Putting Worcester's Kids at the Heart of Education

In Worcester, a strong belief drives the school committee: kids should always be the top priority. Every choice, every discussion, and every budget decision should be checked against one simple question: Will this help Worcester's students thrive? The city's mayor, Joe Petty, has shown that real progress happens when people come together. His leadership has proven that listening, including different voices, and working across differences can lead to real change. This same spirit should guide the city as it faces challenges in its schools. Worcester is lucky to have a superintendent, Brian Allen, who knows the city well because he grew up here. He brings both professional skills and a deep personal commitment to the community. The school committee is also diverse, with members from various backgrounds, including educators, parents, and community leaders. Despite their different perspectives, they all share a responsibility to the students. In a time when national politics often feels divided, Worcester has a chance to take a different path. Kids don't benefit from political drama or stubborn positions. They benefit when adults focus on finding solutions. This means stepping away from the negative tone and tactics of national politics and recommitting to respectful, productive collaboration at home.Collaboration isn't just about being nice; it's about getting results. Worcester's schools need strong, united support to get the resources students deserve. From special education and mental health support to facilities, sports, arts, transportation, and academic programs, the needs are real and growing. To meet them, the city must speak with one voice to state and federal partners and push for fair and sustained funding. When everyone works together—school committee members, city leaders, educators, families, and community partners—they are much more effective. Collaboration builds trust. Trust builds momentum. And momentum is what helps secure the investments that will shape students' futures. Worcester's children are watching. They learn not just from what is taught in classrooms but also from how the city leads. Let's show them that leadership means listening, that disagreements can be respectful, and that progress is possible when the focus stays on the kids. Kids first. Always.