Image from mass.gov

Worcester, Massachusetts is is the second largest city in New England, with a population of over 185,000 diverse individuals and families. It is located about one hour west of Boston, and is referred to as “the heart of the commonwealth” given its central location in the state. Of those 185,000, only 57% of the population is Caucasian, 21% are Hispanic or Latino, and 21% are of Black and African or Asian descent.  As a result of this, there are a plethora of languages spoken throughout the district, with some of the most popular being Spanish, Vietnamese, and Twi.

Worcester Public Schools host over 25,000 students, including students at 33 public elementary schools.  Over 80 languages are spoken by the student body of WPS, and 34% of students are classified as English Language Learners.  The district is continually progressing and adapting its curriculums and technology use to meet the needs of a diverse, 21st century student body. WPS also includes multiple magnet schools and schools with Innovation status, allowing teachers and administrators to meet the needs of many different students.

Image from maps4news.com

“Main South” refers to a neighborhood in southern Worcester.  Of the approximately 12,000 residents living in this neighborhood, 78% are of low or moderate income, and 25% of the people live at or below the poverty line.  This neighborhood is the most culturally and linguistically diverse part of Worcester. Clark University is located within the Main South neighborhood and its open campus allows the students and neighbors to interact with each other.