Showing posts with label fees. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fees. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

School Committee meets virtually, approves fee schedule and middle school accounting in short session (exclusive audio)

FM #1476 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1476 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. 5 members participated in this virtual session, 2 were absent (Gallagher, Griffith).  With the virtual session, there is no Franklin TV video or YouTube available.


Quick recap:

Superintendent’s report, end of school year officially June 18, schools closed out in memorable ways, thanks to PCC 's et al for making it possible. 


Boxes labeled, classrooms cleared… Summer relocation work underway, all packing was completed, walkthrough underway to confirm readiness for transition, thanks to Colin for all the effort in this. The preparation and communication was organized


Transportation registration closed, 2492 registered, vs. 2466 for past year, 16 on waitlist; routes scheduled for posting in August; special education van can be purchased via earmark along with local funding to keep fleet current


Question: On the waitlist, when would they find out? During route creation over the next couple of weeks. The SchCmte will get an update on the routes before the initial routes are posted


SPED vans backstory; had 3 in trouble and were adjusting to cover with reallocations, the next in line is now covered with the earmark, etc. to bring us more current on cycle


Discussion/ action items 

  • DECA trip to VA - I recommend approval of the request of Emily Rosborough to take DECA students to Arlington, VA from November 21 - 23, 2025 as detailed. Moved, second, passes 5-0-2 (2 absent) via roll call

  • Girls Basketball Trip to ME - I recommend approval of the request of John Leighton to take the Girls Basketball team to Augusta and Portland, ME from December 26 - 27, 2025 as detailed. Moved, second, passes 5-0-2 (2 absent) via roll call

  • Disposition of Student Activity Accounts - I recommend approval of disposition of student activity accounts as discussed Moved, second, passes 5-0-2 (2 absent) via roll call

  • Recommendation to open FMS Student Activity Accounts and close Existing MS Activity Accounts - I recommend opening of Franklin Middle School Student activity accounts and closing the existing middle school student activity accounts as discussed. Moved, second, discussion - Lots of details involved in the reorganization. Vote on the motion, passes 5-0-2 (2 absent) via roll call 

  • User Fees - I recommend approval of the FY25-26 User Fees as discussed - Policy Subcmte met earlier tonight. Athletic fees remain at 3 tier structure with one sport changing tier (wrestling) to tier 2 at $600. Transportation fees, $387 with a 3 student cap per family. Unfortunate consequences of failed override User fees also have an escalation clause built in; an attempt to maintain cost control, Modeling fee structure planned as part of the new budget cycle in the fall

  • Moved, second, passes 5-0-2 (2 absent) via roll call 


Consent Agenda

Moved, second, passes via roll call 5-0-2 (2 absent) No citizen comments


New business

next meetings, July 22, Aug 12, Aug 26

New hire updates, reorg progress Handbooks scheduled for Aug 26

Cautiously optimistic about where they are


Motion to adjourn, passes via roll call same 5-0-2 vote as others


The exclusive recording runs about 35 minutes

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1476-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-06-24-25/


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Agenda doc -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5789326/SCAGENDA_6-24-25.pdf 


School Committee meets virtually, approves fee schedule and middle school accounting in short session (exclusive audio)
School Committee meets virtually,
approves fee schedule and middle school
accounting in short session (exclusive audio)
Meeting packet folder -> https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/june-24%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet---virtual-only-(link-in-agenda)/822105 



My full set of notes -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v8oaOo2GNU5NVOEr2H4pEu43SNUBKReC/view?usp=drive_link    




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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

  • 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 School Cmte: Policy Subcmte Mtg - 06/24/25 (exclusive audio)

FM #1475 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1475 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. 2 members participated in this virtual session; Chair O’Sullivan and member McNeill, Callaghan was absent.  Supt Giguere, Ops Director Boisvert, Jana Melotti and Dr Rogers represented the Central Office.


Quick recap:

  • Primary discussion on this agenda is fees, recommendation to keep the current 3 tier approach with the minor adjustment of moving wrestling from Tier 3 to Tier 2, from $350 to 600, Tier 1 remains at $1000. Fees can't be reduced due to the shortage of revenue from failed override

    • Athletic fees approved by 2-0-1 vote (Chair O'Sullivan & McNeill present, Callaghan absent)

  • Transportation fee discussion background on how the $387 was calculated to be the base charge with a cap. 2.5% escalation built into the prior schedule. Attempting to increase/keep ridership up as part of the redistricting; 2492 registered, 2466 for past year, 16 on waitlist

    • Motion to accept new fee schedule, $387, cap at 3 riders (1161) Second, passes 2-0-1

  • Question on research for boosters supporting stipends for after hour clubs, etc. Research into policy, state law on what is possible, what are the rules of the road via info for support from boosters. How do we all work together on this? Yes, that can be liked into

  • Question on police detail for building rentals, are we comparable to other towns? Can we scale requirements based on attendance? Yes, that can be liked into

  • Motion to adjourn, passes 2-0-1 (1 absent)


The recording runs about 20 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1475-school-cmte-policy-subcmte-mtg-06-24-25/




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The meeting agenda can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06242025-1792 


My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i6scbz2f-uqM-vwN3dIzVzXwlL8Jh7wn/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. 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.


Franklin School Cmte: Policy Subcmte Mtg - 06/24/25 (exclusive audio)
Franklin School Cmte: Policy Subcmte
Mtg - 06/24/25 (exclusive audio)
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"



Saturday, June 21, 2025

Franklin, MA: Agenda for School Cmte Mtg - Virtual Only - scheduled for June 24, 2025

Franklin School Committee 
June 24, 2025 - 7:00 PM
~~VIRTUAL ONLY~~



Call to Order Mr. Callaghan

Announcements from the Chair

Pledge of Allegiance
 
Franklin, MA: Agenda for School Cmte Mtg - Virtual Only - scheduled for June 24, 2025
Franklin, MA: Agenda for School
Cmte Mtg - Virtual Only -
scheduled for June 24, 2025
Moment of Silence
I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan
C. Payroll Mr. McNeill
D. FHS Student Representative Comments
E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. none


III. Discussion/Action Items
A. DECA trip to VA
I recommend approval of the request of Emily Rosborough to take DECA students to Arlington, VA from November 21 - 23, 2025 as detailed. 
B. Girls Basketball Trip to ME
I recommend approval of the request of John Leighton to take the Girls Basketball team to Augusta and Portland, ME from December 26 - 27, 2025 as detailed. 
C. Disposition of Student Activity Accounts
I recommend approval of disposition of student activity accounts as discussed. 
D. Recommendation to open FMS Student Activity Accounts and close Existing MS Activity Accounts
I recommend opening of Franklin Middle School Student activity accounts and closing the existing middle school student activity accounts as discussed. 
E. User Fees
I recommend approval of the FY25-26 User Fees as discussed

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. none
V. Information Matters
A. none

VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from your June 10, 2025 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B. Review of Executive Session Minutes for Declassification
I recommend review of executive session minutes for declassification as discussed.
C. Surplus
I recommend declaring the attached list of curriculum resources and supplies as surplus
 
VII. Citizen’s Comments

VIII. New Business
To discuss any future agenda items

IX. Adjournment




Franklin, MA: School Cmte - Policy Subcmte - meeting agenda for virtual only session June 24 at 6 PM

FRANKLIN SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Policy Subcommittee Meeting
DATE: 6/24/25 TIME: 6:00 – 6:30 PM

A G E N D A
“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.”

I. Attendance -

II. Distribution of Approved Policies
A. EB - Safety Program
B. EBB - First Aid
C. EBC - Emergency Plans
D. EBCD - Emergency Closings


III. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee
A. None

IV. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item
A. Review of FY26 User Fees


Wednesday, May 14, 2025

What the Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees means for you


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By BCP Staff

Have you ever picked out tickets to an event or the perfect vacation rental and then ended up paying twice what you expected in fees at checkout? 

Help is on the way: the FTC's Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees takes effect today. What might this mean for you?

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/05/what-rule-unfair-or-deceptive-fees-means-you?utm_source=govdelivery





What the Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees means for you
What the Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees means for you


Saturday, April 26, 2025

Franklin, MA; School Committee - Agenda for meeting April 29 at 7 PM

Franklin School Committee 
April 29, 2025   7:00 PM
Municipal Building – Council Chambers 


Call to Order                 Mr. Callaghan
Announcements from the Chair
Pledge of Allegiance 
Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan
C. Payroll Mr. McNeill
D. FHS Student Representative Comments
E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. None

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Elementary Report Cards
I recommend approval of the proposed changes to the Elementary Report Card as discussed.   
https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5568674/Discussion_Action_A_-_Elem._Report_Cards.pdf
B. Letter of Support
I recommend approval of the letter of support for an Act to Modernize Funding for Community Media Programming as discussed.  
https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5568677/Discussion_Action_B_-_Letter_of_Support.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. Campus Naming Discussion

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from your April 8, 2025 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
B.   Music Gift
I recommend the acceptance of $2,442.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for in-house enrichment as detailed.
C.   Scholarships
I recommend the acceptance of $7,000.00 for FHS Scholarships as follows:
$1,500.00 Carol Mahar Scholarship
$2,500.00 Digital Federal Credit Union
$2,000.00 Class of 2025 Memorial Scholarship
$750.00 Oskey Yearbook
$250.00 Art NHS
D. American Heart Association Gift
I recommend the acceptance of $5,100.00 from the American Heart Association for the Kid’s Heart Challenge to be distributed as follows:
Jefferson $1,000.00
Keller $  700.00
Kennedy $1,700.00
Franklin, MA; School Committee - Agenda for meeting April 29 at 7 PM
Franklin, MA; School Committee
Oak St $1,200.00
Parmenter $  500.00
 
VII. Citizen’s Comments

VIII. New Business
To discuss any future agenda items

IX. Executive Session
A. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel
X. Discussion/Action Item
A. Superintendent Contract
The Chair recommends approval of the successor contract for Lucas Giguere to serve as Superintendent of Schools, July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2031.

XI. Adjournment



Sunday, March 16, 2025

This Chalkboard Chat condenses the Mtg of March 11 & the Joint Budget Sessions (audio)

FM #1406 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1406 in the series. 


This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chairperson Dave Callaghan. This is a new episode of our continuing “Chalkboard Chat” series. We had our discussion virtually via Zoom on Thursday, March 13, 2025. We had the opportunity to recap the Joint Budget Listening Sessions and the School Committee meeting of March 11, 2025. 

 

We cover 

  • Recognition of multiple sets of students for accomplishments in (arts, writing, painting, ceramics), and for those in the DECA program who were State champions

  • The redistricting facility update was talked about. The doc itself was posted on Wednesday. It lays out the process in 3 phases of immediate, near term, and long term apparently in detail.

  • The Transportation update was good, ultimately while some more students are expected to ride the bus, with the redistricting, travel times should be improved, and potential for 2 less buses remains. Now, this is a model based upon current students in the district. The key will be the bus enrollment/payment process beginning in April, that closes at the end of school in June to confirm the bus routing that would really be required.

  • The consideration of fees was a discussion only topic. This doc was posted on Wednesday. There was discussion of going to 4 tiers of sports fees (rather than 3). Hockey effectively moves to its own tier. Busing fees are being considered for reduction from $500 to $387 with a return of the family cap, and capping at $1000.

  • A summary of the Joint Budget recommendation for the override of $3.8M on June 3 will be taken up by the Town Council at their March 19 meeting.


The recording runs about 35 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1406-chalkboard-chat-03-13-25/


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


Contact info for Dave Callaghan -> callaghand@franklinps.net   


School Committee Meeting Info

Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocJsUiAaOw0 


The agenda doc -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5388334/SCAGENDA_3-11-25.pdf 


Meeting packet (other docs as they are released after the meeting will get posted here) -> https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/march-11%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/770110 


Transportation update -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5408487/Franklin_Public_Schools_Reorganization_Transportation.pptx.pdf 


Facility projects update -> 

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5408488/Capital_Projects_and_Facilities_Improvements.pdf 


Fees analysis for discussion only ->

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5408662/3_11_25__SC_Meeting_FY25_FEE_ANALYSIS___FY26_FEE_CONSIDERATION_-_FY26_Fee_Recommendations.pdf 


My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IMCqlD8Uouxkf0bB0ZuwRY8uZoH-o576/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. 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"


This Chalkboard Chat condenses the Mtg of March 11 & the Joint Budget Sessions  (audio)
This Chalkboard Chat condenses the Mtg of March 11 & the Joint Budget Sessions  (audio)