Talking about the summer reading blitz and "Meet Me in the Middle" (audio)

FM #1463 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1463 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation about the Summer Reading Blitz and the middle school program “Meet Me in the Middle.”  We talk with Erin O’Leary and Caleigh Keating, the collaborators who fill in the details on summer reading efforts for readers of all ages. We recorded this conversation virtually on Thursday, May 29, 2025. 

• Caleigh Keating, Youth Services Librarian

• Erin O’Leary, Reading Specialist at Horace Mann Middle School

We cover the following in our conversation

• Library events for the June school half days

• Reading program sign up for grades 0-6, teens, and adults

• Middle school “Meet Me in the Middle” reading program

• The middle school will begin in September with some common points around reading (the 6 books)

The recording runs about 37 minutes

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1463-summer-reading-blitz-05-29-25/

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Franklin Public Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Meet Me in the Middle info page ->  https://www.franklinps.net/o/hmms/article/2230185 

Erin O’Leary email address -> olearye@franklinps.net 

Caleigh Keating email address -> ckeating@minlib.net 

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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!

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Talking about the summer reading blitz and "Meet Me in the Middle" (audio)

Voices of Franklin: Town Councilor Glenn Jones says "get out to vote June 3" (video)

Voting for the special election on June 3, 2025 is from 6 AM to 8 PM at Franklin High School.

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDCFQJyEfQU

If you have something to say, you can find the guidelines here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html

Voices of Franklin: Town Councilor Glenn Jones says "get out to vote June 3" (video)

High School Experience Franklin register now before price increase June 11

HSE Franklin (@HseFranklin) posted  Thu, May 08, 2025:

HSE is Aug 5 & 6. 

Register before the price increase on June 11. Register at https://t.co/DqlvmzxqTA   (or directly to https://reg.learningstream.com/view/cal4a.aspx?ek=&ref=&aa=0&sid1=0&sid2=0&as=79&wp=413&tz=0&ms=0&nav=0&cc=0&cat1=0&cat2=0&cat3=0&aid=FPSLLI&rf=&pn=0)

@RMS_Remdawgs @HMMSLightning @sullythehusky @FranklinHS @FPSLearning @FHSPantherbook @FranklinMatters @FranklinPSNews @FPSHealthPE @franklinpolice

 

shared from -> 

https://x.com/HseFranklin/status/1920532315211489527

 Video link ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOOosJD4sI4

State Representative Roy Renews Call for Early College Programs in the Commonwealth

In March, State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) participated in and spoke at an Early College Legislative Briefing at the State House in Boston.  The annual event brought together about 400 school students and program partners from across the Commonwealth.  

A persistent advocate for Early College, Representative Roy re-empathized his goal of making college in high school one of his legislative priorities as it will provide exceptional educational opportunities for students to get a credential beyond a diploma while still in high school. Rep. Roy is further supporting these by filing House Bill 1455 “An Act relative to college in high school.”

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy advocating for early college

Early College in High School integrates college courses into high school curriculums, providing students the ability to choose to kickstart their college careers through well-rounded classes. This program has helped close achievement gaps in low-income families sand aided students in  attaining their goals without any additional cost to the student’s families. This program was launched in 2018, and since its inception has bolstered the education of about 8,237 students according to Mass.gov’s statistics. This has led to increased enrollment in higher education with a rise of about 20% more students enrolling in college in comparison to students who do not utilize the classes provided by the Early College Program. 

“Students who participate in this fully structured program receive enhanced academic and guidance support that allows them to graduate high school with a significant number of college credits already completed,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).  “These students enter college with well-established study habits and skills that give them the confidence to know that they can succeed in college regardless of any socio-economic challenges that they may face. Low- income students who participated in Early College high school programs are twice as likely to complete post-secondary degrees.”

Early college credits benefit not only individual students but the health and vigor of the Commonwealth as well. In Massachusetts, median wages for full-time employees are 67% higher for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and 28% higher for associate degree holders than for high school graduates.  Families that thrive financially in Massachusetts pave the way for the success of each successive generation, potentially lifting entire communities out of poverty.

Rep. Roy added, “We must build on our success to date and provide even more robust college in high school experiences throughout the Commonwealth. H.1455 provides robust opportunities for students -- no matter their background or identity -- to take college courses in high school, engage in self-discovery, and develop a mindset for success. And we will continue to pursue these opportunities to give our students what they need to succeed.”

H1455 -> https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1455

Additional photos courtesy of the MA Alliance for Early College ->  https://photos.app.goo.gl/wVngBZhgmzTMk3579

Registration for the High School Experience for the FHS Class of 2029 is open (video)

Attention FHS Class of 2029: Join us at the HSE August 5 & 6. 

Register at https://t.co/DqlvmzxqTA 

@RMS_Remdawgs @HMMSLightning @sullythehusky @FranklinHS @FPSLearning @FHSPantherbook @FranklinMatters @FranklinPSNews @FPSHealthPE @franklinpolice 

Video link -> https://t.co/Ia4nsVW6eQ

Shared from -> https://x.com/HseFranklin/status/1894798346725810681

Franklin School Committee hears concerns from teachers before vote to approve FY 2026 budget (video)

The Franklin School Committee conducted their meeting Tuesday, Feb 11, 2025 at Council Chambers with all 7 members present.  The major item on the agenda was the vote on the Superintendent's Recommended budget for FY 2026.

The Franklin TV video is available for replay here -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfqefUMtloU&t=51

The agenda doc can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/School-Committee-35/?#_02112025-1571 

Quick recap:

• The Keller Student Council stepped forward to lead the Pledge of Allegiance to open the meeting
• During the Superintendent's report, there was recognition of 4 FHS musicans who were selected to the All-State Music Fesitval; Emma Anderson (French horn), Ace Eagerman (string bass), Alex Fioavanti (?) and Emily Lou, (violin)
• During the discussion prior to the vote on the budget, a number of teachs from elementary, middle, and high school stepped up to comment
• on the decline of funding over the years
• the impact on the students and their educational development
• affects on college prep with a limit on foreign language options less than optimal
• and not talked off impacts to the new schedule at both elementary & middle levels while individual classes size is maintained within guidelines,the teacher work load increases
• The committee did vote 7-0 on the proposed budget, I assume it is possible to make further adjustments (as hoped for by some of the teachers) given the position we are in for this budget cycle
• The budget as approved does assume a successful  override althoughthat decision remains before the Town Council at a March meeting, after the listening session are completed. Date and amount of override to be determined
• School calendar for the 2025-2026 year was approved. It does start after Labor Day this year to enable the move to be completed. Resumption of pre-Labor Day start is expected for the next school year
• Discussion on a draft of the School Committee meeting calendar covered multiple topics mostly around the local election in November and to prepare for a new committee to be able to transition into their new role more easily than prior
• Motion to enter into Executive session, not to return to public meeting for contract negotiation discussions

My notes in one PDF doc

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xUU7zppEaNgj9xN442EdbZnFvnqI3VSM/view?usp=drive_link

slide from brief update on the FY 2026 school budget

Youth mountain biking club schedules Info Session at Library, Feb 25 at 6:30 PM

Youth mountain biking club schedules Info Session 

Bet you didn't know there's a youth mountain biking club here in Franklin. Minuteman Junior Cycling Club is for anyone in Grades 5-12.

Info session for the 2025 season - Franklin Public Library on February 25.

Lots of info can be found here in the meantime (including 2025 sign-up instructions): https://bit.ly/MJCCmtb

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ULaEER3mB/

SAFE's new Online Substance Use Diversion Program for Teens

Substance Use Diversion Program for Teens

"Now enrolling! ​SAFE's new online substance use diversion program for teens. 

This FREE online course helps teens understand the dangers of substance use while building wellness, communication, and critical thinking skills.  

It's also a DESE-compliant alternative to school suspension for students caught with, at risk of, or suspected of substance use."

Register for the program -> https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=R0ysOLz4-Uuq3ZCESNyzUv0MvrvIDCJBgB3_cgjbgUNUNDJWMEw5SkdCTEpSQjNKTVhWRldNNE9aTCQlQCN0PWcu

Sharfed from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1WbPiGibyh/ 

Attention Middle and High School Students: Join Pantry Elves and Help Raise Funds for the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry, which provides supplemental food and household necessities, invites middle and high school students to volunteer for the Pantry Elves campaign!  

Join Pantry Elves

Since 2005, hundreds of students have participated in this holiday-inspired campaign, which has evolved into one of The Pantry's largest fundraising events of the year. The annual campaign has been instrumental in raising funds to fight food insecurity during the holiday season and throughout the year.  

This year, Pantry Elves will fundraise electronically from their friends and family members and will not canvass neighborhoods. Donations, which will be used to purchase fresh produce, dairy, meats and proteins, and household necessities, will be sent directly to The Pantry.  

Pantry Elves registration is open through December 2, 2024, and volunteers will receive 12 hours of community service.

To register, visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-involved/volunteer/pantryelves, or contact Jen Johnson, Development Associate Franklin Food Pantry, at jjohnson@franklinfoodpantry.org. 

Attention Middle & High School Students: Join the Pantry Elves and Help Raise Funds for the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry, which provides supplemental food and household necessities, invites middle and high school students to volunteer for the Pantry Elves campaign!

Join the Pantry Elves

Since 2005, hundreds of students have participated in this holiday-inspired campaign, which has evolved into one of The Pantry’s largest fundraising events of the year. The annual campaign has been instrumental in raising funds to fight food insecurity during the holiday season and throughout the year.

This year, Pantry Elves will fundraise electronically from their friends and family members and will not canvass neighborhoods. Donations, which will be used to purchase fresh produce, dairy, meats and proteins, and household necessities, will be sent directly to The Pantry.

Pantry Elves registration is open through December 2, 2024, and volunteers will receive 12 hours of community service. 

To register, visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-involved/volunteer/pantryelves, or contact Jen Johnson, Development Associate Franklin Food Pantry, at jjohnson@franklinfoodpantry.org.

Tri-County construction underway

Tri-County construction underway

via Tri-County Regional Voc Tech HS 

"Phase 1 of our new school construction is officially underway!  

This marks the beginning of a transformative journey towards creating a state-of-the-art learning environment for our students.

Stay tuned for updates as we build a brighter future, one brick at a time!"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DAqi_q5JNTn/

Fall 2024 High School Fair scheduled for Sep 19 at 5 PM (for 8th graders)

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School is pleased to announce the date for our Fall 2024 High School Fair which will be held on September 19th from 5:00pm to 6:00 pm in the BFCCPS Learning Commons located at 500 Financial Park.  

Sep 19 at 5 PM

The event is open to 8th grade students both at BFCCPS and from local schools as well. Please note that a parent or guardian must accompany all students for the duration of the event.

Students are invited to pick up brochures and applications, ask about fall open house dates and speak directly with representatives and current students of the schools that will be in attendance.

Parking for the event is available in the school parking lot. Please note driving directions to the facility here on our website. (https://www.bfccps.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=529636&type=d&termREC_ID=&pREC_ID=1013734)

You can view this sheet to see what schools have RSVP'd to attend ​​​​​​​(please note that this list will update as additional schools RSVP between now and the event.)

Shared from -> https://www.bfccps.org/apps/events/event.jsp?eREC_ID=4358672&d=2024-09-19&id=0

Franklin TV is looking for high school sports announcers

Franklin.TV (@FranklinTV12) posted on Fri, Aug 16, 2024:

Are you a #franklinsports buff? 

Do you have #pantherpride? 

Franklin TV needs your voice this upcoming fall!

Email cflynn@franklin.tv to get involved! https://t.co/YifEUtOsPF

Franklin.TV is looking for high school sports announcers

Shared from -> https://x.com/FranklinTV12/status/1824506637740101878

HSE Franklin registration is open for the Class of 2028

HSE Franklin is High School Experience; the introductory program for rising 9th graders enter Franklin High School in September 2024.

"HSE for the Class of 2028 is 3 months away! August 6 & 7. 

Register at https://t.co/DqlvmzxqTA 

@RMS_Remdawgs @HMMSLightning @sullythehusky @FranklinHS @FPSLearning @FHSPantherbook @FranklinMatters @FranklinPSNews @FPSHealthPE @franklinpolice"

Shared from -> https://twitter.com/HseFranklin/status/1786051855702745300

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3-Xyacb8RE

Reminder: Virtual Youth Town Hall on Monday Night, Nov 12 scheduled by Senator Rausch

View this email in your browser A quick reminder for 8th grade and high school students to please join me and my team at our virtual Youth Town Hall this coming Monday, November 13 at 7pm.  This Youth Town Hall is a unique opportunity for young people in our district to discuss their top-of-mind issues directly with me and my staff. This not only provides a real opportunity for youth to engage in the democratic process, but also helps to inform my legislative work.   When: Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7pm Where: Zoom | REGISTER HERE This event is open exclusively to 8th grade and high school students living or studying in Bellingham, Dover, Franklin, Medfield, Milford, Millis, Needham, Norfolk, Plainville, Sherborn, and Wrentham. Know any students interested in politics or community engagement? Please invite them! If you have any questions, please email Aidan Doherty, District Director, at aidan.doherty@masenate.gov Yours in service,  ​   Senator Becca Rausch    Sign up for a 15-minute appointment here Our mailing address is: The Office of Senator Becca Rausch Massachusetts State House, Room 215 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133