BERLIN–Worcester Prep
opened for its 44th year with students and teachers ready to work
together on new challenges in learning. The theme for 2013-2014 is "A.C.T. —Attitude, Character,
Teamwork", builds upon the 2012-2013 theme: "Pride and
Character." It is Worcester’s goal not only to prepare students for
college but also to make sure that they are ready with personal qualities such
as empathy and industry and skills such as critical and creative thinking that they’ll
need for the future.
“From their first day here,
we expect our students to take pride in their accomplishments and to appreciate
the accomplishments of others,”said Mike Grosso, Head of Middle School.
Students in Grades 4, 5, 7,
and 9 are part of Worcester’s iPad Initiative, which their teachers have been
preparing for almost a year. Apps, Internet resources, and iBooks will be used
in many courses as students and teachers dive into one-on-one technology use.
In other grade levels, students may bring their own mobile devices to school
for use in the academics. Students can also use one of the school’s three
computer labs, and teachers can schedule use of mobile carts of iPads and
laptops. Some of the exciting projects scheduled for this school year include a
virtual safari, designing with Hummingbird Robotics, space studies in
Kindergarten, Botball robotics, 3D design and printing, video production and
radio broadcasting.
Worcester’s students will
soon be able to enjoy a new dining hall, picnic area, and Middle & Upper
School Art Studio. The construction project, which is scheduled for completion
by the end of the September, includes indoor and outdoor eating areas for
Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and an art studio ready to accommodate the
diverse art projects taken on by Middle & Upper School art instructor
George Zaiser and his students.
“We’ve needed a new dining
room for some time,” said Headmaster Dr. Barry Tull. “I think we’ll find the
new areas inviting and functional. Inside students will have a view of our
Children’s Garden, and the outside patio will be a perfect place to have lunch
when the weather is pleasant. As for the Art Studio, this improvement offers
space needed for the many different types of design projects taken on by our
students.”