Franklin Matters

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

School Committee gets updates on Facilities, AI, and evaluates the Superintendent (audio)

FM #1766 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1766 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 members of the Committee participated, 1 absent.

Quick recap

Presentation and discussion on Facilities focused on school projects completed as part of the redistricting, and those left remaining, some of which are funded, some are pending funding and some are for future
Presentation and discussion on the potential intentional implementation of AI as an educational tool as well as how to use AI being taught to the students. The work over the last four months has developed 4 main principles to guide the further discussion and planning. Additional updates will be made as progress is made
Superintendent evaluation was discussed and approved. The doc with the feedback, goals and accomplishments is to be posted to the Schools page soon
The Committee entered into Executive Session not to return to open meeting for contract negotiations approx. 10:30 PM

Let’s listen (approx. 3 hours & 15 minutes)

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1766-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-06-09-26/

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Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/hgHgIZ5L_iY?&t=235

The agenda document https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-2356

The presentations documents should be posted to this folder https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/june-9%2C-2026-sc-meeting-packet/28109200

Photos of the Facility presentation

https://photos.app.goo.gl/t3rkbwCxnDm6A9Wy6

Photos of the AI discussion presentation

https://photos.app.goo.gl/TqNxhuTk8og7WqRp8

The working 4 guiding principles as presented

The working 4 guiding principles on AI as presented

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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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Children's Museum of Franklin celebrates success of their first "Play Fore the Kids" Golf Tournament - June 15

All - what a day! Between the near-perfect weather, enthusiastic golfers, dedicated volunteers, and incredible community spirit, we couldn't have imagined a better way to launch what we hope will become a beloved annual tradition.

Most importantly, because of sponsors like you, Play Fore the Kids was more than a great day on the course - it was an investment in children and families from our greater region. Your support helps advance the Children's Museum of Franklin's mission to empower children and families to discover, imagine, and grow together through play and exploration.

"Play Fore the Kids" Golf Tournament - June 15

Launching a first-year event requires partners who are willing to believe in the vision before the tradition exists. We are deeply grateful that you chose to be one of those partners. Your sponsorship helped create an experience that brought together community leaders, local businesses, families, and supporters, all united around the power of play.

Since opening our doors last September, the Museum has welcomed nearly 60,000 visitors from more than 500 communities across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and beyond. Every day, we see children making new discoveries, families creating meaningful memories, and connections being built. Your support makes these moments possible.

Thank you for helping us make year one such a success. We are honored to have you as part of the Children's Museum of Franklin community, and we hope to welcome you back to Play Fore the Kids next year.

Until then, we hope you'll stop by the Museum to see firsthand the impact of your support. We'd love to show you what you've helped make possible.

Photos: https://gallery.kaylajeancreative.com/cmfplayforekidscharitygolfday/prescramble/ (three galleries - registration, active play, sponsored holes) Keep an eye on Children's Museum of Franklin social channels to see posts that feature your support!

Gratefully,

The Children's Museum of Franklin team

Metacomet Public Health Alliance nurses will be holding their 2nd Annual Community Baby Shower in August

The Metacomet Public Health Alliance nurses will be holding their 2nd Annual Community Baby Shower.

Right now, we are in the donation collection phase until the end of July with donation collection boxes in various locations around Norfolk and Wrentham (libraries, day cares, pediatricians offices and senior centers).

Supplies needed are: diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, bottles, feeding supplies, pacifiers, baby toiletry items, infant clothing and bedding, new or gently used toys and clothes.

Items can also be left at Franklin, Norfolk and Wrentham Town Halls.

This free event brings together local organizations, health resources, educational opportunities, and essential baby items to help families access the support they need during an exciting but often expensive stage of life.

Join us as we support and celebrate growing families with the help from local organizations!

Tuesday, August 18, 4-6 PM at Wrentham Senior Center 400 Taunton Street Wrentham
Tuesday, August 25, 4-6 PM at Norfolk Library 2 Liberty Place Norfolk

Your feedback on Restaurant Week will help evaluate this year's event and enhance future events

The Town of Franklin is seeking community feedback following its first-ever Restaurant Week, held May 31 through June 6, 2026.

Restaurant Week encouraged residents and visitors to explore Franklin's local dining scene while supporting the restaurants and businesses that help make our community a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. The Town extends its sincere thanks to all participating restaurants, businesses, and community members who helped make the event a success.

If you participated in Restaurant Week, please take a few minutes to complete our community survey. Your feedback will help us evaluate this year's event and identify opportunities to enhance future Restaurant Weeks and other community events.

Take the survey: https://tinyurl.com/FranklinRestaurantWeekSurvey

Thank you for supporting local businesses and helping make Franklin Restaurant Week 2026 a success!

Franklin Small Business Spotlight: The Tavern on Central

This month, we're highlighting The Tavern on Central, one of Franklin's newest local businesses! The Tavern on Central is a family-friendly restaurant and bar dedicated to creating a welcoming place for residents and visitors to gather, enjoy great food, and make lasting memories.

Owners Bill and Delores have called Franklin home for more than 20 years, raising their two daughters in the community. Their goal in opening The Tavern on Central was simple: to create a restaurant that serves the community they love while leaving a lasting positive impact on Franklin.

When asked why supporting small businesses matters, they shared:

"Supporting small businesses keeps money in the community, creates local jobs, and preserves the character that makes a place unique. It's a direct way to strengthen your local economy and support the people who live and work in it."

Follow along as we continue to highlight the local businesses that make Franklin a great place to live and work.

For more information about Franklin's Small Business Spotlight Series, visit https://buff.ly/yODlGyB

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1KSUdkofXH/

Tri-County RVTHS recognizes their Retiree Class of 2026

"Today we honor an incredible group of educators and administrators who have dedicated years of passion, care, and commitment to our students and the Tri‑County community.

Pictured: Kevin Pierce, Rob Bruno, Victoria Durfee, Grace Maneri, Tracie Osborne, Donna Flynn, and Doreen Dibiasio‑Erwin.

Not pictured but celebrated just as much: Julie Donahue and Kim Zogalis.

Thank you for everything you’ve poured into Tri‑County.

Congratulations on your retirement — you’ve truly earned it! "

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DBCkKwn4H/

Dads, Cars & Cabs - Celebrate Father’s Day at La Cantina Winery, June 21

"Treat Dad to a day of great wine, delicious food, and classic cars!

Bring Dad and raise a glass to all the amazing fathers.

Classic Cars 12:00-3:00

Great Atmosphere for the Whole Family

Sunday, June 21 - Open 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HwwgEc9LY/

Big Games, Bigger Memories — Celebrate Safely!

Whether you're cheering at home, hosting a watch party, or heading out to watch the FIFA World Cup™️ keep safety in the game:

Stay hydrated
Wear sunscreen if watching outdoors
Drive sober and buckle up
Keep food safe at gatherings
Look out for friends and family

Enjoy the excitement, make great memories, and celebrate responsibly!

Learn more safety tips: https://www.cdc.gov/soccer/index.html

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18JfA7QV73/

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio introduced a brand new schedule early in 2025 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 Wednesday

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock

Franklin and its local government, services and events (repeats Saturday at 2 PM)

This hour features the Senior Center highlights for June 2026 -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/06/jillian-mary-share-key-june-events-that.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points. (repeats Saturday at 1 PM)

This segment features Episode 317 - Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/06/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode.html

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 Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (Your local Public, Education & Government "PEG" station)

Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = WEDNESDAY

7:30 am Arts Advocacy: How-Tos

8:30 am Anna Wert: Watercolors

10:00 am Memorial Day 2026

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Lasagna

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Peppers

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Crescent Rolls

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Deep Dish

2:00 pm New England Candlepins Summer 2023 Show 4

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 7

3:30 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Italian Cookies

4:00 pm Aging Agenda Episode 1

6:00 pm Concerts on the Common: Heartland Radio

8:30 pm Circle of Friends: Seth Glier

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

8:30 am Middle School 7th & 8th Grade Chorus & Orchestra

10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman

11:00 am FHS Chamber Music 04-08-26

1:30 pm FHS Varsity Softball v Shrewsbury 06-06-26

3:30 pm Tri County Graduation 05-28-26

5:15 pm Middle School 6th Grade Chorus & Orchestra

7:00 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v Leominster 05-31-26

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

8:00 am Town Council 06-10-26

1:00 pm Town Council 06-10-26

6:00 pm Town Council CHAMBERS 864 9630 3883

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

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Audio of the School Committee Policy Subcmte Meeting June 9, 2026 (audio)

FM #1765 - This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1765 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. All 3 members (Dave Callaghan (Chair), Al Charles, Reis Hansen) participated in the session held in the 3rd floor training room. Dr Tina Rogers and Paula Marano also participated.

Quick recap:

discussion on new policy from DESE on seclusion and isolation needs to amend our current policy for implementation effect Aug 2026

grant also received to help with training personnel for implementation. Only 1 of many districts to receive a grant
suggestion to remove one line that seems to be duplicate with the paragraph below
suggestion on wording around a timeline for submitting a complaint for investigation by the district motion

discussion on intentional use of technology, work being done during the summer. also an update on AI tonight. Student data privacy agreement (SDPA) needed by district before a software tool is introduced, otherwise as in case with Google Maps (an exception) parents need to sign off on
discussion on SchCmte meeting agenda, order, and guidelines; adding committee comments, possibly removing 'good of the order' to use more kitchen English to make it more easily accessible
Motion to adjourn, passes 3-0

The recording runs about 53 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1765-school-cmte-policy-subcmte-mtg-06-09-26/

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School Committee Subcommittee assignments

https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/subcommittees-and-liaisons

The meeting agenda can be found ->

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-2355

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QDlmPF_aMWfY7xcOtUNWNnGE9m740rYv/view?usp=drive_link