Dear Friends,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is with great excitement that I share the news that we have hired WEC’s next leader. Dr. Jennifer Herring is a proven leader dedicated to advancing equity, inclusion and trauma-informed practices across educational systems. With deep experience in both school-based and district-wide administration in Randolph, Framingham, Lawrence, Cambridge and Roxbury, as well as doctoral-level expertise in educational leadership, Jennifer Herring is prepared to support Worcester Public Schools with strategies that enhance learning and foster positive outcomes for all district students.
Throughout her career, Jennifer Herring has led transformative work in curriculum design, school culture and climate, and student experience — always through the lens of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). Her leadership includes:
Supporting bilingual students and families, and homeless students and their families through collaborative district leadership and resource sharing.
Partnering with district leaders to address equity and access for all students and families.
Designing professional development programs for principals, vice principals, and instructional coaches.
Developing innovative systems and protocols to support school communities during the COVID-19 crisis.
Dr. Herring is proficient in Haitian Creole, French, Spanish, English, and American Sign Language. She recently completed her doctoral studies at Lesley University, where she developed advanced skills in synthesizing and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data to coach emerging school-based and district leaders in using data-driven insights to create equitable and responsive educational environments.
Dr. Herring brings an energy and light to the issues we face along with realistic optimism that will propel WEC into its next chapter. She offers a wonderful mix of data-driven experience with a keen listening ear. She seeks to understand, engage, and then act to counter issues or seize opportunities. She leads with a clear and persistent focus on what students need and will ensure WEC’s vigilant focus on excellence and equity for every Worcester student.
As WPS looks toward a future that demands resilience, creativity, and equity-driven leadership, Dr. Jennifer Herring stands ready to guide WEC in helping them realize their highest aspirations for students and Worcester alike.
Please join me in welcoming Jennifer Herring to the Worcester community.
Warmly,
Kim Davenport
Board Chair, WEC
CEO, Edward Street
