6-16 Celebration

Worcester Public Schools EvoefningCelebration June 16, 2015 Worcester Technical High School

Worcester Public SchoolsDr. Melinda J. Boone Superintendent of SchoolsDr. Marco C. Rodrigues Chief Academic Officer Albert G. Ganem Jr. Manager of Professional Lear4ing School Committee Mayor Joseph M. PeZ® - Chair Dianna L. Biancheria - Vice Chair John L. Foley John Mon]edo Brian A. O’Connell Tracy O’Connell Novick Hilda Ramirez

Welcome …...………..………...…………...…..…..…… Albert G. Ganem Jr.The Pledge of AllegianceStar Spangled Banner …….……..………………....….. Lois Dwira Worcester Technical High SchoolOpening …...………..………………………………...... Dr. Melinda J. Boone Presentation of AwardsCommunity Service Award ……………………..... Dr. Marco C. RodriguesInstructional Assistant of the Year Award …….......... Cheryl DelSignoreJohn F. Doherty Award …..……..………………...….…....… Jeffrey MartinJohn Lapomardo Award …………..............................…….… Jeffrey MartinSchool Nurse of the Year Award …………………....…. Debra McGovernAdministrative Secretary of the Year Award .. Dr. Dolores M. GribouskiEducational Secretary of the Year Award …….. Dr. Bertha-Elena RojasFrances Perkins Award …….....………...….. Dr. Mary E. Meade-MontaqueJohn Adams Award …………………………………………....… Brian AllenSpecial Announcement ……….…………………...…. Dr. Melinda J. BooneThomas Jefferson Awards ……………………….…..… Albert G. Ganem Jr. Dr. Mary E. Meade-Montaque Mark Berthiaume Dr. Dolores M. GribouskiClosing ………………………………………...….……. Albert G. Ganem Jr. 1

Characteristics of ExcellenceThomas Jefferson Scholar CreativeSelf-disciplined Patient Witty Complex Diplomatic PhilanthropicFrances Perkins John Adams Leader Honest Social Crusader Thoughtful Energetic Volunteer Introspective Motivator Disciplined Scholar Persistent Pioneer Ambitious Activist Earnest Academic 2

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2015 Teacher of the Year Finalist AndreaCaplan Worcester Technical High SchoolAndrea Caplan is always willing to step-up and help. She is a steadfastadvocate for students. In the words of WTHS Assistant Principal MichellePhenix, “Mrs. Caplan goes above and beyond for the benefit of all studentsand their success.” She is a committed and passionate educator.Mary O’Malley, Interim CVTE Director, shared that Andrea continuouslyoffers, “Whatever it is I can do to help a child succeed, just tell me what youneed.” Beth Down, Special Education department head, states, “Andrea hasa sincere interest and compassion for all students’ learning.” CongratulationsAndrea for being chosen as a finalist for the WPS 2015 Teacher of the Year. Community Service Award Susan Mariano Lucente JewelersSusan Mariano lived in Great Brook Valley during her childhood. She wasthe daughter of a disabled veteran and an immigrant mother. As a child shelearned first-hand what it was like to go hungry and rely on surplus food.She learned to wear hand-me-down clothing and she experienced birthdaysand holidays without gifts. Susan attended Worcester Public Schools andis a 1970 graduate of Burncoat High School. For the past 20 years she hasbeen the owner of Lucente Jewelers in Grafton. As a successful business-woman Susan saw an opportunity to help our homeless populationof 100 students. She wanted the children to feel special no matter what theircircumstances were. She contacted BHS and organized her business partnersto raise enough money to supply the homeless population with Thanksgivingdinners. This year her generosity allowed us to deliver a full dinner to 75 ofour most needy students. In addition, the past two years she has donated 100gift cards each year as holiday gifts to these students. Many of them usedtheir cards not only for themselves but for their younger siblings. She hasgiven them the opportunity to be part of holiday celebrations. In the process,Susan has also helped our students improve academically as they now wantto be successful so they can someday help others. BHS appreciates hercontinued efforts to give back to the community that has remained close toher heart. 4

Instructional Assistant of the Year Troy Johnson Burncoat Middle SchoolTroy Johnson is an outstanding Instructional Assistant at Burncoat MiddleSchool who exceeds the expectations and responsibilities of his position.Troy gets to school early and meets his students for breakfast. In theclassroom, all students benefit from his assistance. Troy has a calm, quietdemeanor that allows him to build a respectful relationship with students.He has a unique way of motivating and encouraging students to payattention, participate in activities and complete tasks. He redirectsinappropriate behavior while implementing behavior management programsdesigned by the teachers. He fully supports our PBIS program and BMS, andhe is personable with students, which allows him to aid in problem solvingwhen individual issues arise. In the classroom, Troy provides support tostudents on individual or small group basis. He works with teachers todevelop learning activities and to adapt appropriate materials. Troycontinuously moves through the classroom assisting students academically,which increases their confidence. Troy Johnson is truly an asset to theWorcester Public Schools and is so deserving of the honor, “InstructionalAssistant of the Year.” 2015 Teacher of the Year Finalist Dr. Richard Howarth North High SchoolDr. Richard Howarth’s personal educational journey shows his strong desireand commitment to his students. He is a teacher-leader who has built andstructured his career and professional pathway with his students in mind.He has continued his own education to better meet the needs of his students.He has the ability to effectively teach all learners. Dr. Howarth is a modelfor the North High community and demonstrates what can be accomplishedwhen a teacher has a zest for learning and understands his students. Heguides all of his students on a great educational journey. He works tirelesslyto bring authentic and relevant learning experiences to each one of hisstudents and the entire North High community. 5

John F. Doherty Award School Shop Employee of the Year James Beahn ElectricianJames Beahn has been an electrician and heavy equipment operator with theFacilities Management Department for 21 years and is a vital member of ourteam. He performs each task with a smile, genuine enthusiasm, and takesgreat pride in his work. His approach to his work is analytical and he seeksto maintain a safe environment for the students and staff of the WorcesterPublic Schools. In addition to providing electrical services and operating afront end loader and excavator to dig trenches as needed, he has beenassisting with winter snow removal for the last 13 years. This past winterseason presented a record-breaking snow challenge to New England, but Jimshowed up time after time to confront Mother Nature. During innumerableovernight hours, Jim continued to plow and sand … and through his servicehe found yet another way to keep the members of the WPS’ family safe andsound. The mark of a job well done is not often met with applause in theFacilities’ industry. However, for this moment in time, we hope that you willjoin us in acknowledging the many contributions of Mr. James Beahn.Congratulations James. John Lapomardo Award Custodian of the Year Rainell Young UtilityCrewRainell Young, known to everyone as Ray, has been with the FacilitiesManagement Department for 30 years. He is a conscientious member of theschool department’s Utility Crew, which is tasked with the grounds keepingof 465.90 acres, including multiple athletic fields. The crew also transportsthe pony-mail, moves large items throughout the system, and providescustodial coverage in buildings whenever an extra hand is needed. Themobility of the Utility Crew is necessary and Ray has a reputation of movingfast, talking fast, and getting the job done in short order. During the wintermonths, the school department relies on staff members to plow snow around-the-clock and treat unsafe, icy conditions throughout the night before the 6

students and staff arrive. This past winter was especially challenging, andRay went above and beyond to move 100+ inches of snow (a New Englandrecord!). Ray is a credit to the Facilities Management Team. He received thehonor of this esteemed award 11 years ago (in 2004), but his consistentefforts have earned him the prestige of being chosen once again as Custodianof the Year and to receive the John Lapomardo Award for a second time. School Nurse of the Year DonnaEwick Union Hill SchoolDonna Ewick is the consummate professional. She arrives early and departslate each day. Her duties, responsibilities and caring for students at UnionHill School require a special skill set to achieve lofty goals. Donna wants allstudents to be successful in school and beyond. She takes time to listen, tocare, and to heal. She is kind, caring, compassionate and a beautifulhuman being. Nursing is her calling but service to those in need is the wayshe has lived her life. She creates calm in chaos, safety and security in timesof urgency, answers to questions, and camaraderie and support to our UnionHill School community. There is not a day that goes by that we do not givethanks that Donna is “our nurse.” She is intelligent, professional andoperates each day with integrity and purpose. She is loved by all membersof our school community. She is far more than just our nurse, she is ouradvocate, she is our healer, she is our voice for those in need, and she is ourfriend and colleague. 2015 Teacher of the Year Finalist Deborah Mink City View Discovery SchoolDeborah Mink does not work or perform for awards or accolades, butsimply to inspire and impact all those she comes in contact with each day.She has mastered the elusive art of being firm but fair; having rules, yetmaintaining relationships. Blessed with grace, she is keenly aware of the factthat although she is called upon to teach numerous content areas, she isreally teaching “children” whom she freely offers love and acceptance.While remaining current with the latest instructional strategies andtechnologies, Deborah can still reach a troubled or struggling student withsimple, yet profound caring instinct and empathy wrapped up in complete 7

professionalism. Likewise, she can accelerate and challenge her brightest ofstudents because of professional development experiences and innovationsshe has pursued and mastered. Deborah has a passion in her life and thatpassion is teaching which she exquisitely balances with her most importantrole as a mother of two and sustaining a part-time job outside of the schoolday. She teaches her students to strive for excellence, to love reading andwriting, and to respect and accept each other. Administrative Secretary of the Year Kerri Sundeen Office of Professional LearningKerri Sundeen is a strong asset to the Worcester Public Schools community,serving both faculty and staff as well as fostering strong connections withoutside partners. Her work in the Office of Professional Learning isthorough, thoughtful and centered on the needs of our students. Whethershe is organizing professional learning opportunities for teachersor selecting text for students, she is committed to quality and excellence.Worcester is very fortunate to have Kerri answering their calls,reassuring them about SEI endorsement, PDPs and recertification, andfinding out answers to questions that are outside the realm of the office.She’s even been known to answer frantic calls from her supervisor long afterwork has ended while riding a chair lift. Educational Secretary of the Year Laura Dell’Olio South HighCommunity SchoolLaura Dell’Olio is a valued assistant principal secretary at South High School.She completes all assigned work before the deadlines. Laura has been incharge of coordinating the Driver’s Education program between South High,the driving instructor and the UMASS Medical School for the last 10 yearsLaura has been working with the Special Education students and thepreschoolers since both groups were assigned to her Assistant Principal. Shewelcomes students to school daily with a friendly “hello” and “Have a goodday.” Laura also coordinates the Sports Breakfast and the recording ofstudents talking sports. Laura continues to do more than the responsibilitiesof her job. We always know we can count on Laura to help with whatevertask we need completed with precision and in a timely manner.Congratulations Laura on being chosen as the Educational Secretary of theYear! 8

Frances Perkins Award Female Administrator of the Year Dr. Susan O’Neil Principal Worcester Arts Magnet SchoolDr. Susan O’Neil is recognized as one of the finest elementary schoolprincipals in the Commonwealth. In fact, this current school year, she waschosen as a finalist for Elementary School Principal of the Year for the Stateof Massachusetts. As the principal of Worcester Arts Magnet School(WAMS) for the past 12 years, Dr. O’Neil has lead the school to be one of thehighest performing schools in the state. Students consistently meet andexceed state proficiency levels on the Massachusetts ComprehensiveAssessment System (MCAS). In 2012, third grade students ranked #1 in thestate in Mathematics with 100% of the students scoring advanced/proficienton the MCAS. As a champion for the arts, Dr. O’Neil works tirelessly toprovide her students with an education in the arts in addition to thetraditional curriculum. Toward this end, she has written numerous grantsthat have provided her students with multiple opportunities and experiencesto develop their artistic intelligence. WAMS students regularly participate inarts competitions and have won several awards for their outstandingperformances. Dr. O’Neil is a principal leader who collaboratively workswith her colleagues. Through her quiet unassuming manner she shares herknowledge and expertise to further student learning across the district. She iscurrently leading a writing initiative with schools in the Burncoat Quadrant.Students are central to the work of Dr. O’Neil. As a dedicated educator sheholds her students to high expectations and is committed to fostering eachof her student’s growth and development. She knows her students personallyand regularly monitors their classwork, homework, attendance as well astheir life happenings. We thank Dr. O’Neil for her contributions to thechildren of Worcester and are pleased to recognize her as an outstandingeducator and the 2015 Frances Perkins Female Administrator of the Year. 9

John Adams Award Male Administrator of the Year Gregg Bares Manager of Grant Resources Durkin Administration BuildingAs Manager of Grant Resources from November of 2009 to the present,Gregg Bares oversees approximately $50 million in state, federal, and privatefoundation and corporate awards. He supervises accounting and financeemployees and analyzes financial trends in grant-making acrossgovernmental and private sectors to ensure fiscal compliance for all grantawards. Gregg also oversees the research, development, writing andsubmission of grant proposals as well as accompanying grant reports tosatisfy the requirements of each proposal. During his tenure, Gregg hasmaximized organizational efficiencies while expanding the level of serviceoffered by members within his department throughout some of the mostchallenging financial conditions for federal and state grant funding. Thisincludes Federal sequestration and the recent mid-year 9C cuts from theCommonwealth. Under his direction, staff members successfullyre-competed for key grant-funded programs within the district includingAdult Basic Education and Head Start among others. In response tothe Superintendent’s Seven Point Financial Plan, the Office of GrantsManagement has expanded its efforts to engage private funders in helpingto fund key initiatives within the district. Staff members within the officehave been instrumental in securing awards from Apple ConnectEd, Heartof America- READesign and the Massachusetts Life Sciences Equipment Grantprograms. Gregg is one of the “behind-the-scenes” people in WorcesterPublic Schools whose work goes largely unnoticed but whose tireless effortsare felt by each and every school child within the Worcester Public Schools. 10

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Academic Center for TransitionHonoree: Rachel NydamRachel Nydam seems like most; she is a loving wife, a working mom of twoand an active member of the Grace Presbyterian Church. To us she is aprolific member of our learning community. For the past two years herpresence and impact has been diverse. Rachel has quietly rolled up hersleeves and lent a hand to many a project. Whether she was asked to paint,cover bulletin boards, organize a book drive, collect Thanksgiving Daybaskets, volunteer as a guest reader or literally get her hands dirty by helpingwith Earth Day, she was happy to do so. Rachel’s loving commitment to ourstudents is priceless. We are proud to recognize her as the Academic Centerfor Transition’s Thomas Jefferson Award Nominee.Belmont Street Community SchoolHonorees: Massachusetts Medical AllianceAmanda Graves, Paula Madison, Neena Patwardhan, Fatehmeh Malekafzaly,Wicky Gareua, Ulku Akyurek, Sandra Celona, Laura Newsteing, Mary KayAlbert, Kathryn Nasinnyk, Zeine Popkin, Susan Kronlund, Gerrilu Bruun,Francine VakilFor the past several years, the members of the Massachusetts MedicalAlliance have volunteered their time, as well as financial support, to benefitthe students and families at Belmont Street Community School. Their healthyfoods awareness and cooking demonstrations engage students in hands-on,fun activities while teaching good eating habits. Our fall and springScholastic Book Fairs are possible because of their donation of time andexpertise “manning” the cash register and helping students select ageappropriate books. In addition, the Alliance adopts 10 families during theholidays, including parents, buying gifts and even Christmas trees for needyfamilies. The Alliance continually asks the school what they can do to help.They truly are an assist to the Belmont Street School community. 12

Burncoat Street Preparatory SchoolHonoree: Ana AndinoAna Andino has been a member of the Burncoat Prep family for the last threeyears. From the first month that her son entered as a Kindergarten student,Ana was a visible volunteer, not only in her son’s classroom, but throughoutthe entire school. She has committed herself to helping Burncoat Prep innumerous ways, sometimes riding two busses to get to Burncoat Prep. Fromworking one-on-one with a non-English speaking student, to decoratingbulletin boards and hallways to organizing supplemental materials forteachers, to organizing books, there is nothing she can’t tackle! Ana isalways positive with a beautiful smile on her face. On many days she leavesthe school and goes to her own job for an eight-hour shift. Everyone atBurncoat Prep benefits from her commitment to our school. We love you,“Miss Ana!”Burncoat High SchoolHonoree: Christine SteinwandFor over 40 years, Christine Steinwand has dedicated her professional life tohelping young people. For the last decade, she has served as an adjustmentcounselor at both North High School and Burncoat High School where shehas always put the students first and helped to create an environmentof respect, caring and compassion. She has served as a mentor to fellowguidance and adjustment counselors. Christine is also on the Board ofDirectors for the “Be Like Brit” foundation and will continue her importantwork with that foundation after her retirement in June of 2015. In my 23years in the Worcester Public Schools, I have never met someone as caring,compassionate, intelligent and passionate as Christine Steinwand. Hercommitment and advocacy for the students of the Worcester Public Schoolsis unmatched. BHS recognizes Christine for this prestigious honor with thehighest regard.Burncoat Middle SchoolHonoree: Alanna RichMrs. Alanna Rich is ready, willing and able to help out in any way shecan. She serves on our site council, assists with our fundraisers, and is anenthusiastic supporter of our theater department. In addition, she served ona resume committee and has volunteered to chaperone field trips. 13

Canterbury Magnet Computer-Based SchoolHonoree: Ron CharetteMr. Ron Charette has been a long supporter of Canterbury Street School.He is currently the Director of South Worcester Neighborhood Council,commonly known as SWNIC. As an alumnus of Canterbury Street School, hevalues the education he was provided here, which helped him to extend hiseducational career and go on to the College of the Holy Cross. He wants tohelp the youth of our neighborhood realize their full potential for college andcareer readiness. Mr. Charette is truly a South Worcester communitypartner who spends his days on nearby Camp Street. He volunteers his timeby sitting on our Site Council and actively working with us to help betterprepare our students for the world. In addition to volunteering his time, hisagency provides Thanksgiving baskets and Christmas gifts to many of ourfamilies at the holidays. He also works with our students during summerprograms to get them better prepared for school. We couldn’t have a betterfriend and supporter of Canterbury Street School than Mr. Ron Charette.Chandler Elementary Community SchoolHonorees: Assumption College Women’s Basketball TeamThe Assumption College Women’s Basketball Team is a dedicated group ofwomen who took time out of their busy schedules of classes and basketball tovisit Chandler Elementary School every Thursday after school to connect withmore than 80 students. This bond went beyond basketball skill development;our student athletes learned about the importance of team work, problemsolving, giving attention to detail, being physically active, and civility. Thisgroup of 12 women and their coaches are true role models to the students atChandler Elementary School. A very special partnership has developedbetween our two institutions as we share a vision based on high expectationsand success for all students both academically and athletically. Thisrelationship is a true gift. Thank you to all the players as well as Coach KerryPhayre and Coach Sue Cahill. We appreciate you and all that you do.Chandler Magnet SchoolHonoree: Jonathan NydamJonathan Nydam is a small business owner, a loving husband, father andactive member of the Grace Presbyterian Church. For the past two years hehas generously given his heart, spirit, time and skills as a dedicated volunteerat Chandler Magnet School. He has provided us with expertise to improveour landscape by planting shrubs, building raised beds and helping redesign 14

our preschool yard. Jon and his wife, along with other congregants, gavegenerously of their time and skills by helping us ready our school for openingday so time could be spent on other preparations for welcoming students.Jon has also lent an active hand in organizing book drives, collectingThanksgiving Day baskets for families, painting, moving furniture, andassisting in decorating bulletin boards to name but a few. We can’t thankJon enough for his continued work at Chandler Magnet which is why heis our Thomas Jefferson Award nominee.City View Discovery SchoolHonoree: Kathleen LawKathleen Law began volunteering in one of our Kindergarten classrooms fouryears ago when she was a student at Mass Academy and has continued tovolunteer in the same classroom even now as a nursing student at WorcesterState University. She has given up her school breaks to come and volunteer.This is an outstanding trait for a young woman and we are proud to have Katreturn each year to support our students.Claremont AcademyHonoree: Dr. Jie ParkDr. Jie Park is a Professor of Education at Clark University and hasvolunteered countless hours assisting Claremont Academy and its students.She arranges tutoring, conducts an afterschool book club for students whoare learning English, holds a college-level class where high school studentsattend and learn about research in education, hosts Claremont students ata research conference, and works with Claremont teachers to develophigh-quality lesson plans for ELL students. Dr. Park does all of this withoutfanfare or the need for recognition; instead she does it out of the kindness ofher heart.Clark Street Developmental Learning SchoolHonoree: Beverly JulianBeverly Julian has dedicated the last decade of her life to the children andstaff at Clark Street School. During those 10 plus years she has volunteeredin every area possible from room mother to current PTO president. Shecoordinates the library for the entire school, flips pancakes once a month in 15

celebration of student birthdays, runs off papers for teachers, volunteers inclassrooms, chaperones field trips, recruits new volunteers, writes themonthly parent newsletter, serves on the site council and CPACC, andspearheads teacher appreciation and student spirit week activities. Beverlyhas been a tireless cheerleader for Clark Street School. We are honored torecognize her as an outstanding and inspiring volunteer.Doherty Memorial High SchoolHonorees: Christine Evasius and Kristen PaysonDoherty Memorial High School is fortunate to have a Booster Club that is sosupportive of all types of activities at school and Christine Evasius and KristenPayson are active members. Beyond participating in meetings, fundraisingendeavors and advocating for DHS, these two ladies can be found amidstracks and neatly arranged piles of “Doherty-wear” as they partner to sellclothing and other Highlander items on Fridays to support school spirit andthe strong sense of community shared by all members of the Doherty family.Elm Park Community SchoolHonoree: Melanie PerraultElm Park Community School is recognizing the extraordinary volunteers inthe Big Brothers Big Sisters organization who provide stability to our studentsand contribute to the community. This award season we are especiallygrateful for the support Melanie Perrault, Vice President of Programs, hasgiven to Elm Park Community School.Flagg Street SchoolHonoree: Claire SiegelClaire Siegel is the grandmother of two lucky Flagg Street School students.Each week she volunteers to help with cafeteria duty, taking care of eachchild like they were her own. Over the years she has gone on field trips,worked at field day events, and helped with classroom activities. She haseven brought home the classroom pets over vacation. It is rare to see suchdedication and selflessness in an individual. The Flagg Street School isthrilled to honor Mrs. Claire Siegel for her many acts of kindness. Wegreatly appreciate her efforts for Flagg Street School. 16

Forrest Grove Middle SchoolHonoree: Nina SteinbergMrs. Nina Steinberg brought a strong administrative background to theGuidance Office when she arrived three years ago, and it has made her aneffective and valued member of the Forest Grove Middle School Staff. She isa creative problem solver and always responds to situations based on what isbest for the students. Mrs. Steinberg is supportive to all teachers in theirefforts to help students achieve academically, planning conferences, meetingwith parents, and addressing critical needs. Being a good listener andempathetic to students who struggle socially and academically, has made hera valuable asset to our STEP program. In preparing students for high school,she met with all eighth grade students to go over course selection sheets andwas responsible for collecting all 450 sheets and sort them for the correcthigh schools. Mrs. Steinberg is a true professional, usually one of the first toarrive in the morning and last to leave in the afternoon. She will be greatlymissed as she will be retiring at the end of this year.Francis J. McGrath Elementary SchoolHonoree: Lou-Anne BrancheMrs. Lou-Anne Branche is a remarkable volunteer within our school. Shereads to the first grade every week, sharing her love of reading. Mrs.Branche has assisted us in pulling together community partners as we havemoved forward in our “Little School in the Woods Project.” She is dedicatedto improving our love for the Earth and making connections to ourneighborhood.Gates Lane School of International StudiesHonoree: Tina LyonsMrs. Tina Lyons, Branch Manager of People’s United Bank in TatnuckSquare, has been volunteering in our third grade classroom this year. Thishas been a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with a positivemember of their community in a very meaningful way. Not only has Mrs.Lyons brought an increased awareness of business and banking, she hasopened many students’ eyes to a career opportunity. She has also reachedout to accelerated learners in the classroom by running a weekly book club.This club allows students to focus on challenging literature, providing themwith opportunities to talk, discuss and write ideas that relate to the variouspieces of literature being highlighted. Topics have included the Revolutionary 17

War and George Washington. Students also read “Charlie and the ChocolateFactory.” It has been an absolute pleasure to collaborate with Mrs. Lyonsand have her as a part of the Gates Lane School community.Gerald Creamer CenterHonoree: Christine SawyerChristine Sawyer is a dedicated, kind and enthusiastic educator that putsstudents first. She has been an integral part of the Gerald CreamerCenter staff for many years. She has been teaching Law for the past threeyears. Christine brings the classroom to life with activities and lessons thatengage all learners. Her classroom is similar to a courtroom where studentsapply amendments to the law. They research and debate many court casesand have participated in visiting the Worcester Court House. Christine’shusband Mark, and their six children, are extremely proud of her, as is theentire Gerald Creamer Center Faculty.Goddard School of Science and TechnologyHonoree: Carly KoumoutseasFor the last four years, Carly Koumoutseas has coordinated activities for theafternoon portion of Goddard’s summer school. The outdoor activities sheplanned were well-suited to out students’ developmental and social needs.Her initiative, enthusiasm and pleasant personality captured the hearts of allour children. She truly was dedicated and committed to having all studentsparticipate in fun-filled activities and events. She coordinated several fieldtrips for our students to Broadmeadow Brook and the Ecotarium. Carly is anexceptional lady! She is a junior at James Madison University in Virginiaexcelling academically and a great sportsman. She is an asset to thecommunity and certainly deserves this recognition. We are all very proud ofher accomplishments, efforts and contributions to the students at Goddard.Grafton Street SchoolHonoree: Erin BurkeThere are many words to describe Erin Burke ~ here are a few that onlybegin to … dedicated parent, involved mom, school crossing guard,classroom and school volunteer, helper, someone to count on, a person whodoes not have the word “no” in her vocabulary when it comes to Grafton 18

Street School, respected leader for other parents, amazing. Grafton StreetSchool is very fortunate. As her daughter gets ready to leave the elementarylevel, her son will begin in our Preschool program assuring us seven moreyears of strong partnership. We would not be able to provide all of the extraswe do for our students and their families without Erin. She is also our PTOpresident for which Grafton Street School is extremely grateful.Heard Street Discovery SchoolHonoree: Ellen ThompsonAlthough Ellen Thompson, a one-on-one instructional assistant in Grade 6,has only been at Heard Street School for two years, in this short time she hasmade quite an impression on the students, families and staff. Her love for thechildren and our school is hard to deny. You will find her bounding in everymorning, early and full of energy and enthusiasm, willing to help in any wayshe can. Ellen will always take on extra duty, often times without beingasked. She will be moving on to the middle school next year with the studentshe is assigned, and she will be missed. The entire Heard Street Schoolcommunity thanks her and wishes her well.Lake View SchoolHonoree: Burley Joseph DaltonIt is an honor to recognize Burley Joseph Dalton as our Thomas Jeffersonaward recipient. Mr. Dalton has been an active member of the ParentTeacher Group and currently holds the position of president. He supportsschool events and initiatives. Mr. Dalton coordinates library volunteers,organizes fundraisers, family fun nights and is a participating member ofthe School Site Council. Thank you Mr. Dalton, for your commitment anddedication to our Lake View School community.Lincoln Street SchoolHonoree: Kathy StevensKathy Stevens is an active member of the PTO and always willing to under-take fundraising and school initiatives. She is efficient, dependable andhard-working with both children and staff. Kathy is always willing to helpas a chaperone, a classroom volunteer or covering duties. Lincoln StreetSchool is lucky to have her. 19

May Street SchoolHonoree: Margaret BouchardDr. Margaret Bouchard has been a tremendous asset to May Street School.As a reading education professor at Worcester State University, she hasshared her vast knowledge of reading with our staff and students throughtraining and intervention. This year she worked closely with us to furtherdevelop our word study practice for phonics, vocabulary and spellinginstruction using “Words Their Way” as the guide. She spearheaded anintervention program for our struggling readers. We look forward to ourcontinued partnership with Dr. Bouchard and her WSU classes.Midland Street SchoolHonoree: Jim EberJim Eber has been a dedicated, dynamic and generous volunteer at MidlandStreet School for seven years. He runs our successful annual Race forEducation. Jim created and upgraded our school PTO website and Facebookpage, created the original proposal for the Play Space Grant, volunteers inclassrooms as a tutor, assists with the Robotics Team, Spree Day, Book Fairand chaperones class trips. Jim has also been a great assistance with fundingon DonorsChoose.org. We are honored to recognize Jim Eber as our ThomasJefferson Award nominee.Nelson Place SchoolHonoree: Jill FinkleMrs. Jill Finkle coordinates library volunteers for Kindergarten throughGrade 6. She is one of the co-chairs of our library committee. She hasdedicated several years to our students and staff to ensure that they haveaccess to literature and develop a love of reading. She organizes allclassroom volunteers on a weekly basis. Mrs. Finkle helps train thevolunteers to manage the library and all of the materials and literature in thelibrary. She creates a schedule for the school so that every child has weeklyvisits to the library. She has been vital to our library program and to theliteracy development of all our students. This is Mrs. Finkle’s last year as theco-chair for the library committee. Her dedication and hard work will bemissed. We wish her luck in her future endeavors. 20

New Citizen CenterHonoree: Shea MaunsellNew Citizen Center would like to honor Shea Maunsell with the ThomasJefferson Award. Shea is a student at the College of the Holy Cross who hasbeen volunteering weekly as a tutor and mentor to students transitioningfrom NCC to South High School. Shea was an integral part of our success atNCC this past year and is most deserving of the Thomas Jefferson Award.Congratulations Shea!Norrback Avenue SchoolHonoree: Pamela MorrisMrs. Pamela Morris’ contributions to Norrback Avenue School are extensive.As a parent at Norrback, Mrs. Morris has led the charge in fundraising ideasincluding the collection of Box Tops, which has raised thousands of dollarseach year. Her enthusiasm is extended to additional evening events whichbring record numbers of families together. The countless hours Mrs, Morrisspends volunteering in our library, running popcorn parties for classrooms,organizing events, attending countless Site Council and PTO meetings hasearned her high levels of respect by parents, guardians and all staff members.Our entire school community is grateful for her contributions to NorrbackAvenue School.North High SchoolHonoree: Frank MurphyFrank Murphy is the School Liaison for ACE (African Community Education).He works diligently to support African families and their children enrolledthroughout the Worcester Public Schools. He partners with North HighSchool on our ELL Coalition to improve the ELL graduation rate which hasseen significant results the last three years. Frank has built relationships withNorth High faculty in order to help students transition into the high school.He truly has a warm heart and is always available to lend a helping hand tosupport a family event, a presentation for the DESE or to brainstorm ideas toenhance interpretation and translation services. Frank takes a learningstance to his work. He shared professional development on restorativepractices, trauma-sensitive yoga and Teaching with Poverty in Mind anddraws on this learning to support our students and families. He is a greatlistener and a great supporter of North High School. 21

Quinsigamond SchoolHonorees: Kathy Kiritsy and Janet MercedesKathy Kiritsy and Janet Mercedes began the Quinsigamond Food Pantry inlate fall and have been at it ever since. Each week, they take time outside ofschool to shop for non-perishable items and organize them in the foodpantry they have designed. During the week, both solicit students andfamilies in need and on Fridays, students who will be taking a backpackhome are announced in their classrooms as the winners of the backpacks forthe week. Kathy and Janet created a card indicating the winning student sothat it is a celebration. Students will sometimes exclaim how “lucky” theyare because they have won multiple times. Kathy and Janet’s work was high-lighted on NECN Cable TV in the winter and myriad donations came toschool in the form of money. One check just said “from a senior citizen.”They have a weekly 50/50 raffle that supports the food pantry in the school.For all that is written here and more, Quinsigamond School nominates Kathyand Janet for their work developing and sustaining the weekly backpacks!Rice Square SchoolHonoree: Veronica CookVeronica Cook’s compassion and commitment to the students isextraordinary. She celebrates each student’s success and challenges them tostrive for academic excellence. Data has demonstrated that her students areachieving high levels of growth in reading and especially mathematics.Veronica never hesitates to volunteer to support any school-wide initiativeincluding the recent Working for Worcester sponsored painting of ourauditorium.Roosevelt SchoolHonoree: Kathie ThuotMrs. Tangney, her students and the staff at Roosevelt School, would like torecognize Kathie Thuot as our Thomas Jefferson Award recipient. Kathie hasbeen a volunteer in Mrs. Tangney’s classroom for six years. Every Tuesdayand Thursday Kathie works tirelessly fulfilling the needs of our Kindergartenstudents. She works with students in small groups to help master readingand math skills, and plans fun art projects to do with all of the students.Every holiday is special; Kathie devotes her time to planning a buffet of foodand fun for the students. Kathie is a well-respected member of our schoolcommunity and all her granddaughters have been students at Roosevelt.We thank Kathie Thuot for her dedication and commitment to our younglearners. 22

South High Community SchoolHonoree: Patricia FalconePatricia Falcone revived the music program at South High Community Schoolafter the decimation of the program due to Prop 2 ½. Patti instructedstudents in both band and chorus. She single handedly recruited, nurturedand expanded the program resulting in the hiring of an additional musicteacher. At this time, there are more than 160 students in the band andchorus program at South High. Patti also began the piano classes wherestudents become proficient enough after one year to play in the Annual PianoRecital. She collaborates with several community agencies in providingmusic opportunities for her students; The Worcester Subertiad, the WorcesterChorus, Hanover Theatre and the Sweet Adelines of America. For the secondyear, Patti helped prepare 10 students to sing with Worcester Chorus in theMessiah at Mechanics Hall. She co-founded the Arts to Go Program,including the purchasing of the African drums, and the instruction of musicto elementary school students. Patti brings music to South High and thecommunity; including singing Happy Birthday to Nursing Home patients,sewing costumes for performances and preparing music for schoolprograms such as Black History and International Shows. Patti is theco-advisor of Tri M Honor Society. Patti Falcone has earned the respectof her colleagues, parents, community and students.Sullivan Middle SchoolHonoree: Duana CobbSullivan Middle School is proud to recognize Duana Cobb, our securityguard, as our Thomas Jefferson Award honoree. Duana came to our schoolon a part-time basis at the beginning of the school year but from day one hisconscientious approach to his job has made a positive impact on the securityof the building. He became full time during the fall and his professionalismhas made him a real asset to our building. His attitude to our students hasbeen positive. He has taken the time to learn their names and to greet themcheerfully throughout the day. Duana’s relationship with the facultyand staff has grown to be a strong working one in which he shows greatcamaraderie while maintaining a professional disposition. He makesfrequent rounds of the building inside and out, and has become an importantresource person as he keeps the principal abreast of any areas of concerns oranticipated challenges. Overall, Duana Cobb has truly contributed to theculture and spirit of our school as he continues to make a difference eachand every day on the job. 23

Tatnuck Magnet SchoolHonorees: Dr. Mark Wagner and Ms. Kelsey HopkinsWorcester State University’s Dr. Mark Wagner and Ms. Kelsey Hopkins arededicated to Tatnuck Magnet School’s mission. They created free literacy-based before-school and after-school programs for underperformingstudents in Grades 1 and 2. Their commitment to creating additional literacyopportunities has made a positive impact on the achievement of Tatnuck’syoungest students. We are thrilled to honor them with the Thomas JeffersonAward.Thorndyke Road SchoolHonoree: Ralph ChaseNeither rain, nor sleet, nor hail - not even a winter with 115 inches ofsnow will keep this volunteer from his Thorndyke Road School recyclingcommitment. Mr. Ralph Chase is a dedicated and enthusiastic father whois truly invested in enriching our school community and supporting ourRecycling Team. No matter the weather, Mr. Chase waits patiently outsideto lead and assist our team, where he spends time connecting with eachstudent, complimenting and encouraging them and making them each feel asthough they are a vital part of the team. He has taught the students that a jobworth doing is worth doing well. Mr. Chase is a true role model and a valueto the Thorndyke Road School community.Union Hill SchoolHonoree: Jamie SullivanJamie Sullivan has been an enthusiastic supporter since school turnaround atUnion Hill School began. From the very beginning Jamie wanted to make adifference in the lives of our students who live and learn at Union Hill.Jamie, a Worcester guy, has deep pride in his community and building acommunity between Worcester Academy and Union Hill School is just whathe has done. Under Jamie’s direction, we have enjoyed cook outs together,street hockey games, student volunteerism and advocacy in many shapes andforms. Jamie has helped make the work of school turnaround fun for all.Union Hill School is proud to honor Jamie Sullivan as the recipient of theThomas Jefferson Award for his service to our school. 24

University Park Campus SchoolHonoree: Salvadore de la CruzSalvadore de la Cruz is an extremely active and involved communitymember. This year, he founded and ran the University Park Campus School’sRobotics Club as an after-school volunteer, having secured resources androbots from local colleges. Sal informs students of available cultural eventsin the area, and works with his church, the parent council, and the BoyScouts to provide opportunities for the community youth. Sal is a man ofaction. Congratulations Sal on receiving this well-deserved award.Vernon Hill SchoolHonoree: Adele HarveyMs. Adele Harvey is a smart, dependable and kind classroom volunteer,whose unfailing patience and warm encouragement have been invaluable toa group of second graders at Vernon Hill School who sometimes struggle tofind academic success. It is abundantly clear that Ms. Harvey loves being atVernon Hill with the kids. And they, in turn, love her.Wawecus Road SchoolHonoree: Sunshine LimanniSunshine Limanni has volunteered for the past four years at Wawecus RoadSchool. She is currently the president of the Wawecus PTO. She is often seenthroughout the building as she volunteers an incredible amount of her timeplanning and supporting school-wide initiatives that enhance our children’seducational experiences. We can’t thank her enough for her leadership,organizational skills, hard work and dedication to our staff and students.West Tatnuck SchoolHonoree: Julie SuyerJulie Suyer is one of our dedicated West Tatnuck parent volunteerswho thoroughly enjoys assisting our students, parents, teachers andadministration in numerous ways to support the variety of school activitiesthat take place beyond the classroom. She seeks out local businesses to makedonations to the school and is always looking for ways to reduce costs andmaximize profits for our parent and teacher organization known as 25

WestTSCO. Julie is a mainstay for volunteering in many classrooms and isgreatly valued by all of the staff. Julie truly enjoys bringing peopletogether to make a difference in supporting West Tatnuck School in so manyways!Woodland AcademyHonoree: Rachel EpsteinRachel Epstein is a Clark University student who volunteers at WoodlandAcademy. Rachel is dedicated and committed to our students and hasexceeded her required hours and continues to offer her own free time. Hernurturing approach towards our students and her work ethic are among themany positive traits that Rachel possess. The students love and respect Ms.Epstein and she is a very important member of our Woodland Academycommunity.Worcester Arts Magnet SchoolHonorees: John and Julie RicciMr. John Ricci and Mrs. Julie Ricci have been active volunteers throughouttheir son John’s time at Worcester Arts Magnet School. For seven years theyhave helped at both the classroom and building level. They are a wonderfulteam! Together they attend and assist at monthly Parent Teacher Group andschool events. The Ricci family’s consistent involvement has helped ourschool!Worcester East Middle SchoolHonoree: Elliot RiveraElliot Rivera is a dedicated alumnus of Worcester East Middle School whoexemplifies leadership, dedication and understanding for our young malestudents. Working through ENLACE (Encouraging Latinos to AchieveExcellences) Elliot has been able to encourage and inspire our boys tobecome confident scholars through the development of life skills, personalachievements, education and cultural enrichments, career exploration, andearly college awareness. He currently works with 35 young males afterschool twice weekly. In addition to providing cultural enrichments andcareer exploration, Elliot encourages students to think deeply about how tobe successful in their present and future life by making good choices now.He is a person who is always looking for solutions to help our students 26

succeed at WEMS. He is a team player and is very passionate about his work.Elliot also knows that parents are an essential part of the equation for studentsuccess so he has developed great relationships with ENLACE parents aswell. We are pleased and grateful about his work at Worcester East. Elliot isdefinitely an asset to our Worcester East Middle School family and verydeserving of the Thomas Jefferson Award.Worcester Technical High SchoolHonoree: John KennedyMr. John Kennedy has helped to establish and grow a partnership betweenMetso and technical programs at Worcester Technical High School. Over thelast ten years, Mr. Kennedy has established countless externships for WTHSstudents at Metso. This program has led to an 80% placement rate of WTHSstudents as permanent Metso employees. Mr. Kennedy has also establishedand created scholarships for WTHS students, secured funding for the WTHSRobotics team, and has been a devoted and integral member of the WTHSGeneral Advisory Board for more than 12 years. We are honored torecognize Mr. John Kennedy as our Thomas Jefferson Award nominee. 27

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A Special Thank You to Worcester Technical High School Ricardo Tor¢es, Paint and Desig8 Inst¢§ctor,A/V Club Advisor and his ver® talented st§dents Lois Dwira, VocalistWorcester Technical High School, Class of 2015 Music by Bur8coat High School Sting Quar¥et Dani Rimoni, Director Gwendoly8 Bui ~ Violin Madeline HayRan ~ Violin Andrew Bitar ~ Viola Christian Bacelis ~ Cello Elizabeth Vecchio, Graphic Ar¥ist

This event is sponsored byThe Office of Professional Learning Brochure desig4ed byElizabeth Vecchio