Good morning, Worcester.

Massachusetts students see little change in MCAS scores from before the pandemic, but Worcester Public Schools report even lower success rates in English, math, and science.

Department data shows Worcester scores remain far below 2019 levels—local leaders say more help is needed for struggling students.

Today, as a potential federal shutdown threatens, a UMass Memorial Health doctor announced that hospital at home care and telehealth services are limiting patients from a census of 18—20 to about 6 or 7 with plans to reach zero by midnight.

Dr. Constantinos Michaelidis urged Congress to extend the waivers for at least five years, citing strong bipartisan support since the program began in August 2021.

Worcester City Council is voting today on proposed pay increases for snow removal staff, including jobs like customer service representatives, inspectors, supervisors and operations coordinators whose hourly rates will rise during storms outside regular hours—while also reviewing emergency fund details, disaster relief plans and neighborhood street improvements. The council meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Esther Howland Chamber to discuss these changes.

Brian Thibodeau, an 18-year veteran with Shrewsbury Police, was recently diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer and will soon begin chemotherapy and radiation treatment—funds raised through a GoFundMe campaign will help his family pay for medical bills, treatment costs, and lost wages.

Central Mass. high school football had a busy weekend as St. John's, led by new coach Gary Senecal, rebounded with wins over Grafton and Shrewsbury and Auburn fought hard for a 41-27 win, showing signs of a strong season.

Northbridge will honor retiring coach Ken LaChapelle while teams like Wachusett and Millbury look ahead to key games—promising a competitive playoff race.

Bonsai Workshop at Dirigible Brewing

7-9 p.m. — Dirigible Brewing Company — Registration required — Create your own bonsai tree while enjoying handcrafted beers and a cozy atmosphere.

Starship Featuring Mickey Thomas and Foghat

7:30-9 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Cost info not provided — Experience the legendary voices of Mickey Thomas and the rock sounds of Foghat.

Scott Heron: Jam Camp North

10 a.m. — Prindle Pond Conference Center — $ — A weekend of jamming in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere featuring old-time and bluegrass music.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire

2:30-4:00 p.m. — DCU Center — Ticketed event — Experience the thrill of monster trucks in an exciting new Glow-N-Fire show!

Savage Ga$p, Grim Salvo, and Witchouse 40k Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Palladium — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying performances of Savage Ga$p and friends live in Worcester.

Rhett Miller Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Off The Rails — Tickets starting at $30.50 — Enjoy a night of music with Rhett Miller at this popular Worcester venue.

Pink Martini Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices range from $87 to $303 — Experience an evening of eclectic music from the beloved Pink Martini.

Johnny Mathis Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless voice of Johnny Mathis, an icon of pop music since the 1950s.

Rock The GazBar

10:30 a.m.–11:59 p.m. — The GazBar Sports Grill — Registration fees apply — Run, walk, or cheer on participants during a fun 5k event for all ages.

Toronzo Cannon Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Bull Run Restaurant — Check for ticket prices — Experience the electrifying blues sounds of Toronzo Cannon from Chicago.