Showing posts with label grants. Show all posts
Showing posts with label grants. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

BFCCPS PCO announces 3rd Faculty Grant Recipient


"The PCO proudly announces our third of four Faculty Grant recipients, Rebecca Nestor! She was approved for a $593.50 grant (partial funding) towards triple beam balances for density instruction.
"As we examined our MCAS test results this year, we continue to see students struggling with the concept of density. This struggle spans multiple classes and remains consistent over consecutive testing cycles. Density is a critical foundation for understanding broader Earth science concepts, including how differences in density drive convection currents and influence the behavior of oceanic vs. continental crust.
BFCCPS PCO announces 3rd Faculty Grant Recipient
BFCCPS PCO announces 3rd Faculty Grant Recipient
Currently, our science department is unable to provide consistent lab-based density instruction. We own six triple beam balances; however, all six are broken and nonfunctional. Without working measurement equipment, students cannot accurately determine mass, calculate density, or observe the relationship between density and material properties. Teachers are forced to rely on simulations or teacher-led demonstrations, which do not provide the direct experience students need to master this topic.
Because density is an abstract and mathematically driven concept, students learn best when they can physically experiment, measure, and record results themselves. Access to working balances will allow students to collect real data, observe patterns, and apply those concepts to models of Earth systems."


Monday, March 23, 2026

Finance Committee gets a good discussion on policies, and an update on the grant process yielding $112M over 10 years (audio)

FM #1696 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1696 in the series. 


This session shares the Finance Committee meeting conducted Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The Committee meeting opened with 6 members present, 2 absent (1 open position reportedly to be filled soon).


Quick recap:

  • a healthy and engaging discussion on the policies, to be resumed at one of the budget hearings in April before making a recommendation on changes (if any) to the Town Council

  • Presentation on the grant process and the yield of $112M over 10 years, an average of $10M/year

  • Future Agenda Items / Next meeting Dates:

    • a. April 6, 7, 8 & 9, 2026 - Anticipated Finance Committee Budget Hearings

    • b. May 28, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion - first look at health care numbers as open enrollment would have closed Apr 30

    • c. June 3, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion and vote to recommend budget with changes (if any) for the Town Council to vote on at their June 10 session


The recording runs almost 2 hours, let’s listen

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1696-franklin-ma-finance-cmte-mtg-03-11-26/


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Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/UZl8H4Koptg?&t=476


Agenda (updated 3/11/26) - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03112026-2189


My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oxC1JQgvl3PoNs-2qaHf9vacux3JvsZY/view?usp=drive_link 


Photo album of the grant presentation slides shared 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/kLdsxaJEHqXjYEzT7 


Summary of grants over 10 years
Summary of grants over 10 years


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

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"


Thursday, March 19, 2026

BFCCPS' PCO 2nd Faculty Grant Award Announcement

BFCCPS' PCO 2nd Faculty Grant Award Announcement
BFCCPS' PCO 2nd Faculty Grant Award Announcement
"The PCO proudly announces our second of four Faculty Grant recipients, Janine Bartsch! She was approved for a $488.50 grant towards 5-grade biography books.
"Fifth Grade needs biography books on very specific people for a long-term biography project. They ask for my help every year. I spend my normal operating budget on other fictional books kids really want to read. I want to get a grant that will cover the purchase of the biography books the fifth-grade team needs. Outside the fifth-grade biography project, the books can be enjoyed year-round by the rest of the school."



Sunday, March 15, 2026

Farmers Market awareness for BFCCPS Capstone Projects via Grant

Farmers Market awareness for BFCCPS Capstone Projects via Grant
Farmers Market awareness for BFCCPS Capstone Projects via Grant
"The PCO proudly announces our first of four Faculty Grant recipients, Beth Kaplan!

She was approved for a $325 grant to rent a booth at the Franklin Farmer's Market for our Capstone students.
"I am requesting a grant for $325 to rent a booth at the Franklin Farmer's Market to support the Community Service Pillar of our school.

This grant would allow us to rent a table for the Grade 8 students to use for their Capstone projects- both to provide awareness of their causes and to raise funds to support those causes. "




Thursday, March 12, 2026

Finance Committee gets a good discussion on policies, and an update on the grant process yielding $112M over 10 years (video)

The Franklin Finance Committee met on Wednesday as scheduled March 11, 2026. 6 members were present, 2 absent (1 open position reportedly to be filled soon).


Quick recap
  • a healthy and engaging discussion on the policies, to be resumed at one of the budget hearings in April before making a recommendation on changes (if any) to the Town Council
  • Presentation on the grant process and the yield of $112M over 10 years, an average of $10M/year
  • Future Agenda Items / Next meeting Dates:
    • a. April 6, 7, 8 & 9, 2026 - Anticipated Finance Committee Budget Hearings
    • b. May 28, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion - first look at health care numbers as open enrollment would have closed Apr 30
    • c. June 3, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion and vote to recommend budget with changes (if any) for the Town Council to vote on at their June 10 session
Photo album of the grant presentation slides shared 




Wednesday, March 11, 2026

FUMC gets $75k grant to build downtown Franklin’s first community-based commissary kitchen

Rev Jacob Juncker
Rev Jacob Juncker
Via Franklin United Methodist Church:

"Exciting news!

We've received a $75,000 grant to build downtown Franklin’s first community-based commissary kitchen!

This new space will be a hub for learning, collaboration, and community meals.

Stay tuned for more updates! #FranklinCommunity #CulinaryInnovation


Additional info on the capital work underway at FUMC


Sunday, March 8, 2026

Agenda for the Franklin Finance Committee Mtg - Weds, March 11, 2026 at 6 PM

Finance Committee Meeting
Agenda & Meeting Packet
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 = 6:00 PM


Agenda

1. Call to Order

2. Public Comments 
- Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. In compliance with G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 20 et seq, the Open Meeting Law, the Finance Committee cannot engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments.
The Finance Committee may ask town staff to review the matter. Nothing herein shall prevent the town staff from correcting a misstatement of fact.
3. Approval of Minutes
a. February 25, 2026
4. Presentations/Discussion
a. Review Town Financial Policies
i. 2024-2025 Financial Policies
5. The Bill Dowd “Deep Dive Series”
a. Municipal Grant Process Overview   
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/8636/Municipal-Grant-Process-Overview
b. Historical Grant Data Summary   
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/8637/5b-Historical-Grant-Data---Summary
6. Future Agenda Items / Next meeting Dates:
a. April 6, 7, 8 & 9, 2026 - Anticipated Finance Committee Budget Hearings
b. May 28, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion TBD
c. June 3, 2026 - FY27 Budget discussion TBD
7. Finance Committee Member Comments

8. Adjourn

Agenda doc also contains remote participation info



Thursday, January 8, 2026

Franklin gets MassTrails Grant for the SNETT


"Trails connect our Commonwealth in beautiful and unexpected ways, bringing people closer to neighborhoods, parks and downtowns. Congratulations to Town of Bellingham MA, Town of Franklin MA, and Town of Wrentham, Massachusetts for receiving MassTrails Grants to help develop and improve the Charles Headwater Greenway, the SNETT Rail Trail, and many more outdoor spaces. "


"This project will provide benches periodically along the 2.8 mile section of the SNETT and offer a convenient place to rest and enjoy the outdoors.  These benches will be similar to the DCR benches already in place on the SNETT Trail located from Center St out to the Rt 126 tunnel.  $16,263"





Saturday, November 1, 2025

Franklin Enhances Municipal Safety Measures with MIIA Grant

Funds will support town’s risk management efforts

The town of Franklin was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), the town’s property and casualty insurance provider, to support the installation of Samsara GPS modules that improve the town’s ability to track and manage fleet operations thereby enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of its public works operations.

With real-time GPS tracking, the town can monitor winter operations more closely and calculate salt and calcium usage with greater precision, ensuring materials are applied as economically and effectively as possible.

The technology also provides diagnostic information that enables faster identification and repair of town vehicle performance issues, reducing environmental impact and preventing more costly repairs. Additionally, integration with Franklin’s new fuel system enables more accurate fuel tracking and reporting, allowing the town to better understand and reduce its environmental footprint over time.
“This grant is helping us improve how we manage operations, respond to maintenance needs, and make informed decisions about future vehicle investments,” said Jay Stearns, Franklin’s Fleet Manager. “With these new tools, we’re better equipped to serve residents, operate efficiently, and reduce our environmental impact.”

For the 2025 fiscal year, MIIA awarded $1 million to fund over 150 grant requests from members for public safety activities and equipment. Municipalities were able to conduct HVAC evaluations, purchase confined space safety equipment, and conduct boiler and water loss prevention measures, among many other initiatives.
 
“This grant is about real-world impact – helping municipalities reduce claims, safeguard municipal assets, and protect workers,” said Stan Corcoran, MIIA Executive Vice President. “Helping our members build safer communities is central to MIIA’s mission, and we’re pleased to support Franklin as it strengthens efforts to prevent losses and protect both employees and residents.”

MIIA is a membership service of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. As a mission-driven, member-led nonprofit, MIIA focuses on providing Massachusetts municipalities and other governmental entities with insurance coverage alternatives, quality risk management, and wellness programs.

For over four decades, MIIA has proudly supported its members in their efforts to build stronger communities, foster safer work environments, and implement programs that promote the health and well-being of their employees. For more information, visit www.emiia.org and www.mma.org.

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Town of Franklin Enhances Municipal Safety Measures with MIIA Grant

Funds will support town’s risk management efforts
 
The Town of Franklin was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), the town’s property and casualty insurance provider, to support the installation of Samsara GPS modules that improve the town’s ability to track and manage fleet operations thereby enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of its public works operations.
Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA)
MASS Interlocal
Insurance Association (MIIA)

With real-time GPS tracking, the town can monitor winter operations more closely and calculate salt and calcium usage with greater precision, ensuring materials are applied as economically and effectively as possible.

The technology also provides diagnostic information that enables faster identification and repair of town vehicle performance issues, reducing environmental impact and preventing more costly repairs. Additionally, integration with Franklin’s new fuel system enables more accurate fuel tracking and reporting, allowing the town to better understand and reduce its environmental footprint over time.

“This grant is helping us improve how we manage operations, respond to maintenance needs, and make informed decisions about future vehicle investments,” said Jay Stearns, Franklin’s Fleet Manager. “With these new tools, we’re better equipped to serve residents, operate efficiently, and reduce our environmental impact.”

For the 2025 fiscal year, MIIA awarded $1 million to fund over 150 grant requests from members for public safety activities and equipment. Municipalities were able to conduct HVAC evaluations, purchase confined space safety equipment, and conduct boiler and water loss prevention measures, among many other initiatives.

“This grant is about real-world impact – helping municipalities reduce claims, safeguard municipal assets, and protect workers,” said Stan Corcoran, MIIA Executive Vice President. “Helping our members build safer communities is central to MIIA’s mission, and we’re pleased to support Franklin as it strengthens efforts to prevent losses and protect both employees and residents.”

MIIA is a membership service of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. As a mission-driven, member-led nonprofit, MIIA focuses on providing Massachusetts municipalities and other governmental entities with insurance coverage alternatives, quality risk management, and wellness programs.

For over four decades, MIIA has proudly supported its members in their efforts to build stronger communities, foster safer work environments, and implement programs that promote the health and well-being of their employees. For more information, visit www.emiia.org and www.mma.org.


Thursday, October 2, 2025

Franklin Fire Dept announce receipt of FEMA grant for training

Franklin Fire Dept announce receipt of FEMA grant for training
Franklin Fire Dept announce receipt of FEMA grant for training
Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) posted Mon, Sep 29, 2025:


The Franklin Fire Department is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a $119,023.63 grant through the @fema Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  These funds will be used for training. 


shared from -> https://t.co/wXM6oLTbq4


Friday, August 29, 2025

Bi-County Collaborative Awarded More Than $420,000 in State Grants to Strengthen Literacy Instruction Across All Grade Levels

Bi-County Collaborative is pleased to announce that it has received more than $420,000 in competitive state grants to expand access to high-quality English Language Arts (ELA) instruction and professional development for teachers.

BICO was awarded $294,000 through the state's PRISM II grant program to support early literacy instruction in grades K-3, and an additional $127,500 through the PRISM III program for literacy instruction in grades 4-12.

From left, Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, BICO Professional Development and Curriculum Specialist Ann Buckley, DESE ELA/Literacy Content Specialist Octavia Nixon, Department of Early Education and Care Early Literacy Practice Specialist Jennifer Crandell, Bi-County Collaborative Executive Director Jeanne Sullivan, and DESE ELA/Literacy Content Specialist Lori McNally at the Literacy Launch event at the Easthampton Public Library on Aug. 18. (Photo Courtesy Bi-County Collaborative)
From left, Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, BICO Professional Development and Curriculum Specialist Ann Buckley, DESE ELA/Literacy Content Specialist Octavia Nixon, Department of Early Education and Care Early Literacy Practice Specialist Jennifer Crandell, Bi-County Collaborative Executive Director Jeanne Sullivan, and DESE ELA/Literacy Content Specialist Lori McNally at the Literacy Launch event at the Easthampton Public Library on Aug. 18. (Photo Courtesy Bi-County Collaborative)


These substantial awards, part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration's multiyear investment in literacy education, will allow BICO to purchase brand-new, high-quality instructional materials for students in all grade levels and provide extensive professional development for educators.

"This funding is transformative for our Collaborative," said Ann Buckley, the Professional Development and Curriculum Specialist for BICO. "It ensures our students have access to rigorous, high-quality instructional materials, while also giving our teachers the time, resources, and coaching they need to strengthen instruction. Ultimately, it's about equity and making sure every student, regardless of background or disability status, has access to the same level of opportunity."

With the PRISM II grant, BICO will roll out HMH Into Reading as its new K-5 ELA curriculum. The PRISM III grant will fund the adoption of StudySync for grades 6-12. Both selections were made last year after a collaborative vetting process involving BICO educators, with support from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and its high-quality instructional materials curriculum evaluation networks.

The grant funds will also cover costs for staff participation in professional development and curriculum planning, including substitute coverage and teacher stipends for work beyond the school day; support instructional coaching from The New Teacher Project; and provide long-term investment in curriculum materials, with funding supporting a four-year adoption cycle.

Through these initiatives, BICO will strengthen early literacy instruction, enhance high school literature studies, and close achievement gaps by ensuring equitable access to world-class materials and teaching practices.

"These grants represent a significant investment in our students and educators, and we are extremely grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for this funding," said Executive Director Jeanne Sullivan. "They will allow us to expand access to the very best instructional tools and practices, while also providing the time and support teachers need to make them successful in the classroom. This work strengthens literacy from the earliest grades through high school and will have a lasting impact on achievement and equity across our Collaborative."

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Bob & I review the COA Letter and reveal the town records on the position funding (audio)

FM #1489 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1489 in the series. 


This session shares my conversation with Robert (Bob) Kaufman, member of the Council on Aging which oversees the Senior Center in an advisory capacity. We had our discussion on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 in the Franklin TV & Radio Studio.

 

We talk about 

  • The circumstances that created the situation

  • The points of the COA Letter

  • Rebuttal or alternate explanations for the points of the letter


The point of our conversation was to more fully explain the details around the letter and ensure that we could have a better and civil discussion. While this happened this year, given the financial situation of the town, we will likely see this again. We, the collective "we", need to determine how "we" are going to solve our budget problem.


The recording runs about 59 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1489-coa-letter-robert-kaufman-07-30-25/



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History of the grants and Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE)
History of the grants and Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE)
Robert’s email -> bobkaufman@msn.com 


COA Letter as discussed -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/07/franklin-council-on-aging-letter-to.html 


History of the grants and Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE) funding for the cook and nurse from 2010 through 2017 when the Town budget provided the funding https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iOz6F1W9Rq-H67C2jmhthNNPL7GZCyMQ/view?usp=drive_link 



To save some from searching, Bob did struggle to recall the name of the last Republican Mayor of Chicago -> a source of the history for “Big Bill” Thompson is available https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Hale_Thompson 



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

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"