Franklin Matters

Saturday, June 15, 2024

Franklin, MA: School Committee Meeting scheduled June 18, 2024 at 7 PM - Agenda

Franklin School Committee
June 18, 2024 - 7:00 PM
Municipal Building – Council Chambers

A G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

Call to Order Mr. Callaghan
Pledge of Allegiance
Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan
C. Payroll Mr. McNeill
D. FHS Student Representative Comments
E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. Elementary Report Card Update

III. Discussion/Action Items

A. Policy - Second Reading/Adoption
I recommend adoption of the following policies as discussed:
EFD - Meal Charge Policy
EFD-R - Meal Charge Policy and Procedures https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_policy_15.pdf

B. Elementary Report Cards
I recommend approval of the Elementary Report Cards with discussed changes as detailed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_elem_report_cards.pdf

C. Fee Increase Vote
I recommend approval of the Fee Increases as discussed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_fee_increases.pdf

D. Superintendent’s Evaluation Report
I recommend your approval of the Superintendent’s composite evaluation for the 2023-2024 school year as discussed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_d_-_supt_eval.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. FY25 Budget Update

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from your May 28, 2024 School Committee
meeting as detailed.
B. Approval of Executive Session Minutes
I recommend approval of the executive session minutes from your May 28, 2024
School Committee meeting to be released as detailed.
C. FHS Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $15.86 from Ohiopyle for supplemental
supplies at FHS as detailed.
D. FHS Scholarship
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 for the Carol Maher
Scholarship as detailed.

VII. Good of the Order

VIII. Citizen’s Comments

IX. New Business
To discuss any future agenda items

X. Adjournment

Agenda doc also contains remote participation info

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_6-18-24.pdf

Packet folder is where all the documents released for the meeting are stored (note: some of them after the meeting)

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/june-18-2024-school-committee-meeting-packet

Franklin, MA: School Committee Agenda for Meeting scheduled June 18, 2024 at 7 PM

Franklin School District names the principals for the new Elementary and Middle Schools

“Dear FPS Community,

I am writing with three important updates related to the implementation of the School Facilities and Educational Master Plan for the 2025-26 school year. As previously shared, we conducted an selection process of internal candidate for the purposes of appointing principals for the 2025-26 school year. These changes do not apply to the 2024-25 school year.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of the following principals to their new positions for the 2025-26 school year:

North K-5 Complex- Lincoln Street

Mrs. Keri Busavage has been appointed as the principal of K-2 North Elementary
Mr. Brad Hendrixson has been appointed as the principal of 3-5 North Elementary

South K-5 Complex - Washington Street

Mrs. Stefani Wasik has been appointed as the principal of K-2 South Elementary
Mr. Evan Chelman has been appointed as the principal of 3-5 South Elementary

Central 6-8 Middle School - Oak Street

Mr. Craig Williams has been appointed as the principal of 6-8 Central Middle School

Each of these leaders brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. We are confident in their abilities to unify our newly established school communities, develop school culture, foster positive learning environments, inspire a vision for academic success, and support the well-being of our students, staff, and families. Please join us in congratulating our new principals and extending our gratitude to all our leaders for their dedication and hard work.

Please find more information about the Phase I, June 2024 School Facilities and Educational Master Plan Implementation Status Update. You will find information about completed, ongoing, and pending work here. We will continue to share updates as they become available.

We appreciate your ongoing support as we work together to create the best possible educational environment for our students with the resources we have available.

Respectfully,
Franklin Public Schools”

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1aSpWHYBjnWvUQbD/

Franklin School District names the principals for the new Elementary and Middle Schools

Sarah Dumas takes 3rd place in heptathlon at National Meet

"In her final competition as a Franklin Panther, Sarah Dumas takes 3rd Place at the National Championship. Her 4825 points is a new FHS Record and she has earned her 4th all-America award!

Rumor has it that she also got the Spike Award for the meet (if you know, you know)"

Results page -> https://results.leonetiming.com/?mid=7351

Shared from -> https://x.com/FranklinHSXC/status/1801682901609713824

Recycling Center credit card technology issues, cash/check accepted

FYI ~ If you plan to use the Recycling Center this weekend (6/14-6/16/24).

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/whFRd1bZytr7giCq/

Recycling Center credit card technology issues, cash/check accepted

5K Race Raises Over $8,500 for the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of the 5K race hosted by the Tri-Valley Front Runners (TVFR), which raised over $8,500 to support the development and maintenance of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT).

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to TVFR and especially to Mark Capparella, the dedicated race director, and his team for their unwavering support and exceptional organization of this event.


Pictured: Jill Duhaime (TVFR), Mark Capparella (TVFR), Cliff Winters (FBRTC), Sue Fleuette (FBRTC), Dave Labonte (FBRTC), Barry Regan (TVFR), Stephen Sullivan (TVFR)

At the most recent FBRTC meeting, Mark and the TVFR team presented President Cliff Winters with a donation of $5,373.56, which accounted for their net proceeds of the 2024 race.

The Tri-Valley Front Runners, the premier running organization in the Tri-Valley region, took over the production of this race in 2019 when Dave Labonte, the former director, stepped down. Steve Pohnert, a member of both FBRTC and TVFR, facilitated this transition, and since then, TVFR has continuously supported our cause. The event resumed with a virtual race in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by an in-person road race in 2022, and last year, we successfully hosted our first trail race in 2023.

TVFR, founded in the early 1980s, is an all-inclusive, vibrant running club that welcomes runners of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. They organize a variety of events, including road races, trail runs, track workouts, and group training runs, fostering a sense of community and promoting healthy living. For more information about TVFR, visit Tri-Valley Front Runners.

The FBRTC is a non-profit organization dedicated to the use and development of the SNETT. Our mission is to create, promote, and maintain a safe and accessible trail system that benefits the communities of Franklin and Bellingham. Learn more about our efforts at Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail.

The recent 5K race saw a total of 226 registered participants, with 184 finishers, marking an increase from 131 registrants and 108 finishers in 2022, and 147 registrants and 137 finishers in 2023. The success of this event is a testament to the hard work and collaboration between our volunteers and the TVFR team, including 13 TVFR volunteers and an additional 14 members who participated in the race.

We would like to acknowledge and congratulate our top finishers: Andrew Bairos of Franklin, who won the overall men's category, and Elizabeth Traphagen of Franklin, who won the overall women's category. A total of 58 medals were awarded across various age groups, celebrating the spirit and competitiveness of all participants. Full race results can be found at 2024 FBRTC 5K Results.

The next race is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025. We look forward to another successful event and continued support from our community. For more information on how to get involved or support the FBRTC, please visit our website.

Beaver Street Interceptor: Construction Updates for week of June 17 - June 21

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Construction Update

for the Week of June 17th!

Monday (6/17) - Friday (6/21) the construction crew will be moving over to Rt. 140 at Grove Street to start construction of the new sewer main that will be crossing from Grove St, through Rt. 140 onto West Central Street. Expect lane closures on Rt. 140 at the Grove Street intersection as this work progresses.

Also, there will be a limited crew working inside sewer manholes on Old West Central from Pond Street to Tri-County Drive (behind Starbucks). Only lane shifts might be required and access to the adjacent medical buildings and residences along this area will not be impacted.

At the Franklin Recreation Center, the construction of the new Beaver Street Interceptor Pump Station will continue this week. There is a new way in and out of the Recreation Center, please follow the posted signage. During times of drop off and pickup backup onto Beaver Street may occur.

Please reference the interactive map below and posted signs for details and updates.

Beaver Street Interceptor: Construction Updates for week of June 17 - June 21

We appreciate the public's continued support and understanding and will
continue to communicate regularly via social media, our dedicated email list, and the construction map below as work progresses.

BEAVER STREET INTERCEPTOR HOTLINE: 508-553-5526
(PLEASE LEAVE A MESSAGE AND WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL)
EMAIL: BSI-info@franklinma.gov

Beaver Street Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement Project

This project consists of the replacement and repair of Franklin's largest piece of sewer infrastructure,
originally constructed in 1914.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/water-sewer-division/pages/beaver-street-interceptor

Social Security Matters: "Learn 5 Ways to Help Prevent Elder Abuse"

"Each year, June 15 – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) – promotes awareness about elder neglect and abuse.

In the United States, an estimated 1 in 10 adults over the age of 60 experience some form of abuse each year.

Social Security Matters: "Learn 5 Ways to Help Prevent Elder Abuse"
Nearly 80% of Social Security beneficiaries are 65 and older, and we want to do what we can to protect them.

Here are 5 ways to help prevent your loved ones and other older adults from becoming victims of abuse:"

Follow the link to find the 5 tips -> https://blog.ssa.gov/learn-5-ways-to-help-prevent-elder-abuse/

Friday, June 14, 2024

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, June 14, 2024?

Friday, June 14 - Flag Day

9:00am Fallen Hero: Timothy J. Hayes (Veterans Walkway, Town Common)

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Library book sale (Franklin Public Library)

2:00pm Franklin Farmers Market (Town Common)

3:00pm Kendo (live music) (Town Common)

8:00pm Karaoke Friday Night at the Winery (La Cantina Winery)

9:00pm David Weber (live music) (3 Restaurant)

** NO Town Meetings today

What's happening today in Franklin?

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Why are there multiple calendars?

There is a Cultural events calendar upon which other community events are layered to create the Community calendar.

Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

The Cultural calendar displays only the cultural events

https://www.franklinculture.org/things-do/pages/calendar

Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Library calendar of events -> calendar link

The Senior Center calendar of events -> https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/month/39/2023-12

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar
The School district calendar is found https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26

In this episode we go from elections, to sustainability, to local action as Ted helps me make sense of climate (audio)

FM #1237 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1237 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Ted McIntyre, Franklin resident and climate activist. We met to record at the Franklin TV & Radio studio on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.

We continued making sense of climate by working our way from good weather to Mexico’s election of the first woman president (also a climate scientist) to the pros/cons advocating for a “Sustainability Director”, to local activity in lieu in action by government bodies, to the potential of the MA climate omnibus containing an authorization of nuclear power as ‘clean’ and touched on a few other topics along the way.

This discussion continues our journey understanding the MA roadmap toward net zero and while it helps me “make sense of climate”, we hope it helps with your understanding as well.

If you have climate questions or Franklin specific climate questions, send them in and we’ll try to answer them in a future session.

The conversation runs about 49 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Ted.

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1237-making-sense-of-climate-46-06-11-24

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Articles referenced along the path of our discussion:

Sabrina Shankman article on sustainability director

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/06/theres-secret-for-mass-cities-and-towns.html

Claudia Sheinbaum

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudia_Sheinbaum

C40 - Michael Bloomberg

https://www.bloomberg.org/environment/supporting-sustainable-cities/c40-cities-climate-leadership-group/

Pemex - The Mexican oil Company (not PetroMex as mentioned in our conversation)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pemex

Seabrook Station is still operating with a license authorized through 2050 (2nd largest to Millbrook in CT)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seabrook_Station_Nuclear_Power_Plant

Geothermal microdistrict in Framingham

https://www.thinkgeoenergy.com/networked-geothermal-heating-pilot-to-go-online-in-framingham-massachusetts/

MIT spinoff to develop drilling for geothermal power

https://energy.mit.edu/news/mit-spinout-quaise-energy-working-to-create-geothermal-wells-made-from-the-deepest-holes-in-the-world/

** See the page that collects all the “Making Sense of Climate” episodes -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/making-sense-of-climate-collection.html

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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 www.franklin.news/ or www.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"

Fallen Hero Recognition: Sergeant Timothy J. Hayes, U.S. Army - June 14, 2024 - 9 AM

There is a Fallen Hero Recognition event today (6/14/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Sergeant Timothy J. Hayes, U.S. Army.

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that veteran. This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Sergeant Timothy J. Hayes, U.S. Army

Sgt Timothy J. Hayes, U.S. Army was born on October 14, 1914, the son of Daniel and Margaret Hayes.

Sgt Hayes was graduated from Franklin High School in 1932 and was the husband of the former Eleanor McGrory. The couple was married in Franklin on May 16, 1943 and lived at 62 Cross Street.

Sgt Timothy Hayes served in the regular army prior to Pearl Harbor and was called back into service when war against Japan broke out. Sgt Hayes was sent to England in October of 1943 for several months to undergo rigorous airborne unit training as a paratrooper in preparation for the D-Day invasion.

The Normandy assault was in two phases, an air assault landing of airborne troops shortly after midnight and an amphibious landing of Allied Infantry and armored divisions along the coast of France commencing at 6:30 am.

Sgt. Timothy Hayes was in the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, Company D deployment drop and on June 14, 1944 died of wounds received in combat during the D-Day invasion.

Sgt Timothy J. Hayes was 29 years old at the time of his death and rests eternally in the Normandy American Cemetery in France.

Originally posted -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/fallen-hero-sergeant-timothy-j-hayes-us.html

For the schedule of Fallen Hero recognitions

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/03/honoring-our-franklin-veterans-who-died.html

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

One man's quest to find out about Sgt Hayes

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/12/one-mans-quest-to-find-out-about-sgt.html

Fallen Hero: Sgt Timothy Hayes

Franklin High School Announces Class of 2024 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Superintendent Lucas Giguere is pleased to announce that Anna David is the valedictorian of the Franklin High School Class of 2024, while Jennifer Soohoo is the salutatorian.

Anna David (left) is the valedictorian and Jennifer Soohoo (right) is the salutatorian of the Franklin High School Class of 2024. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Anna David

"Anna David embodies excellence in every sense of the word," said Franklin High School Guidance Secretary Julie Bellan. "Throughout her time here at Franklin High School, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, leadership and service to her community. Her enterprising spirit has allowed her to take risks and face challenges head-on throughout her time at Franklin High School, where she has consistently pushed the boundaries of her intellect and curiosity."

After completing all math and computer science courses offered at FHS, David took multiple advanced college courses during her time as a high school student. David has held leadership positions as president of the Robotics Club, president of the Math Team, member of the National Honor Society and robotics group leader of the Science National Honor Society. She has also worked to initiate a school-sponsored science fair and a local chapter of the International Robotics Honor Society.

Additionally, Anna leads multiple community-based robotics teams; the International Robotics Honor Society, 4-H ALARM Robotics and Sense and Sound Robotics.

Anna has sought out opportunities to further her skills, including a paid internship at the University of New Hampshire and its InterOperability Laboratory. The internship involved research and the completion of a project relating to advanced engineering, computer science and robotics. The previous summer, she participated in the Beaver Works Summer Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and had the opportunity to take a class on autonomous drones.

Jennifer Soohoo

"Jennifer Soohoo's academic career at FHS has been nothing short of impressive," said Superintendent Giguere. "She has continuously put forth her best effort, as evident through the various Advanced Placement courses she has challenged herself with, and her ability to think critically has allowed for her to not only excel within the classroom but outside of it. She is a strong self-advocate who is not afraid to ask questions, and a student who truly leads by example."

Soohoo demonstrated a willingness to serve as a role model and leader by being an active member of the Franklin community, participating in Best Buddies, Empty Bowls, Math National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Unified Music Club, Unified Track and Varsity Volleyball.

In her senior year, Soohoo took on additional leadership roles as the social media coordinator for Best Buddies and the treasurer for Empty Bowls.

Soohoo is greatly interested in the medical field. She has loved the sciences since she was young and wants to positively impact the lives of those around her. Her excellence in academics, passion for helping others and hard work has earned her acceptance into the Honors Program at the University of Connecticut, where she plans to study biology.

She hopes to continue to be an active member of her college's campus community in order to learn new skills, meet new people, and further her interests.

FHS' Dumas named MVP for Hockomock League Girls Outdoor Track

2024 Hockomock League Girls Outdoor Track All Stars

Below are the official 2024 Hockomock League Girls Outdoor Track All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.

Hockomock League MVP
Sarah Dumas, Franklin

Hockomock League All Stars
Sarah Dumas, Franklin
Lily DeForge, Franklin
Elizabeth Hopkins, Franklin
Ella Chandaria, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Anna Cliff, Franklin

https://hockomocksports.com/2024-hockomock-league-girls-outdoor-track-all-stars/

2024 Hockomock League Boys Outdoor Track All Stars

Below are the official 2024 Hockomock League Boys Outdoor Track All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.

Hockomock League MVP
Dmitrius Shearrion, Taunton

Hockomock League All Stars
James Scott, Franklin
Quinn Hardt, Franklin
Bryce Dragsbaek, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Jaret Schmidt, Franklin

https://hockomocksports.com/2024-hockomock-league-boys-outdoor-track-all-stars/

FHS' Dumas named MVP for Hockomock League Girls Outdoor Track

FHS' Daniels, Tolonen, Essam, Taylor, Gorgas, & Reis recognized for Hockomock League Tennis

2024 Hockomock League Girls Tennis All Stars

Below are the official 2024 Hockomock League Girls Tennis All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.

Hockomock League MVP
Hannah Farber, Oliver Ames

Hockomock League All Stars
Brooke Daniels, Franklin
Sydney Tolonen, Franklin
Chloe Essam, Franklin
Brooke Taylor, Franklin

https://hockomocksports.com/2024-hockomock-league-girls-tennis-all-stars/

2024 Hockomock League Boys Tennis All Stars

Below are the official 2024 Hockomock League Boys Tennis All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.

Hockomock League MVP
Neema Khosravani, Mansfield

Hockomock League All Stars
Jay Gorgas, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Daniel Reis, Franklin

https://hockomocksports.com/2024-hockomock-league-boys-tennis-all-stars/

FHS' Daniels, Tolonen, Essam, Taylor, Gorgas, & Reis recognized for Hockomock League Tennis

Dads, Cabs, & Cars Father’s Day Event at La Cantina June 16 at noon

Dads, Cabs, & Cars Father’s Day Event at La Cantina

Via La Cantina Winery

"Dads, Cabs, & Cars Father’s Day Event
Join us this Father’s Day at 12:00 PM for an unforgettable car show at La Cantina Winery!
Bring your antique car and celebrate with us. Let’s make this a special day for all the amazing dads out there!
Don’t miss out – see you there "