The Urgency of Excellence: Considerations for the School Committee and New Superintendent of Schools in Worcester

The Urgency of Excellence: Considerations for the School Committee and New Superintendent of Schools in Worcester is a report of the Worcester Education Collaborative (WEC) and Worcester Regional Research Bureau (WRRB). The report outlines issues and opportunities, as well as a path forward, for policymakers, the public, and potential candidates as the Worcester Public Schools seek a new superintendent of schools. The transition in leadership at the Worcester Public Schools (WPS) provides an opportune time to develop a clear vision and strategic plan to position the WPS as the schools of choice in the region. The report calls for a comprehensive evaluation of Worcester’s public schools including operations, finance, and teaching and learning. It identifies three options for assessing the district’s strengths and weaknesses and laying a framework for implementable improvements: a city-wide task force; engagement of an education organization focused on academic improvement and turnaround; or, engagement of a management consulting firm focused on systems and improved outcomes.