- The meeting focused on the next level of the District Improvement Plan which was introduced in the prior meeting. Administrators from the High school and middle schools, then the elementary schools presented how their goals are tied and support the overall goals
- As revealed during the presentations and follow on clarification, the goals are intended to be consistent across the district. The goals focus on the key efforts underway and refining within them, for example in social emotional learning (SEL)
- During the discussion the cost of the multi-tiered levels of support was raised, and the answer was impactful - "What is the cost of not providing it (such support)?"
- As the improvement plans came up for a vote to approve, the vote passed 6-0 on the plans as modified during the discussion (minor adjustment to a piece of the elementary section)
- ACCEPT Quarterly Report -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/accept_quarterly_report.pdfBICO Quarterly Report -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/bico_quarterly_report.pdf
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Franklin School Committee hears and approves of the school improvement plans from all the schools in the District (video)
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
September Is National Preparedness Month. Are You Prepared?
Today as I write this on September 11, 2023. I feel it appropriate to remind others that September is National Preparedness Month. This was established in 2003 by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). I have personally observed those who roll their eyes slightly annoyed at the campaign. However, I am here to tell you it is not to be taken lightly. If the 9-11 event of 2001 did not alter your perception of self-reliance and situational awareness, I am not sure what will.
Most Americans recall where they were that horrific day. In addition, others may remember how hurricanes such as Ian in 2022, Sandy in 2012, Katrina in 2005, or the recent wildfire in Maui impacted their lives.
I personally lost seven co-workers in the towers that day. Six I worked with personally at different times during my career. One met her fiancé while they both worked for the department I managed. Everyone has a connection somehow from that day. Many experienced a first-hand loss and others, as an American and basic human sensed the losses as if they were their own.
Additionally, I have had other personal experiences with unexpected emergencies. I traveled to Manhattan for a day work trip with only my laptop and the shirt on my back. I walked off an elevator into a cab and did not make it to the first traffic light before realizing that the entire city had encountered the second-largest blackout in North East history in August 2003. I got out of the cab and walked block after block in 90-degree temps without water, without a cell phone, and not knowing where I was heading. The sea of people flooded the streets getting out of work at 5 PM walking elbow to elbow. The only way to get home was to walk. The problem was I lived in Massachusetts. That was the day I vowed to always be prepared. Never again was I not going to be able to survive on my own. I vowed to always carry on my person what I would need to handle most situations.
Each individual needs to learn to be responsible for oneself. We cannot always rely on the safety of our National Guard, Power Linemen, Police, Fire, Doctors, and Nurses. We need to do our part to take responsibility to respond to our immediate needs at all times. This includes at the workplace, school, grocery shopping, or away on vacation.
One would easily agree that we cannot live in fear, nor should we. However, we can now take simple steps and actions to help and possibly save our lives. I encourage you to spend time reviewing the various Tool Kits, Animal Graphics, Disabilities Guides, and Older Adult references on sites such as ready.gov, fema.gov, redcross.org, or environmental emergencies information at epa.gov. Each site has extensive checklists, contact phone numbers, and additional links to help you and your family get prepared for the unexpected.
FEMA sets a theme each year to promote self-reliance. This year it is Take Control 1,2,3. It focuses on preparing the older adult community for disasters. In 2022 it was to help establish a lasting legacy for you and your family in preparedness. If you begin to take action now, others in your family and extended family may follow. Setting an example and teaching your children simple things such as keeping a flashlight next to each bedside or storing extra water in the home will be a great start. Mentoring now can set the tone for their future.
In the current tumultuous political climate and the endless changes in weather, things happen and will continue to do so. Our population is too vast to expect municipal resources to arrive at our rescue in a timely manner. The workforce and resources are strained and it is up to us to do what we can now to stand strong against fire, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, political unrest, disruptions in our supply chain, pandemics, war, and terrorists. It can be a cruel world but there is no doubt a smart, loving, and capable population is out there that can do the right thing now. As they say… “Put your oxygen mask on first to then help others”. Prepare now so you can help others in times of need.
By Lyn MacLean
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Riffin' on Main Street: President Ken Elmore talks with Steve Sherlock (video)
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Watch "Riffing on Main Street: Michael Walker Jones" on YouTube
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Watch "Riffing on Main Street: Pauline Spender" on YouTube
Saturday, September 16, 2023
School Committee hears of and approves the District Improvement Plan & FHS trip to Far East in 2025 (audio)
FM #1061 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1061 in the series.
The Franklin (MA) School Committee met on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 as scheduled. Six members were present (1 absent - Bernstein).
Quick recap
Update from Superintendent Giguere on school opening, so far good, academic year has opened in heat which everyone worked through, over 800 faculty, over 4600 students
Successfully hired all teachers, down to 11 ESPs needed, 2 open spots for interventionists, thanks to all who were part of the process
Migrant housing update: refers to the press release, DESE also alerted District, families joining on a staggered basis, approx. 25 school age children with the families already housed, collaborating to enroll, register and get them welcomed to the schools, funding assistance to be provided, dollars remain unconfirmed. Updates to be provided as info is available
Introductions of the new administrators from around the district
Next up, the district improvement plan (DIP), slides not yet posted to the meeting folder, so pix will be captured for an album to be shared as we go https://photos.app.goo.gl/LxQbpaU4Ft8qPFS86
Committee members asked and received clarifications on points made during the DIP presentation, in the action items, the DIP was approved as presented by 6-0-1 (6 for, none against, 1 absent)
Presentation on a proposed trip to Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand for spring of 2025. Presentation copy can be found https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_vietnam-cambodia-thailand_trip.pdf
motion to approve trip as presented was seconded and passed by 6-0-1
Consent agenda was recommended for approval and it passed by 6-0-1
A round of updates from the various subcommittees on meetings held and or scheduled (details in the video and in my notes)
Let’s listen to the School Committee meeting of Sep 12.
The total meeting audio runs about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1061-franklin-ma-school-committee-mtg-09-12-23
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School Committee page -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee
Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/G-8ECoHrh8M?si=r9hZow6Jim8WXGxS&t=59
Meeting packet folder -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/september-12-2023-school-committee-meeting-packet
Agenda doc & remote participation info -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_9-12-23.pdf
My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting and then in a single PDF for easy reading https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QdkJB2fxemPuN_nCWV6Dmq9tdc_QQsIh/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
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit franklin.news/ or 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"
Thursday, September 14, 2023
Finance Committee meeting of Sep 13, video available for replay (video)
4. The Bill Dowd “Deep Dive” Seriesa. Five Year Fiscal Forecast Budget Modelhttps://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/4a._5_year_fiscal_forecast.pdfb. MassBenchMarks September 2023 Economic Outlookhttps://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/4b._massbenchmarks_-_notes_from_the_board_september_2023.pdf b.
Stabilization Account Balance https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/7b._stabilization_fund_balances_6-30-2023.pdf
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Finance Committee Agenda for the September 13, 2023 Meeting at 7 PM |
Master Plan Update Committee meeting Sep 13, 2023 - video replay available (video)
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Master Plan Update Committee: Agenda for Weds, Sep 13 meeting at 6:30 PM |
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
School Committee hears of and approves the District Improvement Plan & FHS trip to Far East in 2025 (video)
- Update from Superintendent Giguere on school opening, so far good, academic year has opened in heat which everyone worked through, over 800 faculty, over 4600 students
- Successfully hired all teachers, down to 11 ESPs needed, 2 open spots for interventionists, thanks to all who were part of the process
- Migrant housing update: refers to the press release, DESE also alerted District, families joining on a staggered basis, approx. 25 school age children with the families already housed, collaborating to enroll, register and get them welcomed to the schools, funding assistance to be provided, dollars remain unconfirmed. Updates to be provided as info is available
- Intros of the new administration around the district
- Next up, the district improvement plan (DIP), slides not yet posted to the meeting folder, so pix will be captured for an album to be shared as we go https://photos.app.goo.gl/LxQbpaU4Ft8qPFS86
- Committee members asked and received clarifications on points made during the DIP presentation, in the action items, the DIP was approved as presented by 6-0-1 (6 for, none against, 1 absent)
- Presentation on a proposed trip to Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand for spring of 2025. Presentation copy can be found https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_vietnam-cambodia-thailand_trip.pdf
- motion to approve trip as presented was seconded and passed by 6-0-1
- Consent agenda was recommended for approval and it passed by 6-0-1
- A round of updates from the various subcommittees on meetings held and or scheduled (details in the video and in my notes)
- Meeting adjourned
Agenda doc & remote participation info -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_9-12-23.pdf
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Franklin, MA: School Committee Agenda for Sep 12, 2023 Meeting |
Sunday, September 10, 2023
DPW shares a crack sealing video - one step in a road maintenance process
"Yeah black squiggly lines!This is called “crack sealing!” It is the most cost-effective way to extend the life of a roadway if done at the right time.Everybody knows about potholes, and how they form; you get a crack in the road water gets in there, freezes, and next thing you know, the asphalt breaks apart. This simple procedure sprays a liquid emulsion asphalt into the crack so pothole does not form in the winter months.Have an excellent Public Works day!"
Saturday, September 9, 2023
Panther TV: Panther News for Sep 8, 2023 (video)
"Panther News is back for the 2022-23 school year!!
Check out our first show!! @FHSPantherbook https://t.co/tO3aRHRFCr"
Friday, September 8, 2023
Economic Development Subcmte shovels the snow bylaw forward for Council discussion (video)
Saturday, September 2, 2023
Back-to-School Safety PSA-Brookline Police Chief Jen Paster (video)
As our kids head back to school, their safety is our top priority. The is launching our first ever television commercial with a PSA. 's Police Chief Jen Paster along with her children are featured in our commercial.
"It is important to remind everyone that it is all of our responsibility to help keep our kids safe as they head to and from school, and we are happy to be part of the effort to get that message out."
Our Public Service Announcement will be airing on radio, television and digital in all three broadcast markets across the Commonwealth
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https://fb.watch/mNIQzXouCZ/?mibextid=2JQ9oc |
Saturday, August 26, 2023
Mass Cultural Council's Strategic Plan FY24-26 (video)
"So excited to launch Mass Cultural Council's Strategic Plan FY24-26 Launch Video created by Wesley Verge and a number of artists in Massachusetts.
Pay no attention to my terrible acting! LOL.
https://t.co/Fj03nqjlo8"
Thursday, August 24, 2023
School Committee approves updates to school handbooks, sets new date for FHS graduation as May 31, 2024 (video)
- Several updates, including personnel hiring status, were provided by Superintendent Lucas Giguere
- In the first of 2 Discussion/Actions items, the 2023-24 Student & Family Handbook Approval was received. Among the elementary and middle school changes most were housekeeping, minor corrections, updates to names and roles, etc. Most of the principals were available either in person or via Zoom for questions.
- FHS Principal Josh Hanna spent some time on the updates to the high school handbook to address the Credit Attendance policy, Updated Cell Phone / Electronic Device policy, Updated Academic Dishonesty (Artificial Dishonesty), and Clarity around Bathroom Use policy
- Principal Hanna and Supt Giguere also spent time explaining the rationale behind the graduation date change. It had initial been set as the "first Friday in June" as that was the standard, then as they looked at the calendar and how the weeks and other school events (MCAS among them) fell, it made sense to change it. The Committee approved
Police Station Building Committee starts work at first meeting (video)
- Request for a Proposal (RFP) for an Owner Project Manager (OPM)
- Select an OPM
- Work with the OPM to select an architect
- Site visits to current station (what is) and other community stations (what could be)
- Schematic design
- Design development
- Construction documents
- Bidding
- Construction
Monday, August 21, 2023
Panther TV: Principal Hanna holds round table with FHS Class Presidents (video)
Mr. Hanna filmed a roundtable discussion with our three class presidents.
Watch it here: https://t.co/gtFpYp6755
Thursday, August 17, 2023
Davis Thayer Reuse Cmte hears & discusses multiple options (video)
Tuesday, August 15, 2023
Watch "Life on Earth - So Amazing! - NYC Labor Chorus sings Hallelujah, with new words to celebrate Earth" on YouTube
Earth Movie Theater presents: Life on Earth - So Amazing! Yes, we live on a marvelous planet. These views from above align perfectly with the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah, with words adapted by Jeff Vogel and the NY City Labor Chorus. A glorious combination of Earth and music. ============== Earth Movie Theater – Watch Earth from space. . .and listen to joyous music. Astronauts on ISS take photos of Earth, that we convert into movies and combine with world-class music: guitar improv, Bach in Space, classical music, jazz and more. Created by Association of Space Explorers, TERC and Windows on Earth, in glorious 4K and high-quality audio, based on photos from NASA, Crew Earth Observation (CEO) and the International Space Station (ISS). These Astronaut favorite movies are great entertainment, and for Earth science and music education. Explore Earth from Space and experience the Overview Effect. See all the continents: Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Europe, Australia and the edge of Antarctica. See cities at night, clouds, islands and Aurora. New movies released about weekly. Please subscribe! #EarthMovieTheater For more visit: EarthMovieTheater.org
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