FTC Consumer Alert: How can you spot a tech support scam

How can you spot a tech support scam by Traci Armani, Consumer Education Specialist, Division of Consumer & Business Education Are you getting pop-up warning messages on your computer screen? Or maybe a phone call that your computer has a virus?  That may well be a tech support scam. But how do you know? And what do you do? Read more > https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/09/how-can-you-spot-tech-support-scam?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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School Committee recap: sports authorized, digital tech position created, re-opening updates

The Franklin, MA School Committee met on Tuesday August 25 and the recap is as follows:

• voted to approve participation in schools sports. The vote was required as the district is starting remote. "If nothing had been voted on, and they moved to hybrid, would a vote have been required?" was a question raised but not answered. The vote was 5-1-1 (5 for, 1 no, 1 absent)
• voted to create a new position which had long been desired but had not previously made the budget. Now due to the remote and hybrid learning requirements, the digital learning integration specialist, was approved and three positions were authorized. Funding for the first half of the school year is available from the CARES Act. Funding for the second half and beyond needs to be identified. The vote was 4-2-1 (4 for, 2 no, 1 absent)
• voted to move interim policy changes to operate under the emergency order issued by the Governor for this COVID-19 period to a second reading. Policy changes always take two readings to become final.
• In the Superintendents Report the re-opening progress was noted and while answers remain to be provided much more info is forthcoming before school starts. Class and teacher assignments, bus schedules, chromebook pickup, etc. Stay tuned, the taskforce has been busy working and getting to finalize many details over the next couple of weeks.

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 #schcom0825
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0825&src=typeahead_click

• Real time reporting underway for #schcom0825
• Superintendent's report will include a re-opening update. Also addressing prior meeting item of surplus in this case old and unusable books #schcom0825 second item is longer, i.e. re-opening and first 10 days of PD for teachers
• Teachers come back Monday 8/22 #schcom0825 multiple items on agenda for welcoming back and getting started. New teacher orientation today and next 2 days. Bus transportation in review, request via form coming Weds. Wait to make payment later
• Working on remote only model in prep 250+ k-5 another 100+ middle school. Considering options to provide via a learning academy with FPS teachers who are choosing remote #schcom0825 last resort seats in a learning mgt system. Moves possible at marking break
• Transition to hybrid for FHS still being worked, value in staging (gradual) move rather than all at once. Cohort won't be by grade due to class assignments with mixed grades. #schcom0825 FHS schedule being revised
• New guidance from DESE last week re: students of teachers to come to the district, still evaluation underway. Class size being looked at may not be able to handle. #schcom0825 we are being flexible re staff assignments to accommodate where possible
• Lifelong Learning to do daycare for teachers children, limited availability, priced for cost recovery. #schcom0825 flu vaccine requirements discussed, more info to come on date due for compliance; exception for religion and medical reasons, docs required
• Q on whether considering later daytime start for FHS. Would be easier if remote rather than hybrid or in person. Not definite at this time. Q on daycare. At a premium, there was good interest, but only 5 enrolled currently and can't exceed 30 #schcom0825
• Q handbook? On agenda for Sep 8 meeting. Q assignments? Being worked and should be out next week. Q on schedule? More info coming over the next couple of weeks. Q raised on mask removal circumstances? An older section that has been changing as info #schcom0825
• FYI up to 90+ via the Zoom bridge for this meeting, another 11 on live stream via http://FranklinMA.gov page #schcom0825
• Q on interruption in teachers environment and the resulting impact on learning. Related to another comment on DESEs recommendation for teachers in rooms #schcom0825 Q more comment on cost of childcare is raising stress for teachers
• We are trying to apply the funding in prudent ways, there is not a great answer, need to look at cost benefits.#schcom0825 Q school based teams meeting as needed for building level fine tuning. Things are fluid and evolving
• Mention of YMCA efforts on childcare, the link to additional info can be found on Franklin Matters https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/08/hockomock-area-ymca-offers-remote.html?m=1 #schcom0825
• Next up Athletics update! #schcom0825. SchCom needs to vote as they already approved plan for starting remote. AD Tom Angelo and FHS principal Hanna to provide update
• 8 of 12 hock teams don't have access to gym for volleyball hence move to flex season #schcom0825 AD have met, principals to meet Thursday on plan. Sports would be outside, in smaller #s, and with changes to game to improve safety (soccer, no heading of ball)
• Q soccer changed in risk level apparently due to heavy lobbying effort, soccer is a high contact sport both boys and girls. Are there other rule changes coming? How are the refs going to monitor this? #schcom0825 there are additional rule changes to the nature of this game
• The SEL aspects are driving the efforts to make it work albeit different. The coaches will follow the rules to the T. #schcom0825 cost and availability of busses for away games may be an issue, considering family transportation as an option to be worked out (legal?) liability?
• Q has BoH been involved yet? No but will be. Q concern about the nature of the rule changes, can they be followed? #schcom0825 athletic fees don't cover cost of season, only about 30% of budget covered; may be an increase
• A vote only required because we are starting remote first? Once we go hybrid, that would be an automatic yes? #schcom0825 we'll all be watching if the guidelines are to be followed, same comments are for school settings too. Can people follow the guidelines?
• Community comments; first up an FHS junior Will Tracey  #schcom0825 ; former SchComm member Gigi Zub
• Next up Declan Walmsey, and Sidney Hawkins #schcom0825 and Denise Lewandowski all to encourage the SchCom to vote for proposal
• Next up Virna O'Brien, #schcom0825 advocate for the class of 2021, the class of 2020 lost a lot, but not much has been said about this class of 2021
• Motion to approve participation in sports, seconded, passed 5-1 (1 absent) MJ voted no with apologies to every athlete #schcom0825
• Next up interim policy for COVID-19 related items, 2nd policy on face covering, all policy docs can be found in this doc, policy in effect during emergency for COVID-19 https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_reads.pdf …. #schcom0825
• Motion to move to second reading as discussed (no questions raised) second, vote via roll call 6-0 (1 absent D'angelo) #schcom0825
• Next up calendar revision, https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_revised_20-21_calendar.pdf … most half days to Weds (from Friday) due to cleaning process in hybrid model. #schcom0825 motion to approve, seconded, request to change name of Columbus day, will change per other work, not tonight; vote 6-0
• Creation of new position, i.e. digital learning integration to support in remote or hybrid. #schcom0825 info in link here, funded 1H via COVID funding, will need to look at 2H of year for funding https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_d_-_digital_learning_integrationist.pdf … motion to approve, second, now Qs
• Q how many teachers were laid off. Approx 19.5 in last budget. Request to read job description, being read by Supt Ahern (Link shared previously contains this) #schcom0825 looking into hire within where possible $70-80K/year; concern about funding for 2H
• Budget Subcommittee had reviewed these positions and approved of them albeit there are funding challenges, #schcom0825 vote (finally) via roll call 4-2 (MJ no, risky; Judy no, shouldn't need) (1  absent)
• Discussion only items possible presentation schedule for future meetings https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/sc_presentation_schedules_2019-present_-_2020-2021.pdf … #schcom0825 out for discussion, subject to change
• Budget Subcommittee met last Fri, #schcom0825 Community relations, facility on hold. Policy has been busy, expecting to see student handbooks. Nothing definite on chromebook delivery. Supt review, social and racial justice task force met last week, Anne representing
• For next meeting, annual report review, new hires, COVID addendum, handbooks; what about the hiring process? What about ECDC? What will it look like? Support for the staff. Enjoy the last week of summer! #schcom0825 new chromebooks may not be here before school starts
• Q on the books from last time, they were disposed of. We did to seek to donate where possible but standards do change, many were damaged and not in good shape. Pfeffer not pleased. Supt Ahern would not assume that these books would be used anywhere. #schcom0825
• Consent agenda, motion to approve, second, vote via roll call 6-0 (1 absent) #schcom0825 
• Motion to enter executive session not to return to public meeting; second vote via roll call 6-0
• That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

The agenda doc, including connection info

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/sc-agenda-82520

The meeting packet with all docs released for this meeting

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-25-2020-school-committee-meeting

Photos used in the Twitter thread can be found in the album

https://photos.app.goo.gl/Pu8WV4CYc4kmvCvP7

School Committee recap: sports authorized, digital tech position created, re-opening updates

Franklin, (MA): School Committee Meeting Agenda - 8/25/20

Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance 
Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments

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

C. FHS Student Representative Comments
D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. Tom Angelo, FHS Athletic Director Josh Hanna, FHS Principal

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Athletics at Franklin High School
I recommend the approval of Franklin High School sports teams participating in MIAA seasons although school is opening in a predominantly remote environment as detailed.
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_fhs_athletics.pdf

B. Policy - First Readings
I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading as discussed:
● EBC (SUPPLEMENTAL) - Creation Of A General (Interim) Policy On Covid-related Issues
● EBCFA - Masks/Face Coverings (New)
● COVID Policy Addendums
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_reads.pdf

C. 2020-21 Revised Calendar
I recommend approval of the revised 2020-2021 School Calendar as discussed.
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_revised_20-21_calendar.pdf

D. Digital Learning Integrationist
I recommend the approval of three Digital Learning Integrationist positions in Franklin Public Schools as detailed.
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_d_-_digital_learning_integrationist.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. School Committee Presentation Schedule
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/sc_presentation_schedules_2019-present_-_2020-2021.pdf

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)

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

VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from your August 11, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B. Approval of Executive Session Minutes
I recommend approval of the Executive Session minutes from your August 11, 2020 School Committee meeting to be released as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo

X. Executive Session

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3), move to go into Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to potential litigation as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the School Committee and the chair so declares, and not to reconvene in an Open Session.

XI. Adjournment

The agenda doc, including connection info

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/sc-agenda-82520

The meeting packet with all docs released for this meeting

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-25-2020-school-committee-meeting

Franklin, (MA): School Committee Meeting Agenda - 8/25/20

Department Spotlight - Technology

Department Spotlight - Technology
Learn more about our town departments in our "Spotlight Series"

The Technology Department is featured in the latest edition of our "Spotlight Series" https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net/spotlight-technology/home

Find this and the entire series on the home page of our website at https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/department-spotlights

Department Spotlight - Technology

Director Tim Rapoza presented to the School Committee in February and the presentation document and the audio of the session
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/fm-207-technology-director-tim-raposa.html

In the News: A new job in a time of chaos; school buildings to remain closed for school year

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

"Ann Mariano had just settled into her role as the district’s new technology chief when she unexpectedly had to get computers into the hands of some 2,000 students as fast as possible.

Schools were shuttered temporarily at first due to the COVID-19 threat, but most school officials realized the closures would become long-term. On March 20, she and other officials scrambled to get thousands of Chromebooks out to students who would need them to take part in remote learning. Devices were readied for distribution that evening, with school officials rapidly crafting a way to keep track of which student had what device.

“Everyone was chipping in. We were constantly trying to think of what the next thing would be,” said Mariano, of Franklin. “The biggest lesson I’ve taken away from this is how everyone is part of the puzzle.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200421/new-job-in-time-of-chaos-as-framingham-schools-tech-chief-franklin-woman-fills-tall-order

"School buildings in Massachusetts will remain closed through the end of the academic year, but remote learning will continue, Gov. Charlie Baker announced Tuesday.

There hasn’t been any strong guidance about how to operate schools safely as the state works to curb the spread of the coronavirus, the Republican governor said.

“We believe therefore that students cannot safety return to school,” Baker said.

All non-emergency child care programs will remain closed until June 29, he added. Right now, there are 523 emergency child care programs statewide serving families of essential workers."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200421/updated-massachusetts-schools-closed-for-rest-of-academic-year-as-coronavirus-cases-surge

school buildings to remain closed for school year

Franklin Odd Fellows: “Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

Presenter: Kevin Martin of “Nerds to Go” of Franklin

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 6:30 pm

Location: Franklin Public Library, 118 Main St., Franklin, MA

Talk Content:
At a time when our community might reap the benefits of the Internet and technology to keep in touch with grandchildren, classmates and long-time friends, they are often leery of the new electronic landscape. From computers to smart phones to smart speakers - people can get overwhelmed!

The Franklin Odd Fellows are hosting an informal presentation on “Taming Technology for Community Members”. Kevin Martin will explore how to stay safe on the Internet and enjoy some of the key components and resources.

Martin has more than two decades of experience working in technology – from advanced electronics in submarines in the U.S. Navy to IT executive positions in the private sector.

The Internet offers a boundless amount of useful and interesting information and access to the world. Unfortunately, technology is also a daunting new landscape to many people. This presentation is intended to outline both the security and scope of technology.

For more about Nerds to Go  -  www.nerdstogo.com
For more about the OddFellows  -  www.franklinmassoddfellows.org

“Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

FM #207 - Technology Director Tim Rapoza - Feb 11, 2020 (audio)

FM #207

This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 207 in the series. We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

At the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Feb 11, 2020, Technology Director Tim Rapoza presented a detailed overview of how his department supports and enables all of Franklin’s technology needs (both Town and schools).

Of all the updates on Technology that I have seen over my years of reporting, this is the most comprehensive and easily the most up to date as it contains all the current numbers.

When you stop to think about it, the Town of Franklin is really a service organization. Yes, it is a government entity with Town and School separation on some items (one of the key collaboration points is technology).

The Town exists to provide services to its residents: education, fire protection, police and other emergency response, roads maintained and plowed, recreation, library, senior services... The list is extensive.

These services are delivered all or in part with technology. How is it done? Let’s listen to Tim explain. The recording includes the Q&A with the School Committee and runs approx. 62 minutes.

School Committee Chair Anne Bergen introduces the agenda item. Superintendent Sara Ahern provides a more detailed intro and overview while Tim set up his laptop.

Links to the Town of Franklin Technology page and to the presentation document are included in the show notes so you can follow along.

Technology page:  https://www.franklinps.net/district/educational-technology

Presentation doc link: https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/technology-presentation-2112020

Presentation doc:

Technology Presentation - 2/11/2020 from Franklin Matters

https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HsQxnhgX




This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I 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 this, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements.
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"

FM #207 - Technology Director Tim Rapoza - Feb 11, 2020 (audio)

School Committee Feb 11, 2020 meeting recap

After the FHS student updates, Superintendent Ahern provided her info
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/superintendents_report_to_school_committee_february_11_2020.pdf

Several 5th Graders from Jefferson Elementary coordinate to talk about their mural project. The presentation doc is shared here.

Technology Director Tim Raposa coordinates and manages the technology delivery for all of the Town of Franklin including the schools. Of all the updates I have seen on technology, this is the most comprehensive (and also with up to date info). You can review the presentation deck below. As this is one of the key enablers for the Town of Franklin, I will share the audio for this segment separately. It is definitively "shareworthy"

Asst Superintendent Lucas Giguere started the SEL update with a reflective breathe exercise which was timely and well worth it. There should be more of these moments in meetings. 

Asst Superintendent Lucas Giguere started the SEL update with a reflective breathe exercise

The Jefferson 5th Grade Mural Project:

5th Grade Mural Project - Jefferson Elementary - 2/11/2020 from Franklin Matters

The Technology update:

Technology Presentation - 2/11/2020 from Franklin Matters

The Social Emotional Learning update:

Social Emotional Learning - update 2/11/2020 from Franklin Matters

The Actions Taken for this meeting was published Weds AM
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/news/school-committee-actions-taken-2112020
 
For more details you can review my notes captured live during the meeting Tuesday.

• Live reporting: Consent Agenda - Closing

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/live-reporting-consent-agenda-closing.html

• Live reporting: Discussion Action Items - Information Matters

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/live-reporting-discussion-action-items.html

• Live reporting: District Improvement Plan - Update

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/live-reporting-district-improvement.html

• Live reporting: School Committee - Feb 11, 2020

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/live-reporting-school-committee-feb-11.html

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Feb 11, 2020
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda-feb.html

Reminder: “Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

Presenter: Kevin Martin of “Nerds to Go” of Franklin

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 6:30 pm

Location: Franklin Public Library, 118 Main St., Franklin, MA

Talk Content:
At a time when our community might reap the benefits of the Internet and technology to keep in touch with grandchildren, classmates and long-time friends, they are often leery of the new electronic landscape. From computers to smart phones to smart speakers - people can get overwhelmed!

The Franklin Odd Fellows are hosting an informal presentation on “Taming Technology for Community Members”. Kevin Martin will explore how to stay safe on the Internet and enjoy some of the key components and resources.

Martin has more than two decades of experience working in technology – from advanced electronics in submarines in the U.S. Navy to IT executive positions in the private sector.

The Internet offers a boundless amount of useful and interesting information and access to the world. Unfortunately, technology is also a daunting new landscape to many people. This presentation is intended to outline both the security and scope of technology.

For more about Nerds to Go  -  www.nerdstogo.com
For more about the OddFellows  -  www.franklinmassoddfellows.org

“Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Feb 11, 2020

Vision Statement

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

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. 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. Jefferson Grade 5 Murals Presentation
B. Technology Presentation
C. DIP Goal #1 Update – SEL

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy – 2nd Reading/Adoption
I recommend adoption of Policy EEAE – School Bus Safety as discussed.

IV. Discussion Only Items – none

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)

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 28, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B. Transfers
I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.
C. Music Gift
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $4,264.00 from Franklin Music Parents for in-house enrichment as detailed.
D. Oak Street Gift
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $1,145.00 from the Oak Street PCC for in-house enrichment as detailed.
E. MA All State Music Festival Trip (recurring)
I recommend approval of the request of Diane Plouffe to take music students to the MA All State Music Festival in Boston, MA on March 5 – 7, 2020 as detailed.
F. Baseball Field Trip (recurring)
I recommend approval of the request of Mr. Peri to take FHS student athletes to Cooperstown, NY from April 19 – 20, 2020 as detailed.
G. Parmenter Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips as detailed.
H. Davis Thayer Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000.00 from the Davis Thayer PCC for field trips as detailed.
I. Annie Sullivan Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Annie Sullivan PCC for in-house enrichment as detailed.
J. ECDC Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Franklin Cultural Council for in-house enrichment at ECDC as detailed.
K. Keller Gr. 5 RW Zoo Field Trip
I recommend approval of the recurring Keller Grade 5 field trip to Roger Williams Zoo in Providence, RI on May 7, 2020 as detailed.
L. 3rd Grade Music Field Trip
I recommend approval of the recurring JFK/Parmenter 3rd Grade field trip to The Veteran’s Auditorium in Providence, RI on May 19, 2020 as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo

X. Executive Session

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.

XI. Adjournment


The documents released for this meeting can be found online. Some documents will be posted after the meeting.
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/february-11-2020-school-committee-packet

"Another detail shot of the Jefferson Elementary mural.... books parachuting from an airplane"

Another detail shot of the Jefferson Elementary mural.... books parachuting from an airplane. @JeffersonLabs pic.twitter.com/1jpr8jDEk7

— thesmilemovement (@smileproject) February 6, 2020

“Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

Presenter: Kevin Martin of “Nerds to Go” of Franklin

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 6:30 pm

Location: Franklin Public Library, 118 Main St., Franklin, MA

Talk Content:
At a time when our community might reap the benefits of the Internet and technology to keep in touch with grandchildren, classmates and long-time friends, they are often leery of the new electronic landscape. From computers to smart phones to smart speakers - people can get overwhelmed!

The Franklin Odd Fellows are hosting an informal presentation on “Taming Technology for Community Members”. Kevin Martin will explore how to stay safe on the Internet and enjoy some of the key components and resources.

Martin has more than two decades of experience working in technology – from advanced electronics in submarines in the U.S. Navy to IT executive positions in the private sector.

The Internet offers a boundless amount of useful and interesting information and access to the world. Unfortunately, technology is also a daunting new landscape to many people. This presentation is intended to outline both the security and scope of technology.

For more about Nerds to Go  -  www.nerdstogo.com
For more about the OddFellows  -  www.franklinmassoddfellows.org

“Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18

Franklin Library: Technology help - Jan 11

Staff from Nerds To Go Computer Service will be available to assist patrons with common technology issues such as email access, password reset/recovery, cell phone feature usage, getting onto public Wi-Fi, and accessing information on line.

This service is free and is on a first come, first serve basis.

When: Saturday, January 11, 2020 - 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

For more info about Nerds To Go, visit their web page
https://www.nerdstogo.com/location/franklin-ma/

Franklin Library: Technology help - Jan 11

FM #186 - Finance Committee - Capital Budget FY 2020- session 1 of 2

FM #186

This internet radio show or podcast is number 186 in the series for Franklin Matters.

This recording shares the Finance Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Dec 10, 2019.

This is the first of two sessions to review the Capital Plan for FY 2020. This session started with the Schools and covered all the departments except for the DPW and the enterprise Water and Sewer accounts. Those will be addressed in the second session scheduled for Tuesday, Dec 17 at the Senior Center beginning at 6:30 PM.

The documents for the meetings are available on the Town of Franklin page as well as Franklin Matters. The links are contained here so you can follow along.

The meeting runs about 90 minutes so without further ado here is the Finance Committee meeting of Dec 10.

FY 2020 Capital Budget document
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/fy20-capital-budget

FinCom Agenda doc
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2019-12-10_finance_committee_agenda_fy20_capital_plan_1.pdf

Meeting Recording  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hr1R4CkX





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This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I 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 this, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements.
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"

sidewalks have been part of the plan but not this year

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Agenda - Dec 10, 2019

FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at 6:15 PM

Franklin Town Hall, 3rd Floor Training Room 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

AGENDA

1. Call to Order
2. Departmental Capital Budget Presentation:

• a. Schools

3. Public Comments
4. Approval of Minutes
5. FY20 Town Administrator Capital Plan and Free Cash Overview
6. Departmental Capital Budget Presentations:

• a. Facilities
• b. Recreation
• c. Technology
• d. Administration
• e. Fire
• f. Police

7. Adjournment (Next meeting December 17, 2019 6:30@ Senior Center) 


Balance Update
• General Stabilization $6,137,866
• Recreation Fields $304,951
• Open Space Acquisition $1,121,867
• Budget Stabilization $396,332
• Free Cash $3,482,875
• OPEB $5,852,978
• Property Acquisition $269,781
• Fire Truck Stabilization $209,595

OPEB Obligation as of 6/30/18 (PAYGO): $68,554,870


The full agenda doc including supporting capital budget materials
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2019-12-10_finance_committee_agenda_fy20_capital_plan_1.pdf

King St and Washington Sts intersection before the snows covered the ground

Tri-County RVTHS Open House for Grade 7-8 students Nov 5

When Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School host its annual Open House for grade 7 and 8 students on Tuesday, November 5, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., attendees will be among the first to explore several new technologies available to students.

During the Open House, Tri-County’s new state-of-the-art Medical Assisting facility, which opened to students in September, will be open to the public for the first time.

“As a school that aligns its curricula to future workforce needs, Tri-County is fully committed to preparing students for the careers that will be available over the next decade. We’ve expanded our healthcare offerings as we work collaboratively with our industry partners to tackle workforce shortages, particularly a shortage of nurses,” explained Tri-County Superintendent-Director Stephen Dockray, “We strongly encourage middle school families to visit Tri-County to not only determine if our high school is the right fit for their child, but also to explore and consider the careers that will be available to their child upon graduation from high school and college.”

Tri-County’s new state-of-the-art Medical Assisting facility

In addition to the new Medical Assisting facility, Tri-County unveiled a new Engineering wing in the spring that includes new advanced manufacturing and robotics equipment.
“Our goal is to ensure our vocational shops emulate the workplace,” said Principal Michael Procaccini. “In Carpentry, that often means working with clients on construction projects. In Early Education, that means running a child care center and building a curriculum geared toward young children. Our students develop the soft skills and employability skills that are critical to career success. Many choose to continue their studies in college with the strong foundation they built here at Tri-County.”

In addition to touring the school’s 16 Career Programs, families will have the opportunity to learn about Tri-County’s rigorous academic courses that include Advanced Placement offerings and a for-credit college-level Spanish Program operated in partnership with Bristol Community College.

Student-athletes will be available to discuss the high school’s sports teams which compete in the Mayflower Athletic Conference. Student ambassadors and current Tri-Count parents will be on site to discuss extracurricular programs, cooperative education and school culture.

Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School serves students in Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Plainville, Sherborn, Seekonk, Walpole, Wrentham.