Purpose of this Event

Worcester Education Collaborative’s inaugural State of Education event for Worcester and Worcester County is a public-facing civic forum that brings together district leaders, policymakers, educators, and community stakeholders to examine the current state of public education. Designed as both a briefing and a call to action, the event will elevate shared understanding of key data and lived experiences, surface pressing challenges, and foster alignment around priorities that will shape the region’s educational future. Through informed dialogue and cross-sector engagement, the convening aims to catalyze coordinated action, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to a more equitable and effective education system for all students.

Why You Should Attend

Worcester stands at a pivotal moment for its public education system—one defined by both urgency and opportunity. As Worcester Public Schools enters a new strategic planning cycle, the community is simultaneously navigating complex and highly visible policy decisions, including high school graduation requirements and evolving expectations for student outcomes. At the same time, shifts in enrollment patterns and school boundary alignment are reshaping how families experience access to education, while long-standing infrastructure needs and state funding realities demand renewed attention and advocacy.

Amid these transitions, the urgency around literacy achievement has reached a critical point, with growing recognition that numeracy must follow closely behind as a parallel priority. Together, these dynamics create a rare and important convergence—one that calls for shared understanding, coordinated action, and inclusive dialogue across stakeholders.

This moment presents an opportunity not only to reflect on the current state of education in Worcester but to collectively define a forward-looking vision that ensures all students have access to high-quality learning environments, strong foundational skills, and equitable pathways to success.

Convening Partners

• Event is convened by WEC and the Voices for Academic Equity Coalition
  

Highlighted Speakers/Panelists: 

• Brian Allen, Worcester Public Schools, Superintendent 

• Mary Tamer, MassPotential 

• Lisa Lizare, Educators for Excellence

• Viviana Abreu-Hernandez, Mass Budget & Policy

We encourage you to pre-register in advance to save your seat!

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Sponsorship opportunities for this summit are currently available. For more info, we encourage you to reach out directly to jennifer.herring@wecollaborative.org.