Thursday, August 28, 2025

School Committee approves handbooks, gets updates on opening, approves Horace Mann Campus name (audio)

FM #1498 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1498 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. All 7 members of the committee were present. 


Quick recap:

  • Excitement among the teachers and school personnel as they all make the final preparations for the redistricting to open with schools on Tuesday, Sep 2. Minor tweaks to some of the bus routes, stops will be notified shortly. 56 personnel hired this summer, 2 teacher openings, 13 ESP's openings remain and sone nonunion positions too, work is still underway attempting to fill the positions

  • Handbook significant changes, only a few were discussed. There is only one elementary handbook now for the 4 schools in the 2 buildings. All the handbooks were approved unanimously in separate votes (ECDC, elementary, middle and high school)

  • Voted to create a subcommittee to expand upon how to honor the legacy of Horace Mann, beyond the naming of the campus where ECDC, the Middle School and High School are now located on Oak St. The campus naming was a second vote as the two items were related and there was good discussion among the committee as to the scope and objectives of the proposed (now approved) committee. Members of the full SchCmte will notify the Chair of their interest. The Chair will confirm, the subcommittee will craft a scope and objectives doc for the full committee to approve. Members of the community including the Historical Commission and other such stakeholders will be involved.


The recording runs about 1 hour & 30 minutes Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1498-school-cmte-mtg-08-26-25/



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Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/EWVb7O-b_ag?&t=67 


Meeting agenda ->  https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5979277/SCAGENDA_8-26-25.pdf 


Meeting packet folder (items released for the meeting, in some cases posted a day or two after the meeting) ->   https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/august-26%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/846929 


My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/14VB3GuDdCAG-U80a3pT3nIp5GSZZhUSJ/view?usp=drive_link 

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


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


How can you help?

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


I hope you enjoy!

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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"


School Committee catches up on Summer Activities at Aug 12, 2025 meeting (audio)

FM #1497 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1497 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Both the Chair and Vice-Chair were away so Ruthann O'Sullivan hosted the session. The remaining 5 members of the committee were present. 


Quick recap:

  • Summer Learning Review - Paula Marano & Patty Gay, updates on lifelong learning, as well as extended school - link to album which captured the slides shared found https://photos.app.goo.gl/WwFUYqSSqCrzx6gH8 

  • Summer Move Update - Colin Boisvert - great detail, well organized, there is a whole lot happening across the redistricting move efforts, getting rooms and building ready, signs completed (shared here earlier), transportation updates due next week via bus routes, bus stops, additional drop off, pick up info also scheduled from principals. Photo album of the slides https://photos.app.goo.gl/JRbK3Ez1K9yxjCAX9  

  • 2024 Annual Report Draft Review - discussed verbally, no doc shared, feedback due soon


The recording runs about 1 hour & 15 minutes Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1497-school-cmte-mtg-08-12-25/



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Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RElB5OknJg 


Meeting agenda doc ->

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08122025-1851 


Meeting packet folder contains the docs released before and after the meeting ->

https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/august-12%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/842818 


My notes in one PDF doc ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CsjvTsjM0u3b3Qs_pJUcNlGr8falxQ03/view?usp=drive_link 


School Committee catches up on Summer Activities (video)
Summer Move Update 

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


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


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


How can you help?

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


I hope you enjoy!

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


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

Tri-County bus routes for 2025-2026 to be aware of

Tri-County bus routes to be aware of
Tri-County bus routes for 2025-2026 to be aware of
The Tri-County Regional bus routes are available for review. Several (but not all) of the buses have Franklin stops (except for the destination).







Deadline extended for Call to Artists; now due September 10

Deadline extended for Call to Artists; now due September 10
Deadline extended for Call to Artists; now due September 10
Too many of you are (rightfully) soaking up summer vacation vibes — so we’re giving artists a little more time!⁠

New deadline: September 10 to apply for our Call to Artists.⁠

Don’t miss your chance to showcase your work at the Arts & Culture Symposium.⁠

Additional details -> https://www.franklinma.gov/1107/Call-for-Visual-Artists


Register Today !! Flu Clinic at Franklin Senior Center - Sep 25

Register Today !! Flu Clinic at Franklin Senior Center - Sep 25
Register Today !! Flu Clinic at Franklin Senior Center - Sep 25
Save the Date!

Register today!! 

The Franklin Health Department is hosting a flu vaccine clinic for adults at the Franklin Senior Center on September 25th from 9:30 am -12:30 pm.


Sign up Here:




Save the date: 5th Annual Mexican Independence Day Fiesta on Saturday, September 20

SAVE THE DATE! 
Save the date: 5th Annual Mexican Independence Day Fiesta on Saturday, September 20
Save the date: 5th Annual Mexican
Independence Day Fiesta on Sat, Sep 20

Join us for our 5th Annual Mexican Independence Day Fiesta on Saturday, September 20th 

Open 12–10 PM

For the FIRST time ever, enjoy live Latin rhythms with Champola Band from Boston performing 7–10 PM!

Authentic Mexican tacos• tapas & Wine • Fiesta vibes all day long!

Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate with us at La Cantina Winery!


Trunk or treat, Oct 24 at Franklin TV & Radio Studio

Trunk or treat, Oct 24 at Franklin TV & Radio Studio
Trunk or treat, Oct 24 at Franklin TV & Radio Studio
Come join us at the Franklin TV Station for some Trunk or treating, kid friendly activities and Halloween backdrops for photo opportunities!
You can meet the staff and tour the studio

Friday October 24 from 4 - 7 PM!



What (if any) life skills would you add to this listing ??

"Some things never go out of style — and they shouldn’t.

Because while the world keeps speeding toward “instant” and “automated,” there’s a different kind of confidence that comes from knowing you can actually do things for yourself.

It’s not about being old-fashioned.
What (if any) life skills would you add to this listing ??
What (if any) life skills would you add to this listing ?? 

It’s about being capable, resourceful, and ready for real life.

Share this if you agree"

I have shared this and did so for 2 reasons:
1 - on the initial read it all seems good
2 - maybe you would add something to this listing?
Comment, or email me with a suggestion to add to this listing

Thanks




Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday, August 28, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fmFranklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday
Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday


8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM

Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock
Franklin and its local government, services and events 
9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM - first hour
10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM - second hour

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)"  

The Turntable Show Album Hour features our local band Boston and their wildly successful debut vinyl record.  Released in 1976, the self-titled Boston album was the best-selling debut record of its time, and has sold over 17 million copies to date, the 9th best selling record, ever.   

The Vibe Boston Playlist hour continues with a fun mix of more Boston hits from all albums and some live gems!  Enjoy the unique sound of Boston!



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

Franklin TV schedule for Thursday, August 28, 2025 (Your local Public, Education & Government "PEG" station)

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = THURSDAY
10:30 am SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports
11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Fish
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Taquitos
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Meatballs
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Black Bean, Roasted Pepper & Garlic Pizzetta
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 4
3:00 pm Riffing on Main Street: Steve Sherlock
4:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith
5:00 pm Metrowest Symposium: Equity & Access in Arts & Culture
6:00 pm Horace Mann PSA
7:00 pm Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 1
9:00 pm Celebrate with Pride 2025: Queens of the South Coast

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

7:00 am Lifelong Music: Strings School 01-22-25
8:30 am Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22
10:00 am FHS Varsity Softball v Taunton 04-09-25
2:00 pm FHSTC - Flowers for Algernon
3:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith
4:00 pm Rec Basketball: 6th - 8th Grade Girls Championship 2025
9:00 pm FHS Theater Company: Legally Blonde

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

8:00 am Conservation Commission 08-21-25
2:00 pm Conservation Commission 08-21-25
7:30 pm Zoning Board of Appeals  CHAMBERS  944 4560 2501

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