Franklin TV: Somewhere In Between Or – Why Do I Feel Undressed?

Via Pete Fasciano - 06-13-2021

As I approach [Store Name – Home Depot, Target, CVS] I stop halfway across the parking lot. Turn around and head back to the car. Again.

Forgot my mask. We are at an in-between time where COVID mandates and rules have softened to become guidelines, recommendations – courtesies. While things are getting better and optimism is on the rise, so is confusion. Do I still mask?

To mask, or not to mask – that – is the question:

Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer 

the slings and arrows of outrageous infection, 

Or to take arms against a sea of virus

And by masking – end them.

To live— to weep

for those now lost upon the shoals of sorry happenstance 

and doubt in science that hath shielded us

as guide – to light our pathway out.

We are in the churlish waters of change as our new normal envelopes us. Although I’m fully vaxxed, I keep a mask with me – as a courtesy where socially appropriate. If it makes others feel more comfortable, I’m good with it. A social grace.

We’re continuing to rework our facility to better accommodate how programs will be produced in a future that still carries some unknowns, and we continue to adapt. We adapted our way in. We adapt our way back out. Reopening does not mean simply unlocking the front door. Our Community room will now support hybrid Zoom meetings as an option for our guest groups. Our radio programs will as well. There will also be production practices yet to be defined in our TV studios.

The world is forever changed. We’re just not quite certain as to how. But, with change comes opportunity. We intend to find it and seize it. At the moment, we may be ‘in between’, but we are looking and leaning forward.

And –  as always –

Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm.

And, thank you for watching. 

Get this week's program guide for Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online

http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  or for archive purposes

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Iqpyhn4Gj022BrfvWB7y3MtkXIgVmLkl/view?usp=sharing

Franklin TV: Somewhere In Between Or –  Why Do I Feel Undressed?  

Recap: School Committee meeting, May 25, 2021

Quick Recap:

• After a brief audio issues, those in the Council Chambers couldn't hear folks on Zoom (but we could), the FHS students presented their updates
• Slight decrease in MA Senate version of Chap 70 but they still need to vote on it and then the House reconcile before it goes to Gov Baker for his approval, good news is no major change at this point
• Multiple retirees recognized virtually "it was a tough year to be your last" 
• Policies up for second reading were approved, one policy approve for elimination as no longer needed (made redundant by others in place)
• New website for SWAC https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net
• Consent agenda approved, Executive Session entered  

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcom0511

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0525&src=typeahead_click 

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/BKFnD14AkxYgddia8

 

The agenda doc includes connection info

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_5-25-21.pdf

 

The meeting packet folder containing the documents released for this session

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/may-25-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

 

• Getting ready for the #schcom0525 meeting tonight agenda contains connection info https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_5-25-21.pdf
• Audio in the Council Chambers is not working, we hear them, they can't hear us. #schcom0525
• Audio resolved, FHS students providing updates #schcom0525

Superintendent Updates 

• School district prepared to support students and families affected by the fire on Monday. #schcom0525
• MA Senate budget released chap 70 funding, slight decrease in aid for Senate but will still need to go through deliberation and then reconciliation with House. No major changes this far. #schcom0525
• Mike D'Angelo to present to MA sch building group on healthy buildings re: the UVGA units installed #schcom0525 Does VLA have anything in end of school year planned, highlight coming to meeting soon ? Yes, options but nothing in person

recognition of retirees 

• Now recognition of retirees by school #schcom0525 list of retirees https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/retiree_list.xlsx.pdf
• Chair Bergen acknowledges "it was a tough year to be your last" #schcom0525 "don't forget how much you mattered"

discussion action items 

• Moving to discussion action items: policies for action, second read https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-policy-2nd-read #schcom0525 Motion to accept, second, passes 7-0 via roll call
• Policy elimination https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-b-policy-elim #schcom0525 no longer needed, replaced by other policies. Motion to approve, second, passes 6-0-1 (D'Angelo no answer) via roll call

Reopening status 

• Reopening status, exams at FHS are challenges #schcom0525 https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/reopening-status-update-5-21-21 Cleaning practices won't change
• DESE has not yet provided guidance for fall, are planning for in person 3-foot distancing, summer school under current guidance #schcom0525 exploring a vaccine clinic locally, stay tuned for info

Information Matters 

• Info matters: budget hearing at Town Council Weds/Thurs this week. Community relations did not meet, posters made to be shared, adhoc meeting Jun 1, policy meeting Jun 17; last joint PCC meeting yesterday, #schcom0525
• New website for SWAC #schcom0525 https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net
• July 27 date changes to workshop from 4-8 in training room #schcom0525 Communications update next meeting, Consent agenda, motion to approve, second, passes 7-0 via roll call
• Motion to enter executive session, not to return to public meeting, second, passes 7-0 via roll #schcom0525 That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

 

Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

 

Pantherbook: Girl Up club leads “A Discussion on Gender Equality" ; FHS switches to 'in person' learning Apr 12

"On Thursday, March 25, students met through the Girl Up club for “A Discussion on Gender Equality.” The meeting was led by Girl Up Teen Advisor Angelina Perez.

The meeting drew local participants as well as Girl Up members from LA, the British Virgin Islands, Syracuse, and Washington D.C.

The discussion started with the simple question, “How have you been impacted by sexism or misogyny?”  

High Schoolers from Franklin and around the country met over Zoom to discuss gender equality. Photo used with permission from Angelina Perez

Quickly, the floodgates opened and girls shared deeply personal stories."

Continue reading the article online

https://franklinpanthers.us/news/2021/03/31/girl-ups-profound-discussion-on-gender-equality/ 

April 12th is the finalized date for when Franklin High will be having nearly eighty percent of their students back in school. The CDC recently approved that it is safe for students to now be three feet apart in classrooms.

When talking to Mr. Hanna he explains how there are many different safety measures put in at FHS for not only the students, but the staff as well. There will be a maximum of twenty four desks per classroom all measured to be at least 3 feet apart, there will also always be six feet between a teacher and a student.

Continue reading the article online

https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2021/03/31/what-will-returning-back-to-fhs-look-like-now-three-feet-apart/

 

 

FHS switches to 'in person' learning Apr 12

FM #487 - School Committee Mtg - 03/09/21 - P3 of 3 (audio)

FM #487 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 487 in the series. 

This session shares part 3 of the Franklin, MA School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Mar 9, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: some of the School Committee members, Central Office personnel, and key guests were in the Council Chambers; the remainder, along with the public, were remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the just almost three hour meeting into three logical segments:

• First - covers the opening through the Keller Elementary presentation (approx. 39 minutes)
• Second - School Budget - first view- Supt Ahern and her staff walk through the budget highlights (approx. 53 mins)
• *** Third *** - from the return to in person learning plan through to the end of the public meeting (approx. 85 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to my notes. The meeting packet folder will hold the other documents released for the meeting.

Let’s listen to this segment of the School Committee meeting of Mar 9, 2021

Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2d6d06a5-1bad-4be2-bacc-ad2a58c87630

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Agenda doc   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_3-9-21.pdf 

Superintendent’s Report
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/superintendents_report_to_school_committee_march_9_2021.pdf 

Keller presentation doc   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/keller-presentation 

Recommended Budget  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/supt-rec-budget-3-9-21

Return to in person plan  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/person-presentation-3-9-21 

Meeting packet folder 
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/march-9-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet 

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/school-committee-recap-march-9-meeting.html 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

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" 

School Committee recap - March 9 meeting - Keller puts on a show before budget and reopening updates

Quick Recap:

• Keller kids helped to put on the showcase of what's happening at the school this pandemic year.
• Plans for the Davis Thayer transition to Keller underway, more updates as the work progresses
  
• First pass on the school budget reviewed. Time line shared for next steps as it develops. Numbers to be filled in as they come available.
  
• Reopening status updated to share the bringing back o in person, effectively doing away with hybrid. Working on bringing in the hybrid folks. Some flexibility at elementary level, more at middle school and less at high school for parents/students who are remote to come back in person. 
• Pool testing commenced across the district, still time to sign up for it. All negative results ts far. Contact tracing results also showed no in person transfer of COVID-19.
  

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/cJ8aV27DNSq2QanL8

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcom0309

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0309&src=typed_query

• I am getting ready for the School Committee meeting tonight at 7. Are you ready? Agenda doc has details and connection info #schcom0309 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_3-9-21.pdf
• All the options for watching, listening and/or participating tonight summarized here #schcom0309 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/school-committee-meeting-viewing-options.html
• Over 100 in Zoom session to start this meeting. #schcom0309
• The zoom session is working for me but not the live stream. Anyone else an issue? Any trouble with cable? #schcom0309
• Up to 190+ on the Zoom session. #schcom0309 DT and Keller transition underway, 1st meeting last week, lots of familiarity amongst team to work on draft to share later. Ah - an update via the live stream, there is video!
• Superintendent's report (fully published after the meeting, in some cases several days) #schcom0309 touts Sen Spilka's forum coming Mar 19. Links to be shared when available. Next up the Keller presentation
• The Keller presentation doc was shared before the meeting, you can follow along with this https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/keller-presentation #schcom0309
• Announcement to start the day helps at Keller #schcom0309
• Special edition in November recognized local veterans on Veterans Day. #schcom0309 tech helped extend the celebration beyond the 4 walls
• Work this year continues to develop the core values #schcom0309
• Grade level meetings when students are remote done regularly. #schcom0309
• Multiple students chimed in to share their thoughts as the presentation continues #schcom0309
• #schcom0309 more slides for more of the Keller kids to talk to
• Good last slide to share gratitude #schcom0309
• BTW up to 210+ via Zoom (also only 6 of the 7 members present tonight - D'Angelo absent) #schcom0309
• Now moving to the FY 22 budget update, first time to view the budget for next year. #schcom0309 doc to be posted after meeting (I.e. sometime Weds)
• Budget assumptions to start with #schcom0309
• Level service proposal would be close to Supt recommended amount, second slide gets into the investments required #schcom0309
• Digital learning integration would be part of going forward required #schcom0309
• BTW up to more than 220 via Zoom now. Cyber position would be split between town and schools #schcom0309
• With Dr Edwards retirement taking opportunity to fill and add role for curriculum for elementary and middle levels #schcom0309 (for district our size, long overdue) some funding for the facility master planning work to begin (perhaps redistricting)
• Expectations for staffing as it evolves on elementary level #schcom0309 watching carefully for population and class sizes
• Decline in enrollment has also resulted in teacher reductions over the years mostly incorporated as part of the annual moves/leaves/retirement etc #schcom0309
• Returning to full in person for 1700 students at FHS will be a budget issue, staffing in particular. #schcom0309
• #schcom0309 where would the revenue come from? Mostly State; Town to be filled in over next 2 weeks. Otherwise some further adjustments required. "It is a process"
• What's next for the budget? #schcom0309 slide depicts the timeline
• #schcom0309 classrooms instructional, change year to year? Not clear. No ELA curriculum across at elementary level, question if bandwidth. Math pilot to be expanded next year and then we could get to ELA. Q on tiered support for catching up re: COVID. To be packaged 4 next time
• #schcom0309 if 2 people replace Joyce and it is budget neutral, what about everything else she does? Under review, planning to include position and descriptions for next time. "If considered on per pupil basis, 75% if the districts spend more than we do... Are we ok with that?"
• "How do we get on a journey to get more to the average?" #schcom0309 The budget reflects our values. Did I share the pie slide? There is very little room in this for finding money to save.
• Also reflect on the changes in roles required to support education today. This is not your father's classroom. And oh by the way 40 some teachers were cut due to the decline in elementary enrollment over the years #schcom0309
• Motion and second on policy to second reading passes via roll call 6-0-1 ( no against, 1 absent). https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-policy-0 #schcom0309
• Next up capital budget request for Town approval via FinComm meeting Weds. #schcom0309 https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-b-capital Motion to approve, second, passes via roll call 6-0-1 (none against, 1 absent)
• #schcom0309 next up, reopening and return to full and in person would look like https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/reopening_schools_status_update_march_4_2020-2021_0.pdf
• It was a year ago this week that we shut down due to the onset of the pandemic. #schcom0309 middle school due back by 4/28, high school still TBD, therefore hybrid to be phased out as an option. Leverage this time to plan for summer and fall.
• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1svIwF6r5nFQGxafWgzyA055o9WnLc2bj/view
• Targeting to get a week in before the April break, also contingency to move furniture around, #schcom0309 are expecting 5 days fully in person; all this does depend upon some students to stay remote particularly at FHS
• What is still required? #schcom0309
• When both teacher and students masked, risk low... #schcom0309 other mitigations, pool testing, ventilation, air purifiers, etc.
• #schcom0309 co2 was already monitored building wide.
• #schcom0309 695 pool testing yesterday, all negative. Sign up by school per student, links available.
• Based upon contact tracing all exposure occurred outside the school #schcom0309
• #schcom0309 transportation guidance from DESE last month, bus windows about 2 inches for air exchange
• Lunches will vary building to building, some districts have gone with a shorter schedule and an early dismissal for a grab and go lunch. Stay tuned for what will be here. #schcom0309 kudos to the VLA teachers and the remarkable work they are doing
• No plan for another survey for elementary, if hybrid will come in, if remote will stay. Some classes remote are already large, so adjustments would be needed. Stricter attendance to be captured. #schcom0309 if space available may accommodate VLA students to come in
• Were planning for Apr 12 (state now says Apr 28), will be less flexible for attendance as with elementary, if remote so; if in, need to be, can't slide to remote. If sick, of course wouldn't be doing it anyway. #schcom0309 will survey middle school for the plan #s
• #schcom0309 (BTW still over 200 via zoom at this time) FHS has limitations with space, staffing, etc. 500 fully remote today, could bring some in but not all.
• #schcom0309 in general expectation for staff to be in person, with process for accommodation or leaves as necessary. Possible hiring for tutors and lunch monitoring, maybe additional teachers (VLA)
• Volunteer opportunities also. #schcom0309 most stored on site, some desks at DPW garage and these are all part of the active conversation.
• #schcom0309 1100+ students responses for hybrid survey, FHS to be surveyed again on collapsing the cohort
• Communications coming to VLA and others on how and where to make move if necessary. Reminder on class sizes. Can not accommodate 25 at elementary in class size with 3' distance. Not yet tracking teacher vaccinations, is covered by HIPPA and could be noted in summary
• Q on an individual quarantine? Level of detail not quite ready to get to yet, discussion yes, decisions not yet. Planning an 'attendance summit' to work on details and consistency around tracking and reporting. #schcom0309 info on volunteer to be folded into comms
• #schcom0309 discussion on furniture for use outside as the weather gets warmer. Tents, etc. The more pressure we can put to get vaccinations to distribute locally. Plan coming together, still need patience and grace.
• It is a team effort, want to note the principals and asst principals and getting the work done. Thank you. It is precarious with the variants about. #schcom0309 bus transportation sign up available on FPS page
• Q on MCAS, what about rumors about family opt out? New dates for elementary mid may to first week in June, 1 test day/subject/ day. Obligated to bring remote in for MCAS no remote options. It is a requirement, if they are absent, when the return they get tested #schcom0309
• There is no opt out for families for MCAS. #schcom0309 with dates sliding there is less flexibility in case of further interruptions. District sanctions? Less than 95% participation level affects report card. Currently suspended for this year.
• Info matters, budget Subcommittee video being worked on, meeting march 16 - 4:30; Legislative Forum last week, no next meeting yet #schcom0309 New business; budget hearing line item next time, more on reopening, position approvals as discussed earlier
• Consent agenda, #schcom0309 motion to approve seconded and passes 6-0-1 (0 against, 1 absent) Motion to enter executive session, not to return to open meeting, seconded, passes 6-0-1 (0 no, 1 absent). That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

 

"If considered on per pupil basis, 75% if the districts spend more than we do... Are we ok with that?"

FPS - Message about in person learning

March 5, 2021

Revised

Dear Franklin Families,

We hope you are doing well this afternoon.

As you know, we have been exploring full and in-person learning at the various levels throughout the district and thank you for your contributions to our efforts in completing several surveys recently. There is much support among FPS families for in-person learning. Please be assured that we are always taking all health and safety aspects of COVID-19 mitigation into great consideration.

As mentioned in last Sunday's letter, I will be presenting a framework for full and in­ person learning to the School Committee at their March 9 Regular School Committee meeting. This will also be a meeting about the recommended budget for FY 22. We encourage you to attend the meeting (limit of 500 via Zoom) or watch it live on TV.

Working collaboratively with the FEA, we want to let you know that right now the plan would be to have K-5 return Monday, April 5, and Middle and High School return Monday, April 12. Details will be presented Tuesday at the School Committee meeting as a "Discussion Only" agenda item. Please note that remote learning will remain for the remainder of the school year.

We know there will be questions and concerns. The School Committee meeting is a regularly scheduled business meeting and will not be an open forum for families' Q and A. We will be sure to provide opportunities for families to learn more at a future date.

Have a nice weekend, 

Sara Ahern
Superintendent of Schools

FPS - Message about in person learning

Recap of Town Council meeting Mar 3, 2021 - train station discussed, appt to ConComm approved, ambulance fees approved

Quick Recap:

• appointment to Conservation Commission approved, all committees/board now with full compliment of appointments
• Erin Rogers of Senior Center talks about the tax work off programs available from the State and from Franklin
• discussion on the condition and future of the downtown MBTA train station and exercise in futility. parking an issue downtown, apparently due to zoning changes made that can be/should be reviewed again
• vaccine not available for local clinic per State, teachers were added to eligibility as of Mar 11, 2021

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/gN3Z5Y2wUxdXqBNa6

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #TC0303

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0303&src=recent_search_click 

• Real time reporting about to begin for Town Council meeting #tc0303 https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/march-3-town-council-agenda 
• Meeting opens, Chair runs thru the standard protocol statement on meeting conduct #edc0303 a small group at opening.
• #edc0303 meeting is announced for phone callers  One (member) remote, other 8 in Chambers
• #tc0303 (yup, 2nd time tonight used prior meeting to tag a tweet, oops) no citizen comments
• Motion to approve Jan 3 minutes, second, Chandler announces that the minutes are in great order, compliments to Judy L for doing them. Passes 9-0 via roll call. Motion on Feb 17 minutes
• Second, passes via roll call 9-0, #edc0303 appointment to conservation commission, Bissanti recuses, motion and second, after tonight, all vacancies are now full. Passes 8-0-1 1 recused (Bissanti)
• No hearings, no license transactions; moving to presentations, Erin Rogers from Senior Center on the tax work off program, if taxes are more than 10% of income, if renter and taxes more than 25% of income. Need to file with state, meet income guidelines. #tc0303
• #tc0303 anything we can do to help residents with their taxes, talk to their accountants and to the senior center for the form. If people qualify for this, they should also apply for the DPW for a credit against the water, sewer, etc. Storm water if it comes, may would need to
• Suggestion for something on the webpage for assistance available. #tc0303 clarification, you can do both it is not double dipping. State program is one and there is also the Franklin program.
• Other than web page, send elsewhere (i.e. newsletter) as some seniors don't go to the website. #tc0303 legal ads we spend 40K annually with Milford Daily News, also appearing as PSA with Franklin TV. http://Ma.gov webpage takes you right to DOR page and info
• #TC0303 moving to downtown Franklin MBTA station and parking lot. Was on evaluation and goals, a paper trail was included in the meeting docs. Kudos to Frank Falvey who has been a persistent advocate for addressing this item see page 17 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/3-3-21_town_council_agenda.pdf 
• Maps of the station from package  #tc0303
• Continuing discussion on the station, a frustrating situation. This is a T issue and with pandemic they are in lots of trouble with revenue. #tc0303
• They are extending the line double track and going around the station. Also would need to take care of the bridge
• If you're in for a penny, you're in for more than a pound. #tc0303 we offered to but it from them, and they turned us down. Zoning changes recently increased parking requirements downtown and there is no space available. "This like beating a dead horse"
• #tc0303 lighting is brutal, and the bike racks are always full, can't they add some?
• Best opportunity may be the transit oriented development the Legislation that was recently passed called for.
• Let's think of the downtown and consider changing the zoning when the guidance Jamie mentions comes out. #tc0303 
• Budget meeting 3/17 at 6 PM, EDC just met tonight. Some things coming to council for consideration. Draft of business guide reviewed. Coming soon
• Moving to legislation for action, second reading https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._als_bls_web.pdf #tc0303 for ambulance service fee adjustments for this year.  Motion and second, vote via roll call (BLS basic life support, ALS advanced life support.) 9-0
• #tc0303 next up Quarterly PEG funds, the flow through of cable fees to Franklin TV per MGL, as an approved transaction  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10b._peg_-_web.pdf motion, second, passes via roll call 9-0 (Bissanti not going to yell at cable tonight)
• #tc0303 St Patrick's day serving dinner to seniors via the curbside cafe. Make reservations! Phase IV part 1 the library will be opening March 22, incredible innovation, popular curbside pickup; COVID school staff eligible as of Mar 11, schedule via portal
• No local clinic anytime soon, legislative delegates advocated but we're not getting supply. #tc0303 insufficient doses available in March to meet requirements. Per Gov Baker's press release. Happy to answer questions.
• Moving on. #tc0303 consensus on addressing downtown zoning now
• Kudos to the sports teams, great work! Great to hear of the town's work on a national podcast. Buses moved from former Kegan space to use King St until the Panther Way property is ready, helping the schools
• Yesterday was Franklin's birthday, and it wasn't noticed. 3/2 is the birthday. 243 years young. 
• Agendas and packets for CPC will be online #tc0303 excited that the library will be open. Don't let the guard down, we are almost there.
• Thanks to the community for doing what it takes, numbers are down, keep it that way. #tc0303 motion to adjourn, second, passes 9-0 
• That is all for tonight, thanks for following, catch you next time!

train station discussed

Franklin Public Schools, MA: K-5, 6-8 and FHS communications from Superintendent Sara Ahern

Please find the latest K-5, 6-8 and FHS communications from Superintendent Sara Ahern posted on our Reopening site  

 

FPS Reopening site =https://t.co/av14MmSQep  

 

Elementary = https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DhCmqQmEqxlt9tZZRc5IcQ6GICqM5bjt/view

 

Middle School = https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y5wUgfzWGe2yoScvTCsXGNHK4cV-g3FY/view?usp=sharing

 

High school =  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lNqnP6ISwVubfI9gjhYf4JbSakjFMgbX/view?usp=sharing

K-5, 6-8 and FHS communications from Superintendent Sara Ahern

"Riley’s announcement got a mixed reception"

 

"TAKING DIRECT AIM at Massachusetts school districts and teachers unions that have been reluctant to return to in-person instruction, state education commissioner Jeff Riley said he wants to use state education regulations to push districts to bring students back to the classroom.

Riley said Tuesday that he wants to see elementary grade students back in school five days a week in April, with older grades possibly to follow after that.

Adopting a much more aggressive posture than state officials have taken in a debate that has divided the education community, Riley said he’ll seek authorization to deem remote instruction not eligible to be counted toward state-required “structured learning time” hours. The proposal, unveiled Tuesday morning to the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, would give Riley leverage in pushing districts back into in-person classes, something he, Education Secretary Jim Peyser, and Gov. Charlie Baker have been urging more schools to do for months. "

Continue reading the article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/education/state-looking-to-force-school-reopenings/

 

Gov Baker's Press Conference video = https://youtu.be/r1_cncW2Tqo

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Jan 12, 2021

School Committee Meeting - Agenda

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance 

Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business

A. Review of Agenda

B. Citizen’s Comments

In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH

C. FHS Student Representative Comments

D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations

A. Oak Street Elementary School Update – Brad Hendrixson

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/oak_street_presentation_school_committee_1.12.21.pdf

III. Discussion/Action Items

A. FHS Athletics if Remote

I recommend approval of the plan for athletics if remote as discussed.

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_fhs_athletics_plan_if_remote.pdf

B. Student Opportunity Act Plan 2021-2023

I recommend approval of the Student Opportunity Act Plan 2021-2023 as discussed.

(no document released)

IV. Discussion Only Items

A. Personnel Update

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/personnel_update_memo_jan._2021_.pdf

B. Kindergarten and Grade 1 Survey Summary (document posted at Schools page  doesn't display all the charts properly) (doc updated 1/11/21)  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/k_1_full_in_person_survey_summary_and_by_school_0.pdf

C. School Reopening Status Update (1/8/2021)

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/v._2_reopening_schools_status_update_jan._7_2020-2021.pdf

V. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)

B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council, Franklin Racial & Social Justice Task Force)

VI. New Business

A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from your December 22, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.

B. Executive Session Minutes

I recommend approval of the Executive Session Minutes from the December 22, 2020 School Committee meeting to be released as detailed.

C. Keller Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $790.56 from the Keller PCC for supplemental supplies as detailed.

D. Scholarship

I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000.00 from Thomas A. Wagner for the Wagner Scholarship as detailed.

E. Music Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $60.00 from Franklin Music Parents for in-house enrichment as detailed.

F. Leuder’s Annual Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $75.00 from Leuder’s Environmental, Inc. for supplemental supplies as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo

X. Executive Session

 A. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on

the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.

B. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy session in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel.

XI. Adjournment

The agenda doc (including connection info) can be found in the meeting packet folder

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/january-12-2021-school-committee-packet

Do your part Franklin!