Franklin Public Schools has secured $150,000 in state earmarked funding and a competitive innovation grant to support the redesign and modernization of the Franklin Middle School library and STEM space.
The funding, secured with the advocacy of state Rep. Jeff Roy, will help transform the current library into a Library and Innovation Commons.
The district also received an Inventionland Education Innovation Grant, which will support efforts to create a learning environment focused on creativity, innovation, makerspace experiences, group collaboration, and project-based learning.
The earmarked funding and grant will allow the district to redesign the space into a modern learning hub for students while also serving as a welcoming space for school and community engagement.
"Through the advocacy of Representative Roy and the support of the Inventionland Education Innovation Grant, we have a meaningful opportunity to reimagine the Franklin Middle School library as a dynamic learning environment for students," said Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Tina Rogers. "Our goal is to create a flexible space where students can collaborate, explore ideas, and engage in hands-on learning that connects across subject areas."
Over the coming months, students and staff will be invited to share input as the district develops plans for the redesigned space to ensure the new Library and Innovation Commons supports both classroom instruction and student-driven learning.
District administrators credit Elizabeth Morrison, Director of English Language Arts and Social Studies, and Eric Stark, Director of STEM, for their leadership in advancing the project.
"Creating spaces that encourage curiosity, creativity, and collaboration is an important part of supporting innovative teaching and learning," Dr. Rogers said. "We are grateful for the support that is helping make this work possible."
