The 5 Franklin elementary schools each launch a student voice podcast!

• Oak Street Voices

• Keller Talks

• Kennedy Voices

• Parmenter Voices

• Jefferson Talks

Letters from Red Farm: The Untold Story of the Friendship between Helen Keller and Journalist Joseph Edgar Chamberlin - Apr 30

Letters from Red Farm: The Untold Story of the Friendship between Helen Keller and Journalist Joseph Edgar Chamberlin with Author Elizabeth Emerson

Saturday, April 30, 3:00 PM - at the Franklin Public Library

In 1888, young Helen Keller traveled to Boston with her teacher, Annie Sullivan, where they met a man who would change her life: Boston Transcript columnist and editor, Joseph Edgar Chamberlin. Throughout her childhood and young adult years, Keller spent weekends and holidays at Red Farm, the Chamberlins' home in Wrentham, Massachusetts, a bustling environment where avant-garde writers, intellectuals, and social reformers of the day congregated. Keller eventually called Red Farm home for a year when she was sixteen.

Informed by previously unpublished letters and extensive research, Letters from Red Farm explores for the first time Keller's deep and enduring friendship with the man who became her literary mentor and friend for over forty years. Written by Chamberlin's great-great granddaughter, this engaging story imparts new insights into Keller's life and personality, introduces the irresistible Chamberlin to a modern public, and follows Keller's burgeoning interest in social activism, as she took up the causes of disability rights, women's issues, and pacifism.

Author Elizabeth Emerson is a former grant writer and award-winning artist based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She has contributed material to PBS's film biography Becoming Helen Keller and written guest articles for the American Foundation for the Blind's Helen Keller Archival Collection and the Perkins Archives' newsletter.

Shared from the Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/adult-programs-services/pages/adult-programs

Letters from Red Farm: The Untold Story of the Friendship between Helen Keller and Journalist Joseph Edgar Chamberlin - Apr 30

FM #485 - School Committee Mtg - 03/09/21 - P1 of 3 (audio)

FM #485 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 485 in the series. 

This session shares part 1 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/c1c406cf-24d1-4c46-a88f-9c9b9b0d4a30

--------------
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!

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

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

FM #485 - School Committee Mtg - 03/09/21 - P1 of 3 (audio)

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

----

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?"

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Mar 9, 2021

Franklin School Committee 

March 9, 2021 - 7:00 PM

 

Meetings are recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. Zoom connection info located in the agenda doc linked to below

□ Vision Statement □

The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

 

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.    Helen Keller Elementary School Highlights – Eric Stark, Principal; Jesse Craddock, Assistant Principal   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/keller-presentation

B.    FY22 Superintendent’s Recommended Budget and discussion
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/supt-rec-budget-3-9-21

 

III.    Discussion/Action Items
A.    Policy - First Reading
I recommend moving Policy GBEB - Staff Conduct to a second reading as discussed.

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-policy-0

 
B.    Approval of FY 21 Capital Requests
I recommend approval of the FY21 Capital requests as discussed.

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-b-capital
 

IV.    Discussion Only Items
A.    Franklin Public Schools In-person Learning Proposal and Status Update

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/status-update-3-4-21

 

V.    Information Matters
A.    School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Planning, 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 February 23, 2021 meeting as detailed.
B.    Music Gift
I recommend acceptance of cash & checks totaling $620.00 from Music parents for in-house enrichment as detailed.
C.    Jefferson Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $32.50 from Daddario Hardware for supplemental supplies at Jefferson Elementary School as detailed.
D.    Request to Sell Leckey Mygo Stander
I recommend approval of the request of Paula Marano to sell the Leckey Mygo Stander to Bellingham Public Schools as detailed.

VIII.    Payment of Bills    Dr. Bergen
 

IX.    Payroll    Atty. Pond-Pfeffer
 

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.
 

XI.    Adjournment

Agenda doc = https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/3-9-21-agenda

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

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Mar 9, 2021

"recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22"

"After completing a comprehensive closing study for the Davis Thayer School, the Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis subcommittee has voted to present this final report to the Franklin School Committee with our recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22.

Additionally, we also recommend that the Franklin School Committee establish a standing subcommittee focused on creating a Master Facilities Plan to address other facility needs in the district."

Respectfully submitted,

 

The Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis Sub-Committee:

Elise A. Stokes

Mary Jane Scofield

Judith Pond-Pfeffer

 

 

The full recommendation document and action item for the School Committee discussion on Tuesday, Feb 9, 2021:

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

 

Full School Committee agenda for Tuesday, Feb 9, 2021

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/february-9-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

 

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis page

https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis

  

"recommendation that the DT facility be closed for FY22"

FM #448 School Comm - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Mtg - 01/28/21 (audio)

FM #448 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 448 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee meeting held on Thursday, Jan 28, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a remote format; all the subcommittee, Central Office personnel and the public participants were remote via conference bridge, to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to my notes. 

The recording runs just about 1 hour and 40 minutes

Let’s listen to this segment of the Davis Thayer Facility Analysis meeting of Jan 28, 2021.   Audio file = https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-448-schcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg-01-28-21

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

Quick Recap:

• Review of the 5 options as discussed at the meeting last week. Committee should have had time since then to review and prepare, final questions, clarifications asked of each option as they went through each one
• The three members got to outline their background and approach to decision and what the factors were for them; Superintendent and Business Administrator also asked for their views
• Consensus across the group for recommending to close in September, acting now to start planning for a good transition. Recognizing not an easy decision to close, or even in the pandemic period, but it is the best for the students across the district
• Next meeting to work on the proposal and outline of decision factors for the full committee to decide at a future meeting (time TBD, could be as early as the Feb 9 meeting - stay tuned.)

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder
https://photos.app.goo.gl/71thcyJaDWXNoWqC7

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_1.28.21.docx.pdf

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis folder
https://www.franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis

Davis Thayer Closing Options memo
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/davis_thayer_closing_options.pdf

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/davis-thayer-facility-analysis.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/ 

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"

 

FM #448 School Comm - Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Mtg - 01/28/21 (audio)

SchComm: Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting recap - Jan 20, 2021

Quick Recap:

• In the prior meeting, the SubCommittee heard the financial analysis and education research required to complete Stage 1, Phase 2. A couple of points were left open and the meeting ran out of time. This meeting picks up where that left off. (The link for the prior meeting recap is located below)
  
• There was a clarification on the role of the School Committee (they determine educational use and requirements) and Town (they manage the facility building and would determine a future use) if the School Committee declares it not needed for education. This subcommittee is follow the policy and process to determine if the building is needed or not. Given the excess capacity in the current facilities, it is likely to be determined not needed.
• Solutions (the after school care program) is not constrained in either facility (Davis Thayer or Keller), the program would adjust depending upon where the students were. It is a fee based program and effectively self supported.
• Discussion among the subcommittee reveals no consensus on readiness for decision. Meetings to be scheduled weekly for a period to work through this discussion. Overall concern is to make a decision soon. The planning for transition to the new school will require time and effort to make that transition successful.
  

 

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder

https://photos.app.goo.gl/W13zrexEHYeYALYW7

 

The audio recording of this meeting will be available soon

----

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  #DTFA0120

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23dtfa0120&src=typeahead_click

• Getting ready for live reporting of the SchComm Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting agenda doc contains link info https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_1.20.21.pdf #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 open at 5:30 with roll call of members, three present (all accounted for) motion to approve minutes of prior meeting, passed 3-0 via roll call (Pfeffer, Scofield, Stokes - chair)
• Davis Thayer facility analysis page https://franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis #dtfa0120
• Clarification on buildings as property of the Town and used by SchComm; SchComm determines school use, if not longer desired, the Town has decision process. #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 Pfeffer raises question on sentence within report reviewed prior. Re: town budget for support of DT facility. Q - from prior meeting on Solutions, A - no constraints on space at Keller, and re: staffing, minimal requirements, could be handled in transition ...
• Not a financial issue for Solutions operations, they haven't been full at either location, they could be more efficient at one. #dtfa0120 architect report had recommended using Keller as it was already paired with DT feeding Sullivan middle school
• Focus on DT question first, Parmenter is also a consideration for closing but also has other programs that were not considered as part of the architect report and would be more work to figure out. DT 'easier' / 'cleaner' to work numbers for. #dtfa0120
• #dtfa0120 could DT be used for other educational purposes. Was briefly discussed at Central Office; alternative high school, office space, among ideas raised. Space is still excess, will have space elsewhere as the years move along and the population wave moves thru
• Educational adequacy and access still pose issues as it stands today. Addressing those comes at a cost (not cheap) for an aging building. #dtfa0120 clarification on title I, will follow the students (targeted assistance) but can't exceed what's provided for Parmenter
• Will write the Title I grant accordingly. #dtfa0120 difference between positions and people. Some roles might not be needed but folks in those today and be used elsewhere in many cases. BTW approx. 50+ participating via zoom
• #dtfa0120 not an easy decision, some students would be bused across town. We need to think about that. Discussion on meeting frequency, what info is available vs. what is required (diff among subcomm members). Discussion on outline of info for full SchComm
• #dtfa0120 other options for consideration. Page 1 - if option to close for FY 22 is desired, need to make soon to start transition planning; logistics, school culture, etc. Page 2 other options to slow the closure and/or redistrict
• No option on redistrict without closure, issue is with excess space and the ease of closing (without redistricting) is the better financial option. Esp if closing elementary schools and combining middle schools is long term plan, the way to go #dtfa0120
• Redistricting is something you only do once, if at all. #dtfa0120 the full SchComm will likely take up 'master plan' after this Committee does it's work. Map of district shared to highlight the middle school sending areas in the 3 colors
• Discussion on impact of apartments at Waverly and Dean, and they currently do not have an impact on the school population. #dtfa0120 discussion on how to make the decision, not as quantitative as one thought. Subcommittee members to put decision thought process on paper to ...
• Have members review to see what if anything is needed or ready. Discussion on FY 22 vs 23 is key to reduce options, members not ready to commit to that tonight. #dtfa0120 could do VLA students as part of the phased approach. Voting is on recommendation not actual decision
• Opening for Community questions, comments #dtfa0120 apprehension around closing is present and could be worse with decision. Dealing with unprecedented times. We don't know what next year will bring. #s represent real students and people.
• #dtfa0120 4th graders would be there for one year and then to Sullivan for middle school. Taking a logistics approach. Can it be done in the time required? We need this to be a thoughtful process. Make decision and go. We need to do the rest of the work
• Other options to communicate on this issue, https://franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis #dtfa0120 motion to adjourn, passes 3-0 via roll call 

 

Jan 14, 2021 recap = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis-sub.html  (audio) = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/fm-438-schcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg.html

SchComm: Davis Thayer Facility Analysis subcommittee meeting recap - Jan 20, 2021

"a need to provide more for teens and young adults"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Giving can be infectious.

Mason and William Roddy have experienced that feeling in spades in the process of organizing their Toys for Tufts gift donation drive. Although they’ve been doing the drive for three years, this is the second “official” year that Franklin’s Keller Elementary School and Annie Sullivan Middle School have been involved.

The drive continues through this week, with pick-up of donations planned early on Friday, Dec. 13.

“We are so excited to be doing this again, and to have the support of so many,” says Paetra Ranieri, the boys’ mother."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191209/franklin-teen-family-organize-gift-drive-for-young-cancer-patients

#KellerSchoolCommunity it’s the final week to donate to our second annual Toys for Tufts drive. pic.twitter.com/2HU9gSPXAN

— Helen Keller School (@KellerSchool) December 8, 2019

"a need to provide more for teens and young adults"

In the News: Keller-Sullivan sprinkler work underway; Gender "X" bill moving in MA Senate

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

Keller-Sullivan sprinkler problem fixed again

"It is often iterated at this time of year that April showers bring May flowers. But at the Helen Keller-Annie Sullivan school complex, the experience has been given new meaning this month: “Showers” coming from a burst sprinkler head on April 3 are bringing new rugs, cabinetry and paint jobs to several elementary classrooms. 

Schools Superintendent Sara Ahern recently told the School Committee that repairs to the classrooms would be undertaken this week during spring break, and students will be returning to mostly fixed-up classrooms. 

On April 3, nine Helen Keller School classrooms were damaged by water after a sprinkler head on the second floor burst late in the afternoon, Ahern reported at the School Committee’s April 9 meeting. Classes were temporarily displaced as the rooms were sealed off for the remainder of that week. 

“Water damaged materials including carpets, drywalls and cabinets were removed,” Ahern said, noting that over the weekend of April 6 and April 7, Servicemaster worked late hours “in order to ensure that all rooms had been properly mitigated.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190418/fixes-under-way-after-water-damage-at-franklin-school

This is the third sprinkler incident at the Keller-Sullivan complex 
2017 = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/12/they-did-remarkable-job.html
2014 = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/11/asms-keller-status-update.html

Keller - Sullivan Schools

"Spilka’s ‘Gender X’ bill moving in Senate"

"The Senate plans next week to take up legislation that has become a signature priority for Senate President Karen Spilka, a bill that would allow an adult to change state identification records to reflect a gender of “X.” 

The so-called “Gender X” bill would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to make a third, gender-neutral option available to applicants for a license or learner’s permit and would allow anyone over 18, an emancipated minor or the parents of a minor to request a change in the sex listed on someone’s birth certificate to male, female or X. 

“This bill is very special to me,” said Spilka, D-Ashland, earlier this month during an interview on WGBH radio. 

The Senate president got involved after receiving a letter from a constituent from Natick who was feeling stress as they prepared to decide which box to check on their driving learner’s permit. Spilka has since grown close to the family while working on this bill, and almost pushed it across the finish line last year."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190418/spilkas-gender-x-bill-moving-in-senate

Real Time Reporting - School Committee - Dec 12, 2017

A collection via Storify of the Twitter posts during the School Committee meeting held in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building on Dec 12, 2017.

Be sure to scroll within the Storify widget to view all the posts.

screen grab of the broadcast with Superintendent Ahern providing an update

“They did a remarkable job”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"A sprinkler burst at Helen Keller Elementary School on Monday morning, forcing administrators to cancel school since. 

The school was closed on Monday and Tuesday because of the damage, but will reopen Wednesday. The cause of the break is unclear, but Superintendent Sara Ahern said the sprinklers will be inspected and the problem assessed after damages are fixed. It is also unclear when or if the students will make up those lost school days. 

While the one sprinkler causing the damage was contained, water did spread into other classrooms on the floor below. 

There are eight known affected classrooms, four on the top floor and four on the main floor near the entrance. The damage in the walls will take some weeks to fix, while some cabinets were damaged and may take longer to replace."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171212/burst-sprinkler-closes-franklin-elementary-school

Superintendent Sara Ahern said the sprinklers will be inspected

This is the second time a burst sprinkler has closed the building. This also occurred in Nov 2014
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/11/asms-keller-status-update.html

Franklin Public Schools: Letter to Franklin Families and Faculty

Dear Franklin Families and Faculty:

We are deeply saddened to inform you that over the past week, graffiti depicting swastikas has been discovered on a playground at one of our schools (Remington/Jefferson) and in the entryway of another school (Keller/Sullivan). Following the discovery of these hateful symbols, we started our own independent investigations to determine who is responsible for these terrible acts. We also contacted the Franklin Police Department and we are fully cooperating with the police and their investigation.

Jefferson playground

We find this graffiti to be extremely disturbing, disrespectful and inconsistent with the diverse and inclusive community that makes up the Franklin Public Schools. If our investigation concludes that a school member is responsible for these acts, we will impose disciplinary consequences consistent with our student code of conduct and take other remedial measures to restore a sense of security and support for all. If the police determine which individual(s) perpetrated these behaviors there could be significant legal consequences as well.

We will continue to be vigilant in order to protect our school community with the safety and security measures that are in place continually. We will also work to remedy the negative impact of these events by working with local community partners and using our school resources to respond at both a school level and a community level.

Please know that the Franklin Public Schools is no place for hate, bias or for the disregard of the civil rights of all individuals. We work tirelessly to teach tolerance at school and will reinforce our core values in the days, weeks and years ahead. As this is a wider community issue, we are asking for your help and support to change attitudes and eliminate hateful speech and senseless depictions of symbols that hurt individuals and groups. Words and actions matter and we need to reinforce the values of tolerance and respect across all of Franklin.

Keller Sullivan school sign

If you have any information to share regarding the graffiti, please contact the Franklin Police Department at 508- 528-1212 and/or the Superintendent's Office at 508 -553-4819. If your child needs support to address these events, please contact your child's guidance counselor or an administrator at your child's school.

As we are deeply concerned about these hateful and disrespectful actions, the Franklin Public Schools has engaged with the Anti-Defamation League to establish a process for training students, faculty and administration in confronting bias in school and in the community. Teams from our three middle schools will engage in training this summer. Additionally this program will enable the training of our students to become peer leaders and trainers skilled in running anti-bias programs for other students and parents. There are plans for FHS to commit to this program as well. We anticipate this program will be impactful on all stakeholders and will propel positive change in our schools and community. You can expect to hear more about this initiative in the fall.

Thank you for supporting our school community and for your assistance in facing this issue.

Maureen Sabolinski, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

"It’s very exciting - the kids worked really hard”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Members of the Helen Keller Elementary School’s Best Buddies program gathered on the school’s “cafetorium” stage Friday morning as they were honored for their participation in the group. 

Those students - dressed in black Best Buddies T-shirts - had been recognized as an “Outstanding Promoter Chapter” by the state branch of the organization, which works to partner students with those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. School officials have said the Keller Best Buddies group, established in 2015, is the only one in the country based in an elementary school. 

The recognition was announced during an all-school community meeting that morning. Principal Eric Stark said the recognition came at an appropriate time, as the school was celebrating inclusion; a large number of students at the assembly were wearing brightly colored shirts, meant to evoke the “Autism Awareness” ribbon."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170428/franklin-state-group-honors-keller-schools-best-buddies

https://twitter.com/BestFHSBuddies

"how to support students through homework"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The town's schools have made strides in communicating to parents and the community at large, district officials reported in a mid-year review. 

The officials spoke at Tuesday's School Committee meeting about progress made thus far on the District Improvement Plan and School Improvement Plans over the 2016-2017 school year. Goals in those plans included improving communication, implementing social/emotional learning in the classroom, promoting a culture of responsibility and aligning curriculum to meet student needs. 

Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski said there had been an emphasis on improved communication. 

"We've been pushing community engagement a lot," she said. "The (Annie) Sullivan (Middle) School has been amazing at using Twitter this year."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170112/franklin-schools-present-improvement-plan-progress

A current example of the use of Twitter

Keller School Best Buddies at the Celtics game

Beyond proud of #1bbkeller. Thanks @FranklinPSNews @fps4students @BestBuddiesMA and @celtics for believing in #FranklinKellerKids pic.twitter.com/xHyTIdVDfX

— Helen Keller School (@KellerSchool) January 12, 2017

Additional information on the District Improvement Plan update can be found in the live reported notes from the School Committee meeting on Tuesday (The full summary should be available this weekend)
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/01/live-reporting-district-and-school.html