This Chalkboard Chat condenses the May 13 School Cmte Mtg (audio)

FM #1454 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1454 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chairperson Dave Callaghan. This is a new episode of our continuing “Chalkboard Chat” series. We had our discussion virtually on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. We had the opportunity to recap the School Committee meeting of May 13, 2025. 

 

We cover 

• Theatre group recognition

• Traffic study and mitigations 

• Horace Mann campus naming discussion

• Superintendent evaluation

• Override discussion, vote on or before June 3; any questions, please reach out to find out

The recording runs about 30 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1454-chalkboard-chat-05-21-25/

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Contact info for Dave Callaghan -> callaghand@franklinps.net   

Franklin TV video for replay ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/TPngAPt1WHs?&t=110  

The meeting agenda can be found ->   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-1735 

Documents released for this agenda after the meeting can be found -> 

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/may-13%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/799886  

Traffic presentation -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5645253/Traffic.pptx.pdf 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ffAYwvHayzSws0D2bV8xmM0Fsn6c71za/view?usp=drive_link 

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share, and show you what, and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

This Chalkboard Chat condenses the May 13 School Cmte Mtg (audio)

School Committee gets update on traffic study (consider the bus a good alternative) (Audio)

FM #1451 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1451 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. 7 members participated, 6 in Council Chambers, 1 remote (Gallagher). 

The audio for the meeting leaves out the approx 30 minute executive session that the committee spent on negotiation strategy. A brief sound bit highlights the gavel to go into and then the gavel is heard again as they return.  

Quick recap:

Recognition of the FHS student Theater group

Presentation update on the traffic study and mitigation efforts underway

• Link to presentation in the notes section below 

• NO projects to address the traffic flow will be completed before the Sep 2025-2026 school year.

• Currently the traffic queues will more than double in September

• Alternatives are being reviewed before making decisions on which projects would be beneficial for traffic as well as at minimal expense

• Additional updates will be sent to families during the summer by the respective school principals

• “It is not going to be perfect on day 1”

BICO Board Appointment 2025-26

ACCEPT Board Appointment 2025-26

Both positions were approved to be fulfilled by Supt Gigeure in a 7-0 vote via roll call

Discussion Only Item

Horace Mann

• Question/option to ask "How do we as a district choose to honor Horace Mann?"; Campus is one way, are there others? We also need the community to embrace Horace Mann not just the schools

• Seeming to get consensus on campus and collaboration with others but recognize the need to give them a clear direction and objectives to return with a plan to implement

Superintendent’s Evaluation - Presentation of Evidence

• In a new flip book format

• Subcommittee to coordinate feedback from full committee for a future discussion item

FY26 Budget Executive Summary - Structural Deficit

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5629656/FY26_Budget_Narrative_Overview.pdf 

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1451-school-cmte-mtg-05-13-25/

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Franklin TV video for replay ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/TPngAPt1WHs?&t=110 

The meeting agenda can be found ->   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-1735 

Documents released for this agenda after the meeting can be found -> 

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/may-13%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/799886 

Traffic presentation -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5645253/Traffic.pptx.pdf 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ffAYwvHayzSws0D2bV8xmM0Fsn6c71za/view?usp=drive_link 

FPS override summary (2 pages)

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5629656/FY26_Budget_Narrative_Overview.pdf 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

School Committee gets update on traffic study (consider the bus a good alternative) (video)

The Franklin (MA) School Committee met as scheduled on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. All 7 members participated, 6 in Council Chambers, 1 remotely (Gallagher).

Franklin TV video for replay ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/TPngAPt1WHs?&t=110 

The meeting agenda can be found ->   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-1735 

Quick recap:

• Recognition of the FHS student Theater group
• Presentation update on the traffic study and mitigation efforts underway
• Link to presentation in the notes section below
• NO projects to address the traffic flow will be completed before the Sep 2025-2026 school year. 
• Currently the traffic queues will more than double in September
• Alternatives are being reviewed before making decisions on which projects would be beneficial for traffic as well as at minimal expense
• Additional updates will be sent to families during the summer by the respective school principals
• “It is not going to be perfect on day 1”
• Appointments
• BICO Board Appointment 2025-26
• ACCEPT Board Appointment 2025-26 
• Both positions were approved to be fulfilled by Supt Giguere in a 7-0 vote via roll call 
• Discussion Only Item
• Horace Mann
• Question/option to ask "How do we as a district choose to honor Horace Mann?"; Campus is one way, are there others? We also need the community to embrace Horace Mann not just the schools 
• Seeming to get consensus on campus and collaboration with others but recognize the need to give them a clear direction and objectives to return with a plan to implement 
• Superintendent’s Evaluation - Presentation of Evidence
• In a new flip book format
• Subcommittee to coordinate feedback from full committee for a future discussion item
• FY26 Budget Executive Summary - Structural Deficit
• https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5629656/FY26_Budget_Narrative_Overview.pdf

Documents released for this agenda after the meeting can be found -> 

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/may-13%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/799886 

Traffic presentation -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5645253/Traffic.pptx.pdf 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ffAYwvHayzSws0D2bV8xmM0Fsn6c71za/view?usp=drive_link 

School Committee gets update on traffic study (consider the bus a good alternative) (video)

Reminder: Last chance to provide Feedback on the Master Plan 'final draft' which is due Dec 2, 2024

The Master Plan outlines the goals and objectives for the Town of Franklin to take over the next 10 years. 

Feedback is due to Amy Love by Dec 2, 2024. Send to alove@franklinma.gov 

With the action items now spelled out, we can see if we agree, or disagree, or if there is something NOT in there, propose to add it. For example, are the housing action items what we want & need? 

are the housing action items what we want & need?

Feedback on the Master Plan 'final draft' is due Dec 2, 2024

Master Plan page with education action items

The link to the "final doc" is shown here, as well as the video link to the feedback session held Thursday, Nov 14, 2024.

• 'Final draft' summary presentation -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/final_master_plan_draft_presentation_11.14.24.pdf
• 'Final draft' doc -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/franklin_master_plan_final_draft_report-nov2024.pdf
• Franklin TV video replay of Nov 14 -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIqcphVHN84

School Committee gets MCAS update, FHS theatre update, approves capital budget & varsity ski co-op (video)

The Franklin School Committee met as scheduled on Tuesday, Nov 26 ay 7 PM. 6 of the 7 members participated in Council Chambers (Griffin was absent).

Franklin TV video is available for replay ->   https://www.youtube.com/live/__1gVQEZ10M?si=1GxkAYdlZPEpCOeB&t=68

Agenda for this session -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5044643/SCAGENDA_11-26-24.pdf

Meeting packet (other docs as they are released after the meeting will get posted here) -> https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/november-26%2C-2024-sc-meeting-packet/726241

Quick recap:

• 3 coaches recognized as MIAA coaches of the year, (basketball, unified track, & swim coach); Ice hockey players down across states, approved for 8th grade waiver for varsity program, For the girls, to be clear, not boys, 13 skaters and 2 goalies currently
• Review of free/reduced application with a Franklin threshold, folks could apply, especially for winter sports if they have not participated in fall sports
• On guest presentations, theater program at FHS - Virginia Bernstein speaking to the student program (Outsiders, first show); Yellow Boat, a competition show, part of the annual program. 13 teachers volunteered to help out, Not just about putting on a play, grit plus. "Theater is not a luxury it is a vital part of the educational program" Thanks around from Cmte members and to the volunteer teachers! "This is a portrait of a graduate! She is articulate and advocating for her program"
• Dr Rogers, Dr Frazier, Mr Stark present an update on the MCAS results for the District. Difference between formative and summative data points. 1 slides is full of logos an indication of the investments made in the academic support tools used in the schools; Sullivan and Jefferson met/ exceeded standards. And an opportunity to remind that MCAS is not going away, it will remain, the vote did take away MCAS as a graduation requirement. How does the data play into the curriculum refresh cycle? It does play. For instructional directions for sure, and may for curriculum decisions, depending upon timing and budget.
• Discussion Action Items - I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading as discussed:
• ● ACA – Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex
• ● ACA-R – Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex under Title IX Including Sex-Based Harassment; Moved to second reading, passes 6-0-1 (1 absent)
• Varsity Ski Co-Op - I recommend approval of the request of FHS Athletics for a Co-Op Varsity Skiing with Nipmuc Regional High School as detailed. Parent participating as volunteer for this trial co-op program. Motion to approve, second, passes 6-0-1 (1 absent)
• Capital Requests - I recommend approval of the Capital Requests as detailed. Previewed in the budget subcmte meeting earlier today, these are initial, could be modified and prioritized as needed; also a further iteration will have refinement for this figures. Finally, a vote on the capital request as detailed, motion to approve, passes 6-0-1 (1 absent)
• Student handbook review with DESE, self assessment prior, minor revisions and information for parents for code of conduct infractions, motion to approve second, passes 6-0-1 (1absent)
• Discussion only item, inclement weather update, on the schools page, reminding what we'll do during this winter, safety at the forefront, it may be a challenge for families but is is acknowledged, usually would make by 5:30 AM, try to do so the night before if possible
• Committee entered Executive Session for contract negotiation strategy not to return to open meeting

My notes in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kq3_uhkW1YicIGxzV01n7EfGeSnhDwAg/view?usp=drive_link

Photo album of the MCAS slides shared ->

https://photos.app.goo.gl/pfBg1HiVMKfPduAb9

1 slides is full of logos an indication of the investments made in the academic support tools used in the schools

This Town Council Quarterbacking session recaps the 4 hour Council meeting in about 25 minutes (audio)

FM #1229 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1229 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. The Council met on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 for the first of their 2 normal meetings for June.  Our schedules coordinated to talk on Thursday morning to recap the long 4 hour session the night before..

We look to focus on 

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

Topics for this session:

• Electric Youth high point of session

• Verizon cable contract renewal

• Farmers Market licenses for La Cantina, Blisspoint Meadery

• Public Hearing on King St business zoning proposal

• Moved to second reading by 5-4 vote

• Final approval requires 6 Yes votes

• Friendly 40b approved by 5-4 vote

• Still needs to work through the permit process, etc.

• Zoning bylaws referral to Planning Board

• 3 measures regarding MBTA compliance

• Mixed use zoning definition

• EDC recommendation changed on parking minimums

• Still to come back to Council for discussion & vote

• TA Emergency shelter update

• No town funds spent for anything

• Schools reimbursed from State for their additional support costs

The recording runs about 26 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Tom.

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1230-town-council-quarterbacking-06-06-24

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The Franklin TV broadcast 06/05/24  ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ps1PnsDuPwE 

Agenda and supporting documents -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/june_5_2024_town_council_meeting_agenda.pdf 

My notes for this meeting  captured via Twitter can be found in one PDF file -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/190oyby8h5rC5ivDqN4lKAOV5PBP2UCM4/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

This Town Council Quarterbacking session recaps the 4 hour Council meeting in about 25 minutes (audio)