The city of Worcester, Massachusetts kicked off the 2024-2025 school year with a star-studded welcome for students and staff. The Worcester Public Schools shared a video message featuring celebrities such as Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, rapper and actor Joyner Lucas, and rapper Darryl McDaniels of the band Run-DMC. The video message aimed to motivate and inspire the school community as they embarked on a new academic year.
In the video message, Darryl McDaniels encouraged students by saying, “You rock and you rule. You hip and you hop. This year, it begins here.” He emphasized the importance of education, generosity, honesty, and goodness as true superpowers. Joyner Lucas, who grew up in Worcester and attended South High Community School, praised the current principal, Jeff Creamer, and expressed his excitement for the students, highlighting the resources available to them.
The Worcester Public Schools also received video messages from professional boxer José Antonio Rivera, local leaders, and community figures. Interim Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier wished the students a tremendous year, while Rep. Jim McGovern praised the dedication of teachers and staff. City Manager Eric Batista and Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty welcomed everyone back to school, expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming academic year.
Comedian and social media star Jimmy Cash added a touch of humor to the video message, joking about the possibility of snow days and setting a lighthearted tone for the start of the school year. The diverse range of personalities featured in the welcome video aimed to create a sense of excitement and unity within the Worcester school community.
Aside from the celebrity greetings, Worcester is marking several milestones as it begins the new school year. The city recently started operating its own school buses, with all 222 bus routes fully staffed. Plans are also underway to introduce 15 electric school buses in 2026. Additionally, a new policy requiring students to put away their cell phones while at school has been implemented for the 2024-2025 school year.
One of the most significant developments for Worcester schools is the opening of the new Doherty Memorial High School. Despite ongoing construction, the facility welcomed students for the first time on the first day of school. Superintendent Rachel Monárrez described the opening as “historic” and emphasized the school’s cutting-edge educational experience.
Mayor Joseph Petty highlighted the importance of providing students with the education they deserve and expressed his excitement for the infrastructure in place to support teachers and students. As parents and caregivers dropped off their children at schools across the city, many shared their enthusiasm for the new school year, with one parent expressing excitement for her daughter to reunite with teachers and friends.
Overall, the star-studded welcome and exciting developments in Worcester schools set a positive tone for the start of the 2024-2025 academic year. With a focus on education, community support, and innovative initiatives, Worcester is poised to provide students with a rewarding and enriching learning experience.
