News and Publications

2026

  • Worcester Preparatory School Celebrates Successful Tropical Resort Gala

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School hosted its Annual Gala on March 7, 2026, at The Ashore Resort & Beach Club in Ocean City, Maryland, welcoming parents, alumni, faculty, and community supporters for a Tropical Resort–themed evening. The fundraiser was a success and will support student-centered projects that enhance the Worcester Prep experience.
     
    The program was hosted by MC duo Julia Ternahan and Abby Harrison of WPS 2nd Grade, who kept the energy high throughout the night. Guests embraced the tropical atmosphere as they gathered for an evening of fun and spirited bidding during the live auction. From a fishing trip aboard The Billfisher to Head of School for the Day, paddles were raised in support of WPS. Guests also enjoyed having their photo taken by Telescope Pictures and leaving with a custom WPS Gala Scopes keychain. The evening ended on a sweet note with Pineapple Dole Whip from Bonkey’s Ice Cream.
     
    The gala brought together the Worcester Prep community and local supporters for a night of celebration and philanthropy, highlighting the generosity that continues to strengthen the school’s mission.
     
    Worcester Preparatory School extends sincere thanks to the many sponsors, auction donors, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the event.
     
    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.

  • Worcester Preparatory School Students Recognized in Elks Essay Contest

    Berlin, MD – Students from Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) were recently recognized as winners in the annual Great Americanism Essay Contest hosted by the Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645.
     
    This year’s contest theme, “What Does Service to Your Country Mean to You?”, encouraged students to reflect on the meaning of patriotism, civic responsibility, and service. Participants submitted essays of at least 300 words addressing the theme.
     
    In the 6th grade division, WPS student Jude Waked earned 1st place, while Jaanvi Pandher received 2nd place honors. In the 7th-grade division, Tejal Pillai was awarded 1st place, and Eli Parker earned 2nd place recognition.

    The annual contest provides students with the opportunity to develop their writing skills while exploring important themes related to citizenship and service.

    Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent school for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, located in Berlin, Maryland. The school has approximately 500 students attending 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 – Quinn Sollaway (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Sam Botempo (Bishopville, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Keerat Pandher (Berlin, MD)
     
    Varsity Girls Basketball
    MVP – Sydney Mize (Dagsboro, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Ayla Yonker (Greenbackville, VA)
    Most Improved Player – Bella Foreman (Fredrick, MD)
     
    JV Boys Basketball
    MVP – Liam Crowley (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Jack Jarvis (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Brock Phillips (Ocean City, MD)
     
    Varsity Boys Basketball
    MVP – Ben Anthony (Frankford, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Jude Anthony (Frankford, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Paxton Mault (Ocean City, MD)
     
    Girls Swim Team
    MVP – Gabriella Damouni (Lewes, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Havi Russell-Wood (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Hannah Coyle (Berlin, MD)
     
    Boys Swim Team
    MVP – Jude Damouni (Lewes, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Nate Friedman (Ocean City, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Jack Wells (Seaford, DE)
     
    ESIAC All-Conference Boys Basketball: Ben Anthony (Frankford, DE), Paxton Mault (Ocean City, MD), and Ansh Batra (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    ESIAC All-Conference Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Ben Anthony (Frankford, DE)
    ESIAC All-Conference Girls Basketball: Anisha Batra (Rehoboth Beach, DE), Sydney Mize (Dagsboro, DE), Carolina Labin (Rehoboth Beach, DE), Lyla Roberts (Berlin, MD), and Addi Walsh (Selbyville, DE)
    ESIAC All-Conference Boys Swim: Jude Damouni (Lewes, DE), John Parker (Berlin, MD), Noah Tsao (Fruitland, MD), Jack Wells (Seaford, DE), Zane Freih (Rehoboth Beach, DE), Nate Friedman (Ocean City, MD), and Will Schlesinger (Ocean Pines, MD)
    ESIAC All-Conference Boys Swim Players of the Year: Jude Damoni (Lewes, DE) and John Parker (Berlin, MD)
    ESIAC All-Conference Girls Swim: Gabriella Damouni (Lewes, DE) and Vivian Spraul (Ocean View, 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 Athlete Commits to Aurora University Men’s Lacrosse

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) junior student-athlete Colt Givens-Grevey of Berlin, Maryland, has announced his commitment to play NCAA Division III Men’s Lacrosse at Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois. He plans to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice.
     
    A member of the Class of 2027, Colt is a dedicated student and athlete. At Worcester Prep, he is a member of the Military History Club and serves as a standout goalie for the varsity lacrosse team. Known for his leadership in the cage, quick reflexes, and strong field awareness, Colt has been a key contributor to the Mallards’ defensive success.
     
    Outside of school, Colt continues to develop his skills through competitive play with the Headlines travel lacrosse program, gaining valuable experience against high-level competition.
     
    Colt is the son of Krystle Givens and Gregory Grevey.
     
    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 – Students from Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) were honored for their outstanding artwork in the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Worcester County High School Art Contest.
     
    In February, the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club hosted the Worcester County High School Art Contest, a juried event showcasing the artistic talents of high school students. The exhibition displayed student artwork submitted by various high school art teachers, including George Zaiser, the WPS Art Director.
     
    This competition not only aims to inspire and recognize the creative abilities of students in Worcester County but also emphasizes the significance of quality art education. An impressive total of over $2,000 in cash prizes was awarded to participating student artists. Awards included 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention recognitions in Digital Art, Drawing, and Painting. Local artist and educator David Simpson served as the judge for the selection of artwork.

    WPS Award Winners
     
    Drawing:
    1st Place: Hayden Wagner – “Black Smith’s Boy Heel and Toe” – Pencil and Charcoal
    2nd Place: Nate Friedman – “Diverse Beauty” – Colored Pencil and Watercolor Marker
    3rd Place: Elena Gjoni - “Midnight Fantasy” - Colored Pencil
     
    Painting:
    Honorable Mention: Levi Phillips – “Cool Thoughts” – Acrylic Paint
     
    For more information about 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 Grade 3 Bread Sale is Much More than Just Raising Dough

    Berlin, MD – On Friday, February 27, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) teachers Mrs. Alexis Absher, Mrs. Cynthia Phillips, and their students presented members of the TidalHealth Foundation 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 bread. At the end of the Bread Sale, the students counted the money they raised ($501.00) and donated the proceeds to the TidalHealth Foundation. 
     
    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 Presents Newsies: The Broadway Musical

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School’s Upper School students delivered a show-stopping performance of Newsies: The Broadway Musical on February 27 and 28 in the school’s Athletic and Performing Arts Center.
     
    Community members, families, alumni, and friends filled the theater for both performances, rewarding the cast and crew with enthusiastic standing ovations. The high-energy production showcased the remarkable talents of WPS students through dynamic choreography, powerful vocals, and compelling storytelling.
     
    Under the direction of Mrs. Paulette DeRosa-Matrona, with musical direction by Mr. Christopher Buzby and artistic guidance from Mr. George Zaiser, students collaborated to bring the inspiring story of determination, courage, and unity to life. From intricate ensemble numbers to standout lead performances, the production reflected months of dedication, teamwork, and creative excellence.
     
    In addition to the musical performances, student artwork was displayed throughout the lobby, allowing guests to experience a full celebration of the arts before and after the show. The integration of visual art alongside live theater highlighted the depth and strength of Worcester Prep’s Performing Arts program.
     
    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.
     

  • Worcester Preparatory School Earns Platinum Status on College Board AP Honor Roll for Second Consecutive Year

    Berlin, MD – Worcester Preparatory School is proud to announce that it has earned Platinum Status on the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Roll for the second consecutive year. The AP Honor Roll recognizes schools across four levels of distinction — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and the highest level, Platinum, based on student access to and success in Advanced Placement coursework and exams.
     
    For the 2024–2025 school year, nearly 16,000 schools nationwide were eligible for the AP Honor Roll. Approximately 5,700 schools earned recognition, and only 8% achieved Platinum Status.
     
    Worcester Preparatory School is the only school in Worcester County, and one of just two schools on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, to earn Platinum distinction. Notably, Worcester Prep is the only school on the Eastern Shore to achieve this recognition two years in a row.
     
    To qualify for Platinum Status, schools must meet the following criteria:
    • At least 80% of the graduating class must take at least one AP Exam during high school.
    • At least 50% of the graduating class must earn a score of 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam.
    • At least 15% of the graduating class must take five or more AP Exams, including at least one exam taken in 9th or 10th grade.
     
    Head of School Dr. Betsy Hornung shared her pride in the accomplishment.
     
    “I’m unbelievably proud of our students, faculty, staff, and supportive families for the combined effort, commitment, and dedication that contributed to this honor,” said Hornung. “This recognition reflects not only academic excellence, but also the culture of high expectations and meaningful support that defines Worcester Prep.”
     
    Worcester Preparatory School remains committed to providing rigorous academic opportunities that challenge students, encourage intellectual curiosity, and prepare graduates for success in college and beyond.
     
    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 2026

    Berlin, MD – In a heartwarming event on the morning of Friday, February 13, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Alumni Association celebrated a significant milestone—the final 100 days before graduation—for the class of 2026. Held in the library lecture room, the occasion was marked by a delicious breakfast, stirring speeches, and wonderful advice from Lower School students.
     
    WPS Alumni Association President Ashlee Reed Hidell ’00 welcomed the seniors and shared words of encouragement for the journey ahead. Guest speaker Roscoe Leslie ’96, an attorney for Worcester County, is married to Worcester Preparatory School English teacher Megan Leslie and is the parent of two WPS students. He reflected on his path from Worcester Prep to college and career, and the lasting impact the school had on his future.
     
    One of the morning’s highlights came as seniors read notes of advice from Lower School students about their first year of college — from spending time with their parents to remembering to brush their teeth. The thoughtful messages brought plenty of smiles and laughter to close out a meaningful celebration.
     
    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 Valentine's Program Spreads the Love

    Berlin, MD – On Thursday, February 12, the Lower School at Worcester Preparatory School hosted its annual Valentine’s Program, welcoming senior citizens from Gull Creek Assisted Living for a morning filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt connections.
     
    First- and second-grade students delighted their guests by performing songs, poems, and Valentine-themed jokes. The students also served refreshments and presented their visitors with handmade Valentine’s cards, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that celebrated friendship across generations in Berlin, Maryland.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 school serving approximately 500 students from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about Worcester Prep, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

  • Berlin Mayor Visits WPS 4th Grade

    On Thursday, February 5, Mrs. Jankowski and Mrs. Purnell's 4th-grade classes had the opportunity to meet with Mayor Zack Tyndall of the Town of Berlin, Maryland, to discuss the annual Maryland Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest.

    At Worcester Preparatory School (WPS), participating in this essay contest has evolved into a cherished tradition. This year's theme, “90 Years Strong: Where Tradition Meets Innovation,” encourages students to identify a tradition they value in their community and imagine how, as mayor, they would carry that tradition 90 years into the future.

    During the meeting, Mayor Tyndall shared insights about his responsibilities as mayor, the departments that help govern Berlin, and many of Berlin’s beloved traditions.
     
    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 2027 Ring Ceremony

    Berlin, MD –The annual Junior Ring Ceremony for the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Class of 2027 took place on Thursday, February 5, 2026. A cherished WPS tradition, the ceremony features seniors presenting juniors with their class rings and sharing thoughtful remarks about why each recipient is special to them. The Ring Ceremony continues to be an inspiring celebration of friendship, mentorship, and the strong bonds shared among students.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 school located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend WPS from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. For more information about Worcester Preparatory School, 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 – Emma Deweerdt (Berlin, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Elif Tekmen (Bishopville, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Emma Sherrin (Ocean City, MD)
     
    7th Grade Girls Basketball
    MVP – Camille Leslie (Berlin, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Kensley Fones (Bishopville, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Josie Plitko (Berlin, MD)
     
    7th Grade Boys Basketball
    MVP – Arian Zheng (Selbyville, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Eli Parker (Snow Hill, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Rawnak Brar (Berlin, MD)
     
    8th Grade Girls Basketball
    MVP – Haley Hanna (Bishopville, MD)
    Coach’s Award – Tenley Absher (Berlin, MD)
    Most Improved Player – Isabella Rice (Bishopville, MD)
     
    8th Grade Boys Basketball
    MVP – CJ Labin (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
    Coach’s Award – Landon Carmean (Georgetown, DE)
    Most Improved Player – Nonda Gjikuria (Ocean City, 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 Lower School Meet Santa to Give Gifts for Diakonia

    Berlin, MD – On Wednesday, December 17, Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Lower School students eagerly lined up to visit Santa and share the spirit of giving by donating gifts to Diakonia.
     
    Each Lower School student, from Pre-K through Grade 5, arrived in the dining hall with one or more wrapped gifts and personally handed them to Santa to be distributed to Diakonia. In total, hundreds of gifts were donated to Diakonia’s homeless shelter in West Ocean City, Maryland, which provides emergency and transitional housing, food services, and counseling for its guests.
     
    This annual tradition reflects the WPS community’s commitment to service and compassion, while teaching students the importance of helping others during the holiday season. The school extends its gratitude to Lower School students and families, as well as the Diakonia staff and volunteers, for their hard work and continued support.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent school serving students in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and is 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 Supports Local Communities Through Annual SGA Food Drive

    Berlin, MD – The annual Student Government Association (SGA)–sponsored Food Drive at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) began on November 12. On Thursday, December 18, the Upper School community came together to sort and prepare donations of canned goods and other non-perishable food items for distribution to local nonprofit organizations.
     
    The collected items will be delivered to ten centers throughout Maryland and Delaware, helping to provide meals for individuals and families in need during the holiday season and beyond. In addition to food donations, students contributed $5 each to help purchase meat for holiday dinners.
     
    The following organizations will receive and distribute the food collected:
    • The Seaford Community Food Closet, Seaford, DE
    • Helping Hands Food Bank, Frankford, DE
    • Atlantic United Methodist Church, Ocean City, MD
    • HALO, Salisbury, MD
    • Diakonia, Inc., Ocean City, MD
    • Sonrise Church, Berlin, MD
    • The Joseph House, Salisbury, MD
    • Stevenson United Methodist Church Spirit Kitchen, Berlin, MD
    • St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, Ocean City, MD
    • Berlin First Baptist Church, Berlin, MD
     
    Worcester Preparatory School thanks its students, families, and faculty for their continued generosity and commitment to service within the community.
     
    Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is a private, independent school serving students in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 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.
Back 2026

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.