Recap: Finance Committee - further discussion required on draft debt stabilization policy

Quick Recap:

• Mostly discussion on the debt stabilization policy outline (no specific text draft yet). There was Q&A and a healthy discussion. Motion ultimately made to table the policy for additional discussion in next meeting. There is no rush to decide now; motion to table to June 16 meeting, passes 9-0
• With the Senate budget now released, Franklin actually is scheduled to lose about $23K from the House budget, however, once Senate makes their budget final, House and Senate will need to reconcile before sending it to the Governor.
• Discussion for June 16 meeting, scheduled for 6 PM start (again before the Town Council at 7) means that the debt stabilization topic is practically the only one for the time allotted.

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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  #fincom0519
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fincom0519&src=typeahead_click 
 
Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album https://photos.app.goo.gl/7zJbzAcpmKJneQLr8
 
The agenda doc for this meeting can be found
https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/5-19-21_fincom_agenda.pdf

• I am getting ready for the Finance Committee meeting at 6. Are you? The agenda doc and connection info can be found -> https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/5-19-21_fincom_agenda.pdf. #fincom0519
  
• Meeting opens, full set of membership for this session in Council Chambers. Motion to approve, all 4 sets of minutes for the hearings, seconded, passes 9-0 Moving to budget stabilization policy. #fincom0519
  
• Mostly discussion on the policy, Q&A, good discussion hard to recap until it is done. #fincom0519
  
• Motion to amend, withdrawn. No motions currently. Being tabled for additional discussion as no rush to decide now; motion to table, seconded, amended motion to table to June 16 meeting and review some text, seconded, passes 9-0 #fincom0519
  
• At next meeting masks not required. #fincom0519 Senate proposed budget is $23k less for FY22 than FY21. This is a structural issue and will be seen regularly (Franklin will need to increase support for school budget). For next 5-10 years likely to be similar.
  
• Budget stabilization likely only topic for Jun 16. Motion to adjourn, passes 9-0 #fincom0519

Audio of meeting to be available in a couple of days

Recap: Finance Committee - further discussiostan required on draft debt stabilization policy

Franklin, MA: Policy SubCommittee Meeting - May 20, 2021

School Committee - Policy SubCommittee Meeting

Virtual Meeting (Link in agenda) 

May 20, 2021 - 6:00 PM

 

I.    Electronic Distribution of Approved Policies

1.    GBEBA - Staff Research Projects
2.    GBEBC - Gifts to Staff
3.    JIA - Staff Research Projects
4.    Policy Distribution Folder

II.    Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A.    IJNDB - Acceptable Use Policy
B.    IJNDB-E1 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement 6-12
C.    IJNDB-E2 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement K-5

III.    Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A.    Review Covid-19 Policies in accordance with the Governor’s revised orders
B.    Continued Review of Policy Manual

 

Agenda doc = https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/5_20_21_policy_sub_agenda.pdf

Franklin, MA: Policy SubCommittee Meeting - May 20, 2021

Finance Committee - Meeting Agenda - May 19

Finance Committee Meeting 

Agenda & Meeting Packet 

May 19th, 2021 -> 6:00 PM

Agenda

1. Call to Order

2. Public Comments

3. Approval of Minutes

4. Budget Stabilization Policy

5. State Aid Update

6. Future Agenda Items

7. Adjourn

Agenda doc has the connection info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/5-19-21_fincom_agenda.pdf

Note: this won't be a long meeting as the Town Council is scheduled for the Council Chambers for the their meeting at 7 also on Wednesday

The budget stabilization policy was not released for this meeting in the agenda doc. It was part of the April 27 budget hearing package ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/4.27.21_fin_com_agenda.pdf

and also part of the Capital Subcommittee agenda documents for the May 5 meeting  ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/5-5-2021_capital_subcommittee_meeting_agenda_1.pdf

Recap - School Committee meeting - FHS highlights; school choice vote, acceptable use policy moved to 2nd reading

Quick Recap:

• Student enrollment is a driver for budget. Student Opportunity Act (SOA) is not a major help for Franklin's budget. Franklin will see no major additional funding (we already get more than the formula would permit). Franklin will see some transportation and circuit breaker funds to help with those expenses. The structural deficit will not be addressed by the to be developed facility 'master plan' which may include redistricting. SOA will force the Town portion of school budget funding to increase each year. This will remain an issue for the school budget (and Town) until addressed
  
• Town Council budget hearings scheduled for May 26 and 27 to approve FY 2022 budget. 
• FHS Principal Josh Hanna provided an overview of the high school experience this year and updates on the year end including graduation plans
• Acceptable use police moved to second reading. Approval for a FHS revolving fund account granted. School choice will not be allowed for next year (this continues the practice in place for many years)  

 

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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=%23schcom0511&src=typeahead_click

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album https://photos.app.goo.gl/kTniogjYeVm64P516

The agenda doc for this meeting can be found
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_5-11-21_1.pdf

• Real time reporting underway for the School Committee meeting tonight. 2 members currently missing (Keenan, D'Angelo) with 5 present #schcom0511
• Agenda doc and connection info #schcom0511 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_5-11-21_1.pdf
• If you want any Davis Thayer clothing, t-shirts etc. Store closes Friday, May 14 #schcom0511

Superintendent's report

• Superintendent's report update, FinCom heard the budget last week. Student enrollment is a driver for budget, student opportunity act and impacts on the budget (no major additional funding for Franklin) will see some transportation and circuit breaker funds, #schcom0511 ->
• Town portion of school budget funding to increase each year... Interview team filtered to select 2 candidates for further evaluation and meetings... Project 351 selection a student from Annie Sullivan; Noah (name added later) links for project in report Weds. #schcom0511
• National school nurse day, Wednesday (D'Angelo present) at this round of roll call for comments, questions #schcom0511 FHS presentation by Principal Josh Hanna copy to follow along -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/fhs_highlights_2021_-_2022.pdf

FHS presentation 

• Tremendous challenges this year #schcom0511
• Day 1; and a day in Nov 2020 #schcom0511
• Student photo won award for clinic at the gym. #schcom0511 student concert via Zoom
• Good sunrises from FHS (yes, I concur) #schcom0511 full classrooms, lunch outside, space is a premium for this large school population, celebration includes remote students
• Somewhat more normal as the graduation period approaches #schcom0511 outdoor graduation things may still change as it approaches and adjustments can be made
• 10th grade MCAS started today, 11th grade can opt in after school ends in June #schcom0511
• Keenan present (in this round of Q&A) for FHS Hanna #schcom0511 no xfer of tickets as that would violate the 'pod' concept and requirements. Assigned seats at the pods, guests per family with students.
• #schcom0511 thanks from Committee for Josh as he stepped in to the role amidst the pandemic Next to discussion/action items - 3 acceptable use policy items for review and approval https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_policy_5.pdf

Discussion/action items 

• One policy and two grade specific pages. Motion to move to second reading, seconded, passes via roll call; 7-0 #schcom0511 annual vote on school choice required, not recommended at this time, motion to approve, seconded passes 7-0 via roll call https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_school_choice_vote.pdf
• Update possible that the prior two votes were 6-0-1 (D'Angelo appears to have left) wasn't mentioned clearly in roll call #schcom0511 Establish a revolving account, motion, second, https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_summer_revolving_account.pdf passes 6-0-1 (D'Angelo not present)
• https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/reopening_schools_status_update_may_7_2020-2021.pdf Reopening status, zero in quarantine, pool testing flat in participation, #schcom0511 key now end of year assessments and preparing for next year and remediation possible in summer

Info matters

• Info matters, no meetings scheduled school budget hearing May 26 at town Council Community relations met today, (thanks to me for my advice during meeting earlier) #schcom0511 Community forum schedule being worked ( possible 5/24?) On substance abuse, info coming
• FEF donations looked for via mail or online http://www.Franklined.org #schcom0511 coming up, recognition of retirees Consent agenda recommend approval, seconded, passes 6-0-1 (D'Angelo not present)
• Motion to enter executive session, not to return to open meeting #schcom0511 moved, seconded, passes 6-0-1 (D'Angelo not present) That's all for tonight (yes, an early one for a change!) Catch you next time!

Audio of meeting to be available in a couple of days 

 

Recap - School Committee meeting - FHS highlights

What is Acceptable Use? School Choice?

What is Acceptable Use? School Choice? 

Among the items on the Franklin MA - School Committee agenda are answers to these questions:

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy - 1st Readings
I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading as discussed:
1. IJNDB - Acceptable Use Policy
2. IJNDB-E1 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades 6-12
3. IJNDB-E2 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades K-5

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_policy_5.pdf

B. School Choice Vote
I recommend not accepting any new School Choice students for the 2021-2022 School year.

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_school_choice_vote.pdf

C. Franklin High School Summer School Revolving Account
I recommend the approval to establish a Franklin High School Summer School Revolving Account as discussed.   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_summer_revolving_account.pdf

The full agenda and documents released for the meeting

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/may-11-2021-school-committee-packet

What is Acceptable Use? School Choice? 

Recap - Board of Health meeting - May 5, 2021

Quick Recap:

• No change in mask requirements for sports, may see change after May 10
• Improper demolition of building at 76 Jordan Road becoming more of a mess, asbestos found, mitigation steps with DEP and others now involved
• Winter St deed not filed yet, watching and ready for next steps
• Grant from Metacomet received, more to come on this as it makes progress
• Problem with improper addition to residence at 274 Prospect St and Title 5 documentation

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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  #boh0505
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23boh0505&src=typed_query 

The agenda doc for this meeting can be found
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/agenda-5-5-21.pdf

• Real time reporting underway for the Board of Health meeting #boh0505
• Meeting agenda and connection info in doc -> https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/agenda-5-5-21.pdf… #boh0505
• Meeting minutes for Apr meeting approved by 3-0 vote
• No change in mask requirements for sports, may see change after May 10 but nothing til then. #boh0505
• and clarification for asbestos; it did come back positive. Needs to hire asbestos certified contractor to handle this. #boh0505 guidance being provided with building inspector; multiple items, scrap ->
• A messy situation that will take time to clear properly. An abutter to the property on the call. Asbestos needs to be treated first, then the remaining debris/junk can be addressed. #boh0505
• Winter St deed not recorded yet, following up, actions steps ready once filled #boh0505
• Metacomet grant released, we are part of the cooperative effort, more to come as it makes progress  #boh0505
• Discussion on a new addition and question on the Title 5 sizing, prior docs show different info than claimant. Include DEP to confirm approach #boh0505 274 Prospect St is address for property in question.
• Motion to adjourn, passed 3-0, meeting ends #boh0505

Audio of meeting to be available in a couple of days

Recap - Board of Health meeting - May 5, 2021

Recap - School Committee meeting - Mar 23, 2021 - school budget presented, Jefferson Elementary provides highlights

Quick Recap:

• School budget shared in public hearing, insightful questions from 5 members, one with no questions makes negative comment, one School Committee member absent. Budget returns to SchComm for vote in April
• Jefferson Elementary provides highlights of their pandemic school year
• One policy approved, one moved to second reading
• Re-opening plans underway for in person education for those who are hybrid and choose to change from remote only
• FHS graduation date confirmed for Jun 4 outside, with a rain date of Jun 5. Car parade planning also underway. Additional details to be shared as they are firmed up

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/JLtfFw7hCTetrcVm8

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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  #schcom0323
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0323&src=typeahead_click 

• Getting ready for the School Committee meeting tonight. Budget hearing up as key item. Agenda doc has connection info. Zoom, cable (Comcast or Verizon) and live stream are all good options #schcom0323  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_3-23-2021.pdf 
• Budget doc for #schcom0323 can be found on the District page https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget They also released a video to help explain the budget. I thought it meandered along, let me know what you think of it. https://youtu.be/IXI95zuFbnw 
• Meeting opens (interesting live captioning now available via Google Chrome browser for audio and video) #schcom0323

Budget hearing

• Budget hearing opens, via roll call passes 5-0-1 (Keenan not present yet) (updated post-meeting D’Angelo not present although named called, recording has no response, nor acknowledgement of visual vote)
• #schcom0323 presentation doc being shared https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/fy22_public_budget_hearing_presentation_1.pdf 
• Minimum aid district means not $30/student - noted but also because we have $11+m more than we should have received per the revised calculation. 2nd only to Boston across the Commonwealth. #schcom0323
• Multiple slides matter (lines up and down) confused? What the town will fund is open but slide assume they will provide what is needed? Question remains how much of that will they? #schcom0323
• More slides on teacher and enrollment status over the years by elementary, middle and high school #schcom0323
• Davis Thayer to Keller transition and positions associated reviewed with several slides (see deck) #schcom0323 anticipate supporting Title I at Keller next year. Looking to bring some staff back (i.e. restoration) on a page of the adds to prior year. Not tallied but my math …
• ... gets to just about $1m of the 3m increase. What is the other? #schcom0323 use of revolving funds always a problem.
• Citizens will have time to ask questions on budget, Chair addressing comments by TC budget Subcommittee chair that were made in the the TC budget meeting last week where he was 'disappointed' when #schCom0323 wasn't there to talk to
• Chair reading line items of the budget (per function codes for DESE accounting). Individual members can 'hold' an item for further discussion. Vice Chair keeping track of holds. #schcom0323
• FYI  - 5 viewing live stream, approx. 68 on Zoom, and Keenan did arrive, see his name in listing now #schcom0323
• If you do want to look at the budget details, check this doc https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/fy2022-budget  #schcom0323
• Questions on replacement of Dr. Edwards and where those fall on the budget lines, Q on the use of legal advice, and on consultants (for the master plan and possible redistricting) Q on degree advancement (regarding steps and lanes per contract) #schcom0323
• Q on sped decrease, covered by grants. Q on removal of travel stipend; used by one position, by adding another position travel not required. #schcom0323 contract for the 10GB line accounts for the increase.
• Q on SPED out placements - all required per each student's level of needs, we are unable to provide within district. #schcom0323 interesting comment by one member saying it is not fair for the Town to give every dollar to the schools. (And yet she asked no Qs on budget)
• Student enrollment decline as well as the DT cost savings are signs of adjustments over the years. DT closing results in a total of about $900K for staffing and expenses (which includes about $120k on town side) #schcom0323
• Motion to close budget hearing passes 6-0-1 via roll call  (updated post meeting - Keenan is there, D’Angelo not even has named called out)
• Now to regular schedule of meeting. #schcom0323 

FHS Student representatives

• FHS representatives promoting SEL during remote, via "what's up?" Sections during day. GirlUp club discussion on Thursday at 6 PM
• Touts DECA awards of 25 students to National. One acts coming Thursday. #schcom0323 FHS home football against Attleboro. 

Superintendent's Report

• Superintendent's report shorter this week mindful of the budget and agenda, speaks to the acts of violence in Atlanta and Denver

Jefferson Elementary

• Moving along to Jefferson Elementary for their update #schcom0323 Principal Sarah Klim leads the group
• The Jefferson presentation doc can be found here https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/jefferson_presentation_to_the_school_committee_3-23-21.pdf #schcom0323 many thanks to many folks, stakeholders across the district. Kids excited to return Apr 5
• Time for coloring let's kids light up #schcom0323 monkey fidgets have a little marble in the cloth pocket so it allows for fidgeting but quietly
• More slides and good conversation / information supporting these #schcom0323
• Staff slideshow at opening in September had photo of teachers/staff with and without masks #schcom0323

Discussion Action items

• Moving to discussion action items #schcom0323 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_positions.pdf 
• Looking to create positions to get into posting etc. Moved, seconded, would have preferred another asst superintendent but this is creative , passes 6-0-1 via roll call (updated post meeting - D’Angelo name not read out)
• #schcom0323 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_2nd_reading.pdf motion, second, for approval passes 6-0-1 (updated post meeting, D’Angelo absent)  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_policy_1st_reading.pdf  for first reading, to second reading, motion, second, passes 6-0-1 via roll call (updated post meeting, D’Angelo absent)

Discussion only = Re-opening

• #schcom0323 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/reopening_schools_status_update_march_19_2020-2021.pdf Caution on maintain protocol, distancing, masks, etc. Participation in pool testing increasing, experience with positive tests. Will pool testing be continued after pilot? Maybe funded with relief funds after pilot
• Custodian staff working Weds and weekends to move desks and reset classrooms to be ready, not anticipating challenges on accommodations either way for elementary, middle closes soon, FHS working numbers with info due in couple of days #schcom0323
• Attendance memo coming to parents to reinforce in person and no slide to remote, need to be in person. Principals doing to work with the parents on Communications, etc. Also thinking about summer programs for ELA and math #schcom0323 possible summer school at FHS
• A new beginning with students in 5 days at 3' playgrounds to be opened in near future, adjusting to travel advisory changes per Gov Baker's changes. 'Urge' to quarantine or test upon return. #schcom0323 vaccine changing circumstances for some teachers, etc.
• Swampscott situation due to a post football game party, would handle due to circumstances call DESE, no set guidelines. #schcom0323 individual schools working the volunteer situations at each school 
• Testing being set for Sept to help assess the starting point
• FHS graduation will be first Friday in June, outdoor, rain date June 5, working on car parade which folks enjoyed last year. #schcom0323 budget meeting Apr 6, info for flyer using #s from video, Policy, meeting Apr 29, joint PCC amazing how much work these PCCs are doing
• Looking at vaping and justice models to best address violations #schcom0323 to work with SAFE Coalition as well Sch wellness looking at fitness for summer
• District improvement plan updates, budget vote, and how the return is looking.

Consent agenda to Closing (Executive Session)

• Consent agenda, motion to approve, second passes via roll call 6-0 (I apparently missed Jen D'Angelo).
• Motion to executive session, second passes 6-0 (no D'Angelo) #schcom0323 
• That's all for tonight catch you next time!

 

a slide captured from the school budget presentation depicts local contribution to budget over time

"America’s ultra-wealthy have pulled off a brilliantly designed heist"

"Over the past pandemic year, American billionaires have grown $1.3 trillion richer, the beneficiaries of a soaring stock market. Income inequality has widened. One response is imposing new taxes on wealth, such as those just introduced by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), but that approach faces significant political hurdles.

There’s another way to tackle the problem. Instead of focusing only on taxing wealth accumulation, we can address the hidden flip side — wealth transmission. America’s super-rich have created a little-known parallel legal system in some unlikely states. There, they pass on massive amounts of wealth tax-free and lock in inequality for generations, exploiting cracks in our system of taxing inherited wealth."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/03/19/we-need-rein-billionaires-start-with-south-dakota/

Franklin Public Schools: Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Feb 25

Policy Sub Committee Meeting

Virtual Meeting (Link in agenda)  
Thursday, February 25, 2021 - 6:00 PM

Agenda

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may, in fact, be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

I. Electronic Distribution of Approved Policies

1. BEDB - Order of Business

2. Policy Distribution Folder

II. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. None

III. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

Agenda doc and connection information:  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/2.25.2021_policy_subcommittee_meeting_agenda.pdf

Franklin Public Schools: Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Feb 25

Looking for something to read? How about the School Committee policy manual?

Looking for reading material during school vacation? Have you checked out the policy manual for the School Committee?

 

"THE PEOPLE AND THEIR SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Franklin School Committee has the dual responsibility for implementing statutory requirements pertaining to public education and local citizens' expectations for the education of the community's youth. It also has an obligation to determine and assess citizens' desires. When citizens elect delegates to represent them in the conduct of public education, their representatives have the authority to exercise their best judgment in determining policies, making decisions, and approving procedures for carrying out the responsibility.  

The Franklin School Committee therefore affirms and declares its intent to:

• Maintain two-way communications with citizens of the community. The public will be kept informed of the progress and problems of the school system, and citizens will be urged to bring their aspirations and feelings about their public schools to the attention of this body, which they have chosen to represent them in the management of public education. 
• Establish policies and make decisions on the basis of declared educational philosophy and goals. All decisions made by this Committee will be made with priority given to the purposes set forth, most crucial of which is the optimal learning of the student enrolled in our schools. 
• Act as a truly representative body for members of the community in matters involving  public education.  The Committee recognizes that ultimate responsibility for public education rests with the state, but individual School Committees have been assigned specific authority through state law.  The Committee will not relinquish any of this authority since it believes that decision-making control over the student’s learning should be in the hands of local citizens as much as possible. "

Reviewed; no revisions 4/8/2008;  Reviewed; revised 5/3/2014

Shared from the Franklin Public Schools page: https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/ab-people-and-their-school-district

Top level of the policy manual  https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual

Franklin Public Schools: Policy Subcommittee Meeting - Jan 21, 2021

Policy Subcommittee Meeting

1/21/2021  = 6:00 - 7:30 PM

Virtual Meeting (Link in agenda)

I. Electronic Distribution of Approved Policies

1. GA - Personnel Policy Goals

2. GBA - Equal Employment Opportunity

3. Policy Distribution Folder

II. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. None

III. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. Policy BEDB - Order of Business

B. FPS Travel Policy

C. Continued Review of F Policies

Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/1.21.2021_policy_subcommittee_meeting_agenda.pdf

 

Franklin Public Schools: Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Jan 21, 2021

Franklin Public Schools: Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Dec 17

Policy Sub Committee Meeting

Virtual Meeting (Links in agenda)

Thursday, Dec 17   6:00 PM

I. Electronic Distribution of Approved Policies

1. JJEA - Crowdfunding Policy

2. GE - Telework Policy

3. Policy Distribution Folder

II. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. None

III. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. Continued Review of F Policies

Agenda doc with connection info
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/12.17.20_policy_sub_agenda_.pdf

 

the snow has completely gone from when this was taken, but sounds like more is coming

FM #407 Town Council Mtg - Spear Phishing Incident - 12/02/20 (audio)

FM #407 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 407 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2020.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council, selected guests, and Town Administration personnel were in the Council Chambers, the public was remote via Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the full four hour plus meeting into three logical segments:

• First - covers the opening through the first public hearing on the tax rate and subsequent votes to approve 14.65% as the rate for FY 2021 (1 hour and 5 minutes)
• Second - covers two of the public hearings; the Comcast contract renewal for 10 years, and the bylaw fee adjustment to reduce the fees for next year only to help the local restaurants during this COVID-19 pandemic period (36 mins)
• Third - covers the presentation on the spear phishing incident through to the meeting close. There was a 4 minute recess during this segment, I did remove most of the silence to reduce the time for this segment (where I could) (2 hours and 17 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda including documents released for this agenda.

Let’s listen to this segment of the Town Council meeting of Dec 2, 2020. Audio file => https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5e26bfe-2d9c-4dd7-a68a-a652123f561d

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Agenda document (and released supporting materials in one PDF)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/12-02-2020_town_council_agenda.pdf
 
Agenda details with individual documents  
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/december-2-town-council-meeting-tax-rate-hearing

Spear phishing update folder
https://franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/spear-phishing

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/12/town-council-meeting-comcast-contract.html  

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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

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!

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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"

 

Police Chief TJ Lynch updates on the ongoing police investigation

"House, Senate budgets contain plenty of policy proposals"

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin:

"So much for a “narrow” budget.

When the House and Senate Ways and Means committees released their fiscal 2021 budget proposals, both were relatively narrow with few policy initiatives. Chairs Aaron Michlewitz and Michael Rodrigues both stressed the need to adopt the budget on a quick time frame, with the state’s temporary budget expiring at the end of November and the fiscal year already five months in. House Speaker Robert DeLeo said at a Massachusetts Association of Health Plans conference that the budget “is not an appropriate place for major policy reform.”

But through the amendment process, lawmakers have now adopted numerous significant policy proposals. Whether a conference committee will be able to resolve differences quickly remains to be seen. Gov. Charlie Baker has line item veto power over the budget, so policy proposals could also die on his desk – although Democrats, with a veto-proof majority in both bodies, could override him.

The most obvious example is a provision expanding abortion access, which was passed in similar forms by the House and Senate. Senate Republican Leader Bruce Tarr objected to having a major policy proposal taken up in a lame duck budget session, as did Baker – though the governor did not say whether he would veto it."

Continue reading the article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/the-download/house-senate-budgets-contain-plenty-of-policy-proposals-2/

 

 

Franklin School Committee: Policy Subcommittee Meeting - Nov 12

Franklin School Committee
Policy Subcommittee Meeting

DATE: 11/12/2020    

TIME: 6:00 - 7:30 PM

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may, in fact, be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

I.    Electronic Distribution of Approved Policies (pending SC approval 11/10/20)

1.    AC - Nondiscrimination

2.    ACAB - Harassment

3.    ACAB-R1 - Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Harrassment and Discrimination

4.    ACAB-R2 - Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Sexual Harassment Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972

5.    JQA - Financial Assistance

6.     Policy Distribution Folder

II.    Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

1.    None

III.    Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

1.    Continued Review of Policies 

 

Connection information in Agenda doc

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/11.12.20_policy_sub_agenda_.pdf

 

Franklin School Committee: Policy Subcommittee Meeting - Nov 12

FM #377 School Committee Mtg - 10/27/20 P3 of 3 (audio)

FM #377 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 377 in the series. 

This session shares one of three segments for the Franklin, MA School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Oct 27, 2020. 

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

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

* First - covers the opening through the Superintendent's Report, covering the re-opening status; moving from remote to hybrid (52 minutes)

* Second - covers the presentation/discussion on the Comprehensive Facility Analysis (1 hour and 17 mins)

* Third - covers the Discussion Actions Items, and the remainder of the meeting up to where the School Committee enters the executive session not to return to a public meeting. (40 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

Let’s listen to this third segment of the School Committee meeting of Oct 27, 2020   Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hcd40SMK

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Agenda doc
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_10-27-20.pdf 

Meeting packet folder
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/october-27-2020-school-committee-meeting-packet 

Comprehensive Facility Analysis presentation doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 

Facility Assessment report doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report 

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/school-committee-meeting-oct-27-2020.html 

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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

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"

Superintendent Sara Ahern answers a question during the School Committee meeting