Thursday, August 29, 2024

School Committee Meeting gets feedback issue resolved, approves handbooks, hears of bus plan & more (audio)

FM #1266 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1266 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. 7 members participated; 5 in chambers, two were remote (Callaghan, Sompally).


Quick recap:

  • Superintendent Giguere reported on the opening professional development days Monday & Tuesday; all together at FHS Monday with a welcome, breakfast, group activities and a student produced video; teachers and staff with school based activities 

  • Staffing update: hired 44 positions this summer, 6 teacher vacancies, 9 ESP vacancies, and 9 other non-union vacancies remain as of 8/27/24. As noted in follow up questions, this # is a little higher than prior years, complicated by 48 resignations during the summer, most in the past 2 weeks, hiring process still underway. 

  • Transportation update: 31 remain on wait list after a new bus was added to the school 'fleet'. The bus provider has the busses and drivers we need, the same number of busses as last year was what they started with, then added one Monday. There is one other bus funded by the State for the students at the hotel. 

    • Transportation letter referenced ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/08/fps-letter-providing-school.html

    • All students registered and paid (partially or fully) by deadline are slotted for a bus

    • 31 students remain on a wait list after one bus was added

    • Bus passes won't be checked until Sept 16 to allow for the "who's really riding, who's not" process to get sorted out

    • Bus capacity in some cases may be high but those at the scheduled stops will get a ride at least thru the 16th

  • Discussion and approval (7-0 vote via roll call) for the school handbooks; discussion focused on the changes some significant, some minor to the handbooks vs. prior year, photos of the slides for FHS, middle schools, and elementary schools are available in one album (when presentation gets updated to meeting page, link will be added) https://photos.app.goo.gl/hcjHqYuWPNvg4ca8A 

  • FY25 Revised Final Budget Vote - I recommend approval of the FY25 School Budget in the amount of $77,470,190.00 as discussed ** Motion to approve, second, passes via roll call by 7-0 vote. Note that the "base" for next year would be $1m less than this due to the one time funds

  • Policy 2nd Reading/Adoption - I recommend adoption of Policy GBEBD - Online Fundraising and Solicitation - Crowdfunding as discussed. ** Motion to approve, second, passes via roll call by 7-0 vote


The recording runs about 1 hour & 43 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1266-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-08-27-24/



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The Franklin TV video is available for replay ->  

https://www.youtube.com/live/sahovop6Kv0?si=sDlNZtXfQ-KJCgBg&t=1159


Agenda doc  -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/4746981/SCAGENDA_8-27-24.pdf    


Meeting packet folder -> (docs released for this meeting, some of them available after the meeting)  https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/august-27%2C-2024-sc-meeting-packet/692601 


My notes in one PDF ->  

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lnpeEhrwjgVtZypRj-9T6iHGBfNHgjkT/view?usp=drive_link 


Handbook slides ->  https://photos.app.goo.gl/hcjHqYuWPNvg4ca8A 



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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

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


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


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


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


I hope you enjoy!

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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"


FHS slide on handbook changes
FHS slide on handbook changes

Need info for the District Democratic Primary Candidates for Governor's Council? (video)

Franklin TV's Frank Falvey spent time with Tamisha Civil and Muriel Kramer to help us understand their candidacy for the Governor's Council in District 2.

Video link -> Tamisha Civil


Video link -> Tamisha Civil
Video link -> Tamisha Civil


Video link -> Muriel Kramer


Video link -> Muriel Kramer
Video link -> Muriel Kramer



The debate for the three candidates held in August at the Norfolk Library was previously shared here ->  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/08/norfolk-cable-presents-district-2.html   The video replay is available via YouTube -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guijl9Ya-u8

FYI In case you haven't noticed, you will see Dean students arriving back on campus this weekend

Dean College fall athletes checked in to campus last week. Resident advisors this week in advance of the reminder of the students who continue to arrive 
  • Incoming Arch And Engage Resident Move-In  - Thursday, August 29, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
  • New and transfer Resident Move-In - Friday, August 30
  • Returning Resident Move-In - Sunday, September 1
Details of the schedule for arriving students can be found on the Dean page ->

Dean students arriving back on campus this weekend
Dean students arriving back on campus this weekend




The Turntable Show - new radio show takes you back to playing vinyl albums (audio)

David (The Vibe) Butler and Paul (Pauly G) Guarino co-host the new music show The Turntable Show on Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm, or 102.9). Listeners can travel back in time to revisit the joys of listening to vinyl albums. 

The show being aired today features Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young's 4 Way Street double live album and The Vibe's CSNY Playlist. The show runs in 2 one hour segments. The first hour covers featured cuts from the album. The second hour is a playlist based upon the album.

The show airs on Franklin Public Radio, at 9:00 AM, Noon, and 6:00 PM on Thursday. If you missed the scheduled air time, you can go to Soundcloud to listen to each hour via the internet https://soundcloud.com/wfpr/sets/the-turntable-show or Soundcloud app.

Franklin Public Radio is available anywhere, anytime with your browser at wfpr.fm. You can also turn your radio dial to 102.9 on the FM band within the Franklin, MA area.
9:00a/12:00p/6:00p Turntable – "Enjoy a fun experience with co-hosts The Vibe and Pauly G sharing personal discussions about a featured rock n roll vinyl record (1st hour) and the best, all music Vibe Playlist (2nd hour)" 

Turntable Show 9 - Show 9 features Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young's 4 Way Street double live album and Vibe CSNY Playlist.

 

Each show features a playlist, you can find the collection here->
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/08/the-turntable-show-playlist-collection.html


The Turntable Show - new radio show takes you back to playing vinyl albums (audio)
The Turntable Show - new radio show takes you back to playing vinyl albums (audio)

Master Plan Update Committee schedules meeting Sep 3 at 6:30 PM

Master Plan Update Committee Meeting
Tuesday, September 3, 2024 - 6:30pm


Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building
Town Council Chambers – 2nd Floor
355 East Central Street


Agenda
1. Finalize Implementation Plan
2. Adjourn

 

Master Plan Update Committee schedules meeting Sep 3 at 6:30 PM
Master Plan Update Committee schedules meeting Sep 3 at 6:30 PM

Charcuterie in a cup? Yup, you can register for the class to learn how to Sep 11 at La Cantina Winery

Attention charcuterie lovers!

Would you like to learn the art of charcuterie in a  cup ? 
              
Join Us for a Delightful Experience!  
Charcuterie in a cup? Yup, you can register for the class to learn how to Sep 11 at La Cantina
Charcuterie in a cup? Yup, you learn how to


Red Apron Charcuterie is thrilled to announce a special Charcuterie Cup Workshop at La Cantina Winery. This hands-on workshop is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their parties with stunning and delicious charcuterie cups.

Date: September 11
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: La Cantina Winery.           

Don’t miss this opportunity to create and taste exquisite combinations in an unparalleled environment! Reserve your spot now and take your culinary skills to the next level.  -> https://lacantinawinery.square.site/



Conservation Department Closed 9/3 to 9/13 - Working From Home During Renovations

Conservation Department Closed 8/30 to 9/13 - Working From Home During Renovations

Conservation Department Working From Home 
Please note that the Conservation Department will be closed and working remotely between Friday, September 3 to Friday, September 13 due to Municipal Building renovations. 
This time frame is subject to change, but the start date is final.
Please email Breeka Li Goodlander at bgoodlander@franklinma.gov with any permitting questions, violation notices, or other wetland/resource area questions.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/updated-conservation-department-closed-913-930-working-home-during-renovations




Town of Franklin: Request for Proposals - Qualified Environmental Professional Services

The Town of Franklin wishes to retain the services of a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) to provide environmental planning, assessment, and remediation services related to the former Nu-Style Jewelry Factory Brownfield.

Additional Information:  RFP for Qualified Environmental Professional Services

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/purchasing/bids/request-proposals-qualified-environmental-professional-services


Town of Franklin: Request for Proposals - Qualified Environmental Professional Services
Town of Franklin: Request for Proposals - Qualified Environmental Professional Services


Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Thursday, Aug 29, 2024

  • wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Thursday

9:00a/12:00p/6:00p Turntable – "Enjoy a fun experience with co-hosts The Vibe and Pauly G sharing personal discussions about a featured rock n roll vinyl record (1st hour) and the best, all music Vibe Playlist (2nd hour)" = Turntable Show 9 - Show 9 features Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young's 4 Way Street double live album and Vibe CSNY Playlist.

11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Frank Presents – Notable Local Conversations
 
  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = Thursday

7:00 am     Fallen Heroes Pt 5
7:30 am     Veterans' Oral History Project: Dave Cargill
9:00 am     United Methodist Church: Lola Richardson
10:30 am SAFE Coalition: Overdose Awareness 2022
11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Sweet Corn Risotto
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Quinoa
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Pesto Pasta
1:00 pm     The Only Cure Is Education
1:30 pm     Pizzapalooza: Game Day Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 7
3:00 pm Riffin' on Main Street: Katherine Kennedy
4:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
5:00 pm Paris Olympics: Kristi Kirshe
6:30 pm     Extended Play Sessions: Acoustic X
8:00 pm Frank Presents: Tamisha Civil
8:30 pm Frank Presents: John Heaton
9:00 pm Endless Konnections: Chef The Rose
10:00 pm Shelley Otis: Harpist

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel           (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = Thursday

7:00 am     Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22
8:30 am     Public School Event: Concert Hour Day 1
11:00 am FHS Varsity Swimming v North Attleboro 01-05-24
1:30 pm     FHSTC - Flowers for Algernon
2:30 pm     Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
3:30 pm     Track and Field: v King Philip 05-04-22
8:30 pm U. S. Army: Jazz Ambassadors 04-01-19

  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = Thursday

8:00 am Conservation Commission 08-22-24
12:00 pm Economic Development 08-14-24
2:00 pm Conservation Commission 08-22-24

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  


Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA
Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, August 28, 2024?

Wednesday, August 28
9:00am Early Voting - Primary (Town Clerk's Office)
1:00pm Scribblers Writing Group (recording session) (Franklin TV Studio)
7:00pm Kendo (live music) (La Cantina Winery)


**  Town Meetings today   **


What's happening today in Franklin?
What's happening today in Franklin? 

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

Why are there multiple calendars?
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:

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/upcoming

Reminder! - Town of Franklin Community Branding Survey - Have you completed this yet?

Hello Franklin! 

The Town is developing a new brand and logo to represent Franklin's unique strengths and assets as well as the community's vision for the future. 

Branding is more than just a logo - it touches every aspect of the Town's visual representation and seeks to illustrate how the Town depicts itself. Franklin's updated brand should reflect the community's identity and core values. We need your input to help create a stronger, viable and relatable image with a unified message. 

Have you completed this yet?
Have you completed this yet?

We received a grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to make this project possible and welcome your feedback via the this community survey.

Please take a couple minutes to fill out the information below. We want to hear from you if you live here, work here, or visit us often! Your input will help us form the new Town of Franklin brand which will be used for marketing, placemaking, wayfinding, business recruitment, and more!

The results of this survey will only be used for Town of Franklin brand design purposes. Please answer the questions based on your personal experience as a resident of Franklin or your time visiting Franklin. Demographic information is collected as part of this survey to ensure a well-rounded community perspective. 

This survey should take 5 - 10 minutes to complete.

The deadline to complete this survey is August 30, 2024.

Take the survey here: https://forms.gle/qR1DUt3FEdnftiin7

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/reminder-town-franklin-community-branding-survey


School Committee Meeting gets feedback issue resolved, approves handbooks, hears of bus plan & more (video)

The Franklin, MA School Committee met as scheduled  on August 27, 2024 beginning at 7 PM. After working through some sound feedback issues in Council Chambers with Zoom, the meeting really got into the agenda approx. 7:20 PM.

Franklin TV video link (starting with the resumption of the meeting) ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/sahovop6Kv0?si=sDlNZtXfQ-KJCgBg&t=1159

Quick recap:
  • Superintendent Giguere reported on the opening professional development days Monday & Tuesday; all together at FHS Monday with a welcome, breakfast, group activities and a student produced video; teachers and staff with school based activities 
  • Staffing update: hired 44 positions this summer, 6 teacher vacancies, 9 ESP vacancies, and 9 other non-union vacancies remain as of 8/27/24. As noted in follow up questions, this # is a little higher than prior years, complicated by 48 resignations during the summer, most in the past 2 weeks, hiring process still underway. 
  • Transportation update: 31 remain on wait list after a new bus was added to the school 'fleet'. The bus provider has the busses and drivers we need, the same number of busses as last year was what they started with, then added one Monday. There is one other bus funded by the State for the students at the hotel. 
    • Transportation letter referenced ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/08/fps-letter-providing-school.html
    • All students registered and paid (partially or fully) by deadline are slotted for a bus
    • 31 students remain on a wait list after one bus was added
    • Bus passes won't be checked until Sept 16 to allow for the "who's really riding, who's not" process to get sorted out
    • Bus capacity in some cases may be high but those at the scheduled stops will get a ride at least thru the 16th
  • Discussion and approval (7-0 vote via roll call) for the school handbooks; discussion focused on the changes some significant, some minor to the handbooks vs. prior year, photos of the slides for FHS, middle schools, and elementary schools are available in one album (when presentation gets updated to meeting page, link will be added)
  • FY25 Revised Final Budget Vote - I recommend approval of the FY25 School Budget in the amount of $77,470,190.00 as discussed ** Motion to approve, second, passes via roll call by 7-0 vote. Note that the "base" for next year would be $1m less than this due to the one time funds
  • Policy 2nd Reading/Adoption - I recommend adoption of Policy GBEBD - Online Fundraising and Solicitation - Crowdfunding as discussed. ** Motion to approve, second, passes via roll call by 7-0 vote
Meeting agenda doc ->

My set of notes captured during the meeting ->

FHS slide on handbook changes
FHS slide on handbook changes



FPS Letter providing School Transportation Follow-Up 08/27/24

To:     Franklin Community
Subject: Transportation Follow-Up – 08/27/2024

Good afternoon,

This email is being sent to address the significant confusion caused by the letter sent from the Transportation Department to individual families. We have received numerous emails, too significant to respond to individually, in a timely manner and we are therefore sharing what we hope will provide clarity as it relates to transportation, particularly for the first few days of school. 

Please accept our apology for this confusion.

Bus passes will be available at your child’s school on September 4th.
Bus drivers have been instructed to wait until September 16th to begin checking bus passes. Given that, buses are likely to be crowded the first few weeks as we finalize routes and those who registered and paid prior to the July 31st extended deadline.
After September 16th, only those who registered and paid prior to July 31st will have a bus pass and be able to ride the bus.
In regard to where to get on the bus, please refer to the linked bus routes and get on at the stop closest to your home.
If you have registered before the deadline and made at least a partial payment you will receive a separate email indicating the name of the child, the bus stop assigned, and the time to be at the stop.
Those who registered and paid after July 31st will be waitlisted and then assigned a bus pass based on available space in the order they registered and paid. If you have been waitlisted you will also receive a separate email indicating that you are waitlisted. We will be modifying routes over the first few weeks to accommodate as many as possible.
The students living in the Emergency Shelter have a dedicated additional bus beyond our usual number of buses, paid for through earmarked state funds that we have already received and therefore have no impact on this situation.
At this time any student who registered and fully or partially paid before the July 31st deadline has been placed on a bus.
If you registered before the deadline but no longer require a bus seat, please email schoolbus@franklinps.net so we can process your refund and assign the seat to another student.

Finally, this situation is not a result of the failed override or any other financial issue. It is due to a higher number of registrations at certain schools and specific routes, as well as registrations and payments after the extended deadline.

Thank you for your patience.

Franklin busses parked on Panther Way in 2016 (before their new facility was built)
Franklin busses parked on Panther Way in 2016 (before their new facility was built)

The Labor Day holiday brings a one day Curbside Trash Delay

Due to the Labor Day Holiday, curbside trash/recycling will be delayed by one day.

The Labor Day holiday brings a one day Curbside Trash Delay
The Labor Day holiday brings a one day Curbside Trash Delay

Shared from ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/labor-day-curbside-trash-delay

If you misplaced the Curbside Pickup schedule, you can download and print a new one ->     https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/franklin_program_guide_2023-2024.pdf