Freshly made pizza for the kiddos !!!

Freshly made pizza for the kiddos !!!

via Franklin Public Schools

"Click the link to check this video to see how we make our freshly made pizzas

https://youtube.com/shorts/zudZkXVzfs8?feature=share

We recently purchased a new conveyor oven at the Franklin Middle School to match the one we have at the HS.

We use this oven to make our freshly made pizzas daily."

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/14R4YYQ2tLh/

Insights into Student Services, how in district programs help the students & save money (audio)

FM #1597 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1597 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Paula Marano, Asst Superintendent for Student Services. We had our discussion in a conference room at the School District Central offices on Monday, November 17, 2025.

 

Our conversation covers 

• Paula’s path to this role

• Special education as required by State and Federal law

• In district vs out of district placements

• Individualized Education Program (IEP) & Sec 504 plans and reviews

• Student services overall

The recording runs about 31 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1597-franklin-pubic-schools-insights-into-student-services-11-17-25/

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Paula’s contact info -> maranop@franklinps.net 

Franklin Public Schools Student Service page -> https://www.franklinps.net/page/student-services 

In district programs -> https://www.franklinps.net/page/in-district-programs 

Paula Marano, on the left, at a recent SchCmte meeting

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Franklin High School Hosts Veteran-Led Panel During New WIN Block

Franklin High School celebrated Veterans Day by hosting a special panel discussion led by members of the district community who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Franklin High School hosted a veteran-led panel discussion on Wednesday,
Nov. 12, in honor of Veterans Day. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

The event took place during the district's new WIN Block, a flexible period added to this year's schedule that provides targeted academic support, intervention, and enrichment.

For this block on Wednesday, Nov. 12, teacher and U.S. Coast Guard veteran Charles Fidler organized a panel of fellow veterans to share their experiences and answer students' questions.

The panel included:

• Superintendent Lucas Giguere, Sergeant, United States Marine Corps — TOW Platoon, 25th Marine Regiment, mobilized during Operation Enduring Freedom
• Charles Fidler, U.S. Coast Guard, Marine Science Technician — Port security, counter-terrorism, and drug interdiction missions during the Global War on Terror
• Mark Terra-Thomas, Army National Guard — Civil Affairs (1993-99)
• Christopher Kelly, United States Army, Military Police Corps — 64th Military Police Detachment, Bremerhaven, Germany (1979-81); current Franklin High School history teacher
• Colonel Ryan Levesque (Ret.), United States Army — Field Artillery, 26 years of service across the U.S. and abroad, including Bosnia, Iraq and Kuwait
• Officer Paul Guarino, United States Army — Military Police; current Franklin School Resource Officer

Most panelists are current Franklin Public Schools staff members. Colonel Levesque participated as a district parent.

Students heard stories from each veteran and engaged in a wide-ranging question-and-answer session. The program also included recognition of students who plan to enter military service after graduation.

"Our goal was to honor Veterans Day in a meaningful way and give students an open space to learn directly from those who have served," said Fidler, who organized the event. "Their engagement and thoughtful questions made the event a powerful experience for everyone in the room."

Franklin Public School video of the Thanksgiving Dinner served last Thursday, Nov 20

via Franklin Public Schools Food Service:

"Click the Link to Check out our video for Thanksgiving Dinner.

https://youtube.com/shorts/laaTAj-m80o?feature=share

On Thursday Nov. 20th all the Franklin Public School Kitchens served fresh roasted turkey breast and scratch made stuffing, with mashed potatoes and gravy!"

Franklin Public School video of the Thanksgiving Dinner served last Thursday, Nov 20

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/17gisaZsR7/

Audio recording of the Franklin Public Schools Horace Mann Legacy Subcmte Mtg - Nov 3, 2025 (audio)

FM #1575 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1575 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin Public Schools Horace Mann Legacy Subcmte Mtg held on Monday, Nov 3, 205 at 6:00 PM. Meeting chaired by School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan. Members Ruthann O’Sullivan and KP Sompally participated remotely. Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Director of Operations Colin Boisvert participated.

 

QUick recap

• Draft doc for scope and mission of the subcmte being reviewed

• Overall question is how do we engage the entire community to understand, appreciate and honor his legacy with an education focus. But acknowledge that he did have other interests in his career

• Goals around three arenas: 

• The named campus, the physical presence

• Education 

• Advocacy

• Discussion on guardrails to keep subcmte from wandering off the tasks

• Discussion on composition of committee, representation from various stakeholder groups; final decision up to full School Committee

• Draft doc to be updated based upon discussion and used by next committee

• Motion to adjourn 

The meeting runs about 1 hour and 8 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1575-fps-horace-mann-legacy-subcmte-mtg-11-03-25/

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Horace Mann Legacy Subcmte

The agenda doc -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11032025-1988 

My full set of notes in one PDF -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D9Xt-u6fNJ-Tm36qwcYo2ywfj-2A-uC8/view?usp=drive_link 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share, and show you what, and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Check out the FPS Food Service video for Local Beef Nachos

"Click the Link to Check out our video for Local Beef Nachos.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-5L0YL7jHa0

On Wednesday October 29th all the Franklin Public School kitchens served Local MA Grass-Fed Beef Nachos from Weatherlow Farm, in Westport, MA.

We served it with all the fixings. The kids went crazy over it!"

Shared from -> 

https://www.facebook.com/share/1JXww7z7iF/

Chicken Tikka Masala prepared and served Thursday, Oct 23 in Franklin Public Schools

Chicken Tikka Masala video

Click the link to check out our video for Chicken Tikka Masala video https://youtube.com/shorts/0IvnZ4fBoFA

On Thursday October 23rd we served Chicken Tikka Masala with our new fresh chicken thighs made from scratch by our District Chef Steve Foote.

The meal was served with chickpeas, jasmine rice, roasted spiced cauliflower, and naan bread.

https://www.facebook.com/share/176Pt3ooWq/

Governor’s Supplemental Budget – Education Earmark Awards for Franklin Public Schools

via Superintendent Lucas Giguere

"I am excited to share that Franklin has been awarded two education earmarks under the Fair Share Supplemental Budget. Governor Healey’s Supplemental Budget, signed on June 24, 2025, invests in education and transportation across the Commonwealth, with funding directed toward projects that support students at every level.

The first earmark, $75,000, will support the replacement of a specialized transportation van. This funding enables us to continue updating our aging fleet, ensuring that students who require these services have access to safe and reliable transportation. Special thanks go to State Representative Jeff Roy for his advocacy in securing this important support.

specialized transportation van

The second earmark, $100,000, will support the first phase of improvements within our school courtyards, transforming them into outdoor learning environments and engaging spaces for students. These redesigned areas will enhance the interior spaces within the school footprint, creating safe, flexible, and inspiring environments for hands-on learning and social interaction. Special thanks to State Senator Rebecca Rausch for her advocacy in securing these important funds.

Details on the earmarks statewide can be found on the state’s website:

👉 Fair Share Supplemental Budget – Education Earmarks

We are deeply grateful for this recognition and support. Thank you to our legislators and community partners for their continued advocacy on behalf of Franklin Public Schools.

FY26 MIIA Safety Grant

I would like to thank the Town of Franklin and Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and his staff for supporting Franklin Public Schools in submitting our proposal for additional two-way radios for our schools. The proposal was awarded in the amount of $9,945. These two-way radios help to support a safe learning environment for students and staff, and ensure quick and efficient communication throughout each school day and in the event of an emergency.

Shared from the FPS Page -> https://www.franklinps.net/live-feed#10203952

Franklin Public School District is hiring - maybe there is a spot for you?

Click here for a FULL LIST of openings!

https://employer.schoolspring.com/jobs/?employer=10910

via Franklin Public Schools

"We Are Hiring!

Click here for a FULL LIST of openings!

https://employer.schoolspring.com/jobs/?employer=10910"

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1CUa8Hda55/

Stainless steel trays introduced at Washington Street School (video)

https://youtube.com/shorts/s6c5Zy0jmIc

"On Friday, September 26th Franklin Foodservice introduced our new Sustainable Stainless Steel trays at Washington Street School. 

Watch our video on YouTube to see the details of why we made the change. 

Spoiler alert...the kids went crazy over them. " ->    https://youtube.com/shorts/s6c5Zy0jmIc

Stainless steel trays

The QR Code will take you here -> 

https://ahimsaschools.com/pages/cafeteria-guide

"Corn Shucking Party" volunteers needed Tuesday, Sep 16 at 2:30 PM

"Corn Shucking Party" volunteers
needed Tuesday, Sep 16 at 2:30 PM

"Franklin Food Services is buying local MA grown corn for the entire district (around 1400 pieces) and will be served on Thursday across the district.

Food Services is looking for volunteers to have a "shucking party" at FHS on Tuesday, September 16th, at 2:30 PM.

Coffee and cookies will be provided for volunteers. Please see the attached flier for more information."

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ACbsoojP1/

Note: Because there's no RSVP on the flier, you can just probably just show up. You can also email Aaron Lenart from Food Services at lenarta@franklinps.net

What are the Franklin school bus routes? When do they run?

The Franklin Public School bus routes were sent to parents/families on August 19. For those of us who may be driving around Franklin during the 6:30 AM to 8:15 AM time frame, the bus stops and routes are available here.

FPS bus communication memo -> 

What are the Franklin school bus routes?
When do they run?

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5969489/8-19_Bus_Route_Communication.pdf

FPS bus routes for 2025-2026 ->   https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5969464/8-19_FPS_Bus_Routes.pdf

Other bus and transportation items can be found on the PFS page ->   https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/transportation/

Franklin Public Schools Students Revive Tradition with Poetry Day at Senior Center

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Horace Mann Middle School (HMMS) teacher Joe Corey are pleased to share that sixth-grade students from Team Lightning recently brought smiles, poetry and thoughtful reflection to the Franklin Senior Center, reviving a treasured tradition that began in 2012.

After a pandemic pause, students recently returned to the Senior Center for a Poetry Day. Guided by educators Mr. Joseph Corey, Ms. Lauren Goode, Mrs. Erin Bouchard and Mr. David Foster, the students delivered memorized poems and original analyses.

sixth-grade students from Team Lightning

"All of the Team Lightning educators were delighted with the top-shelf performance of the students," said Corey. "It was a joy to return to this tradition and witness the pride and effort our students brought to the experience."

Students dressed sharply for the occasion, a decision many believed added to the impact of the performance.

"It showed everyone that we're the real deal!" said student Eliza Menard.

"Dressing up improved our performance because it set the tone that we're serious, focused, and disciplined," said student Sebi Ciporkin.

Beyond public speaking skills, students embraced the cultural and emotional depth that poetry offers.

"I am glad we celebrated Poetry Day because we heard and learned a lot of different poems representing different cultures and people," said student Gabby Kepple.

Student Jordan Marin reflected on the highlight of the day: "The best part of Poetry Day for me was seeing all the seniors so happy when we shared the poems with them."

Many students expressed pride in what they had accomplished.

"It was a good time and practicing for our poems taught me a life lesson — practice makes perfect," said student Antony Wisa.

Student Biana Laterra commented that she was proud of "remembering the poem and analysis and being brave enough to do it."

Others shared the personal meaning behind the event.

"I am glad because my grandma and her friend were there, and they said it made their day and that it is so nice to see that people are still saying poems," said student Harry Schlieke.

Franklin Public Schools would like to thank Ariel Doggett and the entire Senior Center staff for their warm hospitality and for helping make the event such a success.

"I couldn't be prouder of our students for the poise and creativity they showed during the Poetry Day," said Superintendent Giguere. "Their thoughtful words and heartfelt delivery were a powerful reminder of the connection between generations, and the impact young voices can have on a community."

School Bus Registration open until June 20

School Bus Registration open until June 20

Don’t forget to register for School Bus Transportation if you haven’t already!

Registration is open now through June 20.

Visit https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/transportation/ for more information!