Driver hurt in Franklin crash
from The Milford Daily News News RSS------
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Live reporting - Information matters/Closing
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top (covered already)
b. H1N1 approx 1200 residents attended the recent clinic
c. DESE Financial Review
When the DESE visited they also did a financial audit. Miriam had only a few hours of notice. They liked the policies and procedures put into place. Thanks to Miriam for the credibility and integrity for the procedures you have put into place to make the Business office a success.
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Cafasso - T Raposa gathering options on a web site solution, would be good to have as part of the budget discussions
School Committee Liaison Reports
Trahan on Community Health Council - this committee has been taking on important topics and would encourage parents to come forward and take part. Thanks to Lisa Keohane for her work with the Teen Angels.
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Trahan - April 29th - FEF Trivia Bee - themed for a focus on history
motion to move to executive session, not to return to open meeting
passed 7-0 by roll call
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top (covered already)
b. H1N1 approx 1200 residents attended the recent clinic
c. DESE Financial Review
When the DESE visited they also did a financial audit. Miriam had only a few hours of notice. They liked the policies and procedures put into place. Thanks to Miriam for the credibility and integrity for the procedures you have put into place to make the Business office a success.
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Cafasso - T Raposa gathering options on a web site solution, would be good to have as part of the budget discussions
School Committee Liaison Reports
Trahan on Community Health Council - this committee has been taking on important topics and would encourage parents to come forward and take part. Thanks to Lisa Keohane for her work with the Teen Angels.
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Trahan - April 29th - FEF Trivia Bee - themed for a focus on history
motion to move to executive session, not to return to open meeting
passed 7-0 by roll call
Live reporting - Action items
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment. motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 6-0 (Mullen abstained)
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority. motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS. motion to approve, passed 7-0
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club. motion to approve, passed 7-0
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program. motion to approve, passed 7-0
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA. motion to approve, passed 7-0
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment. motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 6-0 (Mullen abstained)
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority. motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS. motion to approve, passed 7-0
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club. motion to approve, passed 7-0
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program. motion to approve, passed 7-0
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA. motion to approve, passed 7-0
Live reporting - Budget desires
Mullen - would like to see a listing of the cuts made in the last ten years
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
Live reporting - Race To The Top Program
The Race To The Top Program
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
Live reporting - Discussion only items
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Live reporting - World Challenge
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Dana Harts - Advisor from World Challenge
introduction to program, a high value program
4 week overseas expedition
1 week climatization
1 week service
1 week trek
1 week reflection
extensive safety measures for the students when they travel
The World Challenge website can be found here http://www.wcexpeditions.com/
7 minute video from World Challenge highlighting features of the teacher/student prepared trip, safety measures, etc.
Video from teachers point of view:
Video from students point of view:
Safety starts with the students first.
Offered to freshman and sophomores so they would travel as rising juniors or seniors
Takes seventeen months to prepare; used for planning, fund raising, etc.
Experienced guide accompanies each teacher and student group
Safety and support centralized in Operations Centre in UK
Story of insurance coverage for medical emergencies; one student five years ago had a case of appendicitis on the approach to Mt Kilimanjaro. He was flown to medical help in Nairobi, his mother was flown to join him before flying both back to the states after three days of medical treatment there.
Trip planning is fully risk assessed before leaving.
Money management: trip is an all inclusive package. 3 day training expedition along the Appalachian Trail training in preparation for the expedition to Peru.
Teamwork and cooperation enhanced during the trek.
Living in a village and seeing what life is like in a different world.
Trip cost would be approximately $6,000 per students.
World Challenge will provide some fund raising ideas and a framework to work to and manage a budget.
Live reporting - Teen Angels
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
Live reporting - Best Buddies
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
Live reporting - Recognitions
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
Live reporting - School Committee Mtg
Attending: Douglas, Cafasso, Rohrbach, Mullen, Roy, Trahan, Glynn
Missing:
Mission Statement
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda - add a general discussion on budget objectives for SchCom members to provide direction to Administration
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting. motion to pass; passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn motion to approve; passed 7-0
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
There is a full house in the Council Chambers this evening.
Missing:
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.
Mission Statement
The Franklin Public Schools, in collaboration with the community, will cultivate each student's intellectual, social, emotional and physical potential through rigorous academic inquiry and informed problem solving skills within a safe, nurturing and respectful environment.
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda - add a general discussion on budget objectives for SchCom members to provide direction to Administration
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting. motion to pass; passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn motion to approve; passed 7-0
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
There is a full house in the Council Chambers this evening.
School Committee - Agenda - 1/12/10
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane / Students
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Advisors from World Challenge
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Policy - First Readings:
ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
Policy – Second Readings:
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF –Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
The Race To The Top Program
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment.
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School.
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed.
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops.
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies.
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies.
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS.
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed.
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School.
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed.
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club.
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program.
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed.
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top
b. H1N1
c. DESE Financial Review
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane / Students
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Advisors from World Challenge
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Policy - First Readings:
ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
Policy – Second Readings:
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF –Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
The Race To The Top Program
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment.
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School.
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed.
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops.
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies.
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies.
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS.
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed.
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School.
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed.
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club.
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program.
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed.
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top
b. H1N1
c. DESE Financial Review
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Let's be honest!
The first of three seminars for parents of 5th through 8th grade students will be held Tuesday evening, 7:00 PM Horace Mann Middle School Auditorium.
This is probably one of the few times, I'll say this but if you do have a 5th through 8th grader, instead of coming to or tuning into the School Committee meeting tonight, go to Horace Mann instead.
The School Committee meeting has a full agenda but the first peek at the 2011 School Budget is scheduled for Jan 26th. You can always catch the School Committee meeting via the video on demand from the Town website!
Mindy Craven is the scheduled speaker for Tuesday's Let's be honest seminar:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the attached document.
This is probably one of the few times, I'll say this but if you do have a 5th through 8th grader, instead of coming to or tuning into the School Committee meeting tonight, go to Horace Mann instead.
The School Committee meeting has a full agenda but the first peek at the 2011 School Budget is scheduled for Jan 26th. You can always catch the School Committee meeting via the video on demand from the Town website!
Mindy Craven is the scheduled speaker for Tuesday's Let's be honest seminar:
Mindy Craver is a Senior Community Health and Sexuality Educator for Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts. She has been facilitating sexual health presentations for 14 years and is part of our Professional Training team. Mindy has held teaching positions at several area agencies including Health Awareness, Pro Health and ResourceFul, Inc. and has consulted with many other Central Massachusetts agencies, fostering a solid reputation for providing fact-based, fun and experiential sexual health programs. Mindy has successfully reached a variety of audiences with her participatory teaching style, including public middle school students, high risk youth, social service professionals, and parents. Mindy’s workshops are age-appropriate, thought provoking, and engaging. Currently, Mindy is focusing her efforts on the launch of Planned Parenthood’s parent education program Let’s Be Honest in Worcester. She is a graduate of Bridgewater State College with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the attached document.
"that's one bit of data that hasn't shown any indication of slowing down yet"
The presentation by the Teen Angels group is one of several at the School Committee meeting this evening. Read more in the Milford Daily News here."The best that we can try to do in the schools is endeavor to teach students to properly use resources, including online tools," said Roy.
That's exactly what the Franklin Teenangels chapter, a division of a nationwide group of teen cyber-safety experts, is trying to do.
Worried about online social networking safety, concerned mother and Dean College technology instructor Lisa Keohane stumbled across wiredsafety.org, a Web site dedicated to Internet safety, and learned about the teen initiative which was featured on the Web site.
Monday, January 11, 2010
FM #53 Week Ending 1/10/2010
This is what matters as the week ends Jan 10, 2010 in Franklin, MA. The session covers the Town Council and two items of importance from it's meeting on January 6th.
Time: 7 minutes, 56 seconds
MP3 File
Session notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 53 in the series for Franklin Matters.
Take about ten minutes to keep current with what matters in Franklin, MA as the week ends January 10, 2010
In this session I’ll cover the Town Council meeting of January 6, 2010
Two items of importance occurred during the meeting.
First, Brian Taberner, Director, Planning and Community Development, came before the Council to preview some bylaw changes that will be coming up at the next meeting. The bylaw changes have to do with the welcome mat that Franklin is creating for biotechnology firms to consider relocating here to conduct their business. There were bylaw changes made last year that have helped put Franklin near the top of the pile of MA communities. In an analysis of what it would take to move up the listing, one item sticks out. Franklin currently requires a potential biotech company to obtain a special permit from the Town Council. This is over and over all the normal planing board, health dept, fire dept, etc reviews required. He is proposing that this requirement be removed. He is also making some minor modifications to the zoning map itself. The changes would add about 11 parcels in the industrial park and remove one parcel that recently was obtained by State to add to the Town Forest. The formal discussion to approve these changes will come before the council in future meetings. As these are bylaw changes, they require two readings before final approval.
Second, the big snow storm that hit Franklin the weekend of Dec 19/20 dropping 14-18 inches created problems for students walking to school as the sidewalks were not cleared. Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi reviewed the snow storm planning details and what the Town is currently capable of providing. With the current priority listing as follows:
With storms delivering under six inches of snow, the DPW can clear the sidewalks within a day after the plowing stops.
With storms delivery more than six inches of snow, the DPW will take two-three days after the plowing stops to clear the sidewalks.
This is due to resource constraints. One, equipment to clear the sidewalk. Even if we had money to purchase additional (approx. 120,000 per unit) would that be an effective use of our funds since we would only use them once or twice a year? Consider that this amount would effectively fund two teachers and some supplies or books.
Two, even with the equipment and additional manpower available, you can't start the sidewalks until the roads are complete. Otherwise, you'd end up messing up the sidewalk when the plows went by on the road. Don't believe this? What happens at the end of your driveway? How do you keep that clear with the plows going by multiple times on the roads?
Finally, Franklin has this issue due to the overall budget problems we face. Should we plow the roads less well? Should we accept the way it is? All good questions that should lead to a good discussion.
There is a quick poll set up on this question this week. You can see and respond to the poll on the front page of Franklin Matters.
Looking ahead this week, the School Committee meets on Tuesday, Jan 12th.
As I close this session this week, let me remind you that
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
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!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to listen to the audio version.
MP3 File
Session notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 53 in the series for Franklin Matters.
Take about ten minutes to keep current with what matters in Franklin, MA as the week ends January 10, 2010
In this session I’ll cover the Town Council meeting of January 6, 2010
Two items of importance occurred during the meeting.
First, Brian Taberner, Director, Planning and Community Development, came before the Council to preview some bylaw changes that will be coming up at the next meeting. The bylaw changes have to do with the welcome mat that Franklin is creating for biotechnology firms to consider relocating here to conduct their business. There were bylaw changes made last year that have helped put Franklin near the top of the pile of MA communities. In an analysis of what it would take to move up the listing, one item sticks out. Franklin currently requires a potential biotech company to obtain a special permit from the Town Council. This is over and over all the normal planing board, health dept, fire dept, etc reviews required. He is proposing that this requirement be removed. He is also making some minor modifications to the zoning map itself. The changes would add about 11 parcels in the industrial park and remove one parcel that recently was obtained by State to add to the Town Forest. The formal discussion to approve these changes will come before the council in future meetings. As these are bylaw changes, they require two readings before final approval.
Second, the big snow storm that hit Franklin the weekend of Dec 19/20 dropping 14-18 inches created problems for students walking to school as the sidewalks were not cleared. Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi reviewed the snow storm planning details and what the Town is currently capable of providing. With the current priority listing as follows:
- the roads
- town buildings and schools
- sidewalks and downtown
With storms delivering under six inches of snow, the DPW can clear the sidewalks within a day after the plowing stops.
With storms delivery more than six inches of snow, the DPW will take two-three days after the plowing stops to clear the sidewalks.
This is due to resource constraints. One, equipment to clear the sidewalk. Even if we had money to purchase additional (approx. 120,000 per unit) would that be an effective use of our funds since we would only use them once or twice a year? Consider that this amount would effectively fund two teachers and some supplies or books.
Two, even with the equipment and additional manpower available, you can't start the sidewalks until the roads are complete. Otherwise, you'd end up messing up the sidewalk when the plows went by on the road. Don't believe this? What happens at the end of your driveway? How do you keep that clear with the plows going by multiple times on the roads?
Finally, Franklin has this issue due to the overall budget problems we face. Should we plow the roads less well? Should we accept the way it is? All good questions that should lead to a good discussion.
There is a quick poll set up on this question this week. You can see and respond to the poll on the front page of Franklin Matters.
Looking ahead this week, the School Committee meets on Tuesday, Jan 12th.
As I close this session this week, let me remind you that
- If you like what I am doing, please tell your neighbors
- If you don’t like something, please tell me
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
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!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to listen to the audio version.
Maguro House
Utilization of the retail store front in the new building is coming to completion. East Coast Driving School opened next to Sarapaan. Now a new Japanese restaurant, Maguro House, will be opening on the corner. When running Sunday, I catch sight of the door sign and stopped for a photo.
Construction on the interior is still in progress.
When I find out the tentative opening date, I'll share that here.
Updated - 2/25/10
The Grand Opening Party is scheduled for Sunday, February 28th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
The restaurant website can be found here: http://www.magurohouse.com/
When I find out the tentative opening date, I'll share that here.
Updated - 2/25/10
The Grand Opening Party is scheduled for Sunday, February 28th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
The restaurant website can be found here: http://www.magurohouse.com/
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Franklin, MA: Police Dept
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.It has been a very difficult year for us all. The economic times have left no one unscathed including your Police Department. We have had a reduction in personnel. Currently we are down to 45 sworn officers. Our business, with all its expectations, is still there and we are doing our best to keep Franklin a great place to live.
We continue to seek out grant monies to offset some of our important projects dealing with alcohol, traffic, the elderly and our youth. Franklin has been fortunate in that we have received some grant monies to help us to continue what we have started in these areas.
Our main concerns are that we continue to be an active partner in our youth and elderly programs. Our Community Service Division has been very busy in our schools and offering summer camp programs. We will hopefully be able to provide another great Halloween event at the High School Field House as we did this past year by providing a safe and fun day for the entire family.
The High School Hockey team, the Varsity Basketball team and the Tri-County Football teams all have enjoyed great seasons ending in playoff finals or in the Super Bowl. We would like to think this was in no small part due to several of our police officers in coaching positions. I believe this interaction between our officers as coaches and the student athletes builds bridges of friendships, trust and understanding. Ben Franklin’s adage of “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” certainly appears to be true in this case.
The Alcohol Grant Awards have been very helpful in offsetting costs associated in our attempts to curb underage drinking. The success of our program has been evident with the number of license suspensions, and arrests made of those procuring for minors. Please accept my sincere thanks for being a great community in which to work. I’d like to take this opportunity to also thank the officers of our Police Department for their dedication and hard work over this past year. I boast of being blessed with great people to work with not only within the department but with all the other departments and boards.
Sincerely,
S.T. Williams
Stephen T. Williams
Chief of Police
For additional information, be sure to visit the Police Dept website here
- The Daily Police logs are available here
- You can follow them on Twitter here
- There are a number of safety tips available here
Saturday, January 9, 2010
DPW Sidewalk Snow Removal Presentation - 01/06/10
The presentation text for the DPW discussion on sidewalk snow removal from Wednesday night's Town Council meeting.
The sidewalk map that shows the three routes can be viewed on the DPW website here.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to view the presentation.
The sidewalk map that shows the three routes can be viewed on the DPW website here.
PLEASE NOTE:
These maps are in provided in Adobe Portable Document Format and Architecture D Size (24" x 36"). Because of their size and level of detail they are large files and take additional time to download. Please be patient.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to view the presentation.
"a teacher-driven initiative"
The Franklin Arts Academy is a "school within a school" designed to create smaller learning communities where students can engage in academics through music and video production, visual art, theater and architecture.The Franklin Arts Academy program was proposed for Franklin High School. Hopefully it will be implemented for the next school year (Fall 2010) with no impact to the budget. Read more about the program in the Milford Daily News here.
"Each of the arts classes is creating a lesson through academics," Waters said. "Everything is interrelated."
The live reporting and presentation from the Dec 8th School Committee meeting can be found here. The video and Q&A discussion can be found here.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Food, Inc. Sunday Jan 10th - 7:00 PM
A series of films on sustainable living called "The Green Reel" will be held Sunday evenings in North Attleboro. The films are presented free of charge. Some refreshments are available. Discussion about the film is encouraged.
Food, Inc. will be shown Jan 10th at 7:00 PM
The flyer for the full series can be seen here:
Food, Inc. will be shown Jan 10th at 7:00 PM
The flyer for the full series can be seen here:
Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee Meeting
FRANKLIN CITIZENS RAIL TRAIL COMMITTEE MEETING
Agenda for January 14, 2010
I. Call to Order / Introductions of New Attendees
A. Introduction of new attendees
B. Volunteer to write minutes of the meeting
C. Motion to accept previous meeting minutes
II. Report from our representative from DCR
A. Gates at Spring St
B. Leveling of the Trail
C. Walking Trails
III. Membership Committee Report (Denison, McKeown, Sawyer)
A. Committee to report on membership activity
IV. Report from Finance Committee (Rossetti)
A. Report from Treasurer
VII. Report of Fund Raising Committee (Sawyer)
A. Report on fund raising activities
B. Bike Donation from Southbridge Bicycle. Need Volunteer to print raffle tickets & need sub committee
C. Spring fundraiser road race. Do we have a hosting facility? Can we pull a sub-committee together? Can we set the date?
VII. Unfinished Business:
A. Questions from members / attendees
VIII. New Business:
A.
Set Date for Next Meeting and Adjourn
The next meeting of the FCRTC will be held at the Franklin YMCA, Forge Hill Rd. Franklin. The meeting on January 14th will commence at 7:30 PM and conclude NLT 9:30 PM
Agenda for January 14, 2010
I. Call to Order / Introductions of New Attendees
A. Introduction of new attendees
B. Volunteer to write minutes of the meeting
C. Motion to accept previous meeting minutes
II. Report from our representative from DCR
A. Gates at Spring St
B. Leveling of the Trail
C. Walking Trails
III. Membership Committee Report (Denison, McKeown, Sawyer)
A. Committee to report on membership activity
IV. Report from Finance Committee (Rossetti)
A. Report from Treasurer
VII. Report of Fund Raising Committee (Sawyer)
A. Report on fund raising activities
B. Bike Donation from Southbridge Bicycle. Need Volunteer to print raffle tickets & need sub committee
C. Spring fundraiser road race. Do we have a hosting facility? Can we pull a sub-committee together? Can we set the date?
VII. Unfinished Business:
A. Questions from members / attendees
VIII. New Business:
A.
Set Date for Next Meeting and Adjourn
The next meeting of the FCRTC will be held at the Franklin YMCA, Forge Hill Rd. Franklin. The meeting on January 14th will commence at 7:30 PM and conclude NLT 9:30 PM
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Town Council Mtg Smry 01/06/10
The collection of live reported posts from the Town Council meeting of Jan 6, 2010 can be found here:
- Live reporting - Administrators report
- Live reporting - snow removal
- Live reporting - Biotech zoning changes proposed
- Live reporting - license transactions
- Live reporting - Town Council - 1/6/09
Franklin, MA: Public School Inclement Weather Notice
The standard policy for the Franklin Public Schools during inclement weather (i.e. snow storms at this time of year).
Note: subscribers via email will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to review the document.
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
Note: subscribers via email will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to review the document.
Franklin Downtown Partnership looking for help
The text of an email from Lisa Piana is found here:
Happy New Year!
We are currently planning our events for 2010. In order to continue with our full schedule of festivals and special events this year we need to fill some key volunteer positions.
Please take a look at the following list and e-mail me by January 12th if you are interested in taking a more active roll in the Franklin Downtown Partnership. Thank you to all of you who have volunteered in past years!
- Harvest Festival Co-Chair -> Responsible for helping plan and run the event
- Strawberry Festival-Co-Chair -> Responsible for planning event
- Third Thursday-Co-Chair -> Responsible for planning events
- Holiday Stroll-Co-Chairs -> Responsible for planning event
- Website Coordinator -> Responsible for keeping website up to date
We really need some new members to step forward and take a more active role this year. Some of our current members have been running the events for over 5 years and need a break.
Please call or e-mail me with any questions you might have.
Lisa Piana
Franklin Downtown Partnership
(774)571-3109
MBTA going 'real-time"?
Yes, hard to believe but it just might work.
Apparently, the trains will be equipped with GPS devices and the status will be provided via a 'count-down' timer as the train approaches the station. Coming to the Franklin line sometime in February according to the write up here:
Will this replace the Clever Commute service that can be the T's own alerts?
Stay tuned!
Note: This was also posted to Steve's 2 Cents.
Apparently, the trains will be equipped with GPS devices and the status will be provided via a 'count-down' timer as the train approaches the station. Coming to the Franklin line sometime in February according to the write up here:
MBTA: Commuter Rail "Real-Time Arrival" Countdown
from Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen
Will this replace the Clever Commute service that can be the T's own alerts?
Stay tuned!
Note: This was also posted to Steve's 2 Cents.
In the News - snow removal from sidewalks
The snow discussion from Wednesday's Town Council meeting as captured by the Milford Daily News
Franklin sidewalk plowing debated
MBCR: For the safety and convenience of our employees
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Universal Hub by roadman on 1/6/10
Got this e-mail from MBCR regarding a change in policy about exiting trains.
Customer Service Notice
Control Coach Changes
Monday, January 11, 2010!
Effective January 11, 2010, except in the case of emergency, customers will no longer be allowed to enter or exit from the "operating end" of the control coach. The engineer operates the train from this location on inbound trips. Upon arrival into Boston, there are mandatory safety duties for engineers to perform which do not allow for foot traffic through the operating end of these coaches.
Signs will be placed on the coach door on that end of all control cars to remind customers of this rule.
read more
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Universal Hub using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Live reporting - Administrators report
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
none
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
As you know, I am working on a committee to look at regionalization, which is one thing we need to continue to explore. A great statistic from the meeting today was that all the growth in MA is projected to be amongst those over 60. Currently we have 4500 seniors in Franklin, we are projected to get to 7700 seniors. This has implications for the kinds of services we will offer as well as for how we will be able to pay for them.
L. OLD BUSINESS
Trash -single stream coming on the Jan 20th meeting
M. NEW BUSINESS
none
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Powderly - reminder to vote on 1/19 from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Flu clinic was packed today. Well run. Revisit the snow/ice - I am amazed by the job that the DPW does. Can we have DPW do more? Unfortunately, we have limited resources to work within that equation. It is valid to say we need to put more on the Schools and more on the parents.
Zollo - I agree with Tina.
Pfeffer - thanks to all the volunteers for packing the museum for the move.
Jones - Get out and vote Jan 19th. For the citizens that are capable, when they have the time, try an put a little back effort into trying to keep the sidewalks clear.
Whalen - I think this was a perfect example of balancing our resources and needs.
Mason - I had the opportunity to drive around several areas on Sunday and was very impressed that Franklin's roads were amongst the best of all that I saw.
motion to adjourn. motion passed 8-0
none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
none
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
As you know, I am working on a committee to look at regionalization, which is one thing we need to continue to explore. A great statistic from the meeting today was that all the growth in MA is projected to be amongst those over 60. Currently we have 4500 seniors in Franklin, we are projected to get to 7700 seniors. This has implications for the kinds of services we will offer as well as for how we will be able to pay for them.
L. OLD BUSINESS
Trash -single stream coming on the Jan 20th meeting
M. NEW BUSINESS
none
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Powderly - reminder to vote on 1/19 from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Flu clinic was packed today. Well run. Revisit the snow/ice - I am amazed by the job that the DPW does. Can we have DPW do more? Unfortunately, we have limited resources to work within that equation. It is valid to say we need to put more on the Schools and more on the parents.
Zollo - I agree with Tina.
Pfeffer - thanks to all the volunteers for packing the museum for the move.
Jones - Get out and vote Jan 19th. For the citizens that are capable, when they have the time, try an put a little back effort into trying to keep the sidewalks clear.
Whalen - I think this was a perfect example of balancing our resources and needs.
Mason - I had the opportunity to drive around several areas on Sunday and was very impressed that Franklin's roads were amongst the best of all that I saw.
motion to adjourn. motion passed 8-0
Live reporting - snow removal
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
– DPW Snowplowing/Sidewalks
1st priority for roads for public safety (fire, police, etc.)
2nd priority public buildings/school buildings
3rd priority sidewalks
School policy on snow days posted to School website and Town website
There are snow blower type units for heavy snow removal from the sidewalks
There are plow oriented units for lesser amounts of snow removal
over 35 miles of sidewalks to clear
if less than 6 inches, with the plows, the sidewalks can be cleared in about one day
if more than 6 inches, with the snow blowers, it would take 2-3 days to clear the sidewalks
About $158,000 to cover one storm
Each machine would cost about $120,000 to purchase (snow blower type unit)
Deployment of staff (collective bargaining issues) - all in-house staff should be working at the same time with the contractors
You (Town Council) could require the residents to clear the snow in-front of their property.
Continue to educate the public on the snow removal plan, each year we go through this with the first storm.
Picture of Brook St with sidewalk cleared and student still walking on the road (12/22/09).
Mason - this came about as a result of a call from a resident on Lincoln St. There are guidelines put out by the schools that cover wavers. Beyond that, it doesn't seem like we have the manpower even if we had the equipment.
Nutting - It is parent responsibility to make the decision for their students. I don't think we have the money to go and by another machine. We are not going to be filling jobs anytime soon so I would change it.
Vallee - I have no criticism, you're doing a good job. What is your crew doing today?
Brutus - We're clearing the equipment, making repairs. We did some set up for the H1N1 flu.
Whalen - great presentation, good information. What percent of the snow removal is done by DPW vs. the contractors?
Brutus - DPW does about 30% of the road plowing for a major storm. For the longer period with less snow, we mix the staff over the phases of the snow. The DPW is always on before we call in the contractors.
Whalen - Is there a way to re-allocate some of the resources to get the sidewalks cleared? It maybe that we are doing too good a job plowing the roads.
Brutus - I understand what you're saying, the problem is with the timing. I can't really start clearing the sidewalks with snow falling. If you did the sidewalks and then the plows can by again, it would undo what we already did on the sidewalks.
Whalen - Did I hear that there is an impediment with the labor agreement?
Nutting - Everybody gets a fair bite of the apple on the overtime.
Pfeffer - The priority order is good, we don't have the capability to do it all. The schools have an opportunity to delay or cancel school.
Zollo - What routes do get covered and in what order?
Brutus - three routes shown on map, agreement reached and modified as necessary with the School Dept.
Zollo - the dilemma is how to create a balance? I am not saying we can eliminate all risk.
Kelly - Is there any priority put on the Town Common with the Sunday services?
Brutus - no there isn't any priority there. We clean up the downtown after the storm, during daylight hours.
Nutting - we used to do downtown during the night but we don't have the budget to pay the time and half. It disturbs some during the day but that is the way t is.
Jones - You do a great job. Question I have is with the hot zones.
Brutus - it is an issue, drainage needs to be handled. We are in a freeze right now so it is okay but when the thaw comes, we'll need to deal with it.
Jones - It was icy for some time.
Brutus - We really don't have a practice for salting the sidewalks. Some of the schools have salt available as necessary to use.
Powderly - you guys do a phenomenal jobs with limited resources. I am very uncomfortable with students who are walkers who would be punished in a way by not getting sidewalks cleared. I think we should revisit it. Re-allocation of the plowing resources.
Nutting - They used to have an inclement weather bus but that was cut years ago. I don't think stopping a bus to pick up students on the roads wouldn't work. The parents primary responsibility is the students safety. It is not the Town's responsibility.
Powderly - can GATRA be used? There must be some way.
Whalen - I am not the only one observing plows plowing on hardtop and reallocating that money to switch to start doing the sidewalks.
Whalen - It would be good to know if we are putting an exceptional amount of salt, etc. comparable to other communities.
Brutus - We are pretty much in the same neighborhood for salt amount per mile of road used. I take offense to running on dry roads. The center of the roads will get cleared more of course, but pushing back from the edges to widen the road takes multiple passes. We wait to call in our contractors until later than others.
Vallee - Norfolk has more than we, we need more snow blower units for the sidewalks.
Brutus - it doesn't happen often that we get a storm like that.
Pfeffer - There is no easy answer to this. The first time we don't clear the roads, then the police, fire and others would be in hear screaming. I think the Schools can do more by cnaceling when the snow gets higher.
Zollo - This is an issue because of our revenue problem. We don't have the resources to provide what we used to. This is a real life example of whether it is an override or not. With the resources that we have, we are getting a high level of service. Just understand the effects of not increasing resources.
– DPW Snowplowing/Sidewalks
1st priority for roads for public safety (fire, police, etc.)
2nd priority public buildings/school buildings
3rd priority sidewalks
School policy on snow days posted to School website and Town website
There are snow blower type units for heavy snow removal from the sidewalks
There are plow oriented units for lesser amounts of snow removal
over 35 miles of sidewalks to clear
if less than 6 inches, with the plows, the sidewalks can be cleared in about one day
if more than 6 inches, with the snow blowers, it would take 2-3 days to clear the sidewalks
About $158,000 to cover one storm
Each machine would cost about $120,000 to purchase (snow blower type unit)
Deployment of staff (collective bargaining issues) - all in-house staff should be working at the same time with the contractors
You (Town Council) could require the residents to clear the snow in-front of their property.
Continue to educate the public on the snow removal plan, each year we go through this with the first storm.
Picture of Brook St with sidewalk cleared and student still walking on the road (12/22/09).
Mason - this came about as a result of a call from a resident on Lincoln St. There are guidelines put out by the schools that cover wavers. Beyond that, it doesn't seem like we have the manpower even if we had the equipment.
Nutting - It is parent responsibility to make the decision for their students. I don't think we have the money to go and by another machine. We are not going to be filling jobs anytime soon so I would change it.
Vallee - I have no criticism, you're doing a good job. What is your crew doing today?
Brutus - We're clearing the equipment, making repairs. We did some set up for the H1N1 flu.
Whalen - great presentation, good information. What percent of the snow removal is done by DPW vs. the contractors?
Brutus - DPW does about 30% of the road plowing for a major storm. For the longer period with less snow, we mix the staff over the phases of the snow. The DPW is always on before we call in the contractors.
Whalen - Is there a way to re-allocate some of the resources to get the sidewalks cleared? It maybe that we are doing too good a job plowing the roads.
Brutus - I understand what you're saying, the problem is with the timing. I can't really start clearing the sidewalks with snow falling. If you did the sidewalks and then the plows can by again, it would undo what we already did on the sidewalks.
Whalen - Did I hear that there is an impediment with the labor agreement?
Nutting - Everybody gets a fair bite of the apple on the overtime.
Pfeffer - The priority order is good, we don't have the capability to do it all. The schools have an opportunity to delay or cancel school.
Zollo - What routes do get covered and in what order?
Brutus - three routes shown on map, agreement reached and modified as necessary with the School Dept.
Zollo - the dilemma is how to create a balance? I am not saying we can eliminate all risk.
Kelly - Is there any priority put on the Town Common with the Sunday services?
Brutus - no there isn't any priority there. We clean up the downtown after the storm, during daylight hours.
Nutting - we used to do downtown during the night but we don't have the budget to pay the time and half. It disturbs some during the day but that is the way t is.
Jones - You do a great job. Question I have is with the hot zones.
Brutus - it is an issue, drainage needs to be handled. We are in a freeze right now so it is okay but when the thaw comes, we'll need to deal with it.
Jones - It was icy for some time.
Brutus - We really don't have a practice for salting the sidewalks. Some of the schools have salt available as necessary to use.
Powderly - you guys do a phenomenal jobs with limited resources. I am very uncomfortable with students who are walkers who would be punished in a way by not getting sidewalks cleared. I think we should revisit it. Re-allocation of the plowing resources.
Nutting - They used to have an inclement weather bus but that was cut years ago. I don't think stopping a bus to pick up students on the roads wouldn't work. The parents primary responsibility is the students safety. It is not the Town's responsibility.
Powderly - can GATRA be used? There must be some way.
Whalen - I am not the only one observing plows plowing on hardtop and reallocating that money to switch to start doing the sidewalks.
Whalen - It would be good to know if we are putting an exceptional amount of salt, etc. comparable to other communities.
Brutus - We are pretty much in the same neighborhood for salt amount per mile of road used. I take offense to running on dry roads. The center of the roads will get cleared more of course, but pushing back from the edges to widen the road takes multiple passes. We wait to call in our contractors until later than others.
Vallee - Norfolk has more than we, we need more snow blower units for the sidewalks.
Brutus - it doesn't happen often that we get a storm like that.
Pfeffer - There is no easy answer to this. The first time we don't clear the roads, then the police, fire and others would be in hear screaming. I think the Schools can do more by cnaceling when the snow gets higher.
Zollo - This is an issue because of our revenue problem. We don't have the resources to provide what we used to. This is a real life example of whether it is an override or not. With the resources that we have, we are getting a high level of service. Just understand the effects of not increasing resources.
Live reporting - Biotech zoning changes proposed
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
– Bryan Taberner – Bio-Tech Zoning
Recognizing efforts to attract bio-tech business to the industrial areas of the town, there are two proposed changes (1) to remove the requirement for a permit by the Town Council (this is an extra level in comparison to other communities). (2) adjusting the parcels covered by the existing zoning, adding several parcels, removing one (actually recently added to the Town Forest).
What examples of bio-tech does this cover?
Very comprehensive way to handle and dispose of materials. Level 2 slightly infectious agents. Level 4 would cover anthrax (which would not be permitted in this zoning).
Level 2 and Level 3 are the busy areas with the majority of the research being done.
We would be catching up with other communities with these changes.
Worcester requires a Board of Health permit and nothing else. Cambridge has substantial amounts of special permitting required but has been home to several operations and is recognized. Multiple levels of safety plans are required before getting a permit there.
If we were to go that far, we would need an additional consultant to assist the Board of Health with the application and review process.
We have the overlay districts which other communities doesn't do.
We were given a bronze rating as a "bio-tech' ready community. This is the lowest of the four level of ratings. Eliminating the special permit will get us to the "silver" rating.
Zollo - What would enable us to go from silver to gold?
Brian - To get a higher rating is a marketing effort itself. Press releases will help. Changes to the website to help say we welcome bio-tech. Getting into a real-estate magazine would help. The State is assisting us in marketing.
Pfeffer - By removing the one parcel, this will alleviate some fears amongst the residents that had come up previously.
Nutting - this will be coming back for a formal vote. We would like this evening to solicit questions and can come back with detailed answers.
Jones - What kind of complaints are you getting?
Brian - I have been doing research and heard of one from several years ago. But it was before my time and I don't know the name of the company.
– Bryan Taberner – Bio-Tech Zoning
Recognizing efforts to attract bio-tech business to the industrial areas of the town, there are two proposed changes (1) to remove the requirement for a permit by the Town Council (this is an extra level in comparison to other communities). (2) adjusting the parcels covered by the existing zoning, adding several parcels, removing one (actually recently added to the Town Forest).
What examples of bio-tech does this cover?
Very comprehensive way to handle and dispose of materials. Level 2 slightly infectious agents. Level 4 would cover anthrax (which would not be permitted in this zoning).
Level 2 and Level 3 are the busy areas with the majority of the research being done.
We would be catching up with other communities with these changes.
Worcester requires a Board of Health permit and nothing else. Cambridge has substantial amounts of special permitting required but has been home to several operations and is recognized. Multiple levels of safety plans are required before getting a permit there.
If we were to go that far, we would need an additional consultant to assist the Board of Health with the application and review process.
We have the overlay districts which other communities doesn't do.
We were given a bronze rating as a "bio-tech' ready community. This is the lowest of the four level of ratings. Eliminating the special permit will get us to the "silver" rating.
Zollo - What would enable us to go from silver to gold?
Brian - To get a higher rating is a marketing effort itself. Press releases will help. Changes to the website to help say we welcome bio-tech. Getting into a real-estate magazine would help. The State is assisting us in marketing.
Pfeffer - By removing the one parcel, this will alleviate some fears amongst the residents that had come up previously.
Nutting - this will be coming back for a formal vote. We would like this evening to solicit questions and can come back with detailed answers.
Jones - What kind of complaints are you getting?
Brian - I have been doing research and heard of one from several years ago. But it was before my time and I don't know the name of the company.
Live reporting - license transactions
E. APPOINTMENTS
none
F. HEARINGS
none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
– 99 Restaurant – New Officer & Director
motion to approve,
A formality, everything is order
Passed 8-0
none
F. HEARINGS
none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
– 99 Restaurant – New Officer & Director
motion to approve,
A formality, everything is order
Passed 8-0
Live reporting - Town Council - 1/6/09
Attending: Kelly, Jones, Vallee, Whalen, Mason, Pfeffer, Zollo, Powderly
Missing: McGann
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – December 2, 2009 Regular & Executive Session
motion to approve,
amended to read "vaccination sessions" not "information sessions"
Passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
Trivia Bee sponsored by FEF
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
none
Missing: McGann
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – December 2, 2009 Regular & Executive Session
motion to approve,
amended to read "vaccination sessions" not "information sessions"
Passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
Trivia Bee sponsored by FEF
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
none
Christmas trees will be picked up January 9th
Yes, remember to put your tree out to be picked up for Saturday the 9th.
Additional information from the Fall/Winter Curbside Chronicle can be found here:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the Curbside Chronicle document
Additional information from the Fall/Winter Curbside Chronicle can be found here:
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the Curbside Chronicle document
Franklin, MA: Planning Board
The Planning Board (Board), as established by MGL. Ch. 41 sec.70, is responsible for “…making plans for the development of the municipality, with special reference to proper housing of its inhabitants.” The Board is charged with administering the State’s Subdivision Control Law (MGL. 41 Ch.81K) and the local subdivision rules and regulations (Chapter 300). The Board makes recommendations to the Town Council on Zoning By-Law amendments and may at its own discretion adopt new subdivision regulations. The Board is also designated as the permitting authority for various site plan and special permit submittals under the local Zoning By-Laws (Ch. 185).
The Board works together with the Department of Planning and Community Development, the Department of Public Works, and Town Administration. In addition, the Board receives recommendations from the Design Review Committee on building design, elevation, and signage for commercial site plan permits and from the Conservation Commission on wetland related issues. Two notable projects permitted this year were for a Walgreens Pharmacy, currently under construction at the former location of the “Four Corners School” at the intersection of East Central, King and Cross Streets, and a new performance center/dining hall at the Dean College campus intended to improve and expand its dance and theatre curriculum. The Franklin Center Commons project continued to move forward this year. Construction was completed on the 15 Summer Street building in the fall of 2008. Plans for the demolition and new construction of the front building (12-36 East Central Street) are currently on hold. The town is working closely with the developer to help produce the best possible result for the final phase of this important project in the downtown.
The Board has, and will continue to focus on updating the existing zoning by-laws to more accurately define the needs and goals of the town. This year, the Board reviewed and made recommendations for amending the non-conforming buildings, structures, and uses by-law, which was subsequently approved by the Town Council in December 2008. The Board will also continue to help property owners make the desired changes and improvements to their properties while fostering responsible growth and development in the Town of Franklin.
The Planning Board typically meets twice a month on Mondays at 7:00PM in the Town Hall. All Board meetings are open to the public, and are televised via Community Cable Access.
This year, the Planning Board saw a significant decrease in the number of applications presented.
Planning Board Activity
(July 2008 through June 2009)
Definitive Subdivisions and
Modifications- 1
Preliminary Subdivisions 0
81P Plans 5
Site Plans 5
Limited Site Plan Modifications 14
Special Permits 6
Planning Board Membership
The Planning Board consists of five members and one associate member. The associate member participates in all hearings but only votes on Special Permits if one of the members is unable to act. The Board members are elected and serve 4-year terms. Two seats will be up for election in November 2009.
Current Planning Board members:
Tony Padula, Chairman
Board member since November, 1999
Ron Calabrese, Vice Chairman
Board member since November, 2005
Joseph Gill, Clerk
Board member since January, 2008
Mark Denommee
Board member since November, 2007
Gregory Ballarino
Board member since November, 2007
Joseph Halligan
Associate Member since January, 2008
Please visit our website for additional information including application forms, and regularly posted agendas and meeting minutes at:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Bcomm/planning
Respectfully submitted,
Anthony Padula, Chairman
In the November 2009 Town election, Padula and Halligan were elected to the full member spots. John Carroll was also elected as an associate member. Effectively, Halligan moved from associate to full member to replace Joe Gill and Carroll replaced Halligan as the associate member.
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.
"We're feeling very positive"
The association, an accreditation service that sets standards for more than 2,000 schools, evaluates schools every 10 years. In its last full review, the association gave Franklin High School a warning in 2005 because of its limited handicapped access, which does not meet state and federal law.
"The warning status is really only about the facility," said Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski. "It has nothing to do with education."Read the full article about the FHS accreditation in the Milford Daily News here
The accreditation was disclosed at the Dec 8, 2009 School Committee meeting
"only one resident complained"
"How quickly the sidewalks can get cleared depends on a number of snowfall factors such as timing (and) amount, as well as personnel and equipment constraints," said Council Vice Chairman Stephen Whalen. "Since priority sidewalk clearing is a public safety issue, we asked (DPW Director Robert Cantoreggi) to give us a presentation in order to see if there is any way to enhance public safety at a manageable cost."
Cantoreggi said sidewalk snow removal began at 4 a.m. Monday, Dec. 21, and took until Wednesday, Dec. 23, to complete due to the amount of snow and the department's slow machinery. A snow blower is used on the sidewalk when there's over a foot of snow.
The Town Council meeting Wednesday night will feature an update on the DPW's snow storm efforts. Their staff is short six less people and likely understaffed to begin with even with the six. That is a budget consideration.
Read the remainder of the article in the Milford Daily News here
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Franklin, MA: Tax Work Off Program
Tax Work Off Program
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/social%20service
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.
Senior homeowners aged 60 and over can obtain property tax relief through the Senior Tax Work Off program. Seniors can take a credit of up to $750 off their real estate taxes by working in town departments where their skills and expertise serve the community. This program greatly benefits the town while providing much needed tax relief to senior citizens. Eighty positions were allotted to this program last year. Senior workers were placed in the Library, Treasurer/Collector’s office, the Recreation Department, the DPW, the Assessors’ office, the Town Clerk’s office, the Senior Center and several schools.For more information on this program, please contact Bob Fahey at the Senior Center:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/social%20service
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.
Franklin, MA: Kindergarten registration
Hold the dates to register for kindergarten:
All the details on the forms required and how to obtain them to have them filled out before arriving at registration can be found in the flyer here:
Franklin, MA - Kindergarten Registration
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the document.
Franklin, MA
February 1st, 3rd, and 7th
4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Horace Mann Middle School – Cafeteria
224 Oak Street, Franklin, MA
All the details on the forms required and how to obtain them to have them filled out before arriving at registration can be found in the flyer here:
Franklin, MA - Kindergarten Registration
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the document.
Franklin, MA
Franklin, MA: Council on Aging - Senior Center
The Franklin Senior Center offers a wide range of programs, services and activities that serve older adults and disabled individuals by addressing their unmet needs and seeking to improve quality of life. The Center is located at 10 Daniel McCahill Street and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Town-funded staff includes 2 full-time employees and 3 part-time employees. Other staff includes a part-time Health & Wellness Nurse (grant funded) and a full-time Supportive Day Program Coordinator which is supported through program fees. The Center’s Café and Gift Shop are staffed with volunteers.From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.
The Senior Center offers opportunities for health screening and wellness, nutrition, social service coordination, socialization, recreation, transportation, educational programs, a supportive day program, and volunteer positions.
Highlights
The Senior Center was awarded Innovator of the Year by the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging and Senior Center Directors for our Safe & Secure at Home program. This program provides rigorous outreach to frail elders and offers adaptive assistance to homebound, isolated seniors who are at risk for life-threatening falls.
This year two new, evidence-based programs were offered at the Center - My Life, My Health and A Matter of Balance. These wellness programs were designed by Stanford and Boston University respectively, and are being utilized nationally and state-wide to improve health outcomes. Evidence-based programs are a result of planning, implementing and evaluating programs adapted from models that help individuals effectively manage chronic illnesses by gaining skills and adopting beneficial health behaviors. Research supports results of improved health status, decreased health care utilization, and improved health management behaviors for participants in this type of programming. These programs were extremely well received at the Senior Center.
At the request of the Town Council’s Subcommittee on Outreach to the Elderly, the Council on Aging collaborated with the Assessor’s Office in an effort to substantially increase the number of real estate abatement applications for elderly homeowners by assisting elders with their applications. This effort resulted in a 52% increase in abatements being granted to needy elderly residents. Given the grim economic climate, the COA also offered intensive outreach regarding several social benefit programs such as food stamps, fuel assistance, and circuit breaker property tax relief. Senior Center staff and volunteers attended a Diversity Workshop presented by The VNA Network which emphasized respect for diversity and helped develop cultural competency in serving culturally diverse clients.
Also this year, we expanded our intergenerational programming by partnering with the Oak Street School. Each month a class visits the Senior Center and participates in an activity with seniors. Also new this year, Franklin High School art students offered art classes to seniors at the Senior Center. This year, the Senior Center worked with the Police Department to create a Connect CTY database which enables us to inform elderly residents of vital information, or of Center closings due to inclement weather.
For additional information on programs at the Senior Center visit the website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index
The January "Franklin Connection" newsletter can be found here:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/Jan10connection.pdf
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)