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

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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 

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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

FM #375 School Committee Mtg - 10/27/20 P1 of 3 (audio)

FM #375 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 375 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 first segment of the School Committee meeting of Oct 27, 2020   Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HsQ3HR2K

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

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 presents her report to the School Committee

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

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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

School Committee: Comprehensive Facilities Assessment

What started as a question "could we close Davis Thayer?"  has produced a report that potentially could close three elementary schools, consolidate the middle schools into one building, and provide a better educational experience at less cost  for Franklin students.

Read the Executive Summary of the Comprehensive Facilities Assessment:

"The Franklin Public Schools occupy multiple facilities ranging from 6 to 96 years of age. Over this period we have seen monumental shifts in how we educate students, particularly with regards to technology and educational delivery methods used. These changes have an impact on the ability of a facility to function as it was intended and as it needs to in the future. 

In December of 2019, the Franklin Public Schools engaged Kaestle Boos Associates (KBA) to develop a Comprehensive Facilities Assessment focusing on capacity and the educational adequacy of the current schools. 

Prior to engaging KBA, the District was provided with a Demographics Report that indicated enrollment was going to decline by approximately 12% over the next 10 years. 

Utilizing this data, educational assessments of existing facilities and an inventory of existing spaces was collected through site visits and conversations with District leadership. 

The results of the analysis indicate that Franklin Public Schools facilities are currently 26% under capacity and are anticipated to continue to decline to 31% in the next 10 years. 

If no changes were to occur the school facilities would: 

• all continue to operate under capacity 
• continue to create a financial burden in the maintenance of these underutilized facilities 
• suffer reduced educational adequacy in schools built prior to 1996 "

Download your copy of the detailed report here: 

https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis/pages/comprehensive-facilities-assessment-report

View the presentation copy as scheduled for review and discussion at the School Committee meeting Tuesday, October 27, 2020.

 

FPS: Comprehensive Facility Analysis Report from Franklin Matters

 

School Committee: Comprehensive Facilities Assessment

 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Oct 27, 2020

 Vision Statement

The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

 

Agenda

 

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

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.    Comprehensive Facilities Analysis Report -- Craig Olsen, Kaestle Boos, Inc.

• Presentation doc:  https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 
• Detailed Report: https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report

III.    Discussion/Action Items
A.    MASC Resolutions #7-10   https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/disc-action-masc-7-10
I recommend adoption of the following MASC resolutions as discussed:
1.    Resolution #7: Attempts by US DOE to Direct Funding to Private Schools
2.    Resolution #8: Membership of a School Committee Member on the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
3.    Resolution #9: Providing Equity for Sexual Orientation - LGBTQ+ Students, Teachers and Staff
4.    Resolution #10: Relative to the Monitoring of Attendance of Students During the Pandemic
B.     Policy - First Readings   https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/disc-action-b-policy-1st-read-0
I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading as discussed:
●    AC - Nondiscrimination
●    ACAB - Harassment
●    ACAB-R1 - Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Harassment and Discrimination
●    ACAB-R2 - Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Sexual Harassment Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
●    JQA - Financial Assistance

IV.    Discussion Only Items
A.    BICO Quarterly Report   https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/bico-quarterly-rpt
B.    October 1 Enrollment Update  https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/enrollment-update

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)
 

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

VII.    Consent Agenda
A.    Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from your October 13, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B.    Transfers
I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.

VIII.    Payment of Bills    Dr. Bergen
IX.    Payroll    Ms. D’Angelo
 

X.    Executive Session

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3), move to go into Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to potential litigation; also to discuss collective bargaining with the FEA/RN Unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the School Committee and the chair so declares, and not to reconvene in an Open Session.

 

XI.    Adjournment

 

Documents for this agenda are posted to the Town of Franklin page

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

 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Oct 27, 2020

US Census Bureau - Report on Housing for Aging Population

As the School Department looks at the demographics to determine the projected enrollment over the next ten years, one aspect of the 19 assumptions provided in the report, was a given turnover in housing to "maintain" a stable population.  Higher turnover could increase population, lower turnover could lessen population. 

Given our population is also growing older, aside from services provided by the Senior Center, do we have enough housing for the older population? This report on a US perspective takes a look at that aspect.

"The U.S. Census Bureau has released a new population report on the readiness of housing to meet the needs of the nation’s aging population. The report – Old Housing, New Needs: Is America’s Housing Ready for an Aging Population? – uses data from the 2011 American Housing Survey (AHS) to provide national-level estimates of housing units with aging-accessible features, such as handrails or grab bars in bathrooms, step-free entryways, and wheelchair-accessible kitchens, as well as geographic differences in the prevalence of homes with these features.

This report also examines the demographic and economic characteristics of households where older adults reported difficulty using these home features compared with households where older adults reported no such difficulty."

Shared from the US Census
https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2020/demo/p23-217.html

Download from the US Census page:
https://www.census.gov/content/dam/Census/library/publications/2020/demo/p23-217.pdf

Or the Franklin Matters copy:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aI3EyGi_Of0iCYvUSQKLNL7zPPlOu2VK/view?usp=sharing

US Census Bureau - Report on Housing for Aging Population

Franklin Public Schools: Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis

Good evening,

Thank you for attending the Enrollment Forecast Event in early March. I apologize for the delay, however I want to get back to you with further information from that evening.

We have created a district webpage to curate resources related to the analysis. You can access materials from that evening here:

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


Kind regards,
Sara


Sara E. Ahern, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Franklin Public Schools


Video link to the March 5 info session at the Horace Mann Middle School cafe
https://youtu.be/b_e3O5LSESQ

Franklin Public Schools: Davis Thayer Faculties Analysis

FM #212 - School Committee meeting - demographics study 2/25/20 (audio)

This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 212 in the series. We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

The expected demographics study was presented during the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, Feb 25, 2020. Expected? Yes, This is ONE key piece of the information that needs to be gathered and digested to enable the School Committee and community to make a decision on what needs to be done to prepare for enrollment and facilities.

The potential for closing the Davis Thayer school has been talked of off and on for several years. The work is now underway to look at that and what it would mean for the district and community as a whole.

The demographics study presented is ONE key piece of the information needed for such a decision. As outlined by Superintendent Sara Ahern at the end of the presentation segment, the SECOND key piece is expected in or around April as the facility analysis arrives from that consultant.

For our existing school facilities, what capacity do we have for students in each building based upon current or anticipated requirements? The capacity report should provide the answer to that question. One could go back to when each building was built and look at what it was designed for but the educational requirements have changed considerably since then. Davis Thayer for example, since it is the key item driving the question, was built as a high school and is now being used as an elementary school.

Along the course of the discussion you’ll hear James McKibben comment on space requirements. Note - this was not part of his charter, his was only to focus on the demographics - however, from his experience in working with other districts, he can say that due to special education requirements the space (that is, square foot requirements) per student will increase.

Pay attention to the assumptions, there are 19 of them. Mr McKibben counts a couple as more critical than others. The mortgage interest rate most would acknowledge as important. The lower it is, the more willing buyers will be. Of interest is the amount of existing home sales required to maintain our population. Per his calculations, 275 homes per year.

The presentation doc is linked in the show note so you can follow along.
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/demographic-presentation

FPS Demographics Presentation from Franklin Matters

Assumed to be supporting documentation for the presentation
(was not referenced during the meeting but was posted to the packet web page)

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/enrollment-forecast


More analysis and insights will be discussed over time as we all digest the numbers. The discussion runs about an hour and 10 minutes so without further ado, let’s listen in.   https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-212-school-committee-meeting-demographics-study

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

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I 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 this, 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"

James McKibben presenting the demographics study to the School Committee

"need to take ample time to study it further -- thoughtfully and thoroughly”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Results of a district-wide demographic study of the town’s school population is expected to be ready in January, according to Superintendent Dr. Sara Ahern.

Meanwhile, school officials continue to define the scope of a facilities adequacy study of Davis Thayer School, as well a functional space study of all of the town’s schools as part of determining whether to shutter the Davis Thayer building.

“The first step for the space study will be to assess the current use of all facilities,” Ahern wrote in an update sent out last week.

At a recent meeting of the school board, a three-person subcommittee was formed to work with Ahern on a Davis Thayer closing analysis."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191223/franklin-continuing-functional-space-study-of-schools/1

Davis Thayer School sign from May 2019

School Committee recap for Oct 29, 2019

Catching up to the 'last' set of school committee meeting notes that I had not yet posted. This set covers the Oct 29, 2019 session.

The Superintendent's report
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/superintendents-report-10-29-19
 
There was recognition of the five committee members who were not running for re-election as this would be their last meeting. The two incumbents running for election were successfully re-elected so their 'recognition' event is postponed to some future date.

Kelty Kelly, Principal of the ECDC, previewed the "developmental summary" for the children at the center. This is an age and developmentally appropriate 'report card' for this age group.  The Developmental Summary
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/_preschool_developmental_summary_final_10-18-19.pdf 

There was a long discussion over the multiple resolutions before the MASC conference where the committee also voted to appoint Chair Anne Bergen as their representative. This listing and details for the text for the resoluteness can be found in the packet   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-d-resolutions

The October 1 Enrollment Report was made available. This is a key piece of info as the Oct 1 report is the 'control' number for all schools for the year. Clearly, there are some minor move in and adjustments as the school year progresses but this the 'stake in the ground' for reporting purposes.  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/enrollment_statistics_-_10-29-19_sc.pdf

With this meeting, the School Committee has also implemented for the first time, a practice that the Town Council has been using for some time: Actions Taken: https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/news/october-29-2019-school-committee-actions-taken

 
Additional details can be found in my notes reported live during the meeting:

• Live reporting: Discussion Only Items through to Closing.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-discussion-only-items_29.html

• Live Reporting: ECDC Developmental Summary and Discussion.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-ecdc-developmental.html

• Live reporting: School Committee - Oct 29, 2019

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-school-committee-oct-29.html

a photo from walking around the grey day that Oct 29 was in Franklin

Enrollment Open House at BFCCPS - Jan 12 and Feb 9

"Enrollment applications for the 2019-2020 school year are currently being accepted. We would like to encourage all interested families to join us for an Enrollment Information Session to learn more about our school community.

Two sessions will be hosted at 201 Main Street in Franklin. Saturday, January 12, 2019 from 10 am to noon and Saturday, February 9, 2019 from 10 am to noon. Please note that attendance at these events is purely optional and no RSVP is required to attend.

You’ll hear from the Board of Trustees, Members of the BFCCPS School Administration, Faculty as well as Parents at our school. These open houses are a great way to learn more about the school’s mission, and see what makes BFCCPS such a special place!

Please note that school visits are not available during school hours so these enrollment sessions are truly the best way to learn more about BFCCPS before the annual enrollment lottery."

Continue reading about the Open House
http://bfccps.org/join-us-for-an-enrollment-open-house/

Applications are being accepted  http://bfccps.org/about/enrollment/

Enrollment Open House at BFCCPS - Jan 12 and Feb 9

"the school will be accepting applications through Feb. 27"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Next year’s enrollment at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School will be bigger than ever. 

With the anticipated opening of a new 72,000-square-foot school building for the 2019-20 school year, the enrollment lottery will be open to 302 new students ranging from K-5. 

A lottery will select 92 kindergartners and 42 students in each grade from first to fifth. In the current building, said Executive Director Heather Zolnowski, the school has only been able to accept 50 kindergarten students. 

“We’re really excited to have the opportunity to be able to open our school and academic program to more families,” she said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181107/benjamin-franklin-classical-charter-public-school-to-increase-enrollment


Get an application here  http://bfccps.org/about/enrollment/enrollment-application/

For more about the Charter School, visit them on the internet  http://bfccps.org/

Charter School: Applications Now Open

Charter School: Applications Now Open

BFCCPS is excited to commence our enrollment season for the 2019-2020 School Year! While historically BFCCPS has maintained a lengthy waiting list, this year’s enrollment process is your best chance at securing enrollment at BFCCPS in Grades K-5.

We will be adding two new classrooms for Kindergarten through Grade 5 as we open our brand new 72,000 square foot school. 92 spaces will be offered for Kindergarten and 40 new spaces will be offered in all grades Grades One through Five. 

Applications for Grade Six through Eight will be accepted as openings occur or will receive a wait list position.

Get an application here  http://bfccps.org/about/enrollment/enrollment-application/

For more about the Charter School, visit them on the internet  http://bfccps.org/

Charter School: Applications Now Open

Live reporting: Discussion only items through to Closing

4. Discussion Only Items
a. BICO Quarterly Information Update
quaterly update in packet, two new districts

b. Enrollment Data Update
pre-K, (i.e. ECDC not included in totals)
see doc in meeting packet
Oct 1 reporting to DESE is required and become the yearly start numbers
breakdown of some students attending elsewhere but not all inclusive
36 students choiced into other neighboring districts

end of Sep #s, 100 fewer than last year at this time
elementary 8 higher (first time an increase, i.e. possibly turning the corner on the number decline in elementary)

more info in Nov on class sizes in Middle schools/high school

? on Mount St Charles, used to be almost a bus; will look at again


5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports 
Budget
prep for Budget workshop on Nov 13

Community Relations
good interaction at Harvest Festival
will do with better booth next time
Nov 3 at Franklin TV, social emotional Learning

Policy
meeting Nov 5

Transportation
no meeting, looking to schedule one

Public Schools Advocacy
met Oct 2; prepared for Harvest Festival
reconvening in Nov/Dec to support budget work

Ad Hoc Superintendent’s Evaluation
Monica, Diane and Ann
to set meeting

b. School Committee Liaison Reports 
Joint PCC
well attended, only 2 schools missed
funding more equitable then thought; elementary more active than middle school
FEF came to present

Substance Abuse Task Force
developing resources within schools and community
add membership, Town Council, YMCA

School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]
meeting Nov 13
developing new goals, consistent across district

School Start Times Advisory Committee [SSTAC], 
meeting Weds

MASC
covered earlier

6. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items
org meeting in November
budget workshop


7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the September 25, 2018 School Committee meeting.
b. Executive Session Minutes
I recommend approval of the executive session minutes from your September 25, 2018 meeting to be released.
c. NYC Field Trip Request
I recommend approval of the recurring request of Diane Plouffe to take approximately 50 Middle School Chorus students to New York City to see “Once On This Island” on May 11, 2018 as detailed.
d. Parmenter Gift
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $1,755.00 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips as detailed.
e. Music Gift
I recommend acceptance of the donation of $1,230.00 from various music parents for in-house enrichments as detailed.
f. JFK Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $725.00 from the JFK PCC for field trips
as detailed.

motion to accept consent agenda, seconded, passed 7-0

8. Payment of Bills - Dr. Bergen

9. Payroll - Mrs. Douglas

10. Correspondence
a. Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman

11. Adjournment

The documents released for this meeting can be found on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/october-23-2018-school-committee-packet-documents