WORCESTER, MA — Monday marked the first day of school for thousands of Worcester Public School students, and at Heard Street Discovery Academy, the new year kicked off in style with a rockstar-worthy, red-carpet welcome.
Students beamed as they reunited with friends, met their teachers, and paused to strike a pose on the red carpet before heading inside. The celebration is part of the school’s effort to make the return to class exciting and memorable.
Heard Street serves about 300 students in grades K–6. Principal Cynthia Vail said the tradition is designed to make every child feel like a star.
“We know the first day is overwhelming for so many children,” Vail said. “New teacher, new classroom, new friends — we want to help alleviate that.”
This year also marks the first opening day for Brian Allen as superintendent of Worcester Public Schools. A South High graduate, Allen has spent decades working in the district and says his focus remains on safety and high-quality instruction.
“We just want our families to know they’re safe and welcome in our schools,” Allen said. “And then we’re staying the course by letting teachers do what they do best — provide high-quality instruction and help students excel. It’s really exciting.”
The back-to-school excitement continues later this week when Worcester’s youngest learners — kindergarten and preschool students — have their first day on Thursday.
