WPS Blog

by Carrie Wihbey Earlier this month, WPS Institute partnered with Higgins Middle School in Peabody, Massachusetts, to host Try It Day, a hands-on learning experience designed to help sixth graders explore future possibilities in ways that feel real, local, and within reach. We were honored to welcome Pedro Martinez, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, whose visit reinforced a message we care deeply about: career-connected learni

Students explored the intricate designs of architects, experimented with food science techniques, and even got a glimpse of the tools and ve

Our goal is for school-community partnerships to be truly reciprocal. We want to be designing with our partners, not for them.

We are grateful to our partners at Salem State University (SSU) for making community-based Civics instruction possible this year. The Center for Civic Engagement at SSU welcomed pilot students to the university campus for multiple visits. The Center civic fellows were excellent coaches on the 8th Grade Civic Action Project, providing encouragement and feedback. Authentic audiences make learning relevant and engaging. By building relationships with near-peers and exploring a

Learning immersions are one of the most exciting elements of WPS’s Community Innovation Partnership with Salem Public Schools. While a typical middle schooler might get to enjoy one or two field trips a year, the pilot’s flexible schedule allows our 8th graders to leave the classroom at least once a week. We’re fortunate to be located in the heart of Salem, MA, a rich environment for learning with multiple significant cultural institutions, including a world class museum, Nat