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Sunday, November 2, 2008
Museum entrance taking shape
This will be a nice entrance to Franklin's historical treasures.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
In the news - field lights campaign, Police union contract
To help raise money for field lights for youth football, Franklin Chargers Football Organization has announced NorthEast-Eagle Electrical Distributors, in conjunction with WEEI, has begun "New Friday Night Lights 2008 Sweepstakes.''
Cities and towns all over New England have the chance to enter into the sweepstakes with hopes to win a brand new installed sports lighting system for their youth football league field.
For over 5 years, Franklin's Recreation Department and the Franklin Chargers Football Organization have used the Remington Jefferson School fields to house their football programs. The facility is used six days a week by more than 400 football players. The facility does not currently have lights, so the use of portable lights has been very costly for both organizations. Between rental, gas to run the lights and set up break down, it is estimated that this expense around $3,000 per month.
You can help the kids of Franklin obtain lights for their football teams, by voting today.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
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After sometimes "frustrating" negotiations, the town and its police union signed a three-year contract this week, said Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting and Police Association President John Maloney.
"Overall, once we worked certain issues out - we definitely weren't happy with the process or sequence of events - but at the end, it's a pretty fair contract," said Maloney.
Nutting also called the contract (currently in memorandum of understanding form only) "fair" and in line with agreements other unions have with the town.
"I think it was a fair deal for everybody involved," said Nutting, adding that part of his aim was to ensure equality among public employees.
The deal is retroactive to June 2007, when the last one expired.
The new contract, which expires in June 2010, gives officers a 2 percent raise retroactive to October 2007, a 2.5 percent raise as of October 2008 and a 3 percent raise in October 2009, Nutting said.
Read the full article in the Franklin Gazette here
Thursday, October 30, 2008
"cost for displaying one banner was set at $480 per year"
Franklin High School has begun a six-month pilot program allowing advertising on 4- by 6-foot banners in its field house.
"Despite a tight economy, you do have a captive audience," and the district should benefit from it, said School Committee member Ed Cafasso, a member of the advertising subcommittee.
The money made during the pilot program will go to Franklin High's revolving athletic account, but the School Committee may direct the money elsewhere if and when the program continues.
"We've been talking about this for quite some time," said Franklin High School Athletic Director Brad Sidwell.
"Hopefully, we'll get it done in the next month, during the busy winter season," Sidwell said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here.
This was part of the live reporting here on Tuesday night during the school committee meeting.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
"There's a lot to do"
The dented, rusty lockers with missing handles, doors that don't shut and the rest of the boys' locker room was the low point on a tour for local officials of Franklin High School last night.
Some of the showers do work, said Mike D'Angelo, facilities director for the town and schools, adding, with a laugh, "though nobody uses them."
The boys' locker room is one of several places at the high school, built in 1971, that is not handicapped-accessible, said D'Angelo, who led the tour.
The girls' locker room "is just like times gone by, the '70s," D'Angelo said.
As D'Angelo showed the group an outdated general science classroom in the B wing, Town Council Chairman Christopher Feeley asked, "What's the worst thing to the eyes in this building?"
D'Angelo and Principal Pamela Gould answered unequivocally: the boys' locker room and chemistry labs.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
"Now I'm nervous"
Citing an amazing work ethic and knowledge of Franklin schools and the community, the School Committee last night unanimously voted to appoint Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski as the new superintendent, with the whole room clapping.
Sabolinski will take the reins from her mentor, Superintendent Wayne Ogden, when he resigns June 30.
"I wholeheartedly support and endorse your candidacy for this position," School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy said, addressing Sabolinski. "I've seen your level of dedication, I've seen the skill set you bring to the job and the wonderful working relationship between you and Wayne Ogden."
Roy also said he was "delighted" to be able to say there was a great candidate in the Franklin school system.
"I thought long and hard about whether we should go to a broad, nationwide search. Having participated in two searches, and ... judging what we've seen in the past ... Why would I spend taxpayers' money when I know in my heart, the top candidate is sitting here in our lap?" Roy said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
School Commitee Meeting - 10/28/08
- Live reporting - meeting wraps up
- Live reporting - Superintendent
- Live reporting - Action Items
- Live reporting - modular status
- Live reporting - Strategic Planning Steering Commi...
- possible field house advertising banner
- Live reporting - field house advertising approved
- Live reporting - discussion only items
- Live reporting - Horace Mann binder program
- Live reporting - School Committee 10/28/08
- School Committee Agenda - 10/28/08
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Live reporting - meeting wraps up
Liaison reports - FEF casino night on 11/21/08
Motion to enter executive session and not to return - Approved 6 - 0
Live reporting - Superintendent
Survey is live today and will be closed November 24th
A separate survey will be conducted to gain input from the teachers.
Discussion on state survey for transportation out of district, i.e. someone going from Franklin to Perkins School maybe going by some students in another school district, could there be some collaboration amongst the districts. This was a pilot program and the reimbursements were just cut by the state.
Live reporting - Action Items
- Take action on Superintendent Candidacy. Handled earlier in the meeting
- I recommend budget transfers as detailed in the attached documentation. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend approval of the request of the BICO Board of Directors to amend the preamble of the existing agreement of the BICO Collaborative to include the School Committee of the Town of Norton, MA. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend acceptance of the annual donation of dictionaries for all third grade students from the Franklin Lodge of Elks No. 2136 in partnership with the MA Elks Association, Inc. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Oak Street PCC for a 3rd grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $258.76 from the Target Take Charge of Education Program to defer the costs of a 7th grade field trip to the Krista McAuliffe Space Exploration Center for Annie Sullivan Middle School students. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend approval of the sale of banner advertising space in the FHS Field House with all proceeds to be used in support of the FHS Athletic Program. handled earlier in the meeting
- I recommend entering into contract negotiations with the Cafeteria Workers Association. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend entering into contract negotiations with the Van Drivers Association. Approved 6 - 0
- I recommend appointment of the Strategic Planning Steering Committee as noted during the Discussion portion of this meeting. Approved 6 - 0
Live reporting - modular status
The high school modulars get more of an impact than those in the elementary schools
Leakage in the roofs has required replacement of full walls. A bug infestation was found and corrected. Some doors can't be opened in the winter at Parmenter (due to the temperature change).
If we removed the modulars, where would the students go?
With the reduction in staff last year, the rooms were used by art and special subjects where they were roving within the buildings before.
The high school has room to move what they have housed currently within the full building. Davis Thayer could take down the modulars and utilize two classrooms within the building.
Parmenter would have an issue if they were to loose their modulars. An OT/PT room is currently housed there. Even if the function were moved to another school, the population at Parmenter needs those services.
Replacing the roof is not an economic choice, the roof would outlast the modular.
Looking for direction from the committe before going further with the building committee.
Cafasso - there was a lot of shock and awe amongst the professionals at the FHS tour tonight. The subcommittee's report helps to fill in the needs of the district.
Armenio - This speaks to the current school population and staffing levels, with any increases,there will be additional problems in the next couple of years. It would be worthwhile to take them down. Some of the modulars are the largest classrooms in the building.
Live reporting - Strategic Planning Steering Committee
- Strategic Planning Steering Committee
R Danough
S Rohrbach
A Crean
J Bassignati
S Sherlock
P Sweeney
total of 15 with 9 committed thus far, others in process of confirming
to start in November
(will check spelling of names later)
sample field house advertising banner size
sample banner size for advertising in the Franklin High School field house
this banner is 3' x 5', the proposed size would be 4' x 6'
Mobile post sent by shersteve using Utterli. Replies.
Live reporting - field house advertising approved
- Advertising in the Field House
The 3 x 5 in the committee meeting is smaller than the 4 x 6 that would be used.
Hung from the ceiling in the field house
Approx 40,000 as a rough estimate would view the banners amongst the visitors for basketball, volleyball, indoor track and the multiple other events that are held there.
Discussion on inclusion the phone number on the banner, would you loose opportunity if you exclude it?
Banner approval including the School Committee chair, to view how it works during the early days, should have a good view on it before it goes up, likely not necessarily to be done long term
Want to be flexible with minimum three months with the year a preferred period. Rates adjust downward to cover the three months.
We can reach out to the Downtown Partnership, the Chamber of Commerce, etc.
During the subcommittee meetings, we discussed that we would use the revenue to offset the costs of athletics. Should we consider putting this into a general revenue account or just for sports?
Policy KCD does not apply here as this is selling a service. The use of the revenues to supplant the budget could come under KCD if the advertiser would like to designate how the funds were to be used. By having the school committee dictate the fund allocation, we avoid the issue of the conflict with policy KCD.
The 6 month pilot would expire in early April just about budget time. The pilot would provide input to the policy and budget committee for how we would do the future.
Motion to accept recommendation of subcommittee, removing the phone number prohibition, and restricting a single advertiser to 2 banners.
Approved 6 - 0
Live reporting - discussion only items
- Budget to Actual - no questions
- Discussion of Superintendent Candidacy
Armenio - You have been here many years and over your multiple roles have grown with the district. Why not earlier? Wayne has been your mentor and groomed you for this. The times have changed. This is not the district that it was a few years ago.
Cafasso - While there has been scholastic progress, there are other problems to be faced, re-districting amongst them. Need to have someone who understands the community and the staff to help us tackle these challenges.
Mullen - I also endorse Maureen for this role. Her sense of Franklin and how much she enjoyed having her kids go through the system. Her work ethic is tremendous.
Rohrbach - not to be repetitive but I will endorse your candidacy. You have a broad knowledge of the district, the students, the community. We may not be able to get "good to great" right now but there are pockets where we can still make progress.
Trahan - Being the last in the line, not a whole lot more to add.
Motion - to enter into negotiations with Maureen Sabolinski to be the next Superintedent of the Franklin Public School District
Aproved 6 - 0
Live reporting - Horace Mann binder program
The binder program is being piloted. It developed from an observed problem with time management, task management, approached targeting the special ed students first, then determined that this could go across all the students, presented to the PCC to gain their input. Color coded for similar subject matter across the grades. Consistency strived for. They trained a core group of students over the summer in the use to help share the training with the other students as they came in September.
Jess - a place for everything, easy to find for each class, comes with a homework pad, do the homework and then put it into the folder. Con - breaks really easily. Rings would brake open. Top and bottom would wear. Some of the folders would tear (need reinforcements for the holes). Focus group held to get feedback on the overall concept and actual experience. Durability needs to be worked on.
Dr Anne Bergen - a team of 8th graders putting together a binder workgroup
Chandler Creedon - the team will use duct tape in colors to match the folders to reinforce the edges and then hole punch to make the folders more sturdy
Live reporting - School Committee 10/28/08
Not attending: Kelly
1. Routine Business
- Citizen’s Comments - none
- Review of Agenda - add discussion of space needs for modular units
- Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 14, 2008 School Committee Meeting. Approved 6 - 0
- Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
- Payroll Ms. Armenio
- FHS Student Representatives
School Committee Agenda - 10/28/08
- Citizen’s Comments
- Review of Agenda
- Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 14, 2008 School Committee Meeting.
- Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
- Payroll Ms. Armenio
- FHS Student Representatives
- Letter from Chandler Creedon, Jr. to open negotiations with the Cafeteria Association.
- Letter from Chandler Creedon, Jr. to open negotiations with the Van Drivers Association.
- Memo from Linda Waters regarding Transportation Pilot Program.
- Letter from NEASC to Pam Gould regarding FHS.
2. Guests/Presentations
- Horace Mann Binder Program
3. Discussion Only Items
- Budget to Actual
- Discussion of Superintendent Candidacy
- Advertising in the Field House
- Strategic Planning Steering Committee
4. Action Items
- Take action on Superintendent Candidacy.
- I recommend budget transfers as detailed in the attached documentation.
- I recommend approval of the request of the BICO Board of Directors to amend the preamble of the existing agreement of the BICO Collaborative to include the School Committee of the Town of Norton, MA.
- I recommend acceptance of the annual donation of dictionaries for all third grade students from the Franklin Lodge of Elks No. 2136 in partnership with the MA Elks Association, Inc.
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Oak Street PCC for a 3rd grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation.
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $258.76 from the Target Take Charge of Education Program to defer the costs of a 7th grade field trip to the Krista McAuliffe Space Exploration Center for Annie Sullivan Middle School students.
- I recommend approval of the sale of banner advertising space in the FHS Field House with all proceeds to be used in support of the FHS Athletic Program.
- I recommend entering into contract negotiations with the Cafeteria Workers Association.
- I recommend entering into contract negotiations with the Van Drivers Association.
- I recommend appointment of the Strategic Planning Steering Committee as noted during the Discussion portion of this meeting.
5. Information Matters
- Superintendent’s Report
b. Field House Advertising
c. Poland Springs Water
- 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
feral cat video
View the video here
Monday, October 27, 2008
In the News: Special Ed, more feral cats
The number of schools not meeting the state's achievement standards under federal No Child Left Behind regulations is quickly mounting.
Forty-seven schools across MetroWest and the Milford area were designated as at least needing improvement as a result of 2008 test scores, including ones in districts often considered to be of high quality, such as Natick, Westborough and Franklin. Half of all schools statewide received such a label.
State education officials say they are not surprised the number of schools needing improvement is swelling - up by 156 to 828 total this year - because of the ambitious goals set under No Child Left Behind. The law requires all students reach at least proficiency by 2014 on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System tests.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
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Animal rights group intervening with feral cats
By Joyce Kelly
DAILY NEWS STAFF
FRANKLIN - Franklin's Animal Control will start a trap, neuter/spay, release program for feral cats at Highwood Condominiums today, according to the head of an animal rescue society intervening with the situation.
The trapped kitten and cats will go to the Purr-fect Cat Shelter in Medway for evaluation, said Stacy LeBaron, president of the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society of Salisbury.
The board of trustees for Highwood I, the section of Highwood where the cats live and roam, had voted to trap and kill the cats, but agreed to halt the plan and discuss an alternative when a resident and LeBaron intervened earlier this month.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Now open for business - Andro's Pizza
Mobile post sent by shersteve using Utterli. Replies.
In the news - Brick, ghosts, and cats
By Rachel Lebeaux Correspondent / October 26, 2008
The town of Franklin is negotiating with Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School on a lease of the historic Red Brick School building to run through next June, and possibly beyond.
Read the full article in the Boston Globe here
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Area has ghost stories aplenty dating back hundreds of years
Forget Salem or New Orleans. If you live in MetroWest, you probably don't have to go any further than your local library, town hall, or neighborhood for a good old-fashioned haunting.
Tales of the spirits of innkeepers, Native Americans, accused witches, librarians and servants, even a monster - the Dover Demon - abound right in your backyard.
The area's rich history, particularly its entrenchment in King Philip's War, makes old homes, buildings and entire sections of towns - such as South Natick - ripe for ghostly activity, some say.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
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Communities face tough choice on feral cats
Animal control officers in the area seem to agree the solution to feral cats - common in most communities - is the trap, neuter/spay and release program advocated by animal rights groups.
Dealing with the situation properly is more important now than ever, as the economic crisis has left many more cats and dogs abandoned and facing a cold winter, say area animal control officers.
An animal rescue organization from Salisbury is trying to save a colony of feral cats living in the woods near Franklin's Highwood Condominiums, the management of which plans to trap and kill them. The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, a nonprofit volunteer organization, promotes no-kill programs for feral cats.
Stacy LeBaron, president of the group, has said she believes it's possible to have a successful feral cat colony by using the trap, neuter/spay and release process.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Open House Saturdays and Sundays, 11AM – 3PM
This condominium building consists of 27 single-level-living condominiums with wonderful amenities. Newly revitalized location offers walk to train, banks, post office, restaurants, shops, and only 45 minutes to Boston. Perfect for commuter, first time home buyers or downsizers. Franklin has just recently added the New GATRA bus service for easy access to shopping, senior center, etc.
If you can't make it to the open house, click through to the web site to take a virtual tour of their model.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Autumn color
Mobile post sent by shersteve using Utterli. Replies.
Police, Fire department contracts close?
The town is still hammering out a police contract with its police union hoping to nail it down in coming weeks.
The Franklin Police Association's contract expired more than a year ago, on June 30, 2007, according to Stephanie McNeil, human resources director for the town.
She expects the police union to sign a contract next week, she said, noting it is not the town delaying the process.
"The pen is in their hands," she said, refusing to comment further.
John Maloney, president of the police union, said he hopes everything will be resolved by next Friday.
"We had hoped to be done sooner," he said, preferring to keep quiet about what has stalled negotiations.
"A few things came up and helped move things along. It definitely has not gone smoothly, that's for sure," Maloney said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
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Firefighters have been working without a contract since it expired more that a year ago, but unlike the police union, which is aiming to sign a contract by the end of next week, firefighters may have a long way to go.
Stephanie McNeil, human resources director for the town, declined to comment about the situation, as negotiations are ongoing but said that the town has been waiting to hear from union representatives.
McNeil and Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting plan to continue contract negotiations with the firefighters' union next week, she said.
Fire Chief Gary McCarraher said he cannot comment on the ongoing talks.
Nutting could not be reached for comment.
Multiple calls to union representatives were not returned this week.
The contract for Franklin Permanent Firefighters Association, Local 2637, which expired on June 30, 2007, gives firefighters retention of their Civil Service rights, and requires all promotions within the department be made as a result of competitive examination and granted by the Division of Civil Service.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Friday, October 24, 2008
"How Can I Become Part of this ReadWriteWeb Revolution?"
The keynote presenters in this clip are all from Maine. They creatively used Flip cameras to video their conversation to share with the world.
Note: this presentation is geared for teachers and urges them to get involved in the ReadWriteWeb Revolution, but you can put yourself in this position too! How are you going to continue learning to keep up with the changes in this world?
The steps they outline are easy enough to pick up and use. The online tools are mostly free. Digital cameras or camera phones are reasonably priced. The bar for entry is set low. All you need is desire.
Click through to the web site for the conference to find additional information (i.e links) for the tools and articles they referenced.
Enjoy!
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Why put this here?
There is great potential in expanding learning at a very reasonable cost (small dollars if not free) with the Web 2.0 tools. With an economic future like schools in MA in particular have facing them, this is an avenue to consider.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Franklin Line Schedule Changes 10/27/08
The MBTA apologizes for the "late notification".
The changes go into effect on Monday 10/27/08. The changes will be available on the MBTA schedule page on Monday. In the meantime, you should know that:
1 - what was known as the 4:10 PM train (#715) will leave South Station at 3:55 PM (15 minutes early)
2 - what was known as the 4:30 PM train (#799) will leave South Station at 4:30 but terminate at Readville running via the Dorchester Branch.
3 - a new train (#717) will leave South Station at 4:20 PM and make stops at Back Bay, Ruggles, Hyde Park, Readville, Dedham Corp, Norwood Depot, Norwood Central, Windsor Gardens, Walpole, Norfolk, Franklin/Dean and Forge Park/495.
A PDF of the changes is available on the MBTA website here
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Really?
I have heard of stone soup but this takes the stone to a new level. Or has McDonald's bailed out Prudential and is now looking to expand their market as "The Rock"?
Note: Actually the sign is needed to tell those coming off I495 to turn on to RT 140 and find McDonald's about a half mile down the road. It is about time the sign came up. There must have been a few motorists complaining about having to travel at least 1.5 miles off the road to get to McDonald's. The distance would feel much longer without some confirmation as to where you really should be going.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
"the right and humane thing to do"
An animal rescue organization from Salisbury is trying to save a colony of feral cats living in the woods near Highwood Condominiums whose management plans to trap and kill them.
Stacy LeBaron, president of the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, said she and a Highwood resident met with management last week and are negotiating an alternative to the board of trustees' plan.
"It's a work in progress. They haven't agreed to back down, but they aren't doing anything as we gather more information (from Purr-fect Cat Shelter). We're hoping to try to get people talking and brainstorming and get solutions," LeBaron said.
The society, a statewide, nonprofit volunteer organization that provides free services and promotes no-kill programs for feral cats (www.mrfrs.org), will offer Purr-fect Cat Shelter help and resources, she said.
"I do believe it's possible to have a successful feral cat colony" by using the trap, neuter/spay, release process, said LeBaron.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Monday, October 20, 2008
"many hopeful aspects in the fight against global warming"
A discussion about climate change gleaned "surprisingly pleasant" results yesterday, one participant noted during an afternoon Global Warming Cafe.
About 20 people took part in the Franklin Area Climate Team's roundtable discussion to trade ideas on fears and hopes for the planet's future.
"We want to work together to reduce our personal and collective carbon footprint," said Ted McIntyre, co-captain of Franklin Area Climate Team.
Members of the Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN) joined the local "climate team" yesterday at the First Universalist Society of Franklin to talk to residents from Franklin, Bellingham, Millis, Wrentham, Foxborough and more.
"Be inspired, and take action in the future," Susan Altman of MCAN told the audience as they broke into small groups.
The groups compiled lists of concerns about and solutions to climate change.
Read the remainder of the article in the Milford Daily News here
"not 'welfare' - it is an entitlement"
Worried about seniors living paycheck to paycheck this winter, area senior center directors say they are making an all-out effort to help them.
Now, more than ever, it is crucial that struggling seniors take advantage of programs they are entitled to, said Bellingham Outreach Coordinator Sheila Ronkin: tax abatements, fuel and food assistance, and circuit breakers.
"It was very important before the economy fell apart, but now, some of these folks live really threadbare lives. Without some help, they're not going to have enough heat or food. Even folks more well-heeled may not be able to buy Christmas presents or birthday presents for their loved ones," said Franklin Senior Center Director Karen Alves.
Many seniors don't realize they qualify for tax credits or other assistance, so they don't even bother to apply, Alves said. But that is a mistake.
Through the state's circuit breaker program, seniors can get up to $900 a year in real estate tax abatements if they pay more than 10 percent of their gross income in taxes, and that includes water and sewer fees, Alves said.
So if a senior makes $30,000 a year, pays $3,000 in real estate tax, plus $500 for water and sewer ($3,500 in taxes), they can get $500 back from the state, she said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
King St - construction progress
Sunday, October 19, 2008
FM #18 - Asst Supt M Sabolinski Interviewed - Part 2
Part 1 - Maureen reviewed her resume and how she has developed and is prepared to cover all aspects of the role of the Superintendent.
Part 2 - This is the Q&A session with Maureen and members of the School Committee starting with the FHS Student Representative Pat Slight.
Time: 28 minutes, 36 seconds
MP3 File
The notes that I took as I was "live reporting" this meeting can be found here
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow Franklin citizens and voters by Steve Sherlock
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 musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #17 - Asst Supt M Sabolinski Interviewed - Part 1
This is Part 1: The School Committee listens as Maureen reviews her resume and educational development.
Part 2 will cover the Q&A session that follows.
Time: 33 minutes, 36 seconds
MP3 File
The notes that I took as I was "live reporting" this meeting can be found here
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow Franklin citizens and voters by Steve Sherlock
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 musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
"sometimes kids come to school in the dead of winter with no coats"
Lindy Conroe always knew Jen Ballarino was amazing and special, but when the much-loved Franklin resident died in May following a long battle with brain cancer, Conroe was still deeply moved by the stories she heard.
"I've since heard such amazing stories she never told people," Conroe reflected recently.
For example, when Ballarino was working as a substitute teacher, she would often bring in coats and other necessary items for children she'd noticed were going without.
So it seems only fitting there is now an effort to collect coats and other outerwear for donation to homeless children and their families, all in Ballarino's memory.
It's part of the ongoing mission behind the newly formed Jen's Jackets, organized by Conroe and other friends and family of Ballarino. It's also the charity that has been adopted by Postal Center U.S.A. in Franklin, as well as its other area locations, in recognition of and leading up to Make A Difference Day on Oct. 25.
read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Saturday, October 18, 2008
fiction and non-fiction
head on over to the DPW garage on Heyward St, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Mobile post sent by shersteve using Utterli. Replies.
Franklin: follow the boxes
Yes, follow the boxes to the Library Book Sale being held this year at the DPW garage on Heyward St.
Saturday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday, October 17, 2008
Financial Planning Committee 10/16/08
The "official" town minutes for this meeting can be found here
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Live reporting - continued
Kelly - need to be consistent on the dates.
Bartlett - need to include the increases in road miles, students, teachers, buildings, etc.
Trahan - there should be substance to the information.
Ogden - growth and change in fees and other revenues that have come in to supplement the tax revenues
Kelly - the average tax bill needs to be looked at to put it into perspective.
Nutting - on the other hand, for all we have cut, people can still go to the library, get the streets plowed. Hard to say what the real impact is.
Bartlett - but we know now we can do this much longer, even to just stay the same. There isn't room to cut without significant changes.
Nutting - I'll come up with a list of things and you can add to it, or change it. I'll focus on the big picture.
Roche - I'd like to start digging into these numbers, like low medium and high for Fire/Police, etc.
Nutting - the salary is already set based upon the bargaining agreements.
Ogden - need to be caution about salary expectations and forecasts in that arena.
Hardesty - has a spreadsheet that shows the Town budgets in a declining order. Realistically this will help us focus as once you go lower than 6 budget lines, you are talking about 2% of the budget. Those as interesting as they are become not really material to the discussion.
Nutting - there is no game plan if Question 1 passes. If that passes, it will be chaos until the Legislature does something. It was on 8 years ago and got 45% of the vote.
Roche - Doug's building the model.
Nutting- I'll get the statistics.
Cameron - if our population has been flat for five years, we also need to remind them of that.
Nutting - you can give historical background, in 1993 there were 3200 students and now there are 6200 students.
Trahan - when do we get to the timeline?
Nutting - Budget to the Council probably in March.
Nutting - 80% of the HR rules are in the State, we don't get to control our destiny.
Roche - we are trying to show what the problem is, it is systemic.
Ogden - part of the problem is perceptual, the average citizen doesn't understand that we brought two buildings online and are going to need additional money to operate. The difference between capital and operational expenses.
Bartlett - I'll take a crack at the calendar.
Hardesty - the idea of level services needs to be defined to be consistent and easy to understand.
Bartlett - I have trouble with "level services" when used with education. You may say the same with the dollars but the education in the room is not the same "level".
Live reporting - Financial Planning Committee 10/16/08
Not Attending: Shannon Zollo, Steve Whalen,
Roche - What do you think of the announcement yesterday?
Nutting - I think we dodge a bullet with the Governor's moves yesterday. If they need to go deeper, I am not sure how we are going to avoid it. In comparison, health insurance was a non-issue years ago. It is not a rosy picture. Not new news but that's what it is.
Roche - we won't know revenue numbers for some time, but we will need to work up the expense side.
School Budget will be presented at the second meeting in November (11/20/08)
Roche - start with Jeff's model and tweak it with what we have heard?
Nutting - won't know what our debt will be until later as it is based upon 5% but if that changes, there'll be some adjustments. Some time late in March we go for the bonds to wrap up the Senior Center, Fire Station, etc. Approx. 18 million.
Roche - looking at the model where do we need to go?
Nutting - in FY 2010, the salary is in at 4% and that can come down. There will be pressure on the School Committee as they have been falling behind.
In 2002, the health insurance went into the School Budget moved from the Town budget.
Hardesty - take the assumptions that we have been hearing, explain with notations, low end, high end. Here is the diligence that we did around it. Some assumptions won't make a material difference, others will. To simplify, we can separate those out for the presentation. A hugh portion of the budget is salary, benefits, the people portion. From the Fire/Police we have some operational numbers, how many cars, vehicles you have help to determine how many people you need.
Nutting - Fixed costs increase, you heard Brutus and Mike. We'll need to explain where those are and why.
Bartlett - In the end, are we going to come with what the Town desires? and in that, what is it that the Town will bear?
Hardesty - We need to come up with the three options, say. Level service, high end and cutting. The numbers need to be factual with integrity.
Trahan - I am concerned that we may be coming up with numbers that may not be doing as much as we thought it would due to circumstances that have changed.
Nuting - how far back do we go? If we pick for example, FY 05 we know what salt was, we know what fuel was, so it can be simply explained. Everybody should be able to recognize those and see what the increases are.
"It seems like a win-win for everyone"
Town Council voted unanimously last night to lease the historic Red Brick School to the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School for one year.
The town will most likely rent the school for $1 and the cost of running the 11,650-square-foot, 175-year-old building, said Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting, but the town and school have not yet negotiated.
"I've asked for a 10-year authorization, but they (the charter school's board of trustees) want to try it out for a year" and determine whether it fits them, Nutting said.
Charter school trustees worry about the safety of students and staff crossing through traffic at the intersection of Lincoln and Maple streets to get to the building, trustee President John Neas has said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
School Committee Meeting 10/14/08
- Transportation Update - 10/14/08
- Live reporting - new business
- Live reporting - subcommittee/liaison reports
- Live reporting - Superintendents report
- Live reporting - action items
- Live reporting - discussion only items
- Live reporting - transportation update
- Live reporting - Summer Blackboard
- Live reporting - School Committee meeting
- Franklin School Committee Meeting - Agenda - 10/14...
Transportation Update - 10/14/08
town council - closing items
Nutting's statement on Question 1 - numbers for the actual impact vary
Bartlett - when are the road projects done for the winter?
Temporary patch before the winter
L. OLD BUSINESS
Pfeffer - what up with Walgreen's?
Nutting - Walgreen's P&S was signed in August
Whalen - we should check in with them?
Nutting - we met with them today, they asked for a 2 week extension to prepare to file for the next steps
M. NEW BUSINESS
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Pfeffer - thanks to the Animal Control for finding one dumb dog
live reporting - zoning bylaw
moved to Nov 5th
14. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-628: Chapter 185-18. Nonconforming Uses and Structures – Referral to Planning Board
approved referral to Planning Board, unanimous
live reporting - action items (continued)
roll call; approved 7-0
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
Senior Center study revealed 780 seniors with homes that are eligible for tax benefits
10. Resolution 08-68: Appropriation – Emergency Repairs - Lincoln St. Culvert
Robert Cantoreggio, Dir of Public Works
Limited Lincoln Street closure required to do the work, coordinated with Town CTS system for notifications,School Dept notified for bus routing, most of the time, there will be one lane open
roll call; approved 7-0
11. Resolution 08-69: Appropriation – DPW – Trench Repairs
extended discussion on the cost per square yard vs. the amount charged/held from the contractor
approved 7-0
12. Resolution 08-70: Acceptance of Gift – Council on Aging
approved 7-0
live reporting - action items
roll call; approved -> 7-0
5. Resolution 08-63: Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Oaks
roll call; approved -> 7-0
6. Resolution 08-64: Order of Acceptance and Taking – Easements – Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0
7. Resolution 08-65: Acceptance of Open Space and Access Strip- Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0
8. Resolution 08-66: Acceptance of Deed of Detention Basin Parcels-Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0
Live reporting - legislation for action
1. Resolution 08-59: Dissolution of Fire Station Building Committee (Tabled on 10/1/08) moved to a future meeting
2. Resolution 08-60: Designation of Municipal Officer to Issue Trench Excavation Permits
McGann - will there be a fee required?
Nutting - yes, but that remains to be determined
Bartlett - what is this for?
Cerel - we need to do this to enforce the current law
Bartlett - should they complain where do they go to?
Nutting - state legislature
Approved 7-0
3. Resolution 08-61: Red Brick School: Declaration as Surplus and Available/Authorization to Lease
Vallee - what is the amount of the lease? people have a right to know, it is not ours it is theirs.
Nutting - we have not sat down yet to discuss. I am asking for 10 years. They have indicated one year to trial.
Vallee - let's put everything on the table before we vote on it.
Whalen - are they any other instances that the Town has currently?
Nutting - not right now.
Whalen - my inclination is that this is something that should be handed over to Jeff to handle
Doak - I am not in favor of the Town acting as a landlord but under the circumstances, this is a good thing to do
Feeley - does this need a 2/3 vote?
Cerel - yes, it is a change of status on the assets
Vallee - the Town is leasing for no profit?
Nutting - there is no market value for this building, it will cost us more while it is vacant.
Doak - can we get a report back on what the deal was?
Nutting - yes
Pfeffer - we are not doing this to make money, the Charter School is not a profit making operation
Herb Hunter, Paula Sandman - Brick School Association
We are committed to fund utilities and associated repairs for the next three years and solicit grants for continuation, if it requires after that.
Whalen - Brick has been an emotional issue for the Town, this make absolute perfect sense to me
Roll call vote passed 7-0
Live reporting - Town Council 10/15/08
Not present: Mason, Zollo
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 1, 2008-Executive Session - approved 6-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Library book fair, Saturday, 10/18 at Public Works Dept, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
Library Board of Directors
- Susan Rittenhouse
- Cynthia Dobroynski
- Andrea Burke
- these were approved 6-0
Finance Committee
- Robert Teixeira
- Juan Riveria
- Tina Powderly
- these were approved 6-0
Disability Commission
- Dennis Groleau
- This was approved 6-0
"strong public schools are a cornerstone of a democratic society"
Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski, the only candidate for the district's superintendent job, told the School Committee last night she is ready to take the reins from Wayne Ogden.
The School Committee will vote whether to appoint Sabolinski at its next meeting Oct. 28, said Vice Chairwoman Paula Mullen, who acted as chairwoman in Jeffrey Roy's absence last night.
"We know a lot about her," Mullen said, calling her work ethic and talent "amazing" just before inviting Sabolinski to speak to the committee about her background and vision for the district.
Sabolinski described an extensive background in special education that began in her home state of New York, where she worked with inner-city children.
When she and her husband decided to come to Massachusetts in 1992, they focused on Sharon, Mansfield and Franklin, she said, and it was immediately clear that Franklin was the right community.
"One draw to Franklin was, when we came here, we were able to walk into the schools and were welcomed. We had never gotten that reception in any of the other towns. Franklin was really welcoming, and that spoke highly of the teachers," she said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL - Agenda - 10/15/08
October 15, 2008
7:00 PM
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 1, 2008-Executive Session
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
- Library Board of Directors
- Finance Committee
- Disability Commission
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 08-59: Dissolution of Fire Station Building Committee (Tabled on 10/1/08)
2. Resolution 08-60: Designation of Municipal Officer to Issue Trench Excavation Permits
3. Resolution 08-61: Red Brick School: Declaration as Surplus and Available/Authorization to Lease
4. Resolution 08-62: Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Chase
5. Resolution 08-63:Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Oaks
6. Resolution 08-64: Order of Acceptance and Taking – Easements – Franklin Farms
7. Resolution 08-65:Acceptance of Open Space and Access Strip- Franklin Farms
8. Resolution 08-66: Acceptance of Deed of Detention Basin Parcels-Franklin Farms
9. Resolution 08-67: Acceptance of Sewer Pump Station- Franklin Farms
10. Resolution 08-68: Appropriation – Emergency Repairs-Lincoln St. Culvert
11. Resolution 08-69: Appropriation – DPW – Trench Repairs
12. Resolution 08-70: Acceptance of Gift – Council on Aging
13. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-625: Chapter 185-5, Town Code: Zoning Map – Business to Commercial II – 2nd Reading (Tabled on 10/1/08)
14. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-628: Chapter 185-18. Nonconforming Uses and Structures – Referral to Planning Board
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
L. OLD BUSINESS
M. NEW BUSINESS
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
"this is a solution that puts it back in use"
Town Council tonight will vote on leasing the historic Red Brick School to the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School.
Earlier this month, the charter school's board of trustees agreed to rent the Red Brick School from the town for one year, according to its board president, John Neas, a Franklin resident.
Trustees primarily want to use the Brick School, Neas said, because there is a "critical need of space" at the charter school, which is an estimated 35,000 square feet.
The charter school's student population is 416, Neas said, and there is a waiting list of 200 students the school cannot accommodate.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Live reporting - new business
motion go to executive session
Live reporting - subcommittee/liaison reports
space needs report to be prepared to go to the school committee for further action
walk through of modulars scheduled for Friday morning
Building Committee, couple of meetings, impressive credentials
organizational meetings, what data is needed
re-applying to state to get on list in Mid-November
touring FHS and Davis Thayer to determine space needs
scheduled to review all building capital needs
(1) FHS, (2) modular, (3) need and funding improvements at Parmenter, Thayer, Kennedy
Advertising subcommittee with a proposal for advertising inside the field house within a meeting or two
• School Committee Liaison Reports
Live reporting - Superintendents report
• Superintendent’s Report
- Enrollment Comparison (9-28-07 to 9-26-08)
- MCAS- Davis Thayer 4th grade in Top 5 in state
- Art Gallery - teacher art show received attention from Rep McGovern
- Special Ed. Tuition Increases - example of increases received during the year
- Revolving Account - question legality of returning money from a gift account, what I recommended and you approved was to turn it over to the Town as they are now managing the building
Live reporting - action items
- Moved that the Franklin School Committee opposes Question 1, a ballot initiative that would eliminate the state income tax. Passage of Question 1 would cut the state budget by 40%, cause massive reductions in local aid to cities and towns, and result in drastic reductions in school programs. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $400.00 from money left over from a community service grant awarded to 2 Remington Teachers to be used for supplies for RMS. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of the donation of a “Fun Hoop” for the Keller Elementary School in memory of Noreen Coffey from FPS Staff (Cost: $800.00) approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Horace Mann PCC to fund Middle School Magic at HMMS. postponed to another meeting
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000 from the Jefferson PCC for admission, buses and nurse for a field trip to Plimoth Plantation and a Grade 4 trip which has not yet been finalized. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,420.00 from the ECDC PCC to purchase a laminator for the ECDC. approved 6-0
- I recommend approval of the recurring trip to Mt. Monadnock in Jaffrey, NH on October 25, 2008 for 30 students in the Remington Adventure Club. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of the donation of a ½ size string bass, (said value: $1,200.00), from Ms. Colleen Pierson for the Davis Thayer Elementary School Music Program. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $3880.50 from the Keller PCC for a 1st grade field trip to Jane & Paul’s Farm and a 3rd grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation as described on the attached form KCD-E. approved 6-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $180.39 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program for In-house enrichment for the Horace Mann Middle School. approved 6-0
- I recommend transferring $1,268.17 closing the Brick School Revolving account to the Town of Franklin. approved 6-0
Live reporting - discussion only items
- Ballot Question #1
Rohrbach - question referenced well in editorial at Metrowest Daily News, poorly timed, Governor is announcing cuts at the state level just from shortfall in this years budget
Cafasso - kind of a silly proposition, relieves people of the concept of commonwealth and community, we all share in the benefits from these payments, no one likes taxes but everyone wants police and fire protection and services for seniors, you can't get one without the other
- FY10 Budget Timeline
Goodman - process starting and scheduled to complete by Feb
Cafasso - anything from the Town Administrator on revenue projections
Ogden - nothing yet, we might get a hint with the Governor's announcements tomorrow
- Superintendent Search
Wayne has started from the first time they met to prepare her for this
Moved her from NJ in 1992
son middle school, daughter elementary
first impression was on their first visit, teacher welcomed them and provided a tour of the school
class sizes then are somewhat reminicent of where we are today
hang in there, the community has always stepped up
involved in soccer and basketball boosters
loves coming to work in Franklin everyday
this has been a difficult decision to leave her current role for this new step
"tell me how this is about kids"
strong public schools are the cornerstone of a democratic society
need to prepare students to be lifelong learners
collaborative style, accessible, responsive
communications need to be returned
demonstrated history for systemic fixes, not quick fixes
will take difficult decisions
grew up in NY, started to be a science major, switched to psychology mainly behaviorial, needed teach the rats but couldn't leave them hungry, needless to say, clinical psychology was not going to be her direction.
found teaching and found her love
started in NYC public schools, special ed in Queens, 90% of students were from S America
a teacher left, she ended up a first grade teacher
whole extended family would come to the parent teacher conferences
Taught high school outside of Buffalo, Grand Isle
special education, when inclusion was just beginning
petitioned for use of spell check on the state test, had already been used in the classroom
Randolph, NJ - Rockaway public schools
varied student population, 3rd to 6th grade
multiple reading and math groups
Came to MA and had trouble getting licensed
was asking for the wrong license and got that straightened out fairly quickly
Came into Franklin as an Asst Spec Ed Coordinator
first day here, the high school principal resigned
had multiple roles, did the state reporting online
learned about data and data collection
initiated team chairs, hired a behaviorist
highlighted in 1999 for having the most cost-effective special education program in the area
letter of congratulations from Jeff Nutting whom she had not met at that time
peanut allergy policy developed, still get requests for policy from outsiders
salmanella policy, drop-out rate addressed, focused attention at the needs of the at-risk students at the high school
has done the range of duties of the superintendent
budget, transportation, curriculum, end of year reports
comfortable in working with Miriam on the budget reports
vision to move the school district forward
need to keep the initiatives going (literacy, gifted and talented, opening up AP courses)
district improvement plan, in smaller ways to move from good to great
with small money opening new initiatives
look at students assessment
MCAS is a test for knowledge, we need to test how they are going to use it to be successful in the coming years
student lead conferencing at Remington, need to expand that
senior project, a really good start for school to career transition
how do we expand that to integrate
math and science growth has been good need to keep that growth systemic and district wide
need to get the labs at the high school renovated to be useful
laptops are just one tool, how is technology going to support our program
foreign language, technology is one easy way to expand that program
community relations are an important role
schools need to be represented at the Harvest Festival
expand relationship with Dean College
work with the PCC and Joint PCC, talent there that needs to get tapped
need to do more work with our alumni
important to the history to celebrate the contributions
------
Mr Slight - she puts students needs first and I think that says a lot
Rohrbach - I did not know all the stuff you have done although I have known you for some time. What will be your biggest obsticle?
Sabolinksi - the most obvious one is the budget, the reality is we are not going to get an major influx of cash, we are going to need to look at some serious discussions, how can we continue to do what we need to do, get seed money to prepare for larger grants down the road to augment the instructional program, don;t see a quick fix over the next several years
Rohrbach - any cost savings you can see
Sabolinksi - there are not a lot of areas left to cut, despite some of the community perceptions, we are already looking for the parents and PCCs to pick up more and more. Can explore further avenues with the Town on consolidation, may save the Town some money that would look favorably for us
Rohrbach - what do you see for the high school
Sabolinski - looking at the high school and getting atitudes changed, then it makes it easier for other changes, how to assess, using a more common assessment, looking to more partnership with Dean, renovated libary, are they willing to share and open it up for us. Reading, writing and other core academics, would love to see public speaking back in, not just about content, working on teams will be needed
Kelly - greatist strength that you'd bring to Franklin
Sabolinski - sometimes I over think decisions, when you worry about your job you are always thinking of alternatives
Cafasso - appreciate the blue collar background, like the ideas of partnerships and sharing resources, looking at the professionals who live in the community, these are good. What is your least favorite thing about the school committee?
Sabolinksi - the ley to being successful in this role is developing a relationship with this committee, mutual respect, feedback loop needed
Cafasso - enrollment on elementary level is down about 60, it seems like we will need re-districting to meet our space needs?
Sabolinski - once the market turns around, we will see an influx of kids K-12, Keller Sullivan will be a problem spot due to the growth in that area, they are at capacity. You will need to swing growth from that end of town to this end of town.
Cafasso - when 2010?
Sabolinski - will really depend on the Building Committee and where they plan, you don't want to re-district multiple times in a short period
Cafasso - teacher evaluations, how has that changed and what would you change?
Sabolinski - it is an evolving process, our primary role is to put the best teachers in the classroom and for those teachers who are struggling to help them. Supervision and evaluation, we meet with the principals regularly, would like to make the tool and process a little less combersome, would require negotiation with FEA. relationships with parents, relationships with students, and with other teachers, need to do some tweaking on our current tool
Armenio - could you talk about retaining teachers and administrators
Sabolinski - one of the key things to retain is to ensure them of some stability in programs and initiatives, a consistency in leadership and agenda, our professional development is very favorable for the teachers. Not all districts have funds alloted this way. Work on meeting schedules to lessen their load. More cycles with letting people go, makes it harder to recruit and retain teachers here.
Trahan - where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Sabolinski - I would hope I would still be here, the life expectancy of a superintendent is shrinking, I would like to make a long term committement, it requires time to put changes in place
Trahan - you have your eyes wide open, sounds like you are equiped for the challenge
Sabolinski - it would be an honor to work here, there are great staff here, the downside is the cash. Last spring this Blackboard was not a project, things like this are happening all through the district. It would be an honor to work with you all.
Mullen - time table, we will be taking action at our next meeting
Live reporting - transportation update
(chart to be made available later)
The chart is an update from one posted in August
Cafasso - If pay-to-ride were to be fee funded it would be approx $670/student