Worcester Schools partner with Central Mass Safety Council for driver's education program

The Standing Committee on Teaching, Learning, and Student Success convened on May 9, 2025, to discuss key initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities within Worcester Public Schools. The meeting featured notable attendees, including Chris Cresonis, the newly appointed executive director, and Tom Toney, the administrative director of positive youth.

The primary agenda item focused on a proposal to explore offering driver's education through local driving schools at the high school level. Cresonis provided an overview of the current driver's education program, which has successfully reduced costs for students through a grant that subsidized fees. Approximately 100 students benefited from this initiative, which included road test fees, bringing the total cost down to about $259 per student.

Cresonis highlighted the collaboration with the Central Mass Safety Council (CMSC), which has a proven track record of providing driver's education across various schools in Massachusetts. An agreement has been signed to initiate this program at South High School and Worcester Tech, where the demand is highest. The plan aims to expand to additional high schools in the district, ensuring that students have access to driving lessons immediately after school.

In addition to the educational aspect, Cresonis discussed the potential for a foundation in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. This foundation would seek donations to create scholarships for students, thereby further reducing the financial burden of driver's education. The model has seen success in other regions, such as Cape Cod Tech, and aims to replicate that success in Worcester.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for committee members to provide feedback on the proposal, indicating a collaborative approach to refining the initiative. The discussions underscored a commitment to improving student access to essential skills and enhancing their readiness for future employment opportunities.