WORCESTER— Worcester Public Schools Superintendent Rachel H. Monárrez is leaving the district to take a new position as superintendent in California.
The move, which was formally announced Thursday, April 17, marks the end of her tenure in Worcester, which began in July 2022.
Monárrez’s last day with WPS will be at the end of the 2024–25 school year, according to the district’s announcement. Plans for appointing an interim superintendent or launching a search process have not yet been announced.
Monárrez was appointed superintendent in 2022 following a nationwide search to replace former superintendent Maureen Binienda. The Worcester School Committee initially voted 6-1 to appoint her, before taking a second vote to make the appointment unanimous.
She had previously served as deputy superintendent in the San Bernardino City Unified School District in California and brought to Worcester nearly two decades of experience as a teacher and instructional leader, with a focus on supporting English-language learners.
Since taking the helm of one of the largest school districts in Massachusetts, Monárrez has led several major initiatives, including the launch of a five-year strategic plan aimed at improving equity, access, and outcomes for all students. The district currently serves about 24,500 students with an annual budget of more than $460 million.
In December, Monárrez was named one of 25 “Superintendents to Watch” by the National School Public Relations Association.
In a letter shared Thursday with WPS families and staff, Monárrez said the decision to step down came after “deep reflection” and consideration of her family’s needs. “As many of you know, my husband, Jesus, is retired, and this next chapter in our lives will allow us to spend more time together with our family and friends in our home state of California,” she wrote.
“Serving as your superintendent has been an incredible honor,” Monárrez added in the letter. “Over the past three years, under our guiding mantra—from here, anywhere… together—we have made meaningful progress toward greater equity and opportunity for our scholars.”
She cited several milestones during her tenure, including expanded specialized programming, improved inclusionary practices, a strengthened relationship with educators, and capital investments in facilities and safety. She also highlighted the new Doherty Memorial High School, the upcoming Burncoat High School project, and the district’s adoption of its “Vision of a Learner” framework for student success.
Mayor Joseph M. Petty also issued a statement Thursday, calling Monárrez “thoughtful, astute, and honest.”
“Superintendent Monárrez’s vision for our scholars and her awareness of how to make schools better has brought the Worcester Public Schools to the next level,” Petty said. “Her genuine disposition and brilliant mind have made me feel confident in anything she has ever had to say. … I wish nothing but the best for Dr. Monárrez as she returns home, although she will be fondly missed by her Worcester Public Schools family.”
During her time in Worcester, Monárrez earned praise for bringing a fresh perspective and for helping the district progress in several areas. In August, the Worcester School Committee voted to extend her contract through June 30, 2027.
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