This Chalkboard Chat summarizes 3 School Committee meetings for you (audio)

FM #1821 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1821 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chair Paul Griffith.  We had our discussion virtually via Zoom on Thursday, September 10, 2026. 

Our conversation covered the following topics from the School Committee meetings of August 11, August 25, and September 8, 2026.

Across the 3 meetings we covered the following topics:

• Lifeline learning activities for summer

• Hiring status

• Transportation update

• Handbook and policies updated

• District Improvement Plan reviewed, feedback provided

Our conversation runs about 35 minutes. Let’s listen

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-11821-chalkboard-chat-09-10-26/

Video link - https://youtu.be/l46DPWd-lGs

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August 11 meeting recap & links

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/08/school-committee-gets-multiple-updates_0343394204.html 

August 25 meeting recap & links

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/08/school-committee-welcomes-new_01995812623.html 

September 8 meeting recap & links

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/09/school-committee-gets-insights-on.html 

School Committee page (with contact info) - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/school-committee 

School Committee subcommittee assignments - 

https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/subcommittees-and-liaisons 

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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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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Town of Franklin: Now Hiring - Licensed Electrician

Now Hiring: Licensed Electrician

The Town of Franklin is seeking a Licensed Electrician to join the Facilities Department.

💰 $34.43–$39.44/hour + union incentives

📅 Priority deadline: September 18

Read the full job description and learn how to apply: https://buff.ly/kmyKFn6

The Franklin DPW is hiring Heavy Motor Equipment Operators

We’re Hiring!

The Franklin DPW is hiring Heavy Motor Equipment Operators (HMEOs) to join our team.

These full-time positions involve equipment operation, road and grounds maintenance, snow removal, and supporting DPW operations throughout the Town.

💰 $26.82–$30.18/hour, plus union contract incentives

📅 Priority deadline: September 25

Interested? 

View the full job description and application information: 

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/7808/L3--HMEO-Heavy-Motor-Equipment-Operator

School Committee welcomes new administrators, approves handbook changes, gets updates on hiring, transportation & facility projects (audio)

FM #1807 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1807 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 of the 7 members were present; 1 participated remotely (O'Sullivan) (hence all votes were via roll call), 1 member absent (Callaghan).

Quick recap

• New administrators and Central office personnel were introduced and photos taken to share with the community

• Human Resources provided a hiring update, in a better position now with 17 openings than the prior 3 years, some of the openings are in the process of being fulfilled

• Review of the changes to the school handbooks for the high school, middle school, elementary and ECDC. Mostly minor changes at the lower levels, some key changes for the upper grades

• Later in the meeting, the handbooks were approved so they will be distributed electronically to all the parents and families

• Update on Transportation, only 40 on the waitlist, approx 280 had been on the waitlist, some having moved within the district or into the district but the majority simply missed the registration deadline in June

• bus schedules and routes are posted to the Schools page  https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/transportation/

• bus passes will be distributed by the schools when they open, elementary students will get a tag for their backpacks, middle and high school will get the standard pass

• Update on facility projects, some completed across the district some still in process, some funded but scheduled for later in the school year or next summer due to potential disruption of the school operations

• Committee entered Executive Session not to return to open meeting

Let’s listen (approx. 2 hours & 30 minutes)

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1807-school-cmte-mtg-08-25-26/

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Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOqCiAbY_s4 

The agenda doc - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08252026-2467

My complete set of notes captured during the meeting

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HWfAJ6oObFg475FYzqh8NS-TjQ3poSit/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo album of the handbook updates  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Ggp9R1C5182HgZY58 

Photo album of the Transportation update

https://photos.app.goo.gl/HwiGhfnd4DcgfNQn8 

Photo album of the Facility updates

https://photos.app.goo.gl/8RnTJnVhvbCK9oMt6 

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

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"

Metacomet Emergency Communications Center is hiring Full-Time Public Safety Telecommunicator II positions

WE’RE HIRING! 

Ready for a career where what you do matters?

 

Metacomet Emergency Communications Center is hiring Full-Time Public Safety Telecommunicator II positions!

💰 $27.45/hr during training → $28.84/hr after training

🏥 70/30 health insurance

💵 Retention bonus + $15/shift differential

🎉 12 paid holidays + double time on Thanksgiving & Christmas

🌴 Vacation & personal days

Answer the call. Make a difference. Join our team!

Apply today: https://easyapply.co/a/7948deb2-62d1-47b9-9d97-7938e214f0a4

School Committee gets multiple updates on summer learning, transportation, etc. in 1 hour meeting 08/11/26 (audio)

FM #1804 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1804 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 members of the Committee participated, 6 in person, 1 remote. 

Quick recap

• The Superintendent Report provides updates on multiple items; planning for Sept, transportation, hiring status (positions open, a better view to be provided next time), work on facilities progressing. Ms Melotti out on maternity leave, Dr Bob Dutch back to fill in while she is out, important school start dates on webpage - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/school-calendars/ 

• Joint presentation and updates on summer learning from Student Services and Lifelong Learning. Slides shown were captured in one photo album https://photos.app.goo.gl/7BGZeLN2QWEezqFw7 

• Annual report submission approved, minor formatting remains to be done by the Town as the annual report book is prepared for publication

• The 2nd reading on the restraint policy was approved as amended by the Policy Subcmte meeting prior

• Consent agenda was also approved. All votes, by the way, were via roll call and passed 7-0

Let’s listen (approx. 39 minutes)

audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1804-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-08-11-26/

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Franklin TV video is available - https://www.youtube.com/live/VMpYB91A8Fw?&t=27 

The Agenda document - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08112026-2448 

My notes captured during the meeting in one PDF 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hvmIVrFX0EwMzsGCAbVXWcNqeu2T-DO8/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 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"

Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC) is hiring Public Safety Telecommunicators in Norfolk, MA

WE’RE HIRING FULL-TIME Public Safety Telecommunicators II

Ready to turn your ability to stay calm under pressure into a career that makes a difference? 

👇Use the link below to apply! 

https://www.meccdispatch.org/1201/Full-Time-Job-Posting

**New contract for fiscal year 27 & 28 currently being negotiated**

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/19JftBw9Wf/

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What is the Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC) ??

From the Town Administrator's FY 2027 Budget narrative, each department's story is worth sharing.

General Purpose

The Town of Franklin, Wrentham, Norfolk, Plainville, Mendon and Millville (In FY21 the Mendon-Millville Regional Center signed a merger with the MECC to consolidate costs. After this merger, the MECC still has additional capacity for another 10-20,000 in population) have joined together to establish a regional district to operate and maintain a consolidated District-wide public safety communications/dispatch center that will be known as the Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC).

Core Functions

● The MECC has a Board of Directors which serves as the governing and administrative body and has overall responsibility for the District. The Town Administrator serves as the Chair of the Board being the largest community in the district.

● The District employs a MECC Director who has overall responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the MECC and serves as the Chief Administrative and Fiscal Officer.

● There is an Operations Committee that comprises the Chiefs of the Fire and Police Departments (or their designee) of each member town.

 

Continue reading about the MECC - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/05/fy-2027-budget-narrative-metacomet.html

Franklin Police Dept: Now Hiring: Co-Response Clinician

The Franklin Police Department is seeking a compassionate, licensed (or license-eligible) mental health professional to join our team as a Co-Response Clinician.

In this rewarding role, you'll partner directly with Franklin Police officers to respond to calls for service, provide on-scene crisis intervention, conduct clinical assessments, connect individuals and families with community resources, and help improve outcomes during behavioral health emergencies.

🕒 Schedule:

Wednesday–Friday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (40 hours/week; schedule subject to change)

💰 Salary: $71,000–$85,000 annually

We're looking for someone with:

✔ Master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field

✔ 2+ years of crisis intervention experience

✔ Experience working with law enforcement and knowledge of the Co-Response model

✔ Strong communication, collaboration, and crisis management skills

📅 Priority Application Deadline: August 8, 2026

📧 How to Apply:

Email your resume and cover letter (or a Town of Franklin employment application) in Microsoft Word or PDF format to apply@franklinma.gov with "Co-Response Clinician" in the subject line.

Join us in making a meaningful difference by connecting individuals in crisis with the care and resources they need while helping keep our community safe.

A full job description and posting can be found here: 

https://franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9240/Co-Response-Clinician

Franklin Public Schools are hiring for multiple positions

Franklin Public Schools

We're Hiring!!

See our job postings and find the application info here: https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/employment-opportunities

a sample of the postings listed as of July 22, 2026

The Franklin Food Pantry is hiring to meet the rising need of the community

Via the Franklin Food Pantry newsletter:

"We're Hiring! Join The Pantry's Operations Team

Demand for food assistance in our community is at an all-time high, and we are working hard to continuously meet that rising need. To support our growing operations and ensure we can get more food to more people, we are looking to hire two paid positions:

Program Expansion Manager: This role will support our new expansion initiatives aimed at increasing access for individuals and families across our community.

Support Services Coordinator: This role will support the daily operations of The Pantry through active, hands-on work and closely collaborate with our wonderful team of volunteers.

If you are interested in either position, please review the job descriptions by clicking on the links above and emailing a cover letter and resume to Lisa Ryan, Star HR Consulting, lisa@starhrconsulting.com."

The Town of Franklin is Looking to hire a Deputy Town Administrator

The Town of Franklin is seeking an experienced and collaborative leader to join our team as Deputy Town Administrator.

This executive leadership role works closely with the Town Administrator to support municipal operations, lead strategic initiatives and special projects, and collaborate with department leaders to advance the Town's priorities and deliver exceptional public service.

💼 Salary: $170,000–$200,000, commensurate with experience

📅 Priority application deadline: July 17, 2026 

Learn more about the position and apply at: https://buff.ly/uBQvoy6

Franklin Public Schools will be hiring school nurses and a variety of other school positions

https://www.franklinps.net/page/employment-opportunities

Shared from - https://www.franklinps.net/page/employment-opportunities

As of June 19, 2026, the open positions:

https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/postings

Grove Street Auto Repair is expanding and hiring !!!

Via Grove St Auto:

"Grove Street Auto Repair is expanding again! Our newest adventure will be in Walpole, MA. It is funny how life goes in circles sometimes. Our dad (Bob Weidman) worked in Walpole at Kendall Mills, so this is kind of like coming home! We can't wait to bring him to the new shop, Patriot Auto Service, on Rt 1A and drive around the area with him to reminisce about his experiences.

PS We are HIRING! See the post below for more information and reach out if you or someone you know might be interested. It is an awesome place to work!"

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"Opening July 1st!! WE ARE HIRING! If you are an ASE technician looking to work for a growing company with proven processes and all the best equipment, and willing to invest in our team, send our GM an email!

Chris@grovestreettt.com

No resume? That's okay. Just include some info about your experience in your message and Chris will reach out to you. We are part of the Grove Street Auto Group based in Franklin where our original shop has been service the Franklin area since 1998. To learn more about Grove Street Auto Repair, visit their website at https://www.grovestreettt.com/about-us.

We are looking forward to serving the Walpole community."

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1BJSG6a5Mt/

The Town of Franklin is hiring a carpenter. Maybe this is a position you can nail!

We're looking for someone who knows the drill and can level with us.

The Town of Franklin is hiring a Carpenter to help build, repair, and maintain the facilities that keep our community running.

From schools and municipal buildings to community spaces, your work will leave a lasting impact on the places people rely on every day.

Build more than buildings — build community.

• Full-Time Position (40 hours/week)
• $34.43–$39.44/hour, plus union contract incentives
• Apply by July 3, 2026
• View the full job description and qualifications here: https://buff.ly/KzHjutY 

If you're someone who can hammer out solutions, takes pride in quality workmanship, and is looking for work that's a cut above the rest, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today by emailing your resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov with "Carpenter" in the subject line.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1FFhN7MeWu/