The Peak | Weekly Newsletter | Worcester Academy

The Peak Newsletter is Worcester Academy’s weekly update for families, sharing key announcements, upcoming events, and highlights from our school community.

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June 14, 2026

Middle School News
Sian Nissam ’31 Wins at International Research Conference for Children Congratulations to Sian Nissam ’31, who was awarded First Prize for Best Oral Presentation in the Middle School Division at the International Research Conference for Children held in California. Sian's project explored how researchers are using the unique chemical signatures produced by cancer cells to develop new, non-invasive methods for detecting cancer at earlier stages. The International Research Conference for Children brings together young researchers from around the world to share their work, exchange ideas, and present their findings to an international audience. Summer Reading Assignments Summer reading is an important part of preparing for the academic year at Worcester Academy. Each Middle School grade level has an assigned text to read before the start of school, along with accompanying assignments. Please review the grade-level requirements below. 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade Final Grades and Report Cards Final grades and report cards will be open to students and parents/guardians on June 16, 2026, at 8:00 AM.
Upper School News
Senior Award Night Families, faculty, and friends gathered in Warner Theater to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 at Worcester Academy’s annual Senior Awards Night. The evening recognized students for their achievements through a variety of departmental and school-wide awards. Faculty reflected on the many ways members of the senior class have contributed to the community. Following the ceremony, graduates and their families enjoyed a reception, offering an opportunity to celebrate together and reflect on the friendships, experiences, and accomplishments that have shaped their time at Worcester Academy. Congratulations to all of our award recipients and to the entire Class of 2026 as they prepare for the next chapter of their journeys. View the event photos here. Upper School Summer Reading The Upper School summer reading program invites students to engage with a shared text before returning to campus this fall. Each student has been assigned a book based on the grade they will enter in 2026–27. Students will reflect on and discuss their assigned books through English classes and grade-level activities in the fall. Please note that these readings are in addition to any summer assignments for Honors or AP courses, which will be shared separately. Grade 9: When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka Grade 10: The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros Grade 11: The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway Grade 12 & Postgraduates: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro Final Grades and Report Cards Final grades and report cards will open to students and parents/guardians on June 16, 2026, at 8:00 AM. Transcripts will automatically be sent to whichever college is indicated in Maia Learning for all students in the graduating class by June 17. Throughout the summer, we will share additional information about summer reading, summer assignments, and the 2026–2027 schedule, so please be sure to watch for future communications.
Visual & Performing Arts News
2026-27 Theater Season Announcing the official Worcester Academy theater season for the 2026-2026 school year! Productions include the all-school fall musical Disney’s Frozen: The Musical, the Upper School winter play Puffs by Matt Cox, the Upper School spring play Lost Girl by Kimberly Belflower, and the Middle School production, Adventure by JD Atkins.
College Counseling News
Summer Opportunities Summer can be a wonderful time for students to explore academic and career interests beyond the classroom. Many colleges and universities offer programs designed for high school students, providing a glimpse into campus life while allowing participants to dive deeper into subjects they’re passionate about. These programs vary widely in scope and cost and are by no means required, but for students who are curious, eager to meet like-minded peers, or interested in building new experiences, they can be a meaningful option. The College Counseling Office regularly receives information about these opportunities and has compiled a working list of programs here. The list will continue to be updated as new invitations arrive, and it also includes a tab featuring a broader national directory of summer resources.
Student Life News
Volunteering and Community Service Opportunities Please see below for volunteer and community service opportunities with Catholic Charities of Worcester County. If you're interested, you can learn more and complete an application by visiting https://www.ccworc.org/volunteer or by emailing volunteers@ccworc.org. They have volunteer opportunities in: Emergency Services Programs in Worcester, Milford, Leominster, and Southbridge Mercy Centre Programs Administrative Offices Facilities & Maintenance Projects Family Shelter Programs
Health Office News
Magnus Health Reminder for 2026–2027 School Year We ask that all Magnus Health requirements be finished by July 1, 2026. Thank you for helping us keep our community healthy and ready for the year ahead! To get started, log in to your Parent MyHilltop account, navigate to the Resources tab, and click the Magnus Health tile. From there, please review, complete, upload, and sign all required forms so your student’s health record is up to date.

June 7, 2026

Middle School News
Last Day of School! The official last day of school saw our Middlers excitedly viewing their yearbooks, reminiscing about the year, enjoying ice cream, competing in Field Day with their color teams, and celebrating our 8th graders as they head off on their next adventure. What a fantastic way to end the year! Minimester Wrap Up Our students had a blast during the minimester! We had lots of guest speakers, field trips, group presentations on their discipline, and plenty of real-world, hands-on learning. Summer Reading Assignment 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade Final Grades and Report Cards Final grades and report cards will open to students and parents/guardians on June 16, 2026, at 8:00 AM.
Upper School News
Final Grades and Report Cards Final grades and report cards will open to students and parents/guardians on June 16, 2026, at 8:00 AM. Transcripts will automatically be sent to whichever college is indicated in Maia Learning for all students in the graduating class by June 17. Please keep an eye out for further communications this summer regarding summer reading, summer assignments, and the 2026-2027 schedule.
Visual & Performing Arts News
2026-27 Theater Season Announcing the official Worcester Academy theater season for the 2026-2026 school year! Productions include the all-school fall musical Disney’s Frozen: The Musical, the Upper School winter play Puffs by Matt Cox, the Upper School spring play Lost Girl by Kimberly Belflower, and the Middle School production, Adventure by JD Atkins. All-School Fall Musical – Disney's Frozen: The Broadway Musical – The beloved tale of Elsa and Anna comes to life on stage in this spectacular Broadway musical. When Elsa's icy powers threaten to trap their kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter, Anna embarks on a daring journey to find her sister and discovers that true love looks nothing as she expected. Featuring the iconic songs you know and the Broadway magic you have to see to believe. Upper School Winter Play – Puffs, or, Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. For seven years, a certain boy wizard went to a certain school and conquered evil. This is not his story. Puffs is a wildly funny tale for everyone who has never been destined to save the world, told from the perspective of the students who were just… there the whole time. (Puffs is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed, or endorsed by J.K Rowling, Warner Bros., or any person or company associated with the Harry Potter books, films, or play.) Upper School Spring Play – Lost Girl, What happened to Wendy Darling after Neverland? Lost Girl picks up long after Peter Pan flew out of her window and follows Wendy as she sets out to reclaim her story, and her kiss, on her own terms. This beautiful new play is about growing up, letting go, and finally standing at the center of your own life. Middle School Spring Play – Adventure: All aboard the Starship Adventure for one final flight, and it's going to be a wild one. When High Command forces Captain Key and her beloved crew to convert their ship into a galactic cruise liner, a mysterious malfunction, a tourist revolt, and a looming gravity well stand between them and retirement. A love letter to found family, space exploration, and going out in a blaze of glory.
College Counseling News
Summer Opportunities Summer can be a wonderful time for students to explore academic and career interests beyond the classroom. Many colleges and universities offer programs designed for high school students, providing a glimpse into campus life while allowing participants to dive deeper into subjects they’re passionate about. These programs vary widely in scope and cost and are by no means required, but for students who are curious, eager to meet like-minded peers, or interested in building new experiences, they can be a meaningful option. The College Counseling Office regularly receives information about these opportunities and has compiled a working list of programs here. The list will continue to be updated as new invitations arrive, and it also includes a tab featuring a broader national directory of summer resources.
Student Life News
Volunteering and Community Service Opportunities Please see below for volunteer and community service opportunities with Catholic Charities of Worcester County. They have volunteer opportunities in: Emergency Services Programs in Worcester, Milford, Leominster, and Southbridge Mercy Centre Programs Administrative Offices Facilities & Maintenance Projects Family Shelter Programs If you're interested, you can learn more and complete an application by visiting https://www.ccworc.org/volunteer or by emailing volunteers@ccworc.org.
Health Office News
Magnus Health Reminder for 2026–2027 School Year We ask that all Magnus Health requirements be finished by July 1, 2026. Thank you for helping us keep our community healthy and ready for the year ahead! To get started, log in to your Parent MyHilltop account, navigate to the Resources tab, and click the Magnus Health tile. From there, please review, complete, upload, and sign all required forms so your student’s health record is up to date. Student Medication Pick Up Boarding student parents, please remind your child to pick up any medication they may have in the health office on their last day of school. If students do not pick up the medications by June 10, we will have to dispose of them.

May 31, 2026

Middle School News
Middle School Yearbooks Middle School yearbooks will be given out on the last day of school, June 3. They are free for students. Worcester Academy Clothing Donations Has your student outgrown their Worcester Academy clothing? The Middle School Office is currently accepting donations of gently used Academy-branded apparel. These items are incredibly helpful for dress code needs, wardrobe emergencies, and supporting students throughout the school year. Thank you for your support and generosity! Important Middle School Dates We look forward to celebrating the end of the school year together with these special events and traditions. June 3, Field Day & Last Day of School: Students are encouraged to dress in color team attire. June 3, 8th Grade Celebration 8th Grade End-of-Year Events Families of 8th-grade students are encouraged to review important information about upcoming end-of-year events, including the 8th Grade Celebration on June 3. The full document includes schedules, dress guidelines, arrival times, livestream information, and other important logistics for both events. Please review the complete information.
Upper School News
Advisory Trips As the school year winds down, Upper School advisories have been taking advantage of Worcester’s vibrant Canal District by heading off campus together for a meal and time to connect outside the classroom. These outings provide students and advisors with an opportunity to strengthen relationships, reflect on the year, and enjoy one another’s company in a more relaxed setting. End-of-Year Assessment Schedule As we approach the end of the academic year, families can review the schedule for final assessments and exams. Please refer to the full schedule here for detailed dates and times.
Athletics News
Varsity Baseball Named Robert Thorn Team of the Year Congratulations to our Varsity Baseball team on being named the recipient of the Robert Thorn Team of the Year Award. Presented annually by Worcester Academy’s varsity head coaches, this honor recognizes the team that best exemplifies perseverance, commitment, and dedication throughout the season.
Visual & Performing Arts News
Trio Concert Families are invited to attend a special Trio Concert on Thursday, June 4, at 12:30 PM in Warner Theater. The performance will feature Zoey Cheung (flute), Julia Deng (piano), and Andreina Salas (cello). We hope you will join us for this wonderful opportunity to celebrate their work and enjoy an afternoon of music.
College Counseling News
Summer Opportunities Summer can be a wonderful time for students to explore academic and career interests beyond the classroom. Many colleges and universities offer programs designed for high school students, providing a glimpse into campus life while allowing participants to dive deeper into subjects they’re passionate about. These programs vary widely in scope and cost and are by no means required, but for students who are curious, eager to meet like-minded peers, or interested in building new experiences, they can be a meaningful option. The College Counseling Office regularly receives information about these opportunities and has compiled a working list of programs here. The list will continue to be updated as new invitations arrive, and it also includes a tab featuring a broader national directory of summer resources.
Student Life News
Upper School Buddy Program We are excited to open sign-ups for the Worcester Academy Buddy Program and invite rising 10th–12th-grade students to participate. The program helps welcome and support new students as they transition into our Upper School community, offering a friendly connection and guidance from current students. Students interested in serving as a buddy can sign up here.
Health Office News
Student Medication Pick Up Boarding student parents, please remind your child to pick up any medication they may have in the health office on their last day of school. If students do not pick up the medications by June 10, we will have to dispose of them. Magnus Health Reminder for 2026–2027 School Year As we prepare for the upcoming school year, this is a friendly reminder for all new and returning families to complete their student’s annual health requirements in Magnus Health. To get started, log in to your Parent MyHilltop account, navigate to the Resources tab, and click the Magnus Health tile. From there, please review, complete, upload, and sign all required forms so your student’s health record is up to date. We ask that all Magnus Health requirements be finished by July 1, 2026. Thank you for helping us keep our community healthy and ready for the year ahead!
Class of 2026 News
End of Year Information for Class of 2026 Senior Night Awards Ceremony and Reception, Thursday, June 4 This event recognizes the achievements and contributions of graduating students. The ceremony will be held in Warner Theater at 6:30 PM. Faculty, advisors, and coaches will honor members of the Class of 2026 during this special evening, followed by a reception at 7:30 PM in Rowe Court for students and families. Important Notes Attendance at the ceremony is by RSVP only. Reserved handicap- accessible parking will be available on campus. Both Warner Theater and Rowe Court are wheelchair accessible. All seniors are expected to attend. Please note that parents and guardians are not notified in advance if their student is receiving an award. Commencement 2026, Friday, June 5, at 11:00 AM Commencement will be held on the Quad, weather permitting, or at the Capozzoli Athletic Center in the event of rain. The decision regarding the ceremony location will be announced on Tuesday, June 2. Outdoor Ceremony on the Quad (Weather Permitting) Graduate Arrival Graduates must arrive by 9:30 AM for attendance, the class photo, and lining up. Graduates should park in Lot B and shuttle back to campus. Guest information There is no guest limit; tickets are not required. The ceremony will begin promptly at 11:00 AM and will conclude at approximately 1:00 PM. Parking and Accessibility Parking is available on campus until full. Overflow parking and shuttle service will be provided from Lot B. Campus roads will close to vehicular traffic at 10:30 AM. Reserved handicap-accessible parking is available until 10:30 AM. Please display a handicap placard, and security personnel will direct you accordingly. If you have questions about the handicap accessibility, please contact us in advance. Photography Geskus Photography will be on site to capture individual photos of each graduate as they receive their diploma. Families will receive an email with instructions on how to access and order photographs online. Each graduate will be issued a unique access code to view and purchase print and digital photo packages.
Yearbook News
Order a Yearbook Worcester Academy yearbooks are now available to order at www.yearbookforever.com. The cost of yearbooks is $90. $10 shipping and a $3.99 processing fee are automatically applied to each order. Yearbooks will be shipped directly to your chosen address and are expected to arrive between early and mid-August, after production begins in July. The final order deadline is June 5, 2026.

Upcoming Dates

June 16: Final Grades & Report Cards
Aug. 30: Dorms Open (Returning Students)
Aug. 31: Dorms Open (New Students)
Aug. 31-Sept. 1: New Student Orientation
Sept. 2: First Day of School
Sept. 7: No School
Oct. 9-13: Fall Break, No School

Important Documents

2026-2027 School Calendar
2025-2026 US Handbook
2025-2026 MS Handbook
2025-2026 Dress Code
2025-2026 US Course Catalog
2025-2026 MS Course Catalog
Upper School Daily Schedule
Middle School Daily Schedule
Honor Code
US Orientation Guidebook
MS Orientation Guidebook

People to Know

James Young
Head of the Upper School

Jacqueline Arce
Head of the Middle School & Asst. Head for Teaching & Learning

Danielle Bean
International Student Coordinator

Julie Berberian
Director of Athletics

Jennifer DiFranco
Director of Advancement

Jennifer Griffith
Director of Counseling

Zak Johnson
Director of Residence Life

MacKenzie Kuiper
Asst. Head of School for Student Life

Nate Letendre
Student Activities Coordinator & Attendance

Tricia Mackay Monheim
Director of the Center for Learning

Kevin Snyder
Assistant Dean of Student Life

Sara Port
Director of Communications & Marketing

Kelli Reyngoudt
Director of College Counseling

Kelly Rizy
Director of Health Services

Marguerite Savage
Student Billing

Lucy Tew
Chair, Visual & Performing Arts

Abigail Thompson
Dean of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Colleen Wheaton
Associate Dean of Academics

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