News and Publications

2024

  • WPS Students Collect Toys for Worcester GOLD

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, December 13, students from Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) gathered to donate gifts they collected for Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity) during this holiday season.
     
    This year, in addition to supporting the SGA Food Drive, our Middle and Upper School volunteers chose to give back to members of our community who are less fortunate. Worcester Volunteers collected toys to be donated to Worcester County GOLD.
     
    Worcester County GOLD Inc. is a non-profit organization that improves the quality of life for local citizens who lack access to traditional means of support. They promote dignity by providing financial aid to families in crisis, as well as vulnerable adults and children in foster care.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent school offering Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 education and is located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia attend the school. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students Ring in the Season with Holiday Performance

    Berlin, MD – Families and students from the Lower School, Pre-K through Grade 5, kicked off the holiday season with a cherished tradition at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS): the annual Lower School Holiday Program.
     
    On Thursday, December 12, Lower School Music Director Joanie Brittingham debuted the show “Look Out the Window,” a spectacular performance filled with holiday songs and dances. Mrs. Brittingham wrote, directed, and choreographed the show, which featured over 200 singing and dancing students. By the end of the performance, it was evident that each student was a star.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private independent school serving Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Thank You for Supporting the Holiday Bazaar

    Berlin, MD – Throughout the years, the Holiday Bazaar at Worcester Prep has grown and changed, but one thing has remained the same: the overwhelming support of parents, faculty, alumni, trustees, and our local community.
     
    On Saturday, December 7, the annual Holiday Bazaar was held in Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Brent Thompson Field House. Guests gathered at this festive family affair to officially kick off the holiday season. There were plenty of activities, including tasty treats provided by Rudolph’s Feed Bag Lunch Café, homemade desserts at the Bakery, beverages at the Coffee & Cocoa stand, handmade items from local vendors, a cookie decorating class by Flamingo Road, story time with Santa and Head of Lower School Dr. Timmons, the ever-popular basket ticket auction, and so much more.
     
    It takes the efforts of many to put together the Holiday Bazaar, and we are grateful for the countless people who donated, exhibited, volunteered, attended, and shopped. It was wonderful to see the holiday spirit come alive at WPS, and even better to see so many familiar faces in attendance. On behalf of everyone at Worcester Prep, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 school located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410-641-3575.

  • WPS Seniors Commit to Collegiate Level Sports

    Berlin, MD – Three Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) senior student-athletes, Ben McGovern of Salisbury, MD, Emma Zajdel of Ocean City, MD, and Mike DePalma of Ocean City, MD, gathered on Monday, December 9, to celebrate their commitment to collegiate sports programs.
     
    Ben McGovern has committed to play Division I Men’s Soccer at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he will study Pre-Med. He is an AP Scholar and a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. In addition to playing soccer at Worcester Prep, Ben plays with the Maryland United Football Club, where he has served as team captain for five years. He has also played soccer internationally in Sweden and Spain, where his team won the championship in the Mediterranean International Cup (MIC) in 2023. In 2024, Ben was selected to attend the National Selection Program at the Chula Vista Olympic Training Center, where he played in the 2024 ECNL Boys Conference Cup. At WPS, Ben has been a four-year starter and 12th-grade captain on the Varsity Boys Soccer Team, helping his team win the ESIAC Championship each year and being named All-Conference all four years. Ben is the son of Drs. Lauren and Scott McGovern.
     
    Emma Zajdel has committed to play Division III Women’s Lacrosse at Washington College in Chestertown, MD, where she is choosing between studying either Business or Pre-Med. She is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. She is a multi-sport athlete at Worcester Prep, where she has played all four years of Upper School on both the Varsity Lacrosse and Soccer teams, has been named ESIAC All-Conference Player twice, and has received the MVP award in Lacrosse. In addition to playing lacrosse for WPS, Emma has also played travel lacrosse with Major Force Lacrosse. She is a member of the Environmental, Recycling, Volunteer, and Gardening clubs at Worcester Prep. Emma is the daughter of Kristen and Edwin Zajdel.
     
    Mike DePalma has committed to play Division III Men’s Golf at Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA, where he will choose between either Pre-Med or Health Studies. He is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. Mike has served as Worcester Prep’s team captain and has been voted MVP since the 10th grade, as well as being named Conference Player of the Year all four years of Upper School. He is a multi-sport athlete at Worcester Prep, where he also played Varsity Basketball from 9th to 12th grade and has been the starting point guard in his 11th and 12th-grade seasons. Mike has traveled to compete in many golf opens and tournaments, including the Drive, Chip & Putt Nationals. He is also a member of the WPS Recycling, Surf, and Fishing clubs. Mike is the son of Drs. Errin and Michael DePalma.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 school located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410-641-3575.

  • Middle and Lower School Friendship Building Activity

    Berlin, MD – Prior to the Thanksgiving Break, middle school students visited the Lower School to collaborate with younger peers in crafting candy cane reindeer. This engaging project was part of this year's Middle School advisory program. The program focuses on personal growth and community building to successfully nurture connections across grade levels, resulting in an enjoyable experience for all participants.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent institution serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, located in Berlin, Maryland. The school hosts approximately 500 students from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For further information about Worcester Preparatory School, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or contact 410.641.3575.

  • Wellness at Worcester Prep

    Berlin, MD – As Thanksgiving break approached, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students took a moment to unwind during "Wellness @ Worcester," a program designed to alleviate stress during a typically hectic time.
     
    The week leading up to a holiday break can be chaotic for students as they try to complete their to-do lists before finding time to relax. "Wellness @ Worcester" was launched last year as an initiative to support the physical and mental well-being of Upper School students. Spearheaded by enthusiastic senior Lydia Schwartz in collaboration with the College Counseling program, the event introduces students to a holistic approach to health, focusing on stress management, study skills, and healthy lifestyle choices.
     
    On the Friday before the break, Upper School students enjoyed warm apple cider and hot chocolate while participating in various activities such as decorating cookies, playing Giant Jenga, using adult coloring books, writing thank-you cards to family and friends, and crafting beaded bracelets.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent institution for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about Worcester Preparatory School, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Senior Class Named Mallard Bowl Champs

    Berlin, MD – This year, the annual Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Powderpuff football game has been rebranded as the Mallard Bowl. On the Friday before Thanksgiving break, the Upper School buzzed with excitement as students from all four classes competed for the coveted trophy. The competition concluded with the senior class, "Senior Santas," winning the trophy and presenting it to their class sponsor, Mrs. Hunter Wells. Congratulations to the senior class for being the first Mallard Bowl Champions!
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent institution for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about Worcester Preparatory School, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Worcester Prep Wears Red

    Berlin, MD – On Wednesday, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students showed up in a sea of red in support of the American Red Cross.

    Over the past few months, natural disasters have     devastated the Southeast, leaving many Americans without basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and medical supplies. During times like this, the American Red Cross offers aid and supplies to those in need.

    Students participated enthusiastically, bringing in donations in exchange for the opportunity to wear casual clothing instead of their standard uniforms. The vibrant display of red throughout the school served as a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to supporting the Red Cross. Worcester Preparatory School is dedicated to fostering compassion among its students, and this event is a shining example of its commitment to making a positive impact.

    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more     information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Student Awarded in Anne Arundel Peace Action Writing Contest

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) 9th grader, Hayden Wagner, was awarded third place in a statewide writing contest sponsored by Anne Arundel Peace Action, Maryland Peace Action Education Fund, Benjamin Peace Foundation, and Annapolis Friends Meeting.
     
    Sponsored by WPS Middle School English teacher, Mrs. Megan Leslie, Hayden submitted an essay last year in 8th grade, answering the contest question, “What role has social media played in your life?  Do you think that it has been a mostly positive or negative force—and why?  Has social media contributed to or obstructed world peace?”
     
    Hayden was awarded 3rd place out of 161 entries statewide. Along with the other winners, Hayden was recognized during a ceremony at the Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on November 3 in Annapolis, Maryland. She received a cash prize.
     
    For more information on Anne Arundel Peace Action, visit https://www.aapeaceaction.org/.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • WPS Supports Operation We Care

    Berlin, MD – Last week, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students collected donations in support of the local non-profit organization, Operation We Care. Items collected are to be wrapped into care packages and sent to deployed military and first responders.
     
    As we enter the holiday season, Worcester Prep proudly supports Operation We Care. Students collected many items from granola bars, canned pasta, powdered drink mixes, playing cards, baby wipes, toothpaste, and much more.
     
    Operation We Care was founded in 2007 by Jeff and Diana Merritt. Jeff and Diana own Minuteman Press in Salisbury, MD, and are assisted by many volunteers. They pack over 2,000 care packages a year that are sent to deployed troops. Operation We Care strives to support active duty and veteran military through care packages, events, and various assistance outlets.
    ​
    For more information visit, https://www.operationwecare.org/.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS National Honor Society and Cum Laude Induction Ceremony

    Berlin, MD – In a ceremony on Wednesday, November 13, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) inducted 33 new members, and four new members into the prestigious William E. Esham, Jr. Chapter of the prestigious Cum Laude Society.
     
    2024 WPS NHS Inductees: Preston Adkins, Jude Anthony, Anisha Batra, Samantha Bontempo, Jake Campbell, Max Carpenter, Stephen Carullo, Kain Crossett, Grant Crothers, Catherine Cullen, Jude Damouni, Dawson Davis, Marina Farlow, Jeremy Forman, Chase Ginnavan, Beckett Green, Joshua Greulich, Micheal Hebert, Renata Lovitt, Paxton Mault, Sydney Mize, Jay Moyer, Tyler Netting, Jamie Nguyen, Olivia Owens, Savannah Palmisano, Lena Parker, Emily Patrowicz, Isabella Spangenberg, Jake Timmons, Sydney Todorov, Alicia Walker and Ayla Yonker. 
     
    The new Cum Laude inductees are Danielle Carr (’25), Jackson Fernley (’25), Lydia Schwartz (’25) and Allen Zhang (’25). 
     
    The Cum Laude Society is a national organization founded in 1906 that honors the world’s academic excellence in secondary schools to promote excellence (Arete´), justice (Dike´), and honor (Time´). WPS is the only school on the Eastern Shore with an established Cum Laude Chapter where superior scholastic achievement is honored.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS WORX Speaker Series: Allyn Kilsheimer

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, November 8, Worcester Prep's Upper School attended this month’s WORX (Work, Observe, Research, Experience) seminar. The seminar featured guest speaker Allyn Kilsheimer, grandfather to 9th grader Chase Thompson. Mr. Kilsheimer shared his impressive background as an engineer and involvement in the reconstruction of the Pentagon following 9/11.
     
    Mr. Kilsheimer is the President and CEO of KCE Structural Engineers. His structural engineering work has encompassed high-rise office buildings, commercial projects, residential and hotel complexes, military facilities, and embassies throughout the United States and overseas totaling over $49 billion. In addition to traditional design work, he is considered a world-renowned expert in responding to and mitigating disasters and collapses, both natural and man-made.
     
    On September 11, 2011, within minutes of the terrorist attacks, Mr. Kilsheimer was called for help from the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. In his presentation, Mr. Kilsheimer discusses all aspects of the destruction of the Pentagon on 9/11, including emergency stabilization, rescue assistance, demolition, and reconstruction of the over 1,000,000-square-foot structure.
     
    Special thanks to Mr. Kilsheimer, and his family for visiting WPS and sharing his experience with the students.
     
    The WORX program at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) will introduce students to the vast opportunities within the community and beyond. Worcester Prep’s mission of a college prep education combined with real-world observation will enhance our students’ learning and create opportunities for career exposure. These experiential learning opportunities will help students apply their classroom knowledge and encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, confidence, teamwork, and communication.  
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. 
    For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Veterans Celebrated at WPS

    Berlin, MD – On November 11, Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) 4th and 5th grades came together in a musical performance to celebrate veterans.
     
    The Veterans Day Program, directed by WPS Lower School Music Teacher, Mrs. Joanie Brittingham, began with the Presentation of Colors led by guests from the American Legion. This year’s guest speakers were WPS lower school art teacher Mrs. Cathy Roman’s father, Colonel Daniel Wells; WPS alum, Cadet 3rd class Ava Wilsey; and WPS parent, Marine Major Rebecca Hagner. Throughout the program, the Musical Mallards performed the “Star Spangled Banner”, “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.” Students in attendance were able to invite family members and friends who have served, or are currently serving, in the military and enjoyed a visit with them following the performance. 
      
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • First Days of School at WPS

    Berlin, MD – Last week Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) returned to school, welcoming Upper School students (Grades 9-12) on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, followed by Middle School students (Grades 6-8) on Wednesday, and Lower School students (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5) on Thursday, August 29, 2024.
     
    The first day of school can be bittersweet for many, but students were all smiles, as they returned to campus, eager to get the 2024-25 school year started.  Faculty and staff were also thrilled to be back, excited to inspire and challenge students throughout the year.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Parent Association and Faculty Welcome New Families

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, September 6, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Parent Association hosted a New Parent Coffee event to welcome families who are new to the school. Faculty and staff introduced themselves to new parents, while they also got to know each other over coffee and breakfast. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Soccer Donates School Supplies to Lord Baltimore Elementary School

    Berlin, MD – Last week, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Girls Soccer team collected new backpacks and filled them with school supplies to donate to Lord Baltimore Elementary School located in Ocean View, Delaware. Alum and former teammate, Marissa Grosso (‘18) started the tradition of donating backpacks over ten years ago. Coach Carol Hartnett continues the legacy every season, coordinating efforts with the WPS Volunteer Club.
     
    “Our students come from all over Delmarva,” said Coach Hartnett, “So as a team, we like to give back to our surrounding communities.” 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • WPS Class of 2025 Jumpstart College Application Process

    Berlin, MD – On August 12, the Worcester Prep Class of 2025 hit the ground running in preparation for their college application season this fall. 
     
    Rising seniors attended a four-day College Application & Essay Writing Workshop held in the Guerrieri Library, hosted by the WPS Office of College Counseling. The students worked one-on-one with the WPS Director of College Counseling, Ms. Vickie Garner, writing and reviewing college applications and essays, refining their college lists, and navigating the scholarship search process. 
     
    Additionally, college admissions representatives shared expertise and practical advice with seniors regarding the importance of effective communication with colleges and how to tell their stories through authentic and well-written personal statements.  Senior Associate Director of Admissions at College of Charleston Rebecca Drewry and Admissions Counselor at the University of Delaware Dan Hammer also conducted mock interviews with students.   
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia attend. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575. 

  • MSP Trooper 4 Drops in on WPS

    Berlin, MD – Maryland State Police (MSP) - Aviation Command, in partnership with the Town of Berlin and Mayor Zack Tyndall, visited Worcester Preparatory School's (WPS) Pre-K and 1st Grade classes last week. The purpose of the visit was to introduce the students to the role of a flight paramedic and provide insights into the responsibilities of Trooper 4, based in Salisbury, Maryland.
     
    According to MSP, Trooper 4 is a 24-hour operation that primarily serves Wicomico, Worcester, Dorchester, and Somerset counties in Maryland, as well as parts of lower Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Virginia. With a team consisting of five pilots and five paramedics, Trooper 4 handles various types of flights, including medevacs, search and rescue missions, law enforcement missions, natural resource missions, and disaster assessments.
     
    During the visit, MSP Trooper 4 Flight Aviation Flight Paramedic and WPS parent, First Sgt. Michael Mann, along with representatives from MSP and the Town of Berlin, engaged with the students, providing an overview of the work they do and answering questions. The highlight of the visit was the students' opportunity to explore the helicopter.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Supports Annual OCPD Torch Run

    Berlin, MD – The Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Volunteers Club teamed up with Neshawn Jubilee of the Ocean City Police Department to support the Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, increasing awareness and raising funds for the Special Olympics.  
     
    The Volunteers Club sold 120 Torch Run t-shirts, raising over $2,400 to be donated to the Maryland Chapter of the Special Olympics. On Monday, June 3, all participating students and faculty wore their Torch Run T-shirts to school, cheering on Worcester County Law Enforcement Torch Run participants as they began the Berlin leg of the marathon. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. 
     
    For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Pre-K Wedding Announcement of Q & U

    Berlin, MD – Mrs. Kim Zaccagnini and Mrs. Courtney DeVito’s Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Pre-Kindergarten students proudly announce the wedding of Q & U on Monday, June 3. 
     
    The event was held outside on school grounds, where Head of School, Dr. John McDonald, and Head of Lower School, Dr. Sara Timmons, officiated the ceremony. Entertainment was provided by Mrs. Angie Bunting and Mrs. Cheryl Marshall’s 1st-grade wedding band. A casual reception immediately followed in the classroom.  
     
    The wedding serves as an interactive grammar lesson. Students are reminded that Q and U work together to make words like quandary and quarrel but that U can stand alone for words like unity.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Grade 3 Bread Sale is Much More than Just Raising Dough

    Berlin, MD – On May 30, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) teachers Ms. Annie Seipp, Mrs. Hannah Purnell and Mrs. Alexis Absher, and their students, presented members of the Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) Board of Trustees with a donation raised from the annual 3rd Grade Bread Sale.
     
    The annual 3rd Grade Bread Sale is part of a hands-on learning lesson combining English, Science, Social Studies (civics and community), Mathematics and Philanthropy. The project is modeled like a small business, with the young entrepreneurs baking bread, selling it to Lower School classmates in a “café”, and donating the proceeds to charity. 
     
    The project involved researching ingredients, creating posters, giving verbal presentations, and rotating jobs - from baker to cashier - to learn all the facets of running a business.  The class partnered with Bad Monkey in West Ocean City where they learned how to make and bake the bread. At the end of the Bread Sale, the students counted the money they raised ($388.87) and donated the proceeds to AGH. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Announcing the Worcester Preparatory School Class of 2024 and Top Three Award Recipients

    Berlin, MD – It is the pleasure of Worcester Preparatory School to announce that the 37 graduates of the WPS Class of 2024 officially became alumni this past Friday, May 24. This class received over $7.2 million in merit scholarship offers and will go on to attend 28 colleges and universities this fall.
     
    During the ceremony, Head of School Dr. John McDonald announced the Top Senior Award recipients including Valedictorian, Vanessa Hall (Ocean City, MD); Salutatorian, Isabella Huber (Berlin, MD); and Best All-Round Student, Claire Windrow (Bishopville, MD).  
     
    The valedictorian for 2024 is Vanessa Hall, who is a member of the Cum Laude Society, National Honor Society, and the Spanish National Honor Society. Vanessa will attend Stanford University and plans to study Aerospace Engineering.
     
    Isabella Huber, who is a member of the Cum Laude Society, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Art Honor Society, was named the salutatorian. Isabella will attend Johns Hopkins University and plans to study Neuroscience.
     
    Claire Windrow, the 2023-24 SGA President, is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, Editor of the Yearbook and Newspaper, and was named Best All-Round Student. Claire will attend the University of Georgia and plans to study Biology.
     
    Maryland State Senator, Mary Beth Carozza, representing Somerset, Wicomico & Worcester Counties, presented Koda Bauer and Ava Conaway with Maryland Senatorial Scholarships, and, on behalf of Delegate Wayne Hartman, presented Ava Conaway with a Maryland House of Delegates Scholarship.
     
    Class of 2024 highlights:
     
    • 37 seniors 
    • 11 students entered the class in either Pre-K or Kindergarten
    • 7 Legacy Students, children of WPS alumni
    • Graduates will attend 28 colleges and universities in the fall
    • College enrollments include schools in 16 states and the District of Columbia
    • Some of the colleges the graduates will attend include Carnegie Mellon University, College of Charleston, Georgetown University, the University of Georgia, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, Miami University (OH), Northeastern University, Sewanee: The University of the South, Stanford University, the United States Naval Academy, Vanderbilt University, and Virginia Tech
     
    During the commencement, local scholarships were awarded, including two American Legion Scholarships to William Mumford and Isabella Huber; Ocean Pines Golf Member’s Council Scholarships to Koda Bauer, Adam Hafez, Vanessa Hall, Carson Rayne and Claire Windrow; Ravens Roost Scholarships to Esi Mehilli and Vanessa Hall; Berlin Little League Scholarship awarded to Connor Ferguson; and the Ocean City Marlin Club Franky Pettolina Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Claire Windrow.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. 
    For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Academic Convocation Top Awards Announced

    Berlin, MD – The annual Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Academic Convocation ceremony was held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 where awards were given for academic achievement in all subject areas and service to the school.
     
    The evening’s most prestigious Academic Convocation award honors were bestowed to the following four students. Best All-Round student awards are selected by a written vote of faculty and staff:
     
    • Head of School Highest Academic Average Award, Grades 9-11: Ansh Batra, Grade 10
    • Best All-Round Student, Grades 9-11: Danielle Carr, Grade 11
    • Head of School Highest Academic Average Award, Grades 6-8: Lea Jaoude, Grade 6
    • Best All-Round Student, Grades 6-8: Elena Gjoni, Grade 8
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. 
    For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Bike Rodeo Training at WPS

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Prep, in partnership with Ocean City Police Cpl. Joe Bushnell, held a Bike Rodeo for Grades 1 and 4 on Thursday, May 16.  Before the event, lower school teachers conducted classroom sessions about bike maintenance and safety, and then the students had the chance to put their skills to the test on an outdoor obstacle course.  
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS 2024 Graduate Earns U.S. Naval Academy Appointment

    Berlin, MD – Dylan Simons, a senior at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) in Berlin, Maryland, will be inducted into the Naval Academy Class of 2028 on June 27, marking the beginning of six challenging weeks of basic midshipman training during Plebe Summer. 
     
    On Tuesday, May 21, Dylan Simons received his Certificate of Appointment from U.S. Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer Steven Rakow during the Academic Convocation Ceremony at WPS. Dylan has signed to join the United States Naval Academy, committing to the Division I Men’s Gymnastics team, and majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Throughout high school, Dylan maintained an intense 20-hour-per-week commitment to gymnastics, rising to a Level 10 Maryland State Champion gymnast.
     
    Dylan was adopted from an orphanage in Siberia, Russia, along with his brother, Hunter. Both have attended WPS since Pre-K and will graduate together on Friday. During his time at WPS, Dylan has earned his spot on the Head of School List and is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. In addition to gymnastics, Dylan has also excelled on the WPS Tennis and Cross-Country teams.
     
    In 2020, Dylan and his brother founded a non-profit organization, Only Positive Stories, spreading positivity and awareness to programs that need support to live out their mission. Mental health support and suicide prevention programs in Worcester County have benefitted from their efforts and engagement. 
     
    Founded in 1845, the U.S. Naval Academy today is a prestigious four-year service academy that prepares midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically to be professional officers in the naval service. More than 4,400 men and women representing every state in the U.S. and several foreign countries make up the student body, known as the Brigade of Midshipmen. 
     
    In 2024, U.S. News and World Reports rated the Naval Academy as the #1 public school, #3 national liberal arts college, and #5 undergraduate engineering school. Midshipmen learn from military and civilian instructors and participate in intercollegiate varsity sports and extracurricular activities. They also study subjects such as leadership, ethics, small arms, drill, seamanship and navigation, tactics, naval engineering and weapons, and military law. Upon graduation, midshipmen earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a choice of 26 different subject majors and go on to serve at least five years of exciting and rewarding service as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps. 
     
    The Brigade of Midshipmen is comprised of approximately 4,400 students from every state in the union and a handful of international students. Each year, approximately 1,200 young women and men are admitted to the Naval Academy’s incoming class. Last year the Naval Academy received over 14,000 applications for the Class of 2027. 
     
    For more information about the Naval Academy visit website www.usna.edu. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • WPS Student Named District 1 Winner in MML Essay Contest

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) 4th Grade student Bianca Prosekova of Selbyville, DE who earned the title of the District 1 Essay Winner in the Maryland Municipal League's (MML) "If I Were Mayor, I Would…" 2024 Essay Contest.
     
    Each year 4th grade students across the state enter into the “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest, and this year’s theme is “Inspiring Leadership in Your City/Town/Community.” Students were asked to write an essay about what they would do to inspire leadership in their city, town, or community and describe a project they would undertake to make others want to help make their city, town, or community better.
     
    Bianca's essay focused on her belief that a good mayor needs to ensure the safety of the community. Among her ideas was to construct a pedestrian bridge across Route 113 and increase stoplights and stop signs. As Mayor, Bianca felt that to encourage leadership and participation it was best to listen to all citizens and make volunteering enjoyable. Bianca is in Mrs. Shimko’s 4th Grade class at WPS.
     
    The MML "If I Were Mayor, I Would…" essay contest has educated over 50,000 students about municipal government and the role of the mayor, over its 24 years. The contest remains digital to ensure one of the longest-running programs is accessible to any classroom environment.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students Awarded in First OC-Berlin Optimist Club’s Art Competition

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) 4th grade student award winners of the inaugural Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Visual Arts Competition.
     
    Tobi Blaska of Ocean City, MD earned 1st place and Priya Garg of Berlin, MD was awarded 3rd place in the first-ever Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Visual Arts Competition. Both are 4th grade students at WPS. The competition will result in the creation of the 2025 Optimist International Calendar. Tobi’s artwork will advance to be judged on the Optimist International level. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students District 1 Semi-Finalists in “If I Were Mayor” Essay Contest

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) 4th Grade students who placed as semi-finalists in the “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest sponsored by The Maryland Municipal League (MML).
      
    This year over 1,300 essays were submitted to the MML “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest, and WPS 4th graders Tobi Blaska of Ocean City, MD and Grace Tunnell of Lewes, DE placed as semi-finalists in District 1 (Somerset, Worcester, Wicomico and Dorchester counties). These students are part of Mrs. Jankowski’s 4th Grade class at WPS.
     
    Each year 4th grade students enter into the “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest, and this year’s theme is “Inspiring Leadership in Your City/Town/Community.” Students were asked to write an essay of no more than 275 words about what they would do to inspire leadership in their city, town, or community and describe a project they would undertake to make others want to help make their city, town, or community better. The essay contest has educated over 50,000 students about municipal government and the role of the mayor, over its 24 years. The contest remains digital to ensure one of our longest-running programs is accessible to any classroom environment.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Grade 3 Bread Sale is Much More than Just Raising Dough

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) teachers Ms. Annie Seipp, Mrs. Hannah Purnell, Mrs. Alexis Absher, Mrs. Maureen Raines, and their students, hosted this year’s 3rd grade Bread Sale as part of a hands-on learning lesson combining English, Science, Social Studies (civics and community), Mathematics and Philanthropy. 
     
    The project is modeled like a small business, with the young entrepreneurs baking bread and donating the proceeds to charity.  The project involved researching ingredients, creating posters, presenting oral reports, and rotating jobs - from baker to cashier - to learn all the facets of running a business. The class partnered with Bad Monkey in West Ocean City where they learned how to make and bake the bread. At the end of the Bread Sale, students count the money and will donate the proceeds to Atlantic General Hospital (AGH).
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • Middle School Thespians Perform “Aladdin”

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, May 10, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students in grades 6-8 presented an incredible performance of the musical “Aladdin”. The middle school play was directed by Upper School Dance/Drama Director Paulette DeRosa-Matrona and presented in the Athletic and Performing Arts Center in front of parents, friends, and fellow Lower and Middle School students.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Announces Middle and Upper School Spring Sports Award Recipients

    Berlin, MD – On Wednesday, May 8, the Worcester Prep Middle and Upper School spring sports program culminated with the annual awards ceremony where student-athletes received awards for excellence, including the prestigious 12-Letter Club and ESIAC (Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference) Championships.
     
    Middle School Boys Lacrosse
    MVP – John Parker
    Coach’s Award – Paul Kraeuter
    Most Improved Player – Luke Mize
     
    Middle School Girls Lacrosse
    MVP – Harper Hertrich
    Coach’s Award – Carolina Labin
    Most Improved Player – Isabella Rice
     
    Varsity Boys Lacrosse
    MVP – Dylan McGovern
    Coach’s Award – Connor Ferguson
    Most Improved Player – Owen West
     
    JV Boys Lacrosse
    MVP – Luke Pitarra
    Coach’s Award – Gavin Mann
    Most Improved – Beau Brittingham
     
    Varsity Girls Lacrosse
    MVP – Caitlin Williams
    Coach’s Award – Claire Windrow
    Most Improved Player – Anisha Batra
     
    Varsity Girls Tennis
    MVP – Lebby Becker
    Coach’s Award – Natasha Richter
    Most Improved Player – Abby Ament
     
    Varsity Boys Tennis
    MVP – Aleksey Klimins
    Coach’s Award – Hunter Simons
    Most Improved Player – Edward Marytiken
     
    12 Letter Club Inductees
    Claire Windrow
    Madilyn Nechay
     
    ESIAC: Girls Lacrosse
    Madilyn Nechay
    Caitlin Williams
    Claire Windrow
    Emma Zajdel
     
    ESIAC: Boys Lacrosse
    Ansh Batra
    Cole Campbell
    Max Carpenter
    Connor Ferguson 
    Baylor Hoen
    Ryan Mann
    Dylan McGovern
    Lucas Nicastro
    Karrigan Russell-Wood
    Owen West
     
    ESIAC: Tennis
    James Haley
    Aleksey Klimins
    Carson Rayne
    Hunter Simons
     
    Player of the Year: Aleksey Klimins (tennis) and Dylan McGovern (lacrosse)
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • At the start of the day, WPS Head of School Dr. John McDonald stands with Head of School for a Day, Alden Durrell (Rehoboth Beach, DE) as they welcome students to school.

    6th Grader Alden Durrell WPS Head of School for a Day

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Prep 6th grader, Alden Durrell of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, acted as Head of School on Tuesday, April 30.  “Head of School for a Day” was a live auction item at the annual WPS Gala this past March.  
     
    As Head of School, Alden offered a casual dress day for all students, teachers and administrators in exchange for a $3 donation, raising over $1,200 to be donated to the Maryland Coastal Bays Program located in Berlin, MD. His busy schedule was filled with leadership meetings, visiting classrooms, touring the campus, as well as security and athletic field checks. He also enjoyed lunch with a small group of friends in his new office. His fellow 6th graders were treated to donuts for breakfast, ice cream at lunch and enjoyed a game of Capture the Flag during last period. Grades 1-5 were treated to double recess, and Middle and Upper School students appreciated a rare opportunity to enjoy recess during their free period.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • WPS 5th graders played the parts of Mission Control in this year’s Lower School Spring Program, Planet Rock. Kneeling in the front is Eli Parker (Snow Hill, MD). Standing from the left are Serena Jaoude (Lewes, MD), Olivia Mason (Frankford, DE), Ev Smith (Ocean City, MD), Sadie Absher (Berlin, MD), Tejal Pillai (Lewes, DE), Allen Martikyan (Berlin, MD) and Gavin Dennis (Bishopville, MD).

    WPS Lower School Presents: Planet Rock

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, April 26, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) family and friends gathered for the annual Spring Music & Art program, Planet Rock, presented by Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5 students.  
     
    Talented Lower School music teacher, Joanie Brittingham, directed a singing and dancing troupe of more than 200 students as they blasted out of this world in search of music on Planet Rock. After watching the incredible performance and celebrating the fifth graders’ promotion to Middle School, parents enjoyed the impressive array of student art projects in the Field House. Lower School art teacher, Mrs. Catherine Roman, worked with her students to create the masterpieces that coordinated with this year’s theme.  
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • Pictured sitting from the left, are WPS senior student-athletes, Leah Gaito of York, PA., Dylan Simons of Seaford, DE., and Caitlin Williams of Berlin, MD., who gathered together at an athletic conference on Monday, April 29, to sign off on their commitment to collegiate sports programs. Standing in the back from the left are WPS Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner, Assistant Head of School/Athletics Director Michael Grosso, Head of School Dr. John McDonald and Head of Upper School Caro

    WPS Seniors Commit to Collegiate Level Sports

    Berlin, MD – Three Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) senior student-athletes, Leah Gaito of York, PA., Caitlin Williams of Berlin, MD., and Dylan Simons of Seaford, DE., gathered together on Monday, April 29th, to sign off on their commitment to collegian sports programs.
     
    Leah Gaito, who joined WPS as a senior this year, has committed to play Division II Women’s Lacrosse at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, PA., where she will study Early Childhood Education. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. In addition to playing lacrosse, Leah has also excelled on the Girl's Varsity Basketball and Soccer team at WPS. She will study Early Childhood Education at Messiah University. Leah is the daughter of Anthony and Traci Gaito. 
     
    During the conference, Caitlin Williams signed a letter of intent to play Division I Women’s Lacrosse at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL., where she will study nursing. This is her fourth year on the WPS Girls Varsity Lacrosse team as a starting goalie. She recently set a school record with over 500 saves and counting. Caitlin is an AP Scholar and member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. She is a multi-sport athlete at Worcester Prep where she also plays Varsity Soccer. Caitlin is the daughter of Chris and Kelly Williams. 
     
    Dylan Simons has signed to join the United States Naval Academy, committing to the Division I Men’s Gymnastics team, and majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Throughout high school, Dylan maintained a 20-hour-per-week commitment to gymnastics rising to a Level 10 Maryland State Champion gymnast. He earned a spot on the WPS Head of School List throughout his Upper School years at WPS and is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. In addition to gymnastics, Dylan has also excelled on the Tennis and Cross-Country teams. Dylan is the son of Richard and Sharon Simons. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • In the front row from the left are Upper School Math Teacher Mrs. Linda Bragg, Cum Laude inductees Hunter Simons (Seaford, DE)), Natalie Chadwell (Seaford, DE), Esi Mehilli (Ocean City, MD) and Dylan McGovern (Salisbury, MD). In the back row from the left are Head of Upper School Mrs. Carol Evans, current Cum Laude members Sara Freih (Rehoboth Beach, DE), Elaina Elrick (Salisbury, MD), Izzy Huber (Berlin, MD) and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

    WPS Students Inducted to Prestigious Cum Laude Society

    Berlin, MD – The William E. Esham, Jr. Chapter of the prestigious Cum Laude Society at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) welcomed four new members during a ceremony on Thursday, April 25.
     
    The new inductees are Natalie Chadwell (’24), Dylan McGovern (’24), Esi Mehilli (’24) and Hunter Simons (’24). 
     
    The Cum Laude Society is a national organization founded in 1906 that honors the world’s academic excellence in secondary schools to promote excellence (Arete´), justice (Dike´), and honor (Time´). WPS is the only school on the Eastern Shore with an established Cum Laude Chapter where superior scholastic achievement is honored.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • Pictured is WPS junior James Haley (right/Bethany Beach, DE), and classmate, Travis Netting (left/Dagsboro, DE), with a vehicle packed tight with donated shoes.

    WPS Students Kick Start Shoe Drive Project

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) junior, James Haley, initiated a Shoe Drive at school resulting in hundreds of pairs of shoes, being donated or recycled.  
     
    According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, people throw away over 300 million pairs of shoes in the US each year. About 95% of these shoes wind up in landfills and those take an average of 30 to 40 years to decompose. 
     
    James brought forward the Shoe Drive as a joint effort between the WPS Volunteer Club and the Environmental Club. He proposed the idea as a way to not only reduce the number of shoes in landfills but also help educate classmates on the impact that throwing shoes away can have on the environment.  In addition, his project helped to reinforce the school’s theme for this year; IMPACT.  By collecting and sorting these donations, these students are making an impact on the environment and those in need.
     
    The shoes collected were sorted into poor or fair condition. Those deemed in poor condition were sent to the recycling center, while the others were donated. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Earth Day Celebrated Across All Grades at WPS

    Berlin, MD – On Monday, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) celebrated Earth Day by having Lower, Middle and Upper School students come together to celebrate science and our planet.
     
    LS Spanish Teacher/Development Assistant, Mrs. Amanda Netting organized the afternoon, grouping Upper School students (grades 9-12) with kindergarten through 8th grade, conducting experiments and projects aligned to the student’s science curriculum, each emphasizing the message of Earth Day.
     
    A wide variety of experiments were conducted, such as Painting with Chlorophyll, Seed Paper Shapes, Air Propelled Straw Rockets, Citrus vs. Potato Battery, Homemade Seismographs, How Tectonic Plates Move and many more. 
     
    Throughout the day student art projects made of recycled objects were on display in the Dining Hall. Past Head of School, Dr. Barry Tull, and his wife, Diane, visited campus to judge the art projects. The winners are listed below:
     
    Lower School:
    Collage/ Diorama:
    1st: Abigail Kratzer
    2nd: Paislynn Hutchins
    3rd: Callie McCabe
    Statue:
    1st: Tobi Blaska
    2nd: Roshan Chapla
    3rd: Carson Kenton
     
    Middle School:
    1st: "The Recycled Rainbow Fish" by Rani Yonker, Chloe Holland, Scarlett Shimko, Brooke Moore, Nora Gorfinkel and Viv Ruggerio
    2nd: “Follow the Light to Recycling” by Carolina Labin, Ellie Phillips, Keerat Braar and Ruhi Chapla
    3rd: "Whale of a Good Time" by Hayden Wagner
    Honorable Mentions:
    "We Are Rooted" by Max Griffin, Blair Moore, Sam Kuon, Harper Hertrich, Elena Gjoni and John Lynch
    "The Tree of Life" by Elliot Mason, Addy Wisniewski, Viv Spraul, Abby Ferguson, Arteminy Klemins, John Parker, Jack Jarvis, Brock Hidell, Reed Grinestaff and Liam McAllister 
     
    Upper School:
    1st: “Death Trooper Helmet" by Mia Jaoude
    2nd: "Victorian Recycled" by Lena Parker
    3rd: "Wave of Waves" by Drew McCormick, Dillon Scopp, Nate Montague, and Lucas Nicastro
    Honorable Mentions:
    "Trashy Tiki Float" by Sydney Mize, Ashton Browne, Lilly Phillips, Emily Patrowicz, Jude Damouni, Anisha Batra and Sydney Todorov
    "Make the Earth a BETA Place" by Grant Crothers, Catherine Cullen, Quinn Solloway, Kain Crosset and Renata Lovitt 
     
    Outside of the Innovation Lab, Dr. Nick Busko and senior physics students spent the week preparing wind chimes that sounded off to “Hedwig’s Theme” from the Harry Potter movies soundtrack, which was a hit across all grades in school. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • WPS Upper School students selected to join the ESIAC team only one year after the team’s inception. Pictured from left to right are: Mia Jaoude (Lewes, DE), Gabrielle Damouni (Lewes, DE), Will Wells (Seaford, DE), Jack Wells (Seaford, DE) and Jude Damouni (Lewes, DE). Not pictured: Mia Lovitt.

    One Year Later WPS Swimmers Achieve ESIAC Title

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) swim team earned the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) title just one full year after its inception. 
     
    In February of 2023, the Mallards Swim Team made its debut at the Varsity Swimming Inaugural ESIAC Conference Meet, where the team displayed great talent from the jump.  Only one year later, WPS upper school swim team members Gabriella Damouni, Jude Damouni, Mia Jaoude, Mia Lovitt, Will Wells and Jack Wells have been selected to join the All-Conference team.  
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • In the front row from the left are WPS Head of School Dr. John McDonald, Nicole Sebastian (Berlin, MD), Ryder Whitlock (Lewes, DE), Dev Pillai (Lewes, DE) and Anya Murukutla (Rehoboth Beach, DE). In the second row from the left are Sloane Smith (Berlin, MD), Tejal Pillai (Lewes, DE), Serena Jaoude (Lewes, DE), Lea Jaoude (Lewes, DE), Alessia Ziman (Ocean City, MD) and Juliet Webster (Rehoboth Beach, DE). In the third row from the left are Ellie Phillips (Ocean City, MD), Hayden Wagner (Lewes, DE

    WPS Finalists Announced in Annual Young Authors Contest

    Berlin, MD – The Eastern Shore Literacy Association (ESLA) recently announced that 22 Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students earned finalist status in the Young Authors Contest for poetry or short story. According to ESLA Young Authors’ Contest Chair, Dr. Brian Cook, there were over 300 entries from 19 area schools, both public and private. Each finalist finished in the top three of their respective category/grade levels. 
     
    2024 ELSA Young Authors’ finalists from WPS:
    Grade 1, Short Story – 3rd place Nicole Sebastian
    Grade 2, Short Story – 2nd place Ryder Whitlock
    Grade 3, Short Story – 3rd place tie Dev Pillai
    Grade 4, Short Story – 2nd place tie Anya Murukutla
    Grade 5, Short Story – 1st place Sloane Smith, 2nd place Tejal Pillai and 3rd place Serena Jaoude
    Grade 6, Poetry – 2nd place Lea Jaoude and 3rd place Alessia Ziman
    Grade 6, Short Story – 1st place Lea Jaoude and 2nd place tie Claire Cooper
    Grade 7, Short Story –1st place Juliet Webster
    Grade 8, Poetry – 2nd place tie Ellie Phillips
    Grade 8, Short Story – 2nd place tie Hayden Wagner
    Grade 9, Poetry – 3rd place tie Emma Nordstorm
    Grade 9, Short Story – 1st place Sydney Parker and 3rd place Mia Jaoude
    Grade 10, Poetry – 1st place Marina Farlow
    Grade 10, Short Story – 1st place Jude Damouni, 2nd place Catherine Cullen and 3rd place Jamie Nguyen
    Grade 11, Short Story –1st place Lydia Schwartz and 2nd place Will Wells
     
    ESLA is a non-profit organization that supports Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties with the purpose of promoting a literate society by bringing together a network of people dedicated to sharing knowledge and information about literacy through programs and services. ESLA is an affiliate of the State of Maryland Literacy Association (SoMLA), a leading literacy organization in Maryland comprised of over 1,500 members in 17 active chapters.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • On Monday, the WPS Varsity Girls Lacrosse team celebrated Caitlin Williams' (’24) record-breaking 500 saves as goalie and Emma Zajdel scoring 100 points. Pictured from the left are WPS Head Coach Chris Williams, athletes Emma Zajdel and Caitlin Williams and Assistant Coach Frank Nechay.

    WPS Girls Varsity Players Achieve Milestones in LAX Career

    Berlin, MD –Shortly into Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Varsity Girls Lacrosse season, goalie Caitlin Williams (’24) achieves her 500th career save, and Emma Zajdel (’25) achieved her 100th career scoring point.
     
    Caitlin Williams has been playing lacrosse for 12 years. This is her fourth year on the WPS Girls Varsity Lacrosse team as a starting goalie. Caitlin is a multi-sport athlete at Worcester Prep where she also plays Varsity Soccer. She has set a school record with 513 saves and counting.
     
    This is Emma Zajdel’s third year on the WPS Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team. Emma is a multi-sport athlete at Worcester Prep where she plays Varsity Soccer as well. She has scored 100 points during her lacrosse career at WPS with 75 goals and 25 assists. 
     
    Celebrating 50 years, Worcester Preparatory School is an independent, college prep day school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 students. Located minutes from the beach in Berlin, MD., the private school attracts an average of 500 students from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575. 
  • Pictured from the left are WPS Head of School Dr. John McDonald, a representative from the General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), DAR Good Citizen Award recipient WPS senior Dylan McGovern (Salisbury, MD) and Senator Mary Beth Carozza.

    WPS DAR Essay Contest and Good Citizen Winners

    Berlin, MD – On Monday, April 15, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) presented this year’s Good Citizen and essay contest awards.
     
    The local General Levin Winder Chapter of the DAR recently sponsored two American History essay contests in area schools. The chapter also recognized a senior from each of the four Worcester County high schools as DAR Good Citizens. 
     
    The WPS winners of the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest, open to grades 5 through 8, are as follows: Grade 6 – 1st place, Lea Jaoude; Grade 7 – 1st place, Emerson Bofinger Ava Holland and Liam McAllister tied for 2nd place; Grade 8 – 1st place, Hayden Wagner. Lea Jaoude, Emerson Bofinger and Hayden Wagner will advance to the State competition.
     
    WPS freshman Gabriella Damouni won 2nd place in the Patriots of the American Revolution essay contest, open to grades 9 through 12.
     
    The DAR Good Citizens program was initiated by the National Society in 1934 to recognize male and female high-school seniors who exemplify the qualities of a good citizen: dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Senior Dylan McGovern was chosen as this year’s Worcester Prep DAR Good Citizen and was presented with a certificate, lapel pin, and a monetary award.
     
    The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. For more information, visit www.dar.org or http://GeneralLevinWinder.marylanddar.org.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students Inducted to International Thespian & National Art Honor Society

    Berlin, MD – As part of the Worcester Preparatory April Honor Society Inductions, six students were inducted to the WPS chapter of the International Thespian Society, and 18 students were inducted to the National Art Honor Society on April 17. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

    The International Thespian Society is the Educational Theatre Association’s student honorary organization to recognize high school student achievement in Theatre. Pictured are the International Thespian Society WPS Inductees.
    Front Row (L-R): WPS students Abby Ament (Millsboro, DE), Briar Parsons (Ocean Pines, MD) and Sydney Tingle (Fenwick Island, DE).
    Back Row (L-R): WPS Upper School Dance/Drama Director Paulette DeRosa-Matrona, William Mumford (Bethany Beach, DE), Jackson Fernley (Berlin, MD), Will Wells (Seaford, DE) and WPS Middle/Upper School Music Director Christopher Buzby.

    The National Art Honor Society recognizes students who have shown outstanding ability in art, character and service. Pictured are the National Art Honor Society WPS Inductees.
    Front Row (L-R): WPS students Angeline Todorov (Berlin, MD), Lindsay Bruner (Berlin, MD), Maggie McCabe (Berlin, MD), Moorea Phillips (Ocean City, MD), Lebby Becker (Rehoboth Beach, DE) and current member Natasha Richter (Bethany Beach, DE).
    Second Row (L-R): WPS students Vanesska Hall (Ocean City, MD), Madilyn Nechay (Hebron, MD), Jayden Scopp (Berlin, MD), Sydney Tingle (Fenwick Island, DE) and Esi Mehilli (Ocean City, MD).
    Third Row (L-R): Middle/Upper School Art teacher George Zaiser, William Mumford (Bethany Beach, DE), Briar Parsons (Ocean Pines, MD) and Sara Frieh (Rehoboth Beach, DE).
    Back Row (L-R): WPS students Dylan McGovern (Salisbury, MD), Adam Hafez (Berlin, MD), Hunter Simons (Ocean City, MD), current member Mason Williams (Pittsville, MD) and Luke Hopkins (Frankford, DE). Not pictured: Savannah Palmisano 
  • WPS 7th graders Addyson Wisniewski (Bishopville, MD), Abby Ferguson (Ocean City, MD), and Ava Holland (Berlin, MD) were excited to wear blue in support of Autism Awareness.

    WPS Autism Awareness Day

    Berlin, MD -  On Friday, April 12, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) was happy to show their support of Autism Awareness Day by dressing in blue.
     
    In addition to wearing blue, the Upper School Surf Club collected donations to support the Surfers Healing Foundation, which works to enrich the lives of people living with autism by exposing them to the unique experience of surfing.
     
    Surfers Healing is the original surf camp for children with autism. Serving communities since 1996, volunteers with the nonprofit travel across the country – from San Diego to Rhode Island – to catch the waves with camp participants. Locally, a camp is held in Ocean City, MD each summer providing nearly 200 children with autism, and their families the opportunity to go surfing.
     
    For more information, or to find out how to get involved, visit their website at www.surfershealing.org. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • Pictured from left to right are Republican Women of Worcester Country (RWWC) Literacy Chair Susan Ostrowski, WPS 8th grade essay contest winners Elena Gjoni (Ocean City, MD), Hayden Wagner (Lewes, DE), Ben Rafinski (Berlin, MD) and RWWC President Jean Delcher.

    WPS Students Awarded in RWWC Essay Contest

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) 8th grade students, Elena Gjoni, Hayden Wagner and Ben Rafinski were recognized during lunch for placing in the Republican Women of Worcester County’s (RWWC) inaugural Americanism Essay Contest, which was open to all 8th grade students in Worcester County.
     
    Students were asked to respond to the following prompt: “How important is a free press for the future of our country?” Elena Gjoni achieved first place, Hayden Wagner was awarded second place and Ben Rafiniski earned 3rd place. Each student was awarded monetary prizes.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS 2nd Grade Habitat Fair

    Berlin, MD – On Thursday, March 28, Worcester Prep’s 2nd grade students hosted a Habitat Fair for fellow lower school students, staff, and family. Attendees learned about the different places an animal makes a home, from the rainforest to the arctic and all the habitats in between.
     
    In class, the students learned about the different types of land and water habitats, the animals that live in each habitat, adaptations animals make in each habitat, and the food chain. They also learned the different types of plants, landforms, and even what types of threats exist in each habitat.
     
    Following class lessons, it was the students' turn to become the teacher by taking a month to research and write about the habitat they selected. They selected an animal from their chosen habitat, and with the help of lower school art teacher, Mrs. Roman, they each created a magic model of the animal in art class. The project also carried over to computer class where Mrs. Lyons helped them compile their research into a digital presentation.
     
    In the end, students were able to learn how each habitat can be conserved, and ways they can help.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
  • WPS 4th graders Brooke Arnold (left/Berlin, MD) and Charlize Damouni (right/Lewes, DE) are pictured with 4th grade teacher Mrs. Kim Jankowski (center) at the Ladies Auxiliary American Legion of Berlin awards ceremony after placing in this year’s Americanism Essay Contest.

    WPS Students Awarded in American Legion Post #123 Essay Contest

    On Monday, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) 4th grade students, Charlize Damouni and Brooke Arnold, were recognized during a Ladies Auxiliary American Legion Post #123 awards ceremony for placing in this year’s Americanism Essay Contest. 
     
    Each year, the American Legion Auxiliary holds an Americanism Essay Contest for students (Grades 3-12) to teach the value of patriotism and what it means to be an American. Thousands of students participate in the program each year and help promote a lifelong respect for our flag and country. This year’s theme was, “What Freedom Means to Me.”
     
    Charlize Damouni achieved first place, and Brooke Arnold was awarded third place in their division. Both Charlize and Brooke read their essays and were awarded monetary prizes, certificates and American flags. Students and their families were treated to a dinner reception following the reading of the essays and the awards.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
      
  • Pictured are this year’s Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 Americanism Essay Contest winners. In the front from the left are 6th grade winners Lea Jaoude (Lewes, DE), Vivi Grinestaff (Berlin, MD) and Ronit Poddar (Ocean Pines, MD). In the back from the left are 8th grade winners Elena Gjoni (Ocean City, MD), Ellie Phillips (Ocean City, MD) and Hayden Wagner (Lewes, DE); and 7th grade winners Kristie Carr (Lewes, DE), Elle Wilsey (Selbyville, DE) and Madison Andrews (Ocean City, MD).

    Elks Essay Contest WPS Middle School Winners

    Berlin, MD –Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 essay contest winners were recently recognized.
     
    This year’s Elks National Great Americanism essay contest theme was “What the Bill of Rights Means to Me”. Each student submitted an essay of close to 300 words.
     
    Congratulations to WPS students Lea Jaoude for achieving 1st place, Ronit Poddar who earned 2nd, and Vivi Grinestaff for receiving 3rd in the 6th Grade division.  In the Grade 7 division, Kristie Carr won 1st place, Elle Wilsey received 2nd and Madison Andrews received 3rd. In the 8th Grade division, Hayden Wagner won 1st place, Ellie Phillips received 2nd and Elena Gjoni received 3rd. Lea Jaoude, Kristie Carr and Hayden Wagner will advance to the district level.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Pre-K Egg-cellent Experiments

    Berlin, MD – Last week, Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) pre-kindergarten class conducted two experiments with eggs as the key ingredient. Both experiments resulted in a great day of fun, all while students learned about the force behind gravity. On Friday, the class celebrated the completion of their studies with an egg hunt in the library. 
     
    In the "Inertia Egg Drop Experiment the Law of Inertia was tested. In this case, the egg stays at rest until the plate is moved, allowing gravity to take over. This pulls the egg straight down into the cup because there is no force to change the direction of the egg.
     
    Up next was the "Humpty Dumpty Egg Drop Challenge" which had students, with help from their parents, create parachutes out of household supplies that would protect a hard-boiled egg during a fall and subsequent landing. Students dropped their parachutes from the top of the playground equipment, and not one egg cracked! 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students Inducted to French and Spanish Honor Societies

    Berlin, MD – On Thursday, March 21, twenty-three Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students were inducted into the Pablo Picasso Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica and Societe Honoraire de Francais Chapitre Bastille at the WPS Spanish and French Honor Society Induction Ceremonies.
     
    Congratulations to the following inductees: 
     
    French Honor Society Inductees: Kain Crossett, Catherine Cullen, Jude Damouni, Marina Farlow, Michael Hebert, Jamie Nguyen, Lena Parker and Sydney Todorov.
     
    Spanish Honor Society Inductees: Anisha Batra, Ansh Batra, Samantha Bontempo, Ashton Browne, Jeremy Forman, Leah Gaito, Renata Lovitt, Paxton Mault, Maggie McCabe, Sydney Mize, Jay Moyer, Olivia Owens, Emily Patrowicz, Lilly Phillips and Ayla Yonker.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Donuts with Grownups & Annual Spring Book Fair

    Berlin, MD – As part of the week-long Scholastic Book Fair taking place in the Guerrieri Library, Worcester Prep Lower School students shopped with special guests at “Donuts with Grownups” on Wednesday, March 20. Guests enjoyed Dunkin Donuts breakfast and coffee, compliments of the Nistazos family, while purchasing books together. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Student Claims Award in this Year’s Shirley Hall Youth Art Show

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to Shirley Hall Youth Art Exhibit awardee, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) 6th grade student, Emma Mealy.
     
    The Shirley Hall Youth Art Exhibit was held on March 1st at the Art League of Ocean City. WPS 6th grader Emma Mealy of Selbyville, Delaware placed third in the middle school category for her acrylic painting entitled “May Reflections.”
     
    For over 30 years, the Art League of Ocean City has featured artwork by Worcester County middle and high school students in the annual Shirley Hall Youth Art Show. Originally sponsored by the Women’s Club of Ocean City, the show was coordinated by Shirley Hall who was an active member of the OC Women’s Club and former Art League president. When the OC Women’s Club disbanded, the Art League continued to coordinate the yearly youth show as it was central to the organization’s mission. When Shirley passed away in 2006, the Art League renamed the show in her honor. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Chess Club Tournament Winners

    Berlin, MD –Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Chess Club Tournament winners were recognized in front of their classmates and awarded with a trophy. 
     
    Upper School teachers, Paul Cyryca and Mike Marriotti, and Head of Lower School, Dr. Sara Timmons, officiated the WPS Chess Club Tournament. Upper School Students, Aleksey Klimins and Edward Martikyan, assisted the 37 chess players throughout the chess playing brackets. Chess Club met twice a month since the start of the 2023-2024 school year and had their final Chess Tournament on Thursday, March 7.
     
    During lunch the next day, Dr. Timmons presented the winners, Wesley DeVito (’33) of the Grades 2-4 bracket and Artemiy Klimins (’29) of the Grades 5-8 bracket with their trophies. The runners-up in the Grades 3-4 were Carter Harrison (’32), and Grade 5-6 was Allen Martikyan (’31).
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Lower School Celebrates 100 Days

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) celebrated reaching their 100th day of school on Friday, March 8. Pre-K through Grade 5 students celebrated 100 Days In The Books by dressing as their favorite book characters, as well as participating in a variety of educational and physical activities throughout the day.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Cato, Inc. Awards WPS $500 ExxonMobil Grant

    Berlin, MD – Cato, Inc. marketing representative, Gordon Abercrombie (WPS ‘13, Furman University ‘17, Clemson MBA ‘19), presents a $500 ExxonMobil Educational Alliance program grant to Worcester Preparatory School (WPS). This year’s grant will be applied toward the Upper School Science Department. ExxonMobil believes in investing in educational programs for the next generation to pursue studies and careers in fields involving math and science.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Totally Tubular Time at the WPS Gala

    Berlin, MD – Parents, alumni, teachers and friends of WPS came together for a good time and a great cause at this year’s 80’s themed Worcester Prep Gala held on Friday, March 1st at Seacrets in Ocean City, MD. The event featured a 50/50 raffle and live auction and ended with dancing to hits from the 80’s. Nearly 250 members of our school community gathered together in celebration of Worcester Preparatory School (WPS).  Proceeds from the event will be used towards projects and improvements to our campus, classrooms, and athletic fields that could not be funded through tuition dollars alone.  Thank you to all who turned out in support of WPS.  
      
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Upper School Musical and Art Show Presenting: Mamma Mia!

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) performing arts program on their production of Mamma Mia! Members of the community and Worcester Prep families and friends turned out in large numbers to support the cast and crew, resulting in standing ovations for both performances.
     
    WPS hosted Mamma Mia! in the Athletic and Performing Arts Center on February 23 and 24.  The show was made possible thanks to the creative collaboration and determination of talented student performers and amazing teachers, Director Mrs. Paulette DeRosa-Matrona, Music Director Mr. Christopher Buzby and Art Director Mr. George Zaiser. 
     
    Upper School thespians and artists combined music, dance and an array of art mediums. On top of the show, incredible works of art were created by students and displayed throughout the lobby for guests to enjoy before and after the show.  
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Lower School Students Acknowledged for Participating in the National Garden Club Poster Contest

    Berlin, MD – On Monday, February 26, the Worcester County Garden Club recognized Worcester Prep Lower School students for their artwork in the National Garden Club's annual Smokey the Bear and Woodsy Owl Youth Poster Contest. 
     
    Worcester County Garden Club representative Joanne Kirby recognized 1st grader Nicole Sebastian (Berlin, MD), 3rd grader Hristina Gjoni (Ocean City, MD), and 4th graders Tobi Blaska (Ocean City, MD) and Aaralyn Lillquist (Selbyville, DE) for their participation in the National Garden Club’s annual poster contest. The Worcester County Garden Club has chosen to sponsor each student in the contest, presenting each student with participation certificates and gift bags. The national contest winners will be named in March.
     
    To learn more about the contest visit the National Garden Club’s website at www.gardenclub.org.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Senior Named National Merit Scholarship Finalist

    Berlin, MD –Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) senior, Izzy Huber, is one step closer to earning a Merit Scholar title by being named a finalist.
     
    In September, Izzy Huber of Berlin, MD was named a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, and this month she has been named a finalist. Izzy qualified for the accolade by taking the 2022 PSAT. She was among 16,000 students selected as semifinalists, representing less than one percent of all U.S. high school seniors. 
     
    As a finalist, Izzy has an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered this spring. Approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholarship title. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.
     
    NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 340 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nations scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence. For more information visit www.nationalmerit.org.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Mallard Robotics Compete in DelMarVa Extravaganza

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) is proud to announce its successful participation in the recent DelMarVa End of Season Robotics Extravaganza.
     
    WPS senior Vanesska Hall and junior Lydia Schwartz represented the WPS Mallard Robotics team at the competition this past weekend, February 24, in Wilmington, showcasing their technological prowess against a field of 22 competitive teams, earning a spot in the DelMarVa VRC Over Under High School Championship on March 9 in Newark, DE.
     
    The robotics team is comprised of students Lydia Schwartz, Landon Schul, Ansh Batra, Jude Damouni, Stephen Carullo, Preston Adkins, Sydney Todorov, Allen Zhang and team captain Vanesska Hall. The team spent numerous hours building and coding a sophisticated robot using regulation VEX components provided by NASA Wallops, embarked on a journey through the challenges of Engineering Notebook, team interviews, robot skills, and head-to-head matches.
     
    With more than 11,500 teams partaking in over 750 tournaments worldwide and the potential for numerous scholarships valued at over 100 million dollars, VEX robotics competitions are at the forefront of STEM-based extracurricular activities among high school students.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • WPS Receives Optimist Club Art Awards

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students received awards for their artwork entered into the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Worcester County High School Art Contest.
     
    In February, the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s gallery featured the Worcester County High School Art Contest, a juried art competition. The exhibition featured 28 pieces of student artwork submitted by high school art teachers, including WPS Art Director George Zaiser. WPS competed against Snow Hill High School, Pocomoke High School, Stephen Decatur High School, and Worcester Technical School, who all could submit up to 10 entries. The competition awarded a total of $2,000 in cash prizes to the student artists. The selection of artwork was judged by local artist and WCAC’s Board Member, Doris Glovier.
     
    Drawing:
    2nd Place – Junior Angeline Todorov – “Pavo Cristatus”
     
    Painting:
    1st Place – Senior Izzy Huber – “Emersion”
     
    Digital: 
    3rd Place – Freshman Mia Jaoude – “Lightning Dragon”
    Honorable Mention – Junior Mikayla Towns – “Amanda Seyfried Mamma Mia”
     
    For more information on the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club visit www.ocberlinoptimistclub.org.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Announces Upper School Winter Sports Award Recipients

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to this year’s Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Upper School students who captured coveted Winter Sports Awards.
     
    Varsity Cheerleading
    MVP – Madilyn Nechay (Hebron, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Avery Roselle (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Keerat Pandher (Berlin, MD)
     
    Varsity Girls Basketball
    MVP – Esi Mehilli (Ocean City, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Sydney Mize (Dagsboro, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Leah Gaito (York, PA)
     
    JV Boys Basketball
    MVP – Paxton Mault (Ocean City, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Michael Hebert (West Fenwick, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Jackson Griffin (Ocean City, MD)
     
    Varsity Boys Basketball
    MVP – Mike DePalma (Ocean City, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Connor Ferguson (Ocean City, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Ben Anthony (Frankford, DE)
     
    Swim Team
    MVP – Jude Damouni (Lewes, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Will Wells (Seaford, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Paul Kraeuter (Berlin, MD)
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Valentines Program Spreads the Love

    Berlin, MD – The Lower School Valentine's Program was held on Friday, February 16, at WPS. Students in Kindergarten through 2nd Grade shared songs, poems, and jokes with senior citizens from the Berlin Community. Around 20 seniors from Gull Creek and the Cottages of Berlin attended. They shared snacks with the students and received handmade Valentines.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Alumni Association Hosts 100-Day Breakfast for the Class of 2024

    Berlin, MD – In a heartwarming event on the morning of Friday, February 16, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Alumni Association celebrated a significant milestone—the final 100 days before graduation—for the class of 2024. Held in the library lecture room, the occasion was marked by a delicious breakfast, stirring speeches, and a lively performance.
     
    Head of School, Dr. John McDonald and Assistant Head of School/Athletic Director Mr. Mike Grosso, served as chefs for the event, preparing pancakes and French toast for the attendees. WPS Alumni Association President, Chris Hoen ’90, welcomed the senior class and offered words of wisdom to the future graduates, including his son, Baylor.
     
    The featured guest speaker for the breakfast was Grace Gardner from Worcester Prep’s Class of 2019. Grace, who graduated from Clemson University last spring, is the older sister of current WPS senior, Ansley. She gave insight into her college process and shared an inspirational speech to help guide seniors as they prepare to start their college career.
     
    A highlight of the morning was when a group of Lower School students stopped by to share their advice for seniors during their first year at college, and passed out additional letters of advice from their classmates for the seniors to take with them. The kindergarten class also surprised the senior class with a performance of “We Are a Family.”
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Wellness at Worcester Prep

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) proudly announces the successful launch of its "Wellness @ Worcester" initiative—a program crafted to nurture the physical and mental well-being of its Upper School students. Spearheaded by enthusiastic junior Lydia Schwartz, in collaboration with the College Counseling program, the event has introduced students to a holistic approach to health; emphasizing stress management, study skills, and wise lifestyle choices.
     
    Highlighting the event was the heartwarming visit from Pets on Wheels of Wicomico County, featuring an adorable quartet of therapy dogs. As a certified handler for National Canine Therapy Dogs and the youngest member of Pets on Wheels, Lydia Schwartz is well-versed in the uplifting impact animals can have on the human spirit. Her dedicated service alongside her pug, Sprinkles, has touched numerous lives across hospitals, nursing homes, and educational institutions.
     
    Pets on Wheels volunteers, Don and Dottie Ashe with their therapy dogs, Gus and Ivy, and Terri Mohr with her K9 companion, Macey, also joined the event spreading cheer among students and staff. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Class of 2025 Ring Ceremony

    Berlin, MD – The annual Junior Ring Ceremony took place at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) on February 8, 2024. It is tradition that seniors present the juniors with their class rings along with a few insightful comments as to why the recipient is special to them. The Ring Ceremony is always an inspiring event showing the bond and friendship between peers.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Berlin Mayor Visits WPS 4th Grade

    Berlin, MD – On Thursday, January 25, Mrs. Jankowski and Mrs. Shimko’s 4th grade classes met with Town of Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall to discuss this year’s “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest. 
     
    Each year it is a tradition at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) for students to enter the “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest, and this year’s theme is “Inspiring Leadership in Your City/Town/Community.” Students are asked to write an essay of no more than 275 words about what they would do to inspire leadership in their city, town, or community and describe a project they would undertake to make others want to help make their city, town, or community better. 
     
    During Thursday’s meeting, Mayor Tyndall talked about his role as the Mayor of Berlin, the many different departments that help run the Town of Berlin, and future goals he hopes to achieve to help make the town a better place. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS 5th Graders Graduate from D.A.R.E Program

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) 5th graders participated in the D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program taught by Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.  
     
    For several weeks, Sheriff Crisafulli has visited 5th-grade classrooms working with students to educate them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. He worked with the students to instill good decision-making skills and shared the knowledge needed to resist substance abuse. In addition, he touched on the dangers of bullying and how to safely report it. On Monday, January 22, Grade 5 teachers, Mrs. Camille Jenkins, Mrs. Lisa Rill and Mrs. Alayne Shockley, hosted a special program where students received their D.A.R.E graduation certificates and hats. 
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
     

  • WPS Announces Middle School Winter Sports Award Recipients

    Berlin, MD – Congratulations to this year’s Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Middle School students who captured coveted Winter Sports Awards.
     
    Middle School Cheerleading
    MVP – Ava Holland (Berlin,MD)
    Coach’s Award – Addy Wisniewski (Bishopville, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Vivian Spraul (Ocean View, DE)
     
    7th Grade Girls Basketball
    MVP – Kylee Hutton (Millsboro, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Ella Conev (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Kristie Carr (Lewes, DE)
     
    7th Grade Boys Basketball
    MVP – Zac McGovern (Salisbury, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Reed Grinestaff (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Emerson Bofinger (Ocean View, DE)
     
    8th Grade Girls Basketball
    MVP – Scarlett Shimko (Berlin, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Harper Hertrich (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Carolina Labin (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
     
    8th Grade Boys Basketball
    MVP – Chase Thompson (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Ben Rafinski (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Liam Crowley (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Golf Coach Named Fall ESIAC Coach of the Year

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) is proud to announce that Varsity Golf Coach, Don McMullen, has been named the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) Fall Sports Coach of the Year.
     
    Coach McMullen has guided the WPS Varsity Golf team for the past seven years, leading them to win five ESIAC Conference Championships (2018 and 2020-2023) and placing second in two others (2017 and 2019). His dedication, expertise, and strong leadership continue to be instrumental to the team's ongoing success.
     
    "I'm honored with the recognition, and I share this award with our Assistant Golf Coach, Jim McKee, who has coached beside me for the past seven years," said Coach McMullen. "This award is due to the many players who were committed and dedicated to playing some very competitive and outstanding golf on our team. We're looking forward to the 2024 Fall Golf season."
     
    WPS wishes to express its gratitude to Coach McMullen’s for his dedication to the golf program and his ongoing commitment to student-athletes' development in their sport. His hard work and passion continue to make a difference in every golf season at WPS.
     
    Worcester Preparatory School's Athletic Director, Mike Grosso, said, "Coach McMullen's dedication, skill, and passion for golf have directly contributed to our team's continued success. His guidance has been instrumental in developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the course."
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Elite Colleges on the List of WPS Early College Acceptances

    Berlin, MD – In celebration of Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) announcing early college acceptances, seniors celebrate by making it snow.
     
    Every student loves a snow day and every senior loves to receive a college acceptance. While we are still waiting for the weather to cooperate to bring snow to our region, a group of seniors celebrated early acceptances with their own version of “snow”.
     
    “We’re proud of every senior for their hard work and excited to announce that as of early January, the WPS Class of 2024 has received more than 100 offers of admission to 50 colleges and universities,” Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner said.
     
    A sampling of the colleges include: 
     
    • Auburn University
    • Clemson University
    • College of Charleston
    • Drexel University
    • Emerson College
    • Florida Southern College
    • Fordham University
    • Georgetown University
    • High Point University
    • Miami University, Oxford
    • Old Dominion University
    • Pepperdine University
    • Quinnipiac University
    • Seton Hall University
    • Stanford University
    • Texas A & M University
    • The University of Alabama
    • The University of Tennessee
    • University of Delaware
    • University of Georgia
    • University of Kentucky
    • University of Mississippi
    • University of South Carolina
    • University of Vermont
    • Ursinus College
    • West Virginia University
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Welcomes Recent Alums to Help Prepare Seniors for College

    Berlin, MD – On Wednesday, January 3, the College Counseling Department, in partnership with the Alumni Association, held the Annual College Alumni Luncheon and Panel. The event provided an opportunity for current seniors to ask recent WPS graduates about their experience with the college application process, choosing the right school and college life. 
     
    This year, 18 recent alumni were welcomed back to campus for lunch, fellowship, and an informative alumni panel discussion with the current seniors. Alumni expressed great appreciation for how WPS prepared them for their college success; particularly in terms of time management, writing skills, and communication. They encouraged the seniors to take advantage of the opportunities that await them at college.  
     
    Alumni couldn’t reiterate enough the importance of making an informed and carefully researched decision when choosing a college. They also encouraged students to reach out to their network of contacts and to utilize the college counseling office at WPS to learn more about the schools in consideration. For those who will be heading off to college in the fall, they shared tips for acclimating to college life including making friends, connecting with professors, and excelling in their studies.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • WPS Students Elected to HOBY Maryland and Delaware Leadership Programs

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Sophomores Kain Crossett, Beckett Green, Ayla Yonker, Ashton Browne, Jude Damouni and Jake Timmons have been selected to attend the prestigious Hugh O'Brian Youth (HOBY) leadership programs in Maryland and Delaware this summer.
     
    HOBY, founded in 1958 by veteran actor Hugh O'Brian, is renowned as the country's top youth leadership development organization. With a mission to empower individuals to achieve their highest potential, HOBY has been instrumental in creating positive catalysts for change in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. More than 500,000 HOBY alumni worldwide continue to lead the way as respected youth leaders.
     
    Over the years, HOBY has graduated exceptional leaders who have made a significant difference within our global society through effective and compassionate leadership. The Leadership Seminar, which welcomes hundreds of sophomores from across Maryland and Delaware, provides a platform for students to expand their understanding of leadership potential and personal development. Through immersive experiences, guest speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on activities, students learn about personal, group, and societal leadership.
     
    A career lunch facilitates meaningful conversations between students and professionals, promoting knowledge about education, careers, and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the program emphasizes the connection between leadership and volunteerism through a group community service project, inspiring students to give back to their communities.
     
    For more information on HOBY Maryland visit hobymd.org or HOBY Delaware visit hobydelaware.org.
     
    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland.  Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.  For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.
Back 2024

Worcester Preparatory School

508 South Main Street, Berlin, MD 21811
Phone: 410-641-3575 | Fax: 410-641-3586
Celebrating 50 years, WPS is an independent, college prep day school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 students. Located in Berlin, Maryland, the private school attracts an average of 500 students from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.