Audio recording of the January 13, 2026 Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting in 3 parts (audio)

FM #1635-36-37 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, numbers 1635-36-37 in the series. 

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 7 PM. All 7 members participated for this 4 hour plus session. 

 

• 1635 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and everything else except  (approx. 1 hour 28 mins)

• FHS Program of Studies discussion (see 1636) 

• Teaching & Learning presentation & discussion (see 1637)  

• 1636 - segment from the meeting covering the FHS Program of Studies (approx. 51 mins)  

• 1637 - segment from the meeting Teaching & Learning presentation & discussion  (approx. 2 hrs. 3 mins)

  

Audio 1635 https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1635-fps-sch-cmte-mtg-p1-of-3-01-13-26/

Audio 1636 https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1636-fps-sch-cmte-mtg-p2-of-3-01-13-26/

Audio 1637 https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1637-fps-sch-cmte-mtg-p3-of-3-01-13-26/

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Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/school-committee-approves-trip-program.html 

1-13-26 Superintendent's Report to School Committee

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/2bffecf5-a348-467c-bf10-6b238a5d4577/1-13-26-Superintendents-Report-to-School-Committee.pdf?disposition=inline

2026-27 FHS Program of Studies Presentation

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/9b101140-9f6a-41fe-aed3-7049f5df6797/2026-27-FHS-Program-of-Studies-Presentation.pdf?disposition=inline

Final January 2026 Assessment Presentation

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/f93932c6-c93c-4de1-94be-d429f0ef6199/Final-January-2026-Assessment-Presentation.pdf?disposition=inline

FPS Child Care Presentation 1_13_2026

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/05d7d3a4-1581-482d-8807-b0fe22ba8d87/FPS-Child-Care-Presentation-1_13_2026.pdf?disposition=inline

_SC Galapagos Presentation

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/5fadd50c-2e04-4b19-8e85-df8622bc8aa8/Discussion_Action_A_-_Galapagos_Islands_Trip.pdf?disposition=inline

audio segment 1635 has this portion of the meeting

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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!

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

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

Chalkboard chat condenses the 4 hour Jan 13, 2026 School Cmte meeting to an hour (video & audio)

FM #1627 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1627 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with School Committee member Reis Hansen.  We had our discussion via Zoom on Friday, January 16, 2026. We condense and get into the explanations behind the key items from the recent School Committee meeting January 13, 2026.

Our conversation covered the following topics:

Early insights on role as school committee member

Subcommittee work on Policy & Horace Mann Legacy

Meeting recap

Recognition of cheerleaders

FHS trip to Galapagos for 2027 was approved

FHS 2026-27 Program of Studies Update

how courses are added, selection by students  

Office of Teaching & Learning District Assessment Presentation

The role of teaching & learning

The use of data to provide support and interventions as needed

MCAS still used just not a requirements for graduation

Franklin Childcare Presentation

The planning underway for initial opening for 9 student with 2 teachers

For school dept personnel first, then Town employees

Further expansion possible for community over time

Can provide revenue to sustain program 

We close with a discussion on screen time and use of technology in the classroom

    based upon a resident comment

Our conversation runs about 72 minutes. Let’s listen

Video link ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnBKBSydGU4

Audio link ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1627-chalkboard-chat-01-16-26/

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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 

Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaXy2prDrCI 

Agenda ->  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01132026-2086 

Meeting packet folder (copies of the presentation are not yet available, once posted they should be in this folder) ->  https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/january-13%2C-2026-sc-meeting-packet/24614180 

Pictures of the slides shared captured in one album for 

The Galapagos trip presentation ->  https://photos.app.goo.gl/amcYuXHUxJfRbu6Y7 

The FHS Program of Studies -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/p5zRxxEXyke76hV66 

Teaching & Learning update -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/LotQq5wCQJ8qJmUy9 

Little Solutions Childcare update ->    https://photos.app.goo.gl/JoMPxdB2v7a2TMV26 

 

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

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"

School Committee approves trip, program of studies, & hears updates on Teaching Learning, childcare (video)

The Franklin School Committee meeting on Tuesday, Jan 13, 2026 with all 7 members present in Council Chambers to cover a very full agenda in almost 4 1/2 hours.

Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaXy2prDrCI

Agenda ->  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01132026-2086 

Superintendent's Report

1-13-26 Superintendent's Report to School Committee

https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/2bffecf5-a348-467c-bf10-6b238a5d4577/1-13-26-Superintendents-Report-to-School-Committee.pdf?disposition=inline

II. Guests/Presentations

A. FHS Galapagos Field Trip

 _SC Galapagos Presentation  https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/5fadd50c-2e04-4b19-8e85-df8622bc8aa8/Discussion_Action_A_-_Galapagos_Islands_Trip.pdf?disposition=inline

B. FHS 2026-27 Program of Studies Update – Dr. Weber

 2026-27 FHS Program of Studies Presentation  https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/9b101140-9f6a-41fe-aed3-7049f5df6797/2026-27-FHS-Program-of-Studies-Presentation.pdf?disposition=inline

C. Office of Teaching & Learning District Assessment Presentation – Dr. Rogers

Final January 2026 Assessment Presentation  https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/f93932c6-c93c-4de1-94be-d429f0ef6199/Final-January-2026-Assessment-Presentation.pdf?disposition=inline

D. Franklin Childcare Presentation – Patty Gay

FPS Child Care Presentation 1_13_2026  https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/Fpsd/05d7d3a4-1581-482d-8807-b0fe22ba8d87/FPS-Child-Care-Presentation-1_13_2026.pdf?disposition=inline

 

Pictures of the slides shared captured in one album for 

• The Galapagos trip presentation ->  https://photos.app.goo.gl/amcYuXHUxJfRbu6Y7
• The FHS Program of Studies -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/p5zRxxEXyke76hV66
• Teaching & Learning update -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/LotQq5wCQJ8qJmUy9
• Little Solutions Childcare update ->    https://photos.app.goo.gl/JoMPxdB2v7a2TMV26

Meeting packet folder for all docs released for this meeting ->   https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/january-13%2C-2026-sc-meeting-packet/24614180

Mount stupid; one stop on the learning curve

Mount stupid; one stop on the learning curve

"Most confidence doesn’t come from mastery.

It comes from learning just enough… and stopping too early.

Staying aware of Mount Stupid keeps me humble and reminds me to keep learning instead of getting loud.

Hope this helps you pause too."

Continue to review the other images via https://www.instagram.com/jasonrewired_ on -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DTJhLJhk15d/

What level of listening do you do?

via Justin Wright

What level of listening do you do?

"Most people think they’re great listeners.
But they’re stuck at level 2.

They nod, make eye contact, wait for their turn to speak.
But they’re not really hearing you.

The difference between good leaders and great ones?
They’ve mastered the art of real listening.

Which level are you leading from?

Share this post to help someone become a better leader."

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

A summary of 5 levels of listening from Stephen Covey  https://jdmeier.com/5-levels-of-listening/

Franklin English Language Education Department Hosts Family Event at Franklin Public Library

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning and English Language Director Dr. Tina Rogers is proud to announce that Franklin Public Schools' English Language Education Department recently hosted a family event at the Franklin Public Library.

On May 21, students and families joined together to connect with each other and learn more about community and school programs, including Franklin's English Learner Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC).

English Language Education
Teachers made this event possible

ELPAC serves as a bridge to bring families, schools and communities together in meaningful ways and encourages family engagement. The program fosters a shared commitment to student success.

“Through open communication, translation support and culturally inclusive practices, Franklin Public Schools is committed to creating welcoming environments where families feel valued, connected, and empowered to support their children's education,” said Assistant Superintendent Rogers.

During the event, students taught someone else how to say “hello” in their native language and learned how to say “hello” in another language.

"My favorite part about teaching is connecting with my students and their families," said Sonia Vaz-Brune, English Language Education Teacher. "I loved being able to see everyone smiling, talking, and making new connections. These events always remind me how much I love this job!"

Attendees played games, colored bookmarks, took pictures in a photo booth, and decorated notebooks.

Every student went home with at least one library book. Franklin Public Library also donated books for students to take home.

Youth Service Librarian Caleigh Keating shared exciting student events happening at the Library during upcoming school half-days on June 13, 16, 17 and 18. All students and community members are welcome to attend.

“I’m grateful to be part of a district that not only values equity and inclusion but also demonstrates these principles through real action,” said English Language Education Teacher Johanna Townsend.

On May 21, students and families joined together
with Franklin Public Schools educators and community leaders
 to connect with each other and learn more about town
and school programs. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

“We’d like to thank Laura Doherty, Associate Director of the Franklin Food Pantry, and Laura Du, Client Service Manager, for joining our event and sharing information and resources with families,” said Assistant Superintendent Rogers. “And a tremendous thank you to Library Director Felicia Oti and Youth Services Librarian Caleigh Keating from the Franklin Public Library. We appreciate the support and collaboration. This event would not have been possible without their help.”

“We had an amazing time at this fun-filled event for families,” said Franklin Public Schools Superintendent Lucas Giguere. “Everyone who attended shared laughs and learned about one another. Franklin Public Schools is committed to creating an inclusive and safe environment for our students and families.”

Additional photos can be found -> https://www.franklinps.net/article/2237683

My conversation with Drew Bogner ranged wide around his book "Letters to Students" (audio)

FM #1296 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1296 in the series. 

“Letters to Students”

This session shares my conversation with Franklin resident Drew Bogner. We had our conversation in the Franklin TV Studio on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. 

 

In our wide ranging conversation we cover

• Drew’s short version of his road to Franklin

• The idea for his book “Letters to Students” co-authored with Robert Allyn Scott

• Journey vs destination

• Nature and poetry

The recording runs about 1 hour 5 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1296-conversation-with-drew-bogner-09-17-24/

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Link to book “Letters to Students” -> https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781475873726/Letters-to-Students-What-It-Means-to-Be-a-College-Graduate 

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

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. 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"