Saturday, March 4, 2023

Franklin Public Schools seeks public input on proposed options amid redistricting analysis process

The Franklin Public School District invites Franklin residents to provide input on proposed options as part of the redistricting analysis process that was pioneered by the Franklin School Committee during the 2021- 2022 academic year. 

The district will host public forums on 
  • March 7 at Franklin High School Media Center from 6 PM - 8 PM  
  • March 13 virtually via Zoom from 6 PM - 8 PM
Both forums will present the same information.

Options proposed have been workshopped by district staff, the redistricting analysis consultant Applied Geographics (AppGeo) and the Redistricting Advisory Committee, which is composed of parents/ guardians, educators, district and building based administrators as well as school committee members. All options will be presented by the district and redistricting analysis consultant, a supplementary input survey will be distributed to collect additional comments.

The feedback provided during our upcoming public forums and input survey will inform the district's recommendation to the School Committee for a vote in the Spring of 2023. The decision to implement any recommendations, including potential changes to current boundaries, is a School Committee decision.

The following options will be presented in March.
Option 1 - Proposes that current district attendance boundaries remain the same while a Master Facilities Plan is conducted. ASMS/Keller spaces will continue to be used flexibly. Both administrative teams at the complex will continue to work together to utilize the available space to accommodate the needs of all students.

Option 2 - Proposes a change to district attendance boundaries in an attempt to balance enrollment while also maintaining geographic contiguity and undertaking a Master Facilities Plan, which may result in further redistricting based on the outcome.

Option 3 - While the current district attendance boundaries remain the same as Option 1, there is a consideration for including a "Buffer Zone" for designated areas of the former Davis Thayer attendance boundary, which could allow families to opt-in to Oak Street and/or Parmenter Elementary School for specific zones as a special consideration.
 
ASMS/Keller spaces will continue to be used flexibly. Both administrative teams at the complex will continue to work together to utilize the available space to accommodate the needs of all students. When necessary, small group instruction for Keller students may occur in nearby Sullivan spaces—understanding that the results of a Master Facilities Plan could reassign attendance boundaries for students in future years.

Buffer Zone Considerations in Option 3:
1. The District will not provide transportation, and parents/guardians of students who request to transfer must transport their child to and from school.
2. Requests are taken on a first-come, first-served basis based on room availability.
3. Families approved for the voluntary buffer zone opt-in may be subject to a reassignment of their district boundary pending the results of a Master Facilities Plan.
Additional information can be found on the Redistricting Analysis webpage of the Franklin Public Schools website.  https://www.franklinps.net/district/redistricting-analysis

For more information please contact Marketing and Communications Specialist Lily Rivera at riveral@franklinps.net.

About the Franklin Public School District:
The Franklin Public School District strives to nurture a safe, supportive, inclusive and collaborative learning environment in each of our 10 schools. We believe in providing an engaging and rigorous curriculum with exemplary instructional practices that will support and challenge students to reach their full potential through personalized learning opportunities. Our goal is to develop the necessary social-emotional, academic, and career skills for each Franklin student, so that they will be a productive citizen in an ever-changing world.

Community Preservation Committee Meeting - March 7 at 7 PM

Community Preservation Committee Meeting
Agenda & Meeting Packet
March 7, 2023 - 7:00 PM

Agenda:

1. Approval of Minutes: February 7, 2023

2. Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Budget
a. FY24 Budget Approval
b. FY24 Project slate
i. Open Space Appropriations
ii. Fletcher Field Playground Improvements - $150,000
iii. Nason Street site work preparation - $25,000
iv. Beaver Street Challenge Course - $150,000

3. Adjourn


The agenda doc has additional supporting info on the CPC budgeting as well as remote participation info ->

Photos of the Challenge Course taken in Nov 2022 ->

Community Preservation Committee Meeting - March 7 at 7 PM
Community Preservation Committee Meeting - March 7 at 7 PM

Franklin TV recording of the Town Council meeting Wednesday, Mar 1, 2023 is available (video)

The Franklin TV recording of the Town Council meeting on Wednesday is available for your review. It runs just over an hour.




Franklin, MA: Town Council - March 1, 2023 Agenda
Franklin, MA: Town Council - March 1, 2023 Agenda



MA House acts to extend remote/hybrid options through 2025, awaiting Senate action

"The House bill’s $585 million in bonding authorizations include $400 million for the MassWorks Infrastructure Program and $104 million for the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust.

The House included other MMA priorities — extensions to pandemic-related authorizations that were set to expire within the next month. The bill would:
  • Permit remote and hybrid meeting options for public bodies through March 31, 2025
  • Permit remote voting options for representative town meetings through March 31, 2025
  • Permit reduced quorums for open town meetings through March 31, 2025
  • Extend an expedited process for temporary permits for outdoor dining service and to-go cocktails through April 1, 2024

The House bill (H. 58) includes nearly $86 million to address the migrant housing crisis, a slight boost over Healey’s request. The funding would be used to expand shelter infrastructure and the provider workforce. It includes $41 million focused on communities with a large influx of school-aged children due to shelter placement."
Continue reading the article from Mass Municipal Assoc

The text of the legislation can be found ->  https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H58
 

MA House acts to extend remote/hybrid options through 2025, awaiting Senate action
MA House acts to extend remote/hybrid options through 2025, awaiting Senate action

Spring 2023 Arts, Crafts & Culture Classes Starting Soon


Join a supportive community of fellow artists and artisans while developing and improving your skills.

All classes are held at Franklin High School

6 week class - $90

If you're looking for an excellent way to learn new knitting stitches, or if you prefer smaller knitting projects during the warmer months, this knitting stitch sampler Afghan is for you! Join fellow knitters as you each make a series of 12 inch squares that you will then attach to create your own gorgeous & unique stitch sampler blanket.
Beginning Tuesday, March 28
One night class - $59
Learn how to take your icing and decorating to a higher level! Everyone will practice decorating for professional-looking results on filled & frosted cupcakes, and topping a frosted cupcake with fondant decoration.
Wednesday, April 12 -  6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
5 week class - $65

Find your 'me' time and immerse yourself in your own creations! Beginning watercolorists will learn the basics while more experienced watercolorists can enhance their skill and style at their level of watercolor.
Beginning Monday, April 11
5 week class - $65

Just starting to paint? Or are you looking to continue to develop your painting skills? Well, this class is for you. Learn different painting techniques with acrylic paints using a toothbrush, cards, & more.
Beginning Wednesday, April 13

* * * * * * * *

For more class options & additional details visit:

FPS- Lifelong Community Learning | 218 Oak Street, Room 137, Franklin, MA 02038

Sent by lcl@franklinps.net powered by
Trusted Email from Constant Contact - Try it FREE today.

Spring 2023 Arts, Crafts & Culture Classes Starting Soon
Spring 2023 Arts, Crafts & Culture Classes Starting Soon

National Consumer Protection Week 2023 Begins Sunday, March 5


 
FTC Logo

The Federal Trade Commission and its partners, including consumer organizations, national advocacy organizations, and other federal, state, and local government agencies will participate in virtual and in-person events to promote consumers' rights and protections against fraud, scams, and identity theft.

View Press Release -> https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/03/national-consumer-protection-week-2023-begins-sunday-march-5
More news from the FTC


 

Franklin (MA) Police weekly activity report as of 3/03/23

'This past week the FPD conducted 67 school/traffic enforcement posts, approximately 103 motor vehicle stops and responded to 23 motor vehicle crashes. "
https://t.co/ibhmEw5YEa

"The attached google drive link has the Weekly Recap from February 26 - March 4. This recap provides some greater detail about the calls we respond to:   https://t.co/vZhsOE7xqT "


Franklin Police weekly activity report as  of 3/03/23
Franklin Police weekly activity report as  of 3/03/23
   

Franklin VFW's Annual Corned Beef Dinner - Dine in or Take Out!

Franklin VFW's Annual Corned Beef Dinner - Dine in or Take Out! 

Saturday, March 11, 2023, 6:00 pm

VFW Post 3402 is hosting their annual Corned Beef Dinner and Voice of Democracy Awards 

Saturday, March 11, at 6:00 PM

Dine-in or Take-Out... All are invited!

VFW Post 3402 - 1034 Pond Street - Franklin 

See flyer for ticket info

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/veterans-services/news/franklin-vfws-annual-corned-beef-dinner-dine-or-take-out

Franklin VFW's Annual Corned Beef Dinner - Dine in or Take Out!
Franklin VFW's Annual Corned Beef Dinner - Dine in or Take Out!


HKS Misinformation Review: “Fake news” may have limited effects beyond increasing beliefs in false claims

Today's #recommendedreading is by @andyguess, @BrendanNyhan, @iBALyons, @Jacob_Montg, @JasonReifler & Dominique Lockett, on how many claims about the effects of exposure to #fakenews may be overstated, or, at the very least, misunderstood.

“Fake news” may have limited effects beyond increasing beliefs in false claims
"Since 2016, there has been an explosion of interest in misinformation and its role in elections. Research by news outlets, government agencies, and academics alike has shown that millions of Americans have been exposed to dubious political news online. However, relatively little research has focused on documenting the effects of consuming this content. Our results suggest that many claims about the effects of exposure to false news may be overstated, or, at the very least, misunderstood."
Continue reading the article ->   https://misinforeview.hks.harvard.edu/article/fake-news-limited-effects-on-political-participation/
https://t.co/Hz2OY6nIqQ

Friday, March 3, 2023

Franklin Senior Center remains "partially open" for week of March 6 through 10, 2023 (audio)

"Franklin Senior Center continues to be partially open next wk! Varied programs and the Café open! 
Check out the website and social media for the programming schedule #seniorcenter" https://t.co/C6ZohcPqSM

"Hello Everyone!

It was great to see a lot of you in person this week. Next week, the Franklin Senior Center will continue to be open only partially. The Senior Center's Common Grounds Café and attached multipurpose room will be open and fully functional. Although the rest of the building will still be inaccessible, we are able to have breakfast and lunch daily, as well as varied programming throughout the week! Everyone will need to enter through the multi purpose room doors (to the left of the main entrance), as entrance into the lobby will be prohibited while construction is happening. 

The programming schedule will be posted on our website and social media, or you can give us a call at 508-520-4945 to see what programs are available to you if you do not have computer access.

Thanks for your understanding and patience!

-Danielle Hopkins, Franklin Senior Center Director"

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/franklin-ma-senior-center-building-status-for-week-of-mar-6-2023

Audio from voice message left to home phone 

Franklin Senior Center remains "partially open" for week of March 6 through 10, 2023 (audio)
Franklin Senior Center remains "partially open" for week of March 6 through 10, 2023 (audio)


Franklin's Event Outlook: Mar 3, 2023 to Mar 9, 2023

New England weather apparently will show signs of winter tonight and Saturday even as we edge closer to spring. Be safe as you move out and about to take advantage of what's happening.


Friday, March 3

6:00pm - FHSTC performs "Lord of the Flies" (Franklin High School)


Saturday, March 4

10:00am - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

3:00pm - Joey D's Wingz & Thingz (food truck)  (67 Degrees Brewery)

5:30pm - John Demers (live music)  (67 Degrees Brewery)


Sunday, March 5

1:00pm - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)


Monday, March 6

8:00am - Next Size Up - Kids Online Consignment Event


Tuesday, March 7

8:00am - Next Size Up - Kids Online Consignment Event

5:00pm - Arts & Culture Listening Tour - Session 1 (Dean College)

6:30pm - Franklin Garden Club - Peonies: Love of My Life (Franklin Public Library)

7:00pm - YA Adult Book Club (for Adults!) (Franklin Public Library)


Wednesday, March 8

8:00am - Next Size Up - Kids Online Consignment Event

1:00pm - Senior Scribblers (writing group) (Franklin Senior Center)

7:00pm - St Mary's Women's Faith Formation Group (virtual meeting)


Thursday, March 9

8:00am - Next Size Up - Kids Online Consignment Event



-----------------


The Franklin Art Association Art Gallery remains open during business hours at Escape into Fiction (Main St, Franklin)

Find the full Community event calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

The Cultural calendar displays only the cultural events      https://www.franklinculture.org/things-do/pages/calendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar
The School district calendar is found  https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26 


Franklin's Event Outlook: Mar  3, 2023 to Mar 9, 2023
Franklin's Event Outlook: Mar  3, 2023 to Mar 9, 2023

FPS: Redistricting Analysis Update and Community Forum Letter to Families Feb 27, 2023

February 27, 2023

Dear FPS Families,

This past September, we shared information regarding the redistricting analysis process during the 2022-2023 school year to help us identify the Franklin Public School District's short and long-term needs. The decision to conduct this analysis was driven by the following:
●  The 2021 closure of Davis Thayer initiated an expansion of the Helen Keller Elementary School attendance boundary. While we continue to use space flexibly, we seek to maintain a long-term balance among schools.
●  A facilities assessment conducted by Kaestle Boos in 2020, at the time of the Davis Thayer analysis, recommended multiple scenarios of how to utilize space across the district. This assessment did not account for shifts in space usage required for specialized programs and how we utilize space to adequately support student learning. Thus, requiring additional analysis to inform decision-making through this lens.
●  According to the Franklin Public Schools Population and Enrollment Demographics Study, the total enrollment is forecasted to decline until approximately 2027 and then gradually increase.

These factors influenced the decision of the School Committee to have a formal and comprehensive analysis conducted.

Recognizing that redistricting impacts our families, faculty, and greater community, conducting a thorough analysis before proposing any solutions is necessary to inform future decision-making. To ensure this was a community-informed process, we assembled a Redistricting Analysis Advisory Committee composed of parents/guardians, building-based staff representatives, and community members. This committee met monthly with the contracted redistricting consultant Applied Geographics (AppGeo) from November through February to review district data, outline guiding principles, preview communication materials, and provide input/feedback on proposed scenarios. More information and meeting presentations are available on the Redistricting Analysis webpage.

Also, an internal working group composed of FPS staff and a School Committee representative meets regularly with AppGeo to inform and structure the process, which we have outlined below.

FPS - Redistricting Analysis Process
FPS - Redistricting Analysis Process

As we enter the public input stage, we are pleased to extend opportunities to learn more about the proposed scenarios and collect feedback from the community. The feedback provided during our upcoming public forums and input survey will inform the district's recommendation to the School Committee for a vote in the spring of 2023. The decision to implement any recommendations, including potential changes to current boundaries, is a School Committee decision.

The community is invited to attend the Redistricting Analysis Public Forums, which will be held on:

Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Franklin High School Media Center
Monday, March 13, 2023, at 6:00 PM, virtually via Zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89705686636?pwd=a3p5N1VCMm9LZ1AzTWdpUktMWU1ldz09  Meeting ID: 897 0568 6636 Passcode: 930061
Please note both forums will present the same information.

The following options will be presented in March.

Option 1 - Proposes that current district attendance boundaries remain the same while a Master Facilities Plan is conducted. ASMS/Keller spaces will continue to be used flexibly. Both administrative teams at the complex will continue to work together to utilize the available space to accommodate the needs of all students.

Option 2 - Proposes a change to district attendance boundaries in an attempt to balance enrollment while also maintaining geographic contiguity and undertaking a Master Facilities Plan, which may result in further redistricting based on the outcome.

Option 3 - While the current district attendance boundaries remain the same as Option 1, there is a consideration for including a "Buffer Zone" for designated areas of the former Davis Thayer attendance boundary, which could allow families to opt-in to Oak Street and/or Parmenter Elementary School for specific zones as a special consideration.
ASMS/Keller spaces will continue to be used flexibly. Both administrative teams at the complex will continue to work together to utilize the available space to accommodate the needs of all students. When necessary, small group instruction for Keller students may occur in nearby Sullivan spaces—understanding that the results of a Master Facilities Plan could reassign attendance boundaries for students in future years.

Buffer Zone Considerations in Option 3:
1. The District will not provide transportation, and parents/guardians of students who request to transfer must transport their child to and from school.
2. Requests are taken on a first-come, first-served basis based on room availability.
3. Families approved for the voluntary buffer zone opt-in may be subject to a reassignment of their district boundary pending the results of a Master Facilities Plan.

The feedback provided during our upcoming public forums and input survey will inform the District's recommendation to the School Committee, which will be presented to the School Committee and later voted on in May 2023.

If you are unable to attend one of our informational sessions and still wish to provide feedback, we encourage you to utilize the story map paired with the input survey that will be launched by March 7th, to understand the proposed options and provide feedback accordingly. The deadline for survey responses is March 15th, 2023.

We have created a Redistricting Analysis webpage that hosts informational resources (such as a Frequently Asked Questions sheet) and outlines our efforts thus far. I encourage individuals to review the redistricting analysis webpage and email redistrictinganalysis@franklinps.net with any questions. All emails are directed to our internal working group for the redistricting analysis.

We look forward to connecting with our community to answer questions and collect feedback on the proposed options on March 7th and March 13th.

Respectfully, 

Lucas Giguere 
Superintendent of Schools