Doherty Memorial High School

As a graduate of the class of 2008, I think I have a pretty good grasp of the current state at Doherty High, and let me say, it's definitely a mixed bag. Positives: Teachers: I would say most seem to really enjoy working there and it seems to resonate in the classroom. I would say this is definitely true with those who teach higher level classes and mostly true for the others. Negatives: Culture of Mediocracy: One of the most frustrating things about Doherty is that few people seem to have the drive to succeed. There are so many kids who just coast by and/or create distractions by wandering in the hallways. I sometimes used to wonder, why do these kids come to school in the first place? The lower level classes are filled with kids who don't give a crap which is unfortunate because they drag down the rest of the class.
--Submitted by a student

After these years I truly believe Doherty is a good public school regardless of many negative feedback, points of view I've received in the past. It is a good public school with solid programs that are equipped to help those students who want to learn. I've met with the teachers and they seemed to be very dedicated & involved in the success of their students. As a parent with kids who had been in private school in the past, now, when I think back it hardly made a huge difference in term of their academic life. I believe it is within the child willingness to learn and also the level of effort, care and support that they receive from the teachers-regardless of private or public!! I think I'm pretty happy that my child is on the right track for college.
--Submitted by a parent

Doherty is a good school, one of the best in Worcester. However due to the recent economy meltdown sources are low and the school isn't able to reach it's full potential anymore. More and more electives have been cut. Also, the school doesn't have as many dedicated teachers as there used to be. But I most definitely have to give a big shout out to Mr. Bucciaglia, Ms. Soares, Mrs. Razzaq, Mr. Boyd, Capstick, and Dr. Reese! They're fun and good and their job. - Class of 2009! I'm outta here baby
--Submitted by a student

I was a student at Doherty High School and i still recognize the Good ESL teacher Ms.Griffin who warm heartedly cheered me up when i just immigrated to the United States . In Dorherty Memorial High School, she was the only person who truly saw me for who i am,till now i still consider her my role model.The kind of person i hope to learn from and impact it in others life the way she impacted on mine.
--Submitted by a student

I have four children in the Worcester public schools and my oldest is at Doherty High. She loves the teachers (well, most of them) and I do as well. They really do a great job.The principal really does go above and beyond the call of duty. Whenever I have needed any extra things done for my daughter they are right on top of it and very respectful and professional . They do truly care about the students. You couldn't ask for better sports , music , etc., programs . BUT..... I am very disappointed that the Worcester School Dept. has not put any money into repairing the building. The bathrooms ARE a nightmare and the building is crumbling. (My kid will not use the bathroom) , I honestly would not send my daughter there if the staff was not so outstanding. Worcester needs to get it together and rebuild!
--Submitted by a parent

It has a lot of good c[o]urses. Good ESL teacher Ms.Griffin for new students that come from other countries.
--Submitted by a student

I'm a student at Doherty currently. Most of the teachers are extremely good at what the do. The actual school its self is a not as great. The bathrooms are very gross, and I now know not to go in them. And the only thing that has been replaced in the time that I have been there is the tiles, and they are still not that great. And it still doesn't crush our school spirit. Overall, this school is awesome!!!
--Submitted by a student

My daughter is a sophomore and absolutely loves the school. She has been involved with a few programs in sports and the arts, which we feel are very good. The music program that she is in is phenomenal. It is the reason that we have stayed at this school. The building is in disrepair, especially the bathrooms; does not seem to deter the spirit I have observed at the school on my many trips there. It also does not subtract from the quality of the academics. For the most part, she has had exceptional teachers. There were a few challenges last year, but she survived. The principal, Sally Maloney, and her entire staff go above and beyond their expected roles. The focus is always on the students and their families. Thanks for keeping our kids safe and relatively happy! A grateful Mom
--Submitted by a parent

I really like the school because all the teachers that I have had in the four years of my attending here, have been nothing but the best. they all deserve plaques and should be known for their hard work and dedication. I am thinking of becoming a teacher myself just because I saw my teachers and how they make learning fun. Doherty over all is a great school and students will get a great education if they attend it. I would give 5 out of 5 GOLDEN Stars.
--Submitted by Robert Toby, a student