarding school bus drivers honking their horns in densely populated residential neighborhoods. Gibson argues that the practice violates the city’s noise ordinance and has asked the committee to address the issue.
In response, Worcester Public Schools administration has cited district policy, which requires students to be outside 10 minutes before their scheduled pickup time and states that bus drivers should not stop if no child is visible at the stop.
Other agenda highlights:
- The Trump administration’s effect on education funding: Mayor Joe Petty requests a discussion on the potential impact of proposed federal funding cuts to education and nutrition programs. It is recommended that this is referred to administration.
- Honoring a student who hit the big time: Committee member Molly McCullough requests that the committee send a letter congratulating Burncoat Middle School 8th grader Miles Lefebvre on his acceptance to the 2025 Middle School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall in New York City. He will represent Burncoat Middle and perform at the world-renowned venue from June 24-28.
- Understanding special education: Vice Chair Jermaine Johnson has asked to continue reviewing special education policies and report findings to the school committee. He has asked that placement program guidelines be updated and track how many students transition from separate tracks back to general education.
- Fostering the school community: A response from administration to the Student Advisory Council’s January submission emphasizes the importance of equitable academic recognition across all Worcester schools. It asks that school staff should actively inform students about academic opportunities and excellence awards to ensure fair access. It is recommended this is put on file.
- Checking the pulse of the schools: Committee member Maureen Binienda requests additional details on the recent Worcester Public Schools staff mid-year “pulse check” survey regarding culture, climate, and safety. It has been recommended this is referred to administration.
- Who’s meeting the mark? District E School Committee Member Kathleen Roy requests data on student performance following the March 7 WPS newsletter report on rising math and ELA achievement. She asks for STAR assessment data showing the percentage of students, by grade and school, who are meeting, exceeding, or not meeting expectations.
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