"recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22"

"After completing a comprehensive closing study for the Davis Thayer School, the Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis subcommittee has voted to present this final report to the Franklin School Committee with our recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22.

Additionally, we also recommend that the Franklin School Committee establish a standing subcommittee focused on creating a Master Facilities Plan to address other facility needs in the district."

Respectfully submitted,

 

The Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis Sub-Committee:

Elise A. Stokes

Mary Jane Scofield

Judith Pond-Pfeffer

 

 

The full recommendation document and action item for the School Committee discussion on Tuesday, Feb 9, 2021:

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_retirement_of_dt.pdf

 

Full School Committee agenda for Tuesday, Feb 9, 2021

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/february-9-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

 

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis page

https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis

  

"recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22"

Franklin, MA: School Committee Meeting - Agenda - Feb 9, 2021

Call to Order 

Pledge of Allegiance 

Moment of Silence

I.    Routine Business
A.    Review of Agenda
B.    Citizen’s Comments

In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH

C.    FHS Student Representative Comments
D.    Superintendent’s Report

II.    Guests/Presentations
A.    Annie Sullivan Middle School Highlights – Elizabeth Morrison, Mike Procacini
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/asms_school_committee_presentation_2.9.21.pdf

 

III.   Discussion/Action Items
A.    Retirement of Davis Thayer Elementary School
I recommend approval of the retirement (closing) of Davis Thayer Elementary School for FY22 as discussed.  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_retirement_of_dt.pdf

B.    Dissolution of Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis Sub Committee
I recommend dissolving the Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis Sub Committee as discussed.

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_dissolve_fac_analysis_subcom.pdf
 

IV.    Discussion Only Items
A.    Reopening Update (2/5/2021)  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/reopening_schools_status_update_feb_9_2020-2021.pdf
 

V.    Information Matters
A.    School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B.    School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council, Franklin Racial & Social Justice Task Force)
 

VI.    New Business
A.    To discuss any future agenda items
 

VII.    Consent Agenda
A.    Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the January 26, 2021 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B.    USS Constitution Model Ship Donation
I recommend acceptance of the donation of a USS Constitution Model Ship from Mark Jandreski valued at approximately $200.00 for FHS as detailed.
C.    BJ’s Districtwide Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $440.00 from BJ’s Wholesale Club for in-house enrichment as detailed.
D.    Scholarship
I recommend acceptance of a check for $10,000.00 from the Digital Federal Credit Union for a scholarship as detailed.
 

VIII.    Payment of Bills    Dr. Bergen
 

IX.    Payroll    Atty. Pond-Pfeffer
 

X.    Adjournment

Meeting packet folder

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/february-9-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

Meeting agenda doc  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/agenda-2-9-2021

Franklin, MA: School Committee Meeting - Agenda - Feb 9, 2021

FM #448 School Comm - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Mtg - 01/28/21 (audio)

FM #448 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 448 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee meeting held on Thursday, Jan 28, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a remote format; all the subcommittee, Central Office personnel and the public participants were remote via conference bridge, to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to my notes. 

The recording runs just about 1 hour and 40 minutes

Let’s listen to this segment of the Davis Thayer Facility Analysis meeting of Jan 28, 2021.   Audio file = https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-448-schcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg-01-28-21

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

Quick Recap:

• Review of the 5 options as discussed at the meeting last week. Committee should have had time since then to review and prepare, final questions, clarifications asked of each option as they went through each one
• The three members got to outline their background and approach to decision and what the factors were for them; Superintendent and Business Administrator also asked for their views
• Consensus across the group for recommending to close in September, acting now to start planning for a good transition. Recognizing not an easy decision to close, or even in the pandemic period, but it is the best for the students across the district
• Next meeting to work on the proposal and outline of decision factors for the full committee to decide at a future meeting (time TBD, could be as early as the Feb 9 meeting - stay tuned.)

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder
https://photos.app.goo.gl/71thcyJaDWXNoWqC7

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_1.28.21.docx.pdf

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis folder
https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis

Davis Thayer Closing Options memo
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/davis_thayer_closing_options.pdf

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/davis-thayer-facility-analysis.html 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
 
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ 

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"

 

FM #448 School Comm - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Mtg - 01/28/21 (audio)

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee to recommend closure of building to full School Committee

Quick Recap:

• Review of the 5 options as discussed at the meeting last week. Committee should have had time since then to review and prepare, final questions, clarifications asked of each option as they went through each one
• The three members got to outline their background and approach to decision and what the factors were for them; Superintendent and Business Administrator also asked for their views
• Consensus across the group for recommending to close in September, acting now to start planning for a good transition. Recognizing not an easy decision to close, or even in the pandemic period, but it is the best for the students across the district
• Next meeting to work on the proposal and outline of decision factors for the full committee to decide at a future meeting (time TBD, could be as early as the Feb 9 meeting - stay tuned.)

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder
https://photos.app.goo.gl/71thcyJaDWXNoWqC7

The audio recording of this meeting will be available soon

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #DTFA0128
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23dtfa0128&src=typed_query 

Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis = DTFA

• Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis SubCommittee Meeting - Jan 28, 2021 about to begin at 6:00 PM Full agenda (including connection info) https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_1.28.21.docx.pdf 
• #dtfa0128 getting ready for real time reporting of this meeting (what is the difference between ‘real time’ vs. live reporting’? Glad you asked - I did prepare an answer "Live" reporting is used when I am in the room. "Real time" is when I report via the live cable or internet feed.  http://www.franklinmatters.org/2010/07/note-of-distinction.html
• Meeting opens, minutes from prior meeting approved 3-0 via roll call. #dtfa0128
• Protocol and process for meeting reviewed, status of where they are in the process grounds the start #dtfa0128
• Recap of the 5 options under consideration, three shown here #dtfa0128
• #dtfa0128 graduation of about 150 more students than are entering the district that year, hence the enrollment decline. Study of 2013 had touted renovation costs of $23m and build new at $28m, clearly dated numbers but for reference. BTW approx. 60+ participate via zoom
• #dtfa0128 decision needed sooner than later for budget planning as well as planning for the transition to Keller. Moving boxes, changing bus routes, 'easy'; the soft and fuzzy stuff also done regularly, getting ahead of it can better ensure success of the transition
• #dtfa0128 schools are buildings but there is much more to the building too! Keller built with 5 classes/grade, plans show use of 4 per with some exception but middle school population declines and rooms from Annie Sullivan would be used to assist.
• Concern of new housing project to tax school population, not really, it is a phased project if it comes to fruition. (Numbers should already have been included in overall forecast). Capacity is not the issue at Keller. (Over capacity is what we are trying to solve) #dtfa0128
• #dtfa0128 there is a policy on attendance area, a request form is also available, serious consideration is done in case of an exception. Traffic issue? Keller used to have more students several years ago, so it has been seen before (as did Sullivan)
• #dtfa0128 could be a potential issue with staffing if kept open another year, not to say the existing staff is not dedicated, it is. But the longer the decision, the more uncertainty, the more likely a problem with staffing.
• #dtfa0128 if keeping open next year could some students/families now rather than later to avoid multiple transitions (K, VLA, etc. )? Would already cover this scenario in Option 4, hard to do for efficiency and cost perspectives esp if for a small #of students
• #dtfa0128 by staggering the transition, could also make the cultural adjustments more of a challenge; bus routes could get complicated with routes going to a street and students going two ways.
• K registration is ongoing, it usually is from Feb to May but do get movins over the summer, and after September starts. This year had increase in two schools in K and added staff accordingly. Q on siblings during staggering xfer, transportation would be a factor
• #dtfa0128 there are many options when you consider the permutations, need to reduce change and simply not increase complexity and increase expense. Option 5 close DT  and redistrict. Summary was to look at the stand alone schools (Parmenter and Kennedy).
• SchComm needs to look at developing a master facilities plan, and down the road possibly look at redistrict. #dtfa0128 the master plan would likely begin after the DTFA work is done (at least decided).
• #dtfa0128 Judy for closure in Sep, provides brief history of Franklin roots including graduation from DT earlier in her life. MJ only in Franklin 31 years. SchComm 97-2007, and then re-elected 6 years ago, involved with youth soccer. "Compensated so well for it" (actually $0)
• #dtfa0128 the benefits are not financial. Making a good decision for the community. We simply can't afford it. Or fix it. 1st to close DT in Sep, 2nd to close and consider redistricting. Can't wait longer? Chair asked Superintendent and Business director for their (views) before her…
• #dtfa0128 other member objected, so Chair provides her analysis, get ready it will be long (her words) thru lens evaluated the options (will need to listen to the recording, not going to do justice to this)
• #dtfa0128 so bottom line, chair is on closing train for Sep. 
• Superintendent, some facts are hard to overlook, decisions do need to be made, facts align support closure of DT, same footprint with 20% less students, an opportunity to invest in the kids of the district
• #dtfa0128 if decision made soon, we could make a thoughtful transition. We have a structural deficit to address and hard to avoid. Not an easy decision, difficult time in pandemic, but not any easier later.
• #dtfa0128 Goodman; accessibility, budgeting, facts are what others have referenced and I agree to close sooner than later to be most helpful for everyone. Chair to put together draft recommendations for review next meeting (Feb 3).
• #dtfa0128 reminder 7 people with 7 votes. Opening up for citizen comments. 1 optics on bullets and negativity apparent and from parent point of view most depressing. 2 question on staffing (raised from someone who hasn't heard the answer in prior meeting) oh and yes, staff …
• Would move as much as possible to support the students in the combined building. #dtfa0128 3 - kids haven't been in school for a normal day for a year. (Also answered in prior meeting; recordings available) 4 - to ask to close and pack up a building at this time?
• #dtfa0128 5 - so conflicted right now, agree with decision but things to be explored in depth to make this happen. Support may need to be increased to help the kids. 6 - a Keller parent says the community is welcoming 7 - we have little bandwidth, so how can it be a …
• Thoughtful transition? #dtfa0128 8 - could you consider keeping DT kids in their own classrooms to help the transition? 9 - came in from another school, not easy but it has moved on, interesting to see that none of the options kept DT open. Email to subcommittee an option
• #dtfa0128 motion to adjourn, second, passes via roll call 3-0,
• That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis SubCommittee

Jan 20, 2021 recap = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/schcomm-davis-thayer-facility-analysis.html  (audio)  = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/fm-442-davis-thayer-fa-subcomm-012021.html 

Jan 14, 2021 recap = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis-sub.html  (audio) = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/fm-438-schcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg.html

My meeting notes for sessions during 2020 can be found here

https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/meeting-notes.html (scroll down to 2020 section)

The Davis Thayer Subcommittee page also has the link to send a question to the subcommittee
https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis

DTFA Subcommittee to recommend closure of building to full School Committee

FM #442 Davis Thayer FA Subcomm - 01/20/21 (audio)

FM #442 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 442 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee meeting held on Wednesday, Jan 20, 2021.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: some of the Central Office personnel were in the Municipal Building, the remainder of the SubCommittee and public participants were remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to my notes.

The recording runs just about 90 minutes

Let’s listen to this segment of the Davis Thayer Facility Analysis meeting of Jan 20, 2021  

Audio file =  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-442-davis-thayer-fa-subcomm-01-20-21

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

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/school-committee-davisthayer-facility.html  

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/schcomm-davis-thayer-facility-analysis.html  

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
 
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ 

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"

 

FM #442 Davis Thayer FA Subcomm - 01/20/21 (audio)

SchComm: Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting recap - Jan 20, 2021

Quick Recap:

• In the prior meeting, the SubCommittee heard the financial analysis and education research required to complete Stage 1, Phase 2. A couple of points were left open and the meeting ran out of time. This meeting picks up where that left off. (The link for the prior meeting recap is located below)
  
• There was a clarification on the role of the School Committee (they determine educational use and requirements) and Town (they manage the facility building and would determine a future use) if the School Committee declares it not needed for education. This subcommittee is follow the policy and process to determine if the building is needed or not. Given the excess capacity in the current facilities, it is likely to be determined not needed.
• Solutions (the after school care program) is not constrained in either facility (Davis Thayer or Keller), the program would adjust depending upon where the students were. It is a fee based program and effectively self supported.
• Discussion among the subcommittee reveals no consensus on readiness for decision. Meetings to be scheduled weekly for a period to work through this discussion. Overall concern is to make a decision soon. The planning for transition to the new school will require time and effort to make that transition successful.
  

 

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder

https://photos.app.goo.gl/W13zrexEHYeYALYW7

 

The audio recording of this meeting will be available soon

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #DTFA0120

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23dtfa0120&src=typeahead_click

• Getting ready for live reporting of the SchComm Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting agenda doc contains link info https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_1.20.21.pdf #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 open at 5:30 with roll call of members, three present (all accounted for) motion to approve minutes of prior meeting, passed 3-0 via roll call (Pfeffer, Scofield, Stokes - chair)
• Davis Thayer facility analysis page https://franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis #dtfa0120
• Clarification on buildings as property of the Town and used by SchComm; SchComm determines school use, if not longer desired, the Town has decision process. #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 Pfeffer raises question on sentence within report reviewed prior. Re: town budget for support of DT facility. Q - from prior meeting on Solutions, A - no constraints on space at Keller, and re: staffing, minimal requirements, could be handled in transition ...
• Not a financial issue for Solutions operations, they haven't been full at either location, they could be more efficient at one. #dtfa0120 architect report had recommended using Keller as it was already paired with DT feeding Sullivan middle school
• Focus on DT question first, Parmenter is also a consideration for closing but also has other programs that were not considered as part of the architect report and would be more work to figure out. DT 'easier' / 'cleaner' to work numbers for. #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 could DT be used for other educational purposes. Was briefly discussed at Central Office; alternative high school, office space, among ideas raised. Space is still excess, will have space elsewhere as the years move along and the population wave moves thru
• Educational adequacy and access still pose issues as it stands today. Addressing those comes at a cost (not cheap) for an aging building. #dtfa0120 clarification on title I, will follow the students (targeted assistance) but can't exceed what's provided for Parmenter
• Will write the Title I grant accordingly. #dtfa0120 difference between positions and people. Some roles might not be needed but folks in those today and be used elsewhere in many cases. BTW approx. 50+ participating via zoom
• #dtfa0120 not an easy decision, some students would be bused across town. We need to think about that. Discussion on meeting frequency, what info is available vs. what is required (diff among subcomm members). Discussion on outline of info for full SchComm
• #dtfa0120 other options for consideration. Page 1 - if option to close for FY 22 is desired, need to make soon to start transition planning; logistics, school culture, etc. Page 2 other options to slow the closure and/or redistrict
• No option on redistrict without closure, issue is with excess space and the ease of closing (without redistricting) is the better financial option. Esp if closing elementary schools and combining middle schools is long term plan, the way to go #dtfa0120
• Redistricting is something you only do once, if at all. #dtfa0120 the full SchComm will likely take up 'master plan' after this Committee does it's work. Map of district shared to highlight the middle school sending areas in the 3 colors
• Discussion on impact of apartments at Waverly and Dean, and they currently do not have an impact on the school population. #dtfa0120 discussion on how to make the decision, not as quantitative as one thought. Subcommittee members to put decision thought process on paper to ...
• Have members review to see what if anything is needed or ready. Discussion on FY 22 vs 23 is key to reduce options, members not ready to commit to that tonight. #dtfa0120 could do VLA students as part of the phased approach. Voting is on recommendation not actual decision
• Opening for Community questions, comments #dtfa0120 apprehension around closing is present and could be worse with decision. Dealing with unprecedented times. We don't know what next year will bring. #s represent real students and people.
• #dtfa0120 4th graders would be there for one year and then to Sullivan for middle school. Taking a logistics approach. Can it be done in the time required? We need this to be a thoughtful process. Make decision and go. We need to do the rest of the work
• Other options to communicate on this issue, https://franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis #dtfa0120 motion to adjourn, passes 3-0 via roll call 

 

Jan 14, 2021 recap = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis-sub.html  (audio) = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/fm-438-schcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg.html

SchComm: Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting recap - Jan 20, 2021

FM #436 EDC Listening Session5 - 01/13/21 (audio)

FM #436 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 436 in the series.

This shares the Economic Development Committee Business Listening Session #5 that was held on Wednesday, January 13, 2021.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid mode; some of the key participants were in the Council Chambers, the Chair Melanie Hamblen led the meeting remotely along with many others via Zoom conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Links to the meeting agenda and my notes are in the show notes. The recording runs just over two hour and thirteen minutes (~2:13)  Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HXzHpwwS

-----------

Meeting agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development-subcommittee/agenda/edc-business-listening-session-5-revised

Housing Summary (not yet available - view the photos captured for some of the pages)

My notes captured via Twitter and shared here in summary form
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/edc-listening-session-jan-13-2021-recap.html

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
 
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ 

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" 

 

FM #436 EDC Listening Session5 - 01/13/21 (audio)

EDC 'Listening Session' - Jan 13, 2021 - Recap - Franklin's housing discussion starts

Quick Recap:

• While this was the last of the 'listening sessions' the bulk of the meeting time was spent presenting an overview of housing in Franklin. The presentation was insightful and will be shared when made available.
  
• Housing is one of the the key issues Franklin faces. The discussion will include the data points of this presentation, the demographics from the School study, the Market Study done by MAPC (from which these 'listening sessions' were started), and the realities of the post-pandemic world ahead of us. Keeping civil discourse with multiple threads and trying times will be a challenge but the end goal is required. Franklin needs to determine what it's housing goals will be.
  

For the time being photos of the slides shared during the meeting are all that is available. The doc is not part of the meeting agenda, nor if it has since been posted to the Town page, I have not found it. Once I do, I will share. Photos can be found in one folder: https://photos.app.goo.gl/KwjXyPtwuadMHsCF8

The audio of the meeting will be shared soon.

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23edc0113&src=typeahead_click

• Swivel seat to do listening session starting now. #edc0113
• Chair Melanie Hamblen opens meeting, runs thru the protocol statement as normal. #edc0113 Frongillo new member to subcommittee (replacing Chandler). Jones and Bissanti complete the 4 Council membership. Jamie touts the grant process deadline Friday
• #edc0113 Economic Development legislation on Gov Baker's desk for approval. Bryan Taverner to review presentation on housing for Franklin.
• #edc0113 housing slides and population slides (can't share all, will find doc to share - eventually)
• More slides #edc0113
• Getting to discussion on the legislation, not yet signed by Gov Baker; zoning change would be simple majority for Franklin 5 not the current 6 votes required. #edc0113 tenants right to purchase would be interesting for/if Franklin if chosen
• After Council comments, question raised on how do you address the small business side and get better rents as many of them are too high. If the business can't afford, that would affect the residents affordability too. #edc0113
• Could use a 'maker' or incubator type space for start ups, does require land/building owner to be willing to participate. #edc0113 new growth not likely to happen if affordability is mandated to be part of it, takes away their profit. Could renovate existing space
• Residential complex downtown was all presold, to downsizers. Condo folks do want to walk to the restaurants downtown. Not much downtown now in pandemic. #edc0113 supply chain issues due to COVID, development in another Community shd be done now but due to supply issues
• Inclusionary zoning was introduced for cities like Boston to invent development of private residence/condos Franklin at this time and foreseeable is not a good fit for this, numbers also speak to no rush to do something as we should be good thru 2030 #edc0113
• Low income units are in shortage here and all other Communities around the state. Affordable housing is a higher market rate than low income, two separate needs, can't confuse them #edc0113 terms are important. Work force housing is another slice of affordability
• "the rent for an affordable apartment is not really affordable" #edc0113 need to keep terms separate in that 'affordable' is a state housing designation and not to be confused with what 'affordable' is when used an adjective that is relative to each individual circumstance
• Consensus is to get the housing plan done, there are many problems and that may require multiple solutions to address. Need to define the problems (or problems), agree on terms to be used, and then continue the discussion. #edc0113 motion to adjourn, via roll call 4-0
• That's all for tonight, been a long one. Time for a walk and fresh air. Catch you next time #edc0113 

EDC 'Listening Session' - Jan 13, 2021 - Recap - Franklin's housing discussion starts

CommonWealth Magazine: "Enrollment declines crop up in public schools"

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin:

"Two months into the new school year, some communities are beginning to report enrollment declines, presumably an offshoot of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The  Worcester school district lost 1,046 students, about 4.2 percent of last year’s total of 25,049, according to the Telegram & Gazette. It was the second year in a row that enrollment declined, and a large chunk of the decrease was at the prekindergarten and kindergarten levels.

Brian Allen, Worcester’s chief financial and operations officer, said more families have elected to keep younger students out of school during the coronavirus pandemic.

The drop could significantly impact the amount of state aid Worcester’s schools can expect, with a $10 million decrease in chapter 70 school aid possible next fiscal year under the state’s foundation formula."

Continue reading article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/the-download/enrollment-declines-crop-up-in-public-schools/

 

Editor's Note: While the headline "Enrollment declines crop up in public schools" is true, the reasons behind it are not fully explained in this article which seems to focus on the COVID-19/pandemic factors and not on the overall demographics. Taking Franklin as an example, there is a "small" change due to families turning to pods or moving students to private schools, but the major decline has been seen over the years and will continue to be seen through 2027.

The October 27, 2020 School Committee meeting reviewed the October 1 enrollment numbers which can be found here https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/october_enrollment_report.pdf

 

The audio portion of the meeting where the enrollment report is reviewed can be found here

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/fm-377-school-committee-mtg-102720-p3.html

 

FM #377 School Committee Mtg - 10/27/20 P3 of 3 (audio)

FM #377 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 377 in the series. 

This session shares one of three segments for the Franklin, MA School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Oct 27, 2020. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: some of the School Committee and Central Office personnel were in the Council Chambers, the remainder of the Committee was remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the almost three hour meeting into three logical segments:

* First - covers the opening through the Superintendent's Report, covering the re-opening status; moving from remote to hybrid (52 minutes)

* Second - covers the presentation/discussion on the Comprehensive Facility Analysis (1 hour and 17 mins)

* Third - covers the Discussion Actions Items, and the remainder of the meeting up to where the School Committee enters the executive session not to return to a public meeting. (40 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

Let’s listen to this third segment of the School Committee meeting of Oct 27, 2020   Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hcd40SMK

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

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_10-27-20.pdf 

Meeting packet folder
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/october-27-2020-school-committee-meeting-packet 

Comprehensive Facility Analysis presentation doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 

Facility Assessment report doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report 

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/school-committee-meeting-oct-27-2020.html 

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

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

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

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/

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"

Superintendent Sara Ahern answers a question during the School Committee meeting

FM #376 School Committee Mtg - 10/27/20 P2 of 3 (audio)

FM #376 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 376 in the series. 

This session shares one of three segments for the Franklin, MA School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Oct 27, 2020. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: some of the School Committee and Central Office personnel were in the Council Chambers, the remainder of the Committee was remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the almost three hour meeting into three logical segments:

* First - covers the opening through the Superintendent's Report, covering the re-opening status; moving from remote to hybrid (52 minutes)

* Second - covers the presentation/discussion on the Comprehensive Facility Analysis (1 hour and 17 mins)

* Third - covers the Discussion Actions Items, and the remainder of the meeting up to where the School Committee enters the executive session not to return to a public meeting. (40 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

Let’s listen to this second segment of the School Committee meeting of Oct 27, 2020   Audio file  = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HVJdxbqK

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

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_10-27-20.pdf 

Meeting packet folder
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/october-27-2020-school-committee-meeting-packet 

Comprehensive Facility Analysis presentation doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 

Facility Assessment report doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report 

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/school-committee-meeting-oct-27-2020.html 

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

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

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

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/

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"

Craig Olsen presenting on the facilities assessment

School Committee meeting Oct 27, 2020 - Recap

Quick Recap:

• An extended discussion on the re-opening update from Superintendent Ahern as the schools transition from remote to hybrid. Issues acknowledged around communications (i.e. notifications), technology, developmental appropriateness for K-1-2 students, among items discussed.
• SchComm member (Keenan) spoke in citizens comments (as a parent) to raise issues with the COVID-19 communications protocol around who gets notified about what.
• Presentation on the Davis Thayer facility analysis touted as '20 minutes with time for Q&A' goes for 1 hour and twenty minutes and initially leaves out parent/community Q&A. 
• The report is more than what was asked for as Davis Thayer was the initial question but once started, other questions arose to be addressed. Multiple options were laid out. Many questions remain to be addressed by the School District and the DT subcommittee. It is likely the study could result in a short term proposal from the DT subcommittee and a longer term plan with another committee formed to address the long term issues raised by the report (excess under utilization of facilities).
• Next set of MASC resolutions addressed. Update on the Oct 1 enrollment provided. Further update coming from McKibben on the demographic study he prepared for the DT analysis (time TBD).
• SchComm entered executive session and did not return to open meeting.

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in the album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/VzGggfChpxYcSts7A

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcomm1027
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23SchComm1027&src=typed_query 

• Real time reporting underway for the School Committee meeting #SchComm1027
• Meeting agenda doc can be found on the Schools page #schcomm1027  https://franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/sc-agenda-10-27-20
• Meeting packet folder is on the schools page #schcomm1027 https://franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/october-27-2020-school-committee-meeting-packet
• #schcomm1027 Committee member speaking as a parent wants to review the current COVID Communications protocol as not being very helpful to parents. Will share link to current protocol https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/responding_to_covid_communication_expectations_sept_2020-english.pdf
• #schcomm1027 brief updates from the FHS student representatives 
• A parent pair adds they wanted to address the citizens comment section: will kids be allowed eventually to return in person, what metrics would govern that. Parent for 1st grader also adds desire for discussion
• Another parent of 2 K students with request to consider the hybrid, ask for input, explore change of days kids are remote #schcomm1027 kids in this age are dependent upon parent or caregiver to allow student to participate. Need to make day easier for students; + another parent
• Finally continues with the superintendent report after set of comments. #schcomm1027 acknowledges principals and their effort to make things happen, Oct month of principals. Working Herculean hours to make things happen in School these days
• Photo of school hallway marked for direction, 2 examples of elementary classroom #schcomm1027
• Middle school photos #schcomm1027 instruction has changed and takes longer, many challenges with the in person setting. Chromebook shipment distribution this week
• #schcomm1027 budget update, Gov Baker's refile of the budget provides cautious hope, appears to avoid the major cuts feared, FY 22 will be a challenge. Metrics for re-opening, trend of increase in cases, still under the red line, would continue to bring FHS students in
• #schcomm1027 acknowledges the comments made earlier, doesn't want to speak off the cuff, wants to take it back and review with the staff before bringing info back. Thanks for input in feedback. CDC guidance changed recently, awaiting further clarification from DPH and DESE
• Acknowledges keeping privacy in place (in regards to Committee member comment opening the meeting) #schcomm1027 full day of professional development scheduled for Nov 3, election day. Teachers will have choice of remote or in person
• #schcomm1027 looking to provide more planning time for middle and high school teachers for planning time, would have
•  students in more asynchronous time. Q - To what extent do the space limitations make the 5 day in person not happen for younger grades?
• Q - on why not participate in a town Council budget Subcommittee meeting? A - would generally get an invite. Do participate in joint budget Subcommittee meetings #schcomm1027 discussion on comms per COVID cases, contact tracing covers those cases. There are no easy answers
• #schcomm1027 BTW, we were at about 74 participants earlier, now at 89. Another 10 via the live stream. Digital learning integrationist will do a demo Weds (info to be shared on that later). Pressure on technology across board (town and schools) to address issues timely
• Will need to further address in FY 22 budget cycle, did add another layer of remote tech support via contracted service to help now. Some of the demo Weds will cover some of this. #schcomm1027 Illustrative math program highly rated
• Moving to presentation and report on the facilities Analysis #schcomm1027 hold questions for after report, approx 20 mins presentation copy =  https://franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20
• What isn't in the report? A whole lot of work to be done based upon this... #schcomm1027
• Spacing for capacity based upon pre-COVID #schcomm1027
• Flexibility built into the calculation with the range of capacity #schcomm1027
• Utilization will change due to enrollment projections #schcomm1027
• Underutilized middle schools today, will get worse (i.e.) more capacity not used overtime #schcomm1027
• Educational adequacy calculated #schcomm1027
• No school gets a perfect score. #schcomm1027 DT, Parmenter, and Kennedy ranked low for adequacy. Tech issue letting people into meeting from waiting room, backing up to the adequacy slide
• #schcomm1027 one person (Craig) did the adequacy assessment to ensure consistency.
• #schcomm1027 overall enrollment decline forecasted, slight rise in elementary, larger decline in middle, resulting in -12% national enrollment lines up with Franklin.
• Any decision needs to be long term as the cohorts will move thru the system grade but grade. #schcomm1027 layered the school building age to the industrial ages
• Explored multiple avenues to address decline in enrollment #schcomm1027
• #schcomm1027
• #schcomm1027 end of presentation
• now Qs from Committee. Q calculation of adequacy 'customized' for Franklin. All recommendations based upon current districting. Redistricting not a consideration for simplicity sake could/should be done later as part of master plan
• This does not cover costing of operation today. #schcomm1027 Q find it difficult to deal with the concept not adequacy. The Parmenter/Kennedy close option would require some redistricting of Parmenter students elsewhere to fit the remaining within Jefferson
• Title I funding follows the students not school based. #schcomm1027 clarification of DT use of driveway vs use of it differently. No separate DT parent drop off as they follow the buses. DT a very challenging building. In ed today, less classrooms required, more other space
• DT was renovated in the 70's and then redone later as the open space concept wasn't working. Piece of history not mentioned in report. #schcomm1027 highlight of Appendix B from report (not presentation) showing an example of how adequacy could be improved for older buildings
• Looking for consistency across the elementary environment, the right spaces start but then the professional development needs to prepare the faculty. #schcomm1027
• Will need to make some rational decisions going forward.
• Immediate is your choice of timeline, closing the 2 gets to 85% adequacy. But all is the school Committee decision #schcomm1027 Q on what the charge for the DT Committee be? Changed? Expanded? Additional Committee?
• Thinking long term after the pandemic and with a revised enrollment forecast with 2020 census numbers, did approach DT but to do it right did take the broader scope. #schcomm1027 there are other data points to gather, financial as well as Community input to do
• More discussion to come on this topic. #schcomm1027 
• a slip? Or oversight  But apparently there is No opportunity for Community question or input at this time.
• Moving to MASC resolutions https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_masc_resolutions.pdf #schcomm1027 resolution 7 passes via roll call; resolution 8 passes via roll call; resolution 9 passes via roll call; resolution 10 passes via roll call; all votes 7-0 except for res 10, res 10 vote 6-1
• Citizen comment/question on DT, seemed that the decision for DT and Parmenter could be separated. #schcomm1027 need to continue to follow the process
• Moving to policies for approval, move to second readings https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_reads_0.pdf
• #schcomm1027 (thanks @DSpencerFSC for catching citizen input) needing separate votes on each policy to second reading #schcomm1027
• Roll call votes for policies to move to second reading all passed via 7-0 #schcomm1027 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_reads_0.pdf
• Moving to discussion only items   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/bico_quarterly_report_-_october_13_2020.pdf
• Enrollment update   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/october_enrollment_report.pdf  #schcomm1027 October 1 enrollment important for funding basis
• Pre K enrollment usually grows during year, not anticipating it this year. Big bump in home school enrollment during Aug/Sep seen in other districts as well. #schcomm1027 (link to doc provides in prior tweet)
• Budget workshop Nov 17, process and timeline to be reviewed, looking also for priorities for this cycle.
• #schcomm1027 Community relations met Oct 20, MASC conf coming (using the resolutions) training Fri/Sat
• Following process, gathering more input will prepare for a Community info session on Nov 4, meeting scheduled for Thursday 10/29, time for info session to be set at Thursday meeting #schcomm1027
• Event held Oct 17 to showcase art and diversity of Community, well received, #schcomm1027 portrait of a graduate at a future meeting.
• Consent agenda, move to accept, passes 7-0 via roll call
• Move to executive session, seconded, passes 7-0 will not return to open mtg
• That's all folks! Catch you next time #schcomm1027 

Superintendent's report   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/superintendents-report-10272020

screen capture of one of the DT study slides