Finance Committee approves FY22 Capital Plan and revisions to ToF fiscal policy - 02/09/22 (audio)

FM #729 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 729 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Finance Committee meeting held on Wednesday, February 9, 2022. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: 7 members of the Finance Committee were in the Council Chambers along with some of the public, 1 member was remote along with some members the public via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period. (1 member was absent to complete the accounting of the 9 member committee)

• Chair Bill Dowd opens the Finance Committee, 8 members participating (1 absent; 1 remote, hence roll call votes req'd)

• They heard the proposed revisions to fiscal policy doc, as marked up, minor change suggested to include the enterprise accounts specifically under the heading, rather than listed separately; approved to send to Town Council

• They heard the proposal for the FY 22 capital plan, clarification questions asked along the way before approving $2+M to send to Town Council

• Joint budget subcommittee scheduled to meet March 10, next meeting of FinCom scheduled for March 9, canceling the April meeting as they will be meeting over four nights in May for the budget hearings

The recording runs about 45 minutes, so let’s listen to the Finance Committee meeting Feb 9, 2022. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-729-finance-cmte-mtg-02-09-22

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Meeting agenda =>   

https://www.franklinma.gov/finance-committee/agenda/fin-com-agenda-20 

Link to Finance Committee => https://www.franklinma.gov/finance-committee 

My notes for the meeting =>  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/01/recap-finance-committee-gets-walk.html 

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Finance Committee approves FY22 Capital Plan and revisions to ToF fiscal policy - 02/09/22 (audio)

Recap: Finance Committee approves Capital Plan for FY 22 and revisions to fiscal policy

Quick Recap:

• Finance Committee, 8 members participating (1 absent; 1 remote, hence roll call votes req'd)
• heard proposed revisions to fiscal policy doc, as marked up, minor change suggested to include the enterprise accounts specifically under the heading, rather than listed separately; approved to send to Town Council
• Heard proposal for capital plan, clarification questions asked along the way before approving $2+M to send to Town Council
• Joint budget subcommittee scheduled to meet March 10, next meeting of FinCom scheduled for March 9, canceling the April meeting as they will be meeting over four nights in May for the budget hearings

The Twitter thread for my notes missed the first two but the others can be found in one PDF  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZDbo-UYyinDJtMyjX8GAHd7EK9EFZ8Ay/view?usp=sharing

You can also find the Twitter thread looking for the hashtag -> #fincom0209

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fincom0209&src=recent_search_click 

Audio recording should be available in couple of days

• live reporting about to commence for the #FinCom0209 meeting, one member remote, one absent so a total of 8 participating tonight
• Agenda doc can be found -> https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/2022-02-09_fincom_agenda.pdf  #fincom0209
• policy review (policy on page 2) proposing to remove the open space accounts as CPA is available. Req to adjust the enterprise accounts indented under the Enterprise account header (water, sewer, trash) #fincom0209
• Q on host community agreement - what it is and how long it lasts, $300K / year (not to exceed 3% of gross sales) - currently set at 5 years for Franklin #fincom0209 this completes the review of the policy, motion to approve, via roll call 8-0
• FY 22 capital plan (see agenda doc) total free cash $4.4M a high amount, maybe a record, won't likely be repeated. proceeding section by section or the separate capital plan doc here ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NmZGJ1f4Z8FiEpvZTVFUbRRZgkujzwxD/view?usp=sharing #fincom0209
• with $4.4M as starting point, set aside for snow/ice, and to debt stabilization, leaves us with $2+M for the capital plan, first pass now, after snow/ice confirmed, to come back for a second pass #fincom0209
• Dept level: School Department, School Technology, School Facilities - $701,000 multiple items covered in the details in agenda doc #fincom0209 Q - to clarify on text books, yes it is both materials and Chromebook licenses
• one of the Senior Center requests is for a pavilion outside to provide some shade. If you have ever seen it, it is exposed, the bocci court is covered (at either end) but the chairs/tables are totally exposed. #FINCOM0209 hopefully to have Tri-County students build
• fire alarm system upgrade, the vehicles were in the plan for several years and have risen to the top this year; grant to assist for the clothing request #fincom0209
• 5 replacement vehicles for police, vehicles were hybrid but not available so they would go gas; NationalGrid doing a fleet analysis to help determine the economics would take approx. a year #fincom0209
• on to enterprise accounts: water treatment plant analysis; tank replacement analysis for the hill behind Dean. #fincom0209 sewer enterprise, general improvements to whole system; Federal ARPA fund guidance being changed, may now qualify for ARPA, want to get it done either way
• did apply for SRF funding for the Beaver St connector, set to bid in late August and then 2 year construction; loan will be paid out of sewer enterprise fund; can tell how much it could be now, too early. #fincom0209 will need to get the bids, SRF gets a 0% loan
• check out the listing of all the other items that are on the wish list for future consideration #fincom0209 approve what has been submitted for, via roll call 8-0
• approval of Jan 12 minutes, motion, second, passes 8-0 via roll call #fincom0209
• stabilization account update, listed at the end of the capital and capital memo #fincom0209
• future agenda items, DPW deep dive, next month (March 9); may cancel the April meeting - they will be meeting multiple times in May 2022 (budget hearing)
• Joint Budget subcommittee meeting March 10, approx. 6:30 or 6 #fincom0209 motion to adjourn, second, passes 8-0 via roll call

Finance Committee Meeting - Feb 9, 2022 - agenda to review the FY 2022 Capital Plan

DESE "will not renew the state mask requirement after it expires on February 28, 2022"

"Please see the following release from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education https://t.co/Ao8cJFbwFq"  or here

Shared from Twitter ->   https://twitter.com/MASCSchoolComm/status/1491432725072707585

DESE update on mask policy, allowing expiration as of Feb 28, 2022 ->   https://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/on-desktop/2022-0209mask-requirement-update.pdf

Other DESE policy statements, etc.   https://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/on-desktop.html

DESE "will not renew the state mask requirement after it expires on February 28, 2022"

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Meeting Agenda - Feb 8, 2022

Franklin School Committee

February 8, 2022 - 7:00 PM

Municipal Building – Council Chambers

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. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Presentation

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. 2022-2023 School Calendar
I recommend approval of the 2022-23 School Calendar as discussed.

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_22-23_school_calendar.pdf
B. Policy - 1st Reading
I recommend moving Policy GDQD - Suspension and Dismissal of Support Staff
Members to a second reading.

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_read_0.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. COVID Status Update   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/back_to_school_status_update_oct-present_2.pdf
B. 2022-2023 Joint Budget Subcommittee Charge   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/2022_-_2023_joint_budget_subcommittee_charge.pdf

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Supt. Evaluation, Budget,
Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Space Needs & Facilities
Assessment Sub Committee)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, (SATF) Substance Abuse Task Force, (SWAC) School Wellness Advisory Council, SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council), DEI Committee (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion).

VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the January 25, 2022 School
Committee meeting as detailed.
B. Music Gifts
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $4,116.00from music parents for
in house enrichment as detailed.
C. FHS Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $2,910.16 from Grynn & Barrett
Enterprises, Inc. for supplemental supplies for FHS as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Ms. Spencer

IX. Payroll Ms. Stokes

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/RN unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental
effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.
b. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective
bargaining with non-union personnel.
c. Executive session pursuant to M.G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(1) to consider an Open
Meeting Law complaint against public officers, namely the members of the
School Committee, filed with the Committee by Kyle Thompson and dated
February 3, 2022.

XI. Adjournment 

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_2-8-22.pdf

Meeting folder ->  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/february-8-2022-school-committee-meeting-packet 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Meeting Agenda - Feb 8, 2022

School Committee: Policy Subcommittee Meeting - Feb 2 - 6 PM

Policy Subcommittee Meeting

DATE: 2/2/2022 TIME: 6:00 -- 7:30 pm

Municipal Building - Training Room (Virtual Link in Agenda)

A G E N D A

“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

A. JICFB - Bullying

B. GBGF - Staff Family Medical Leave Act

II. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. GDJ - Support Staff Assignments & Transfers - Elimination 1/11/22 SC

III. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. EBCFA - Face Coverings

B. JICFB - Bullying

C. EFD - Meal Charge Policy and EFD-R Meal Charge Policy Procedures

D. Continued review of G policies

E. GDCC-E - Family & Medical Leave of Absence

F. GDQD - Suspension and dismissal of Support Staff Members

Agenda doc ->  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/2_2_2022_policy_subcom_agenda_.pdf

School Committee: Policy Subcommittee Meeting - Feb 2 - 6 PM

Offshore wind policy draws sides and maybe progress

"A LONG-BREWING fight over state energy policy moved into the spotlight on Tuesday as key players laid out their positions in what promises to be an interesting debate over the best way to propel the state’s offshore wind industry into the future. 

The starting point is a bill filed by Gov. Charlie Baker that would steer $750 million in American Rescue Plan Act money into a fund that would invest in new energy technologies, train a new energy workforce, and change the way offshore wind procurements are run in the future."

Continue reading the article online
https://commonwealthmagazine.org/energy/offshore-wind-policy-fight-takes-center-stage/

"Governor Charlie Baker and secretary of energy and environmental affairs Kathleen Theoharides on Tuesday urged the Legislature to pass a plan to make the state more competitive in the offshore wind industry. 

The hourslong hearing before the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy was contentious: 90 witnesses, including many supporters and some naysayers, signed on."

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/01/11/science/baker-urges-state-pass-offshore-wind-investment-help-meet-climate-goals/

"THE LEGISLATURE’S energy committee approved a bill Wednesday evening that would give the state’s Clean Energy Center a major role in the development of the offshore wind industry and tap consumer electricity and natural gas bills to pay for tax credits, grants, and investments to make it happen. 

Rep. Jeffrey Roy of Franklin, the House chair of the Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy Committee, maneuvered the bill through the panel with 10 House members and one Senate member voting in support, one senator voting no, and four senators and one House member reserving their rights. Sen. Bruce Tarr of Gloucester, a Republican, was the lone no vote."

Continue reading the article online 
https://commonwealthmagazine.org/energy/sweeping-offshore-wind-bill-headed-toward-house/ 

Sen. Michael Barrett of Lexington (left) and Rep. Jeffrey Roy of Franklin, the chairs of Legislature's Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy Committee.

Recap: Finance Committee gets a walk through on revenue calculation and preview of budget cycle timeline for FY 2023

Quick Recap:

• Overview of Joint Budget committee proposal to formalize more than had been over the past several years. Members of budget subcommittee of Town Council, School Committee and Finance Committee make up this review, collaborative, and non-voting body
• Committee gets a walk through on revenue calculation (see page 3 of agenda doc) and preview of budget cycle timeline for FY 2023 (see page 2) The walk through on the revenue calculation is a "must listen" when recording is available
• Finance polices to be reviewed during next session, potential changes coming to a few of the policies, for review with FinCom before going to Town Council for their approval too

Agenda doc for the Finance Committee, note it has supporting pages with great info ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/finance-committee/agenda/fin-com-agenda-20

 

The twitter thread of my notes taken during the meeting can be viewed in the embedded doc below or at this link ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KHbng2g4Q_CU8bHBeS8Uhp7ezXt6APLX/view?usp=sharing

Audio file to be available in couple of days

 

TA Jamie Hellen provides Overview of Joint Budget committee proposal

Franklin (MA) School Committee: Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Jan 5, 2022

Policy Sub Committee Meeting

Municipal Building - Training Room (Virtual Link in Agenda)

Jan 5, 2022 -6 to 7:30 PM

A G E N D A

“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

A. none

II. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. none

III. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. Overview of Policy Review and Development

1. Review Section B - Board Governance, specifically, BG, BGB, BGC, BGC-E, BGD, BGE, BGF, BGG

B. EBCFA - Face Coverings

C. JICFB - Bullying

D. Continued review of G policies

E. GDCC - Staff Family & Medical Leave

F. GDCC-E - Family & Medical Leave of Absence

G. GDJ - Support Staff Assignments & Transfers

H. GDQD - Suspension and dismissal of Support Staff Members

Full agenda can be found on the FPS page ->
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/1_5_22_policy_subcom_agenda.pdf

 

Policy Sub Committee Meeting - Jan 5, 2022

FHS masking policy reverts to "Required" as of Dec 17th as positivity rate jumps past 4%

December 15, 2021

Dear FHS Community,

We have an update regarding our positivity rate within the Franklin community.  We learned, through a conversation with the Franklin Health Department today, that our 14-day % positivity rate is 4.24% and we anticipate that this value is going to be reported in the MA DPH COVID dashboard tomorrow evening.  

As an adjustment we will be encouraging all vaccinated students and staff to wear masks tomorrow Thursday, December 16th. As you know, unvaccinated students and staff are required to wear masks. 

We will be returning to the school committee’s policy mandate that all students and staff wear masks beginning Friday, December 17th, regardless of vaccination status.  

This mandate will be in place as long as our 14-day % positivity rate is above 4%.  I can appreciate the varied responses to this message and would like to welcome anyone with any questions to email me directly.
 
Sincerely,
Joshua Hanna, Principal 

FHS masking policy reverts to "Required" as of Dec 17th as positivity rate jumps past 4%

Franklin School Committee: Policy reminders on Public Complaints & Public Participation

Via Denise Spencer, re-elected to School Committee:

"As we begin a new term, I believe now is a good time for a refresher on two of our policies: 

1) KE - Public Complaints 

("...In case of a complaint(s), the complainant shall take the matter first to the staff member, and if unresolved to the Principal of the building, then to the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee, who, if he/she is unable to satisfy the complainant, shall report the case to the School Committee for consideration and action.)

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/ke-public-complaints

2) BEDH - Public Participation 

("Public comment is not a discussion, debate, or dialogue between individuals and the School Committee. It is an individual's opportunity to express an opinion on issues within the School Committee’s authority.)

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/bedh-public-participation"

Shared from Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/groups/460474210785489/permalink/2099535663545994/

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

Franklin MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 3, 2021

Franklin Town Council

Agenda & Meeting Packet

November 3, 2021 - 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

2nd floor, Council Chambers 355 East Central Street 

1. SWEARING IN OF TOWN CLERK AND TOWN COUNCIL

2. ELECTION OF OFFICERS – Town Council Chair, Vice-Chair & Clerk

3. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.
b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

4. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

a. October 6, 2021

6. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - None Scheduled

7. APPOINTMENTS

a. Franklin Cultural Council: Venus Senjam

b. Franklin Cultural Council: Patrick Kinner

c. Franklin Cultural Council: Shelley Green

d. Franklin Cultural Council: Jacob Juncker

8. HEARINGS - 7:10pm - None Scheduled

9. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

a. Residence Inn Boston Franklin, License Modification, Change of Manager, Officers/Directors/ LLC Managers & Change of ownership Interest, 4 Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA 02038

b. Shaw's Supermarkets, Inc. d/b/a Shaw's, License Modification, Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers, 255 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

c. 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC d/b/a The Ninety-Nine, License Modification, Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers, 847 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

10. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. Presentation: Open Meeting Law, Public Records, Ethics and Conducting a Public Meeting - Mark Cerel, Town Attorney

• Memo - > https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Ft8UZqacUKK2AT_rieHgQl4NFNR0-Xu/view?usp=sharing
• Presentation Doc - >   https://drive.google.com/file/d/15KP9W1fQTC5rOiiO_OBi6HFZv_PHtG0t/view?usp=sharing

11. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Budget Subcommittee

c. Economic Development Subcommittee

12. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 21-65: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44,

§53F3/4 - $18,500.22 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-65 - Majority Vote)

b. Resolution 21-66: Gift Acceptance: Veterans Service Department ($3,295.00) and Fire Department ($965.00) (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-66- Majority Vote)

13. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

14. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

15. COUNCIL COMMENTS

16. EXECUTIVE SESSION

a. Considering the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property, because an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the Board.
i. Schmidt’s Farm, Prospect Street

17. ADJOURN

Note:

Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting 

98 page PDF agenda and docs released for this meeting ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_11.03.21.pdf

Franklin MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 3, 2021

Franklin Public Schools: Public Complaints About Instructional Materials

In light of the events during the Oct 26, 2021 School Committee meeting, it is good to refresh this existing policy for public awareness:

IIAE - Public Complaints About Instructional Materials

The School Committee recognizes the right of students to free access to many different types of literature. The Committee also recognizes the right of teachers and administrators to select books and other materials in accordance with the current trends in education and to make them available through the schools.

 

Therefore, books and other reading matter will be chosen for value of interest and enlightenment of all students in the community. A book will not be excluded because of the race, gender orientation, nationality, political, or religious values of the writer or of its style and language. Every effort will be made to provide materials that present all points of view concerning the international, national, and local problems and issues of our times. Books and other reading matter of sound factual authority will not be prescribed or removed from library shelves or classrooms because of partisan doctrinal approval or disapproval.

 

Censorship of books will be challenged in order to maintain the school's responsibility to provide information and enlightenment. Accordingly, the School Committee will deal with censorship of books or other materials as follows:

 

Challenge of instructional materials used or proposed for use in the district will include the author, title, publisher, page number, and other pertinent information of each item to which objection is being made. This information will include the reasons for the objections stated in sufficient detail and logical sequence. It is the responsibility of the complainant to have reviewed the entire contents of the instructional material and the signature of complainant will attest to this fact. Challenges of instructional material will neither be deemed complete nor be considered by the Committee until all the above information has been furnished.

 

Challenge Committee:

• A challenge committee will be convened to review challenges as they occur.

 

The committee will consist of not more than nine members which may include:

• two administrators (designated by the Superintendent);

• three teachers (in subject matter field);

• no more than three parent/patrons who serve on the PCC and School 

 

Improvement Council

• one School Committee member

The committee chairperson will be appointed by the Superintendent; will set committee meeting dates, time, place, and will be at appropriate meetings when committee recommendations are to be considered.

 

The challenge committee will evaluate the questioned material and review the challenge. The committee may meet with both adoption requestor and challenger. In addition, the committee may request information from those who have facts pertinent to the challenge. When the committee deliberations are completed, the committee will forward its report in writing to the Superintendent. The report will include one or more of the following recommendations:

• adoption;

• no adoption;

• retention on adopted list;

• removal from adopted list; or

• prescribed usage  - such as determined by nature of the instructional material and its unique application to the learning situation.

The Superintendent will review the report and render the decision in writing to the complainant within five days of receiving the challenge committee report.

The decision of the Superintendent will represent the final decision of the school district.

 

CROSS REF.:             IIAC, IJ

Reviewed, revised 5/9/16

Shared from the Franklin Public Schools page

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/iiae-public-complaints-about-instructional-materials

Tip of hat to State Rep Jeff Roy for raising this key point in a Facebook discussion thread.

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

Recap: School Committee meeting interrupted by audience; MASC resolutions discussed, mask policy approved, Executive Session closed meeting

Quick Recap:

• The FHS student updates were interrupted by some members of the audience, a shouting match ensued, and a break in the meeting was gaveled by the Chair
• As the meeting back to business, they heard a presentation from the Science National Honor Society, status update on re-opening, and the Oct 1 enrollment report (with lots of details) 
• The MASC resolutions were discussed, and while most passed, the exact vote outcome was not clear (all seven members were in the Chambers and roll call was not required)
• Given the DESE decision to extend the mask policy was announced Tuesday afternoon, the policy proposal had been reworded to provide room for implementation of future changes. The decision to apply for the waiver (as FHS has reached 82% vaccination rate) was approved. The masks don't go away immediately. The next school committee will hear of the proposed implementation plan before it is set in motion. Given what has been happening around with other districts, a cautious approach is quite likely with more of a relaxed implementation after the holidays (assuming the number of COVID cases remains low)
• Recognition of the three members not returning (they are not running for re-election) was moved from meeting opening to just before the Executive Session. They received a plaque and a token of appreciation
• The Committee entered executive session not to return to public meeting and the broadcast/live stream ended

 

----

 

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real time via the Zoom/live stream 

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcom1026

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom1026&src=typed_query 

 

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_10-26-21_0.pdf

 

Meeting packet folder - >  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/october-22-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one folder  https://photos.app.goo.gl/8pD4yEPwTQjcSLhh7

 

• Getting ready for live tweeting/ reporting on the Franklin  #schcom1026 meeting
• Meeting packet folder contains agenda doc, connection info, and anything else released 4 this meeting. Superintendent's report gets added on Weds https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/october-22-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet… #schcom1026
• In a time warp? #schcom10126 we'll find out soon…
• Something of a time warp in that the live stream started before some folks were allowed into the Zoom session (at least me) #schcom1026
• Motion to move the recognition of departing members to end of meeting, moved, seconded, (to conclude all business) before executive session #schcom1026 passes (likely 7-0; to be confirmed as members are viewed)

Citizen Comments

• Citizen comment on 'protected students' who is  who determines? Shouldn't be a division looking for definition. #schcom1026 
• Husband of candidate Videra reads the section left out of the statement from the candidate forum quote from The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
• Parent with comment on student lunch time and recess time, Franklin has done nothing in the 8 years she has been complaining about, then shifts to sex talk for 9 year olds, "the hate you give" being read earlier than recommended #schcom1026
• Parent speaking on the DESE extension and lack of initiative for FPS to go on their own, #schcom1026 no survey done of parents to see where they fall on this 
• Parent talking about possible coercion for vaccine to kids as discussed by SchCom at prior meeting
• Resident complains about the lack of Franklin TV for making the #SchCom1026 videos available.
• FHS students plugging production of "Mamma Mia" Nov 12-13; trunk or treat this weekend in FHS parking lot; National Honor society project to run theater clinic for elementary students; #schcom1026 Medway doing regular testing in lieu of masks
• FHS seniors coming back and now starting to feel stress as college apps are being done, hard transition; enforcing masks, students not following be considerate of those around and their well-being #schcom1026
• Spirit week, include photos to add soul to the school, gym decorated, corner colors by class, cabaret last week, Dalton award from Globe for sports, #schcom1026 student responds to protected student question, everyone is protected
• Meeting takes a break as parent objects to FHS student comment on harassment and voices are raised #schcom1026
• Chair gaveled for break after request for silence was not adhered to, zoom muted, live stream audio switch to radio. Assume it will come back some time #schcom1026

Break/Return

• Someone on Zoom complaining about violating open meeting, actually no. Once gaveled for a break, they are not in an official meeting, when they gavel back the meeting will resume. #schcom1026
• Gaveling back to order. #schcom1026
• Everyone was respectful in their comments, that same respect should be accorded the FHS students. #schcom1026

Superintendent Report

• Next up Superintendent Report, Professional development schedule for Nov 2; congrats to FHS for Dalton award, leaving room for parking at the gym for election #schcom1026 FDA working towards making vaccine available when approved in a local clinic
• With round of committee option to comment or question the report, confirms that all seven are indeed in the Chambers this evening #schcom1026

FHS Science National Honor Society

• FHS students presenting on national honor society for science #schcom1026  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/sci-nhs
• Screen grabs on science nights conducted by group pre-COVID #schcom1026
• YouTube channel created during COVID to share the experiments #schcom1026
• Working with elementary school to develop a science project for their curriculum #schcom1026 ad-hoc comments on promotion of DEI setting a good role model for younger students given tonight's events

MASC resolutions

• Next up discussion action item; MASC resolutions for delegate representation at conf next week, motion on resolution 1  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-res  #schcom1026 vote not clear but would pass (Pfeffer no, someone else no, possible abstain also)
• MASC resolution 2 Pfeffer also speaks to no on this, (the resolution would enable MASC to lobby on our behalf for these) #schcom1026 vote likely 6-1 
• Resolution 3 - Pfeffer also speaks to no, Keenan where is the prioritization on these? How does that come to play? Superintendent adds some clarification around funding and priorities and funding sources, res 4 would require time on learning change for recess #schcom1026  Vote on res 3, likely 6-1 
• #schcom1026 resolution 4 Pfeffer also speaks to no due to her lack of understanding of the wording; vote likely 6-1 
• Resolution 5 - Pfeffer likes this one! Zero tolerance policy should be avoided whenever possible, use restorative practice, vote 7-0
• Resolution 6 an alternative to MCAS, vote 7-0
• Resolution 7 SchComm and receivership; Pfeffer speaks to no on this (?) Discussion on this as intending to restoration of local control - vote 6-1 likely #schcom1026
• Resolution 8 - Pfeffer too altruistic statement, chances of getting in her opinion slim to none, voting no; vote hard to say but likely not passed
• Resolution 9 - voting 6-1 #schcom1026

Policy discussion/approvals

• Policy for approval  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-b-pol-2ndrd #schcom1026 vote 7-0
• Policy for approval  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-c-pol-1strd move to second reading vote 7-0
• Policy on face coverings   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-e-pol-adoption #schcom1026 FHS at 82% would allow for approval of waiver to DESE motion to waive 1st reading, assume waiver approved would come back with implementation plan vote 7-0
• Motion on policy to approve, passes 7-0 #schcom1026, implementation plan would still come back to Committee for approval (likely post election)
• Reopening report/ Oct 1 enrollment report
• Reopening report; smaller increase in vaccination rates, info is accurate, DESE has time delay in reporting, ours is direct access; #schcom1026   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/10-22-status-update
• Oct 1 enrollment update   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/october_1_enrollment_report_2021.pdf
• Update on McKibben study and look back, lunch is free, may have deterred folks from applying previously, free lunch #s, more English learners in district this year; increase in diversity among student population #schcom1026 page 5 indicates resident students going elsewhere
• Page 6 will be updated after another report is filed, timeline on charter expansion includes in recap, 33 students from FHS last year did attend an online school in MA #schcom1026
• Policy subcom has been busy, joint PCC last meeting today attended by Pfeffer, good work being done by group, equitable spending across the elementary schools being looked at #schcom1026 adventure continues; SWAC touts upcoming forum on Nov 16 for community, flyer coming, hybrid

New business / recognition

• New business; Nov 9, organization meeting, vote on leadership and subcommittees; MCAS update later in Nov, update on waiver and next steps for facial covering implementation (assuming waiver accepted) #schcom1026 consent agenda approved, passes 7-0
• Recognition of departing #schcom1026 members, last two years were most challenging, pandemic, budget, facility analysis; Keenan first, Pfeffer next, Bergen next
• Photos to be added, plaque, token of appreciation given to the three members in recognition #schcom1026
• Keenan: Appreciate the patience, we haven't always agreed but is has been an honor and a privilege, it takes a lot to whomever is elected, keep it civil and kind, #schcom1026 "it is easier to listen the more civil and kind it is"
• Pfeffer: to do this properly we need to ask questions, examine the costs and manpower, how does the school get money? how does the town get money? New members should be given a copy of Roberts Rules of Order #schcom1026
• Bergen: thanks to the community for the honor of serving, thanks for your patience in the world of Zoom, tech is not one of my strengths; showed concern for staff as well as the students; wrote a few closing remarks - the Portrait of a Graduate is an impressive accomplishment
• Schools and town services are affected by the budget shortfall it is up to the residents to decide, we provide an objective transparent view of the budget and issues, legislative forums among others outreach efforts #schcom1026
• Rigorous academic education as well as physical emotional well-being, what Horace Mann knew, opioid problem hasn't gone away, emotional health issues are growing around us, a community issue, #schcom1026 we need to understand the toll it takes on us and the children
• In my time, 9 superintendents, never had one dealt with the challenges that Dr Ahern has in her term, it has not been done by her alone, along with her central office staff and the principals across the district, the whole staff bus drivers, custodians, etc. #schcom1026
• Thanks to Chris Sterns and Franklin TV for making the meetings happen, thanks, Horace Mann would be proud of us today. #schcom1026 
• MJ interjects to give thanks, Judy jokes that she'll go to the Planning Board next. MJ acknowledges knowing Dr Bergen and working with her

Executive session / not to return to open meeting

• Motion to enter executive session, not to return to open meeting, to discuss negotiation and legal issues Via roll call passes 7-0
• That's all for tonight (yup, late to this, what a night!) #schcom1026
• Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

 

The YouTube version of the meeting can be found https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/10/what-happened-at-franklin-school.html

FHS Science National Honor Society provides update