Thursday, November 5, 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Newly elected sworn in
The newly elected School Committee was sworn in this evening.
Two members of the School Committee were not present for this: Ed Cafasso (who was sworn in earlier today) and William Glynn.
They held a brief organizational meeting. Jeff Roy was selected as Chair and Paula Mullen as Vice-Chair.
Three new members of the Planning Board were sworn in this evening also:
Chris Feeley as the newly elected Assessor was also sworn in.
The newly elected Town Council was also sworn in.
Scott Mason was selected Chair by a 9-0 vote. Steve Whalen was selected as Vice-Chair by an 8-1 vote. There almost was a runoff for this as Joe McGann nominated Bob Vallee but that nomination did not get a second. Judy Pfeffer was selected as Clerk by a 9-0 vote.
They held a brief organizational meeting. Jeff Roy was selected as Chair and Paula Mullen as Vice-Chair.
Three new members of the Planning Board were sworn in this evening also:
Chris Feeley as the newly elected Assessor was also sworn in.
The newly elected Town Council was also sworn in.
Scott Mason was selected Chair by a 9-0 vote. Steve Whalen was selected as Vice-Chair by an 8-1 vote. There almost was a runoff for this as Joe McGann nominated Bob Vallee but that nomination did not get a second. Judy Pfeffer was selected as Clerk by a 9-0 vote.
engage the Franklin voters
I'll have more later this week but my first reactions to the election results are
It is a sad day for Franklin when so few registered voters do exercise their right to vote. There are no excuses for weather problems, absentee ballots were available in advance. Only 16.4% of 19,780 voters bothered to cast a vote. Less than the two prior off year elections. The trend (if there is one) is going the wrong way.
It was good to see the energy of some of the newcomers to the Council race; Tina Powderly and Glenn Jones in particular. Glenn was observed on the triangle over the railroad bridge holding his sign in the rain on Sat Oct 24th and then again early Sun morning, Nov 1. Tina garnered the largest vote amongst the Council candidates.
The Brick School remains a significant factor in Franklin and although closed is still important. The results for Matt Kelly and Cynthia Douglas show this. Cindy running in her first election took in the top number of votes from all candidates. Teaching at the Brick School, over 30 years of good service, 20 or so kids at a time builds up relationships. Relationships that turned out to vote.
That newcomers garnered some of the larger totals seems to validate the message Ashley Studley, Milford Daily News reporter, was picking up from the voters leaving the field house. The attempt to vote out the incumbents ultimately failed as all were re-elected albeit some were by slim margins.
The problems of Franklin remain the same after election. They didn't just disappear because someone didn't vote for an incumbent. The challenge is clearly in the Town Council's hands now to come together and engage the Franklin voters/tax payers in such a way that our issues can be responsibly discussed and then worked to a solution.
It is a sad day for Franklin when so few registered voters do exercise their right to vote. There are no excuses for weather problems, absentee ballots were available in advance. Only 16.4% of 19,780 voters bothered to cast a vote. Less than the two prior off year elections. The trend (if there is one) is going the wrong way.
It was good to see the energy of some of the newcomers to the Council race; Tina Powderly and Glenn Jones in particular. Glenn was observed on the triangle over the railroad bridge holding his sign in the rain on Sat Oct 24th and then again early Sun morning, Nov 1. Tina garnered the largest vote amongst the Council candidates.
The Brick School remains a significant factor in Franklin and although closed is still important. The results for Matt Kelly and Cynthia Douglas show this. Cindy running in her first election took in the top number of votes from all candidates. Teaching at the Brick School, over 30 years of good service, 20 or so kids at a time builds up relationships. Relationships that turned out to vote.
That newcomers garnered some of the larger totals seems to validate the message Ashley Studley, Milford Daily News reporter, was picking up from the voters leaving the field house. The attempt to vote out the incumbents ultimately failed as all were re-elected albeit some were by slim margins.
The problems of Franklin remain the same after election. They didn't just disappear because someone didn't vote for an incumbent. The challenge is clearly in the Town Council's hands now to come together and engage the Franklin voters/tax payers in such a way that our issues can be responsibly discussed and then worked to a solution.
domino falling in our direction
Tri-County is also affected by transportation cuts. Franklin sends a good portion of the students at Tri-County. A budget issue there could replicate back to the Town.
Regional school officials dismayed by steep transportation cuts
from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS by Krista Perry/Daily News staff
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Vote totals by Precinct - 11/3/09
3,244 votes cast were on the November 3, 2009 election. This is 16.4% of the total 19,780 registered voters in Franklin.
The vote for each position by precinct can be viewed in the following document provided by Town Clerk Debbie Pellegri.
The vote for each position by precinct can be viewed in the following document provided by Town Clerk Debbie Pellegri.
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
Franklin 2009 Election Results
| Board of Assessors | ||
| Chris Feeley (write-in candidate) | 217 | |
| Board of Health | ||
| Bruce Hunchard | 1556 | winner |
| Koren Kanadanian | 1150 | |
| Planning Board | ||
| Anthony Padula | 1570 | |
| Joseph Halligan | 1780 | |
| Planning Board (Associate) | ||
| John Carroll | 1892 | |
| Town Council | Votes | |
| Tina Powderly | 1868 | 1 |
| Robert Vallee | 1826 | 2 |
| Glenn Jones | 1767 | 3 |
| Shannon Zollo | 1648 | 4 |
| Matthew Kelly | 1617 | 5 |
| Judith Pond Pfeffer | 1553 | 6 |
| R. Scott Mason | 1528 | 7 |
| Joseph McGann | 1443 | 8 |
| Stephen Whalen | 1437 | 9 |
| Robert Avakian | 1378 | |
| Daniel Ballinger | 1211 | |
| Glenna Richards | 1182 | |
| Bryce Kuchs | 592 | |
| School Committee | Votes | |
| Cynthia Douglas | 1927 | |
| William Glynn | 1621 | |
| Jeffrey Roy | 1616 | |
| Paula Mullen | 1562 | |
| Roberta Trahan | 1558 | |
| Edward Cafasso | 1507 | |
| Susan Rohrbach | 1412 | |
3,244 total votes were cast. Only 16.4% of the 19,780 registered voters in Franklin.
Election Day
There are two civic duties required. However, one is considered by most to be optional while the other is required. The required one is to pay your taxes. The 'optional' one is to cast your vote. Since casting your vote helps to determine what taxes you will pay, voting should also be required.
The most important thing you should do today is to cast your ballot at the high school field house.
The polls open at 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM
Make your vote count!
The most important thing you should do today is to cast your ballot at the high school field house.
The polls open at 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM
Make your vote count!
Monday, November 2, 2009
School Committee - Agenda - 11/4/09
Call to order Mrs. Sabolinski
1. Discussion Only Items
2. Adjourn
- Re-Organizational Chart Update
- Swearing In with Town Clerk
2. Adjourn
Note the meeting is scheduled for the Training Room on the third floor of the Municipal Building.
Town Council - Agenda - 11/4/09
A. SWEARING IN OF NEW COUNCIL
B. ORGANIZATION
Election of Officers
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
D. ANNOUNCEMENTS
E. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
F. CITIZEN COMMENTS
G. APPOINTMENTS
H. HEARINGS
I. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
J. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
K. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
L.LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-70: Appropriation – Exit 16/King Street Reconstruction Account
M. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
N. OLD BUSINESS
O. NEW BUSINESS
P. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Q. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
R. ADJOURN
B. ORGANIZATION
Election of Officers
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
D. ANNOUNCEMENTS
E. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
F. CITIZEN COMMENTS
G. APPOINTMENTS
H. HEARINGS
I. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
J. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
K. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
L.LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-70: Appropriation – Exit 16/King Street Reconstruction Account
M. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
N. OLD BUSINESS
O. NEW BUSINESS
P. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Q. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
R. ADJOURN
STATE SENATOR KAREN SPILKA'S 2009 SENIOR HEALTH and WELLNESS FAIR
STATE SENATOR KAREN SPILKA'S 2009 SENIOR HEALTH and WELLNESS FAIR will be held on November 21 from 9:00-1:30 at the Callahan Senior Center 535 Union Avenue in Framingham.
This year's program will include ongoing presentations on health, wellness & prevention, informational booths, and health care screening along with a wonderful hot lunch.
While at the fair, take advantage of the many workshops including container gardening, financial planning, Medicare D, genealogy, zumba, and much more.
Informational booths on topics ranging from area discounts, health care services and providers & transportation as well as health care screening will be available throughout the day.
Contact Senator Spilka's office at 617-722-1640 or email her at Karen.E.Spilka@state.ma.us to reserve your spot and take advantage of this wonderful event.
In the News - FHS Swim Team
My daughters would have liked to have had this opportunity when they went to FHS. They had swum for the Y and for the Adirondack Club before high school and switched to track & field at FHS. I hope the trial works out.
Franklin swim team ready to make a splash
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Why an iPhone could actually be good for your 3-year-old
But here’s the tantalizing part: If done the right way, with the right limits, handing a preschooler a smart phone could be good not just for the parents’ sanity. It might even be good for the child’s development.
Read the full article here. I question his logic. He quotes from sources to show both sides of the story but makes the leap to say it is a good thing without having proved that it is.
I think the evidence shows that kids should spend more time away from technology and TVs as long as possible. The book "Last Child in the Woods" raises the issue of "nature-deficit disorder". Kids should spend more time in nature and less time with technology. For more on this topic, you can read what I wrote earlier this year.
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Boston Globe -- Globe Magazine by Neil Swidey on 10/30/09
Parents who hand smart phones to their preschoolers as a distraction are shocked to see how quickly the kids become pros. They may worry about such early screen time. But for this generation of "mobile kids," portable, wireless technology promises to improve the way they learn.
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- Subscribe to Boston Globe -- Globe Magazine using Google Reader
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Letter from Ed Cafasso
Tuesday, as you know, is Election Day in Franklin. I hope you will get to the polls to cast your votes for candidates for Town Council, School Committee, and other positions, including Board of Health and Board of Assessors. I am seeking my third full term as a volunteer member of the School Committee and once again I ask for your support. In my view, our schools face three priorities in the next two years:
Budget – We were able to balance the current year’s budget with state and federal stimulus money, a wage freeze for school employees, and budget cuts. Our task will be no easier when we begin working with Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski to create the fiscal 2011 budget. The stimulus monies that helped us this year will not be available next year. It also seems clear that our state aid will be threatened and local revenues will likely fail to keep pace with rising costs.
Franklin High School – Principal Peter Light and his team have made big strides in strengthening the academic and cultural atmosphere of FHS. We need to continue to support those improvements while also finalizing a plan for addressing the building’s structural deficiencies and classroom capabilities. Community support will be critical to move forward with the renovations that will help Franklin High deliver a competitive experience for our students.
Efficient Academic Excellence – The Franklin Public Schools remain a fantastic bargain in a community that offers a nice quality of life with incredibly low property tax rates. Your schools spend well below average in every cost category, but your students consistently score well above average on every academic benchmark. It’s a record to be proud of, but it’s highly unlikely to continue unless we provide more financial support and reduce our reliance on state aid.
The contested race for Franklin Town Council demands your attention on Tuesday. Twelve candidates are running for nine Council seats. In addition to having the final say on school spending, the new Council will face tough decisions on how to fund and manage public safety, public works and other services that are important to our quality of life and property values.
You can learn more about the Town Council candidates at:
http://www.milforddailynews.com/homepage/x876590732/Meet-the-candidates-for-Franklin-Town-Council
Please take the time to vote for the candidates of your choice on Tuesday. It’s important to make your voices heard to those who seek to represent you. I will be outside the Field House at various times during the day. I hope you’ll say hello. And thank you for your support.
These e-mails are provided as a constituent service. I try to distribute at least one e-mail update each month during the school year, as issues warrant. As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions. If you are receiving duplicate e-mails or if you no longer wish to receive these e-mails, please let me know and I will remove you from the distribution list. If you know of someone you would like to add to the list, please send along their e-mail address.
Thank you!
Ed Cafasso, Member
Franklin School Committee
edcafasso@comcast.net
Budget – We were able to balance the current year’s budget with state and federal stimulus money, a wage freeze for school employees, and budget cuts. Our task will be no easier when we begin working with Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski to create the fiscal 2011 budget. The stimulus monies that helped us this year will not be available next year. It also seems clear that our state aid will be threatened and local revenues will likely fail to keep pace with rising costs.
Franklin High School – Principal Peter Light and his team have made big strides in strengthening the academic and cultural atmosphere of FHS. We need to continue to support those improvements while also finalizing a plan for addressing the building’s structural deficiencies and classroom capabilities. Community support will be critical to move forward with the renovations that will help Franklin High deliver a competitive experience for our students.
Efficient Academic Excellence – The Franklin Public Schools remain a fantastic bargain in a community that offers a nice quality of life with incredibly low property tax rates. Your schools spend well below average in every cost category, but your students consistently score well above average on every academic benchmark. It’s a record to be proud of, but it’s highly unlikely to continue unless we provide more financial support and reduce our reliance on state aid.
The contested race for Franklin Town Council demands your attention on Tuesday. Twelve candidates are running for nine Council seats. In addition to having the final say on school spending, the new Council will face tough decisions on how to fund and manage public safety, public works and other services that are important to our quality of life and property values.
You can learn more about the Town Council candidates at:
http://www.milforddailynews.com/homepage/x876590732/Meet-the-candidates-for-Franklin-Town-Council
Please take the time to vote for the candidates of your choice on Tuesday. It’s important to make your voices heard to those who seek to represent you. I will be outside the Field House at various times during the day. I hope you’ll say hello. And thank you for your support.
These e-mails are provided as a constituent service. I try to distribute at least one e-mail update each month during the school year, as issues warrant. As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions. If you are receiving duplicate e-mails or if you no longer wish to receive these e-mails, please let me know and I will remove you from the distribution list. If you know of someone you would like to add to the list, please send along their e-mail address.
Thank you!
Ed Cafasso, Member
Franklin School Committee
edcafasso@comcast.net
Fall back!
Friendly reminder that you should have turned your clocks back one hour.
You can use the extra hour to think about who you'll chose to vote for on Tuesday when the polls open from 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM in the High School field house.
The election collection can be found here
You can use the extra hour to think about who you'll chose to vote for on Tuesday when the polls open from 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM in the High School field house.
The election collection can be found here
In the News - First Universalist
The Faithful Nine were Grace Buchanon, Joe Cook and his wife Ellie, Edna Fitzgerald, Marion Chilson, Lincoln and Bunny Dana and Robert and Emilia Dean. Emilia Dean and Bunny Dana are the only living members.
"They were determined this church was not going to die," Rosine said. "Their families grew up in the church, were baptized, had weddings and funerals...they were not going to let this church die."
Franklin church will dedicate rooms those who kept it alive
"can track the growth in individual students’ achievement"
Nearly everyone can probably recall a teacher who lit their passion for poetry or who was able to help them connect all the dots in a seemingly incomprehensible algebra formula. We know that individual teachers can make a huge difference.
But public schools in America have been bent on ignoring the obvious: Almost nothing about the way we hire, evaluate, pay, or assign teachers to classrooms is designed to operate with that goal in mind. Most teachers receive only cursory performance evaluations, with virtually every teacher graded highly. We use a one-size-for-all salary structure, in which the only factors used in raises are teachers’ higher-education credentials and number of years in the system, neither of which is strongly linked to their effectiveness. And we often let seniority, rather than merit, drive decisions about where a teacher is placed. It is in many ways an industrial model that treats teachers as identical, interchangeable parts, when we know that they are not.
Now, increasingly challenging this status quo is a new wave of research showing that one can actually measure the difference a teacher makes. The studies use a statistical analysis of standardized test results to measure the “value added” that each teacher contributes each year, revealing stark differences in their ability to move a class forward. According to one recent value-added study of Los Angeles schools conducted by Harvard economist Tom Kane, having a good teacher for a single year translates to a 10-point-higher score on student achievement tests that use a standard 100-point scale. “That’s a big difference.” says Kane.Read the full article in the Boston Globe here
This will likely be a topic of much discussion as the school year progresses. The new School Committee will be dealing with a tight budget and a teacher contract negotiation amongst other issues during the school year.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Are you looking for work?
Do you know someone looking for work?
You are not alone. With unemployment at 13% in RI and 9.3% in MA, there are lots of folks out of work and looking.
There is a heavy population of those 40+ looking for work. There is also a significant number of recent college graduates out looking for work.
In the course of my own job search effort, one thing became evident: the power of we. Who you know is as important as what you know. By talking with each other, sharing our experiences, sharing what has worked or didn't work. By networking with each, sharing our connections, who knows who, we can help each other get a better connection to the next position.
With as many resumes being submitted for each job posting, the pile for the hiring manager is overwhelming. How do you get out of the pile? Your network!
A core group my connections who understand the "power of we" are working hard to put together the LaidOff Camp. The camp will facilitate the best practices of the job search effort. In one afternoon, over the course of four hours, you'll be able to participate in a session to help your own individual job search effort. Sessions on networking, using LinkedIn, interview tips, a practice interview session and others are being planned for this event.
This is a non-profit effort. The $10 charge will simply allow us to cover the facility fee and provide some refreshments during the afternoon.
For this small dollar cost, you will walk away with more knowledge, more connections and hopefully more confidence in taking the next step in your job search effort.
You should visit the LaidOff Camp website to register.
You should tell whomever you know that is looking for work about this event.
We are in this together and the 'power of we' can help us to success!
A sample of recent posts to the LaidOff Camp website:
This was originally posted on Steve's 2 Cents
You are not alone. With unemployment at 13% in RI and 9.3% in MA, there are lots of folks out of work and looking.
There is a heavy population of those 40+ looking for work. There is also a significant number of recent college graduates out looking for work.
In the course of my own job search effort, one thing became evident: the power of we. Who you know is as important as what you know. By talking with each other, sharing our experiences, sharing what has worked or didn't work. By networking with each, sharing our connections, who knows who, we can help each other get a better connection to the next position.
With as many resumes being submitted for each job posting, the pile for the hiring manager is overwhelming. How do you get out of the pile? Your network!
A core group my connections who understand the "power of we" are working hard to put together the LaidOff Camp. The camp will facilitate the best practices of the job search effort. In one afternoon, over the course of four hours, you'll be able to participate in a session to help your own individual job search effort. Sessions on networking, using LinkedIn, interview tips, a practice interview session and others are being planned for this event.
This is a non-profit effort. The $10 charge will simply allow us to cover the facility fee and provide some refreshments during the afternoon.
For this small dollar cost, you will walk away with more knowledge, more connections and hopefully more confidence in taking the next step in your job search effort.
You should visit the LaidOff Camp website to register.
You should tell whomever you know that is looking for work about this event.
We are in this together and the 'power of we' can help us to success!
A sample of recent posts to the LaidOff Camp website:
- Session: How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile Fo...
- What do I wear to LaidOff Camp?
- This is "a performance-driven marketplace"
- Should we have a session on posture?
- How bad is unemployment in New England?
This was originally posted on Steve's 2 Cents
Friday, October 30, 2009
Downtown Partnership prepares for Holiday Stroll
Don't Miss Out on Free Advertising for your business!
If you are interested in participating in the upcoming Downtown Holiday Stroll Event on December 3rd please contact us by November 3rd. The event will include Tree Lighting Ceremony, Music, Holiday Singing, and much more.
Participating Retailers will be listed on flyers, posters, website and Press Releases. This is free for FDP members!
All interested retailers must e-mail the Franklin Downtown Partnership at Downtown.Franklin@yahoo.com attn: Lisa no later than November 3rd in order to be included in the Stroll.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Retailers should submit a short one line description of what activity or special holiday offering they will have for visitors. This is for the flyer and poster. A two sentence description should be submitted for the press release. Depending on the number of participants and the room available the Holiday Stroll Committee may need to edit this information.
Note: Sponsors will be given first priority and a large listing on all promotional materials. If you would like to be a $100 bronze sponsor please contact the FDP office at (774)571-3109 by November 1st.
If you are interested in participating in the upcoming Downtown Holiday Stroll Event on December 3rd please contact us by November 3rd. The event will include Tree Lighting Ceremony, Music, Holiday Singing, and much more.
Participating Retailers will be listed on flyers, posters, website and Press Releases. This is free for FDP members!
All interested retailers must e-mail the Franklin Downtown Partnership at Downtown.Franklin@yahoo.com attn: Lisa no later than November 3rd in order to be included in the Stroll.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Retailers should submit a short one line description of what activity or special holiday offering they will have for visitors. This is for the flyer and poster. A two sentence description should be submitted for the press release. Depending on the number of participants and the room available the Holiday Stroll Committee may need to edit this information.
Note: Sponsors will be given first priority and a large listing on all promotional materials. If you would like to be a $100 bronze sponsor please contact the FDP office at (774)571-3109 by November 1st.
Gov Patrick on the state budget cuts
Franklin appears to be dodging reductions in State Aid as Chapter 70 and local aid are referenced in this video by Governor Patrick.
J.F. Kennedy School PCC plans recycling fundraiser
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Wicked Local Franklin News RSS by GateHouse Media, Inc. on 10/29/09
The J.F. Kennedy Parent Communication Council (PCC) will hold a recycling fundraising event on Saturday, Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the J.F. Kennedy Elementary School parking lot, Pond Street, Franklin.
Bring clean redeemable bottles and cans. No water bottles. The group will also accept computers, electronics and appliances for recycling. Fees for these items vary from $5-$20. All computer hard drives will be destroyed and items will be properly handled by our professional recycler.
Proceeds from this fundraiser will be used by the PCC for educational programs for the J.F. Kennedy Elementary School students.
For more information contact Blanca Di Giacomo at dijoc@comcast.net.
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- Subscribe to Wicked Local Franklin News RSS using Google Reader
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Chamber Job Fair - Wed Nov 5th 10:00 - 2:00
Job Help is on the Way!
The United Regional Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Living Waters Church, is sponsoring Employment Workshops and a Job Fair on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Living Waters Church, 15 John L. Dietsch Blvd., North Attleborough. Companies that are actively hiring, as well as representatives from educational facilities, will be at the event.
Do you or someone you know need to sharpen your job search skills? Then you are welcome to attend this free event!
The following workshops will be offered in two sessions (10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.) and (11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.):
* Ten Tips for the Tongue Tied
* Interview Tips for the Non-Salesperson
* Develop a Marketing Plan for Your Job Search
* 10 Most Common Interview Mistakes
Need a resume? We can help you prepare your resume and print it on the spot.
The United Regional Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Living Waters Church, is sponsoring Employment Workshops and a Job Fair on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Living Waters Church, 15 John L. Dietsch Blvd., North Attleborough. Companies that are actively hiring, as well as representatives from educational facilities, will be at the event.
Do you or someone you know need to sharpen your job search skills? Then you are welcome to attend this free event!
The following workshops will be offered in two sessions (10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.) and (11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.):
* Ten Tips for the Tongue Tied
* Interview Tips for the Non-Salesperson
* Develop a Marketing Plan for Your Job Search
* 10 Most Common Interview Mistakes
Need a resume? We can help you prepare your resume and print it on the spot.
In the News - candidates
The line up of Town Council candidates is reviewed in the paper today.
Meet the candidates for Franklin Town Council
You can also review the Election Collection here.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Body Mass Index (BMI) controversy
What is the story about the Body Mass Index (BMI) discussion at the School Committee meeting on 10/27/09?
End result of discussion Tuesday
The policy draft was voted not to move to a Second Reading by a 4-3 vote.
What does this mean?
The policy draft goes back to the subcommittee to address the questions that were raised before coming back to the full committee.
Note: two of the four votes against the policy are leaving the School Committee. Cora Armenio is not running for re-election. Matt Kelly is running for Town Council. The positions of the next two members of the School Committee are unknown.
Should this be an issue to go back and challenge the State on to fund their mandate? For about $40,000?
The privacy issue is one to fight but the case in this circumstance I think is weak. Privacy rules already cripple teachers and I don't hear anyone raising an issue with those.
I think these are more life threatening issues that privacy rules currently hinder.
Isn't the BMI a measurement as simple as taking one's temperature? Would it violate someone's privacy to let the parents know the child is running a temperature?
You can respond with a comment or answer the poll question on the top of the center column:
Should your school measure BMI to report to you and your physician? Yes or No
- The school district nurses have been recording height and weight of students for years
- Some of the School Committee members were unaware of this detail
- The State has changed the regulations to use the height/weight data obtained to calculate the student’s BMI to send to the parents for use in discussions with the family physicians
- The district could loose $43,000 in grant money over 11 years if they are not in compliance
- Compliance with the BMI process would mean the nurses would take less measurements of student’s height/weight. Only certain grades would be required for measurement.
- Non-compliance would require taking measurements of all students across all grade levels
- Regulation language provided was not clear in what the new vs. old requirements were
- Some School Committee members objected to the intrusion of the schools into a patient/physician relationship
- Some School Committee members see the bigger benefit of providing the BMI information to the parents to help address the overweight and related health issues associated with the youth today
End result of discussion Tuesday
The policy draft was voted not to move to a Second Reading by a 4-3 vote.
What does this mean?
The policy draft goes back to the subcommittee to address the questions that were raised before coming back to the full committee.
Note: two of the four votes against the policy are leaving the School Committee. Cora Armenio is not running for re-election. Matt Kelly is running for Town Council. The positions of the next two members of the School Committee are unknown.
Should this be an issue to go back and challenge the State on to fund their mandate? For about $40,000?
The privacy issue is one to fight but the case in this circumstance I think is weak. Privacy rules already cripple teachers and I don't hear anyone raising an issue with those.
If your child requires medication at school and the regular teacher has a substitute, did you know that the regular teacher can not leave information about your child's special requirements?
If your child has a severe allergic reaction to something like peanuts, did you know the classroom teacher can not provide a list of these needs to the supervisory personnel for their recess time when the regular teacher won't always be on duty?
I think these are more life threatening issues that privacy rules currently hinder.
Isn't the BMI a measurement as simple as taking one's temperature? Would it violate someone's privacy to let the parents know the child is running a temperature?
You can respond with a comment or answer the poll question on the top of the center column:
Should your school measure BMI to report to you and your physician? Yes or No
In the News - Franklin Candidates, write in for Assessor
The candidate forum at the Senior Center seems to have been quite informative. I recommend clicking through to read the full article. There are several good quotes from the candidates that would help make a decision on who would best sit on the Town Council to address Franklin's problems.
Franklin candidates speak to seniors
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
School Committee Mtg 10/27/09
The collection of posts live reported from the School Committee meeting on Tuesday October 27th are
- Live reporting - Closing
- Live reporting - Superintendents report
- Live reporting - Action Items
- Live reporting - BMI Q&A
- Live reporting - BMI Screening
- Live reporting - Life Long Learning
- Live reporting - FHS Update
- Live reporting - School Committee 10/27/09
Slideshare slows page
In case you notice that the page is loading slowly today, I have as well. It seems to be related to the SlideShare posted yesterday as part of the School Committee meeting.
I'll need to find another service to use to post slides in that format. In the meantime, I hope it doesn't slow down reading the pages too much. If it does, I'll remove the slides until I find a better tool.
Please let me know if it is hindering your reading!
I'll need to find another service to use to post slides in that format. In the meantime, I hope it doesn't slow down reading the pages too much. If it does, I'll remove the slides until I find a better tool.
Please let me know if it is hindering your reading!
In the News - BMI, MCAS
As the School Committee voted down the policy change by a 4-3 vote and 2 of the votes against this measure are leaving the committee, the next time this comes up could indeed be a different story.
------
As mentioned here previously, the growth model for MCAS has been released.
Franklin school officials debate weighing students
from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS------
As mentioned here previously, the growth model for MCAS has been released.
State releases new way to evaluate MCAS scores
How Did Test Scores Become King?
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via ASCD Inservice by ASCD Bloggers on 10/27/09
Post submitted by guest blogger Gerald Bracey. A longtime champion of accurate analysis of education research and vocal advocate for public education, Bracey died October 20, 2009. In my article in the November Educational Leadership ("The Big Tests: What Ends...
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Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Live reporting - Closing
Amrenio - four years ago, there were seven candidates and three write-ins. Two years ago, again seven candidates with no competition. Please step up to take action in the Town to create some choice for the voters.
Continues with thanks and reflections on her time on the committee.
We have laughed yelled, vented, conversed, and collaborated. Thank you!
Kelly - Thank you for working together, it has been a pleasure.
Motion to enter executive session with no intention to return
passed 7-0
Continues with thanks and reflections on her time on the committee.
We have laughed yelled, vented, conversed, and collaborated. Thank you!
Kelly - Thank you for working together, it has been a pleasure.
Motion to enter executive session with no intention to return
passed 7-0
Live reporting - Superintendents report
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Kim Marshall
b. Instructional Support Team
c. Adaptive Leadership
d. Superintendent’s Roundtable
e. ELL Teacher
Sabolinski - I included class size data in your packets. The wage deferrals, stimulus money helped to maintain reasonable class sizes.
H1N1 - the support of the faculty has been tremendous, we will be ready for the clinics. There is no time line as the supply of the vaccine has been at a trickle. A letter to update the parents will be going out via ConnectED tomorrow.
Mullen - There is a Latin 4/5 position with 37 students
Sabolinski - We had tried to use a long term sub position to fill in, but that person opted not to take this position. It is a difficult position to fill.
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports - none
School Committee Liaison Reports
Met with the Joint PCC, many have become 501(c)3 organizations but not all
They were also looking for building use information
Superintendent’s Report
a. Kim Marshall
b. Instructional Support Team
c. Adaptive Leadership
d. Superintendent’s Roundtable
e. ELL Teacher
Sabolinski - I included class size data in your packets. The wage deferrals, stimulus money helped to maintain reasonable class sizes.
H1N1 - the support of the faculty has been tremendous, we will be ready for the clinics. There is no time line as the supply of the vaccine has been at a trickle. A letter to update the parents will be going out via ConnectED tomorrow.
Mullen - There is a Latin 4/5 position with 37 students
Sabolinski - We had tried to use a long term sub position to fill in, but that person opted not to take this position. It is a difficult position to fill.
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports - none
School Committee Liaison Reports
Met with the Joint PCC, many have become 501(c)3 organizations but not all
They were also looking for building use information
Live reporting - Action Items
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $214.28 from the Remington PCC for a 6th grade field trip for the YMCA. Approved 7-0
b. I recommend approval of the recurring field trip for the 3 middle schools to New York City as detailed. Tabled for tonight
c. I recommend approval of using $6,000.00 from the Athletic Revolving Account to cover cost of starting a varsity swim team at FHS. Approved 7-0
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,330.00 from the Parmenter PCC for a Gr. 3 field trip to Plimoth Plantation. Approved 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $94.49 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program for Remington Middle School. Approved 7-0
f. I recommend approval of budget transfers as detailed. Approved 7-0
Armenio - Can you summarize?
Goodman - transfers from the Life Long Learning, $50,000
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $214.28 from the Remington PCC for a 6th grade field trip for the YMCA. Approved 7-0
b. I recommend approval of the recurring field trip for the 3 middle schools to New York City as detailed. Tabled for tonight
c. I recommend approval of using $6,000.00 from the Athletic Revolving Account to cover cost of starting a varsity swim team at FHS. Approved 7-0
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,330.00 from the Parmenter PCC for a Gr. 3 field trip to Plimoth Plantation. Approved 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $94.49 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program for Remington Middle School. Approved 7-0
f. I recommend approval of budget transfers as detailed. Approved 7-0
Armenio - Can you summarize?
Goodman - transfers from the Life Long Learning, $50,000
Live reporting - BMI Q&A
Continuing the conversation around the BMI regulations
Cafasso - Why are we in the middle of this? It says the physician is in the best position for this. It says in the materials that this is a physicians job. For us to step in is kind of a stretch. I think it is very questionable.
Elias - It is just a little more. It is a question of what we can do.
Trahan - The BMI is one more tool to be given to the parent and the physician so they can take action. Given all the increases of diabetes and other diseases that are health related, this is one tool to help address those items early on. The parents do spend time providing additional opportunities with sports, drama and musical opportunities. Now we are talking about alternatives to the health situation.
Armenio - I am still on the fence on this one. I am not sure we as a district should be going this way. I understand we have already be taking the height and weight and sending it home with a tag. I understand where Roberta is coming from. This is an unfunded mandate.
Winslow - I understand the concerns that you have on this issue. I don't think the position of the committee should be, do we decide to do this or not. This is a regulation from the State.
Roy - I take exception to that, this is precisely what we will decide. This may be an emotional issue but the committee will decide and live with the decision.
I don't know where the requirement is coming from to revert to the old system if we don't do the BMI. Can you confirm where the requirement is?
The grant money would gain us $43,000 over 11 years. Implementing this would require more than that amount. This type of regulation is bad government. It belongs in the role of the patient and physician. I don't feel this would be a fair expense for us to justify. The State doesn't have money. It is hypercritical for us to move in this direction.
The legislature had nothing to do with this regulation. If you read that statue, it is not there.
The regulation violates the students rights to privacy. This is not a place where we belong.
Sabolinksi tries to confirm if this section is part of the policy or still on the presentation?
Roy - You'll have time when I am done. I have some more to say. Kids coming on the bus are going to talk to each other, "did you get your fat test done?" That is not what we want. Thank you for what you have done in answering our questions.
Mullen - I don't see how taking height and weight is a violation of the student's privacy.
Roy - How do you handle the kids that will have opted out?
Elias - It won't be any different than how we are handling it today. We take the kids out in small groups from a class, 6-8 at a time. The kids are measured one at time, they don't know the results.
Trahan - Kids get to hear and participate in discussions on MCAS on the bus and that is no different. We are doing this in a way to try and improve their well being.
Mullen - what we came here tonight is with the policy and the changes. Based upon what I have heard, I am not sure where we want to go.
Roy - I made some suggestions that I think should be addressed.
Mullen - Motion for the policy to second reading
Trahan - seconded
Cafasso - I'd like to see the answer to Jeff's question on the regulations. I would need that answer before considering the policy.
Winslow - The assumption is that School Districts will comply with the regulations.
Cafasso - I think we need to better confirm what the burden would be if we don;t go with the BMI.
Rohrbach - Through the two measures that you already take (height and weight) would be calculated by the software. The interpretation is done by the physicians. The schools are in the best position for capturing the data. The physicians are in the best position for the interpretation and action.
Elias - we have always applied for the waiver and received it. The waiver is gone with the new regulations. You won't need to do all the grades, you would only do the grades required.
Rohrbach - Do we know from the DPH what school districts will not comply?
Elias - I did survey surrounding towns, 14 of the town is either doing or will be doing it. No one in the survey is not doing.
Winslow - There is only one other school district that is talking of not complying with this regulation.
Elias - If the waiver goes away, we have to do heights and weights of everyone. Under the new regulation, we only have to do some of the grades, hence less screenings.
Kelly - I am surprised that we have done this for so long. We have provided this to the physicians?
Elias - Yes, with the parents permission.
Armenio - If the kids wear glasses and bring in their physical, do they still get screened.
Elias - depending upon the timing of the physical.
Roy - show of hands for moving to second reading, failed 4-3
Cafasso - Why are we in the middle of this? It says the physician is in the best position for this. It says in the materials that this is a physicians job. For us to step in is kind of a stretch. I think it is very questionable.
Elias - It is just a little more. It is a question of what we can do.
Trahan - The BMI is one more tool to be given to the parent and the physician so they can take action. Given all the increases of diabetes and other diseases that are health related, this is one tool to help address those items early on. The parents do spend time providing additional opportunities with sports, drama and musical opportunities. Now we are talking about alternatives to the health situation.
Armenio - I am still on the fence on this one. I am not sure we as a district should be going this way. I understand we have already be taking the height and weight and sending it home with a tag. I understand where Roberta is coming from. This is an unfunded mandate.
Winslow - I understand the concerns that you have on this issue. I don't think the position of the committee should be, do we decide to do this or not. This is a regulation from the State.
Roy - I take exception to that, this is precisely what we will decide. This may be an emotional issue but the committee will decide and live with the decision.
I don't know where the requirement is coming from to revert to the old system if we don't do the BMI. Can you confirm where the requirement is?
The grant money would gain us $43,000 over 11 years. Implementing this would require more than that amount. This type of regulation is bad government. It belongs in the role of the patient and physician. I don't feel this would be a fair expense for us to justify. The State doesn't have money. It is hypercritical for us to move in this direction.
The legislature had nothing to do with this regulation. If you read that statue, it is not there.
The regulation violates the students rights to privacy. This is not a place where we belong.
Sabolinksi tries to confirm if this section is part of the policy or still on the presentation?
Roy - You'll have time when I am done. I have some more to say. Kids coming on the bus are going to talk to each other, "did you get your fat test done?" That is not what we want. Thank you for what you have done in answering our questions.
Mullen - I don't see how taking height and weight is a violation of the student's privacy.
Roy - How do you handle the kids that will have opted out?
Elias - It won't be any different than how we are handling it today. We take the kids out in small groups from a class, 6-8 at a time. The kids are measured one at time, they don't know the results.
Trahan - Kids get to hear and participate in discussions on MCAS on the bus and that is no different. We are doing this in a way to try and improve their well being.
Mullen - what we came here tonight is with the policy and the changes. Based upon what I have heard, I am not sure where we want to go.
Roy - I made some suggestions that I think should be addressed.
Mullen - Motion for the policy to second reading
Trahan - seconded
Cafasso - I'd like to see the answer to Jeff's question on the regulations. I would need that answer before considering the policy.
Winslow - The assumption is that School Districts will comply with the regulations.
Cafasso - I think we need to better confirm what the burden would be if we don;t go with the BMI.
Rohrbach - Through the two measures that you already take (height and weight) would be calculated by the software. The interpretation is done by the physicians. The schools are in the best position for capturing the data. The physicians are in the best position for the interpretation and action.
Elias - we have always applied for the waiver and received it. The waiver is gone with the new regulations. You won't need to do all the grades, you would only do the grades required.
Rohrbach - Do we know from the DPH what school districts will not comply?
Elias - I did survey surrounding towns, 14 of the town is either doing or will be doing it. No one in the survey is not doing.
Winslow - There is only one other school district that is talking of not complying with this regulation.
Elias - If the waiver goes away, we have to do heights and weights of everyone. Under the new regulation, we only have to do some of the grades, hence less screenings.
Kelly - I am surprised that we have done this for so long. We have provided this to the physicians?
Elias - Yes, with the parents permission.
Armenio - If the kids wear glasses and bring in their physical, do they still get screened.
Elias - depending upon the timing of the physical.
Roy - show of hands for moving to second reading, failed 4-3
Live reporting - BMI Screening
resuming after a fine minute recess
2. Guests/Presentations
c. Growth Assessment Reporting – Patty Elias, RN and Sally Winslow
Since the 1950's we have been taking heights and weights, it has not been reported, it is just put into the file. With the new BMI reporting requirements, those numbers need to be provided to the parents. It was approved in April 2009 and intended to be effective at that time.
It is very clear that the expectation that the school districts will be in compliance. I have also seen some draft advisories coming to the school on how the districts will be implementing this.
While school districts must comply, parents can opt out for their children.
(The presentation has been slow loading. I'll reload it as soon as I can)
BMI is a screening tool, it is not a diagnosis.
Part of a program that over 11 years would yield $43,000. As part of the program requirements, the BMI stats need to be reported or we loose the money.
Currently have a waiver from the DPH. The waiver expires with the new BMI requirements.
If we do the BMI, the nurses would handle approx 8,000 screenings. If we skip the BMI, in order to maintain compliance, the nurses would need to do over 18,000 screenings.
Live reporting - Life Long Learning
2. Guests/Presentations
b. Lifelong Learning Update - Pandora Carlucci
The Class of 1959 recognized at the High School Graduation in June.
Ginormous program 23 boys, 2 girls traveled into and out of the city via the Commuter Rail and Red Line.
90 students in the High School Experience (up from 25 last year). The Class of 2013!
Music initiatives
The parents, guardians, they already knew we had good music faculty, they found out during the recital that we have "great" musical teachers!
Adult education expanding to meet the needs of the demographics in Franklin. For example, over 180 child care providers in the immediate area. Coordinated a three-part series to help them with their professional development. The first two classes sold out, the third had half capacity. For the time around, this exceeded expectations.
The Class of 1960 will be recognized at this year's graduation. June 4, 2010 - save the date!
Rohrbach - You always surprise us. You are always coming up with something new.
Carlucci - It was good, well received. The only complaint was that they wanted it longer. We had it for two hours and they wanted three. Thanks to the teachers for making it happen,
Trahan - echo compliments, thank you
Cafasso - This is not coming from a budget, this is self funded.
Carlucci - We do give out scholarhsips for most of the programs.
b. Lifelong Learning Update - Pandora Carlucci
The Class of 1959 recognized at the High School Graduation in June.
Ginormous program 23 boys, 2 girls traveled into and out of the city via the Commuter Rail and Red Line.
90 students in the High School Experience (up from 25 last year). The Class of 2013!
Music initiatives
- String school
- Elementary school program
- Private music lessons
The parents, guardians, they already knew we had good music faculty, they found out during the recital that we have "great" musical teachers!
Adult education expanding to meet the needs of the demographics in Franklin. For example, over 180 child care providers in the immediate area. Coordinated a three-part series to help them with their professional development. The first two classes sold out, the third had half capacity. For the time around, this exceeded expectations.
The Class of 1960 will be recognized at this year's graduation. June 4, 2010 - save the date!
Rohrbach - You always surprise us. You are always coming up with something new.
Carlucci - It was good, well received. The only complaint was that they wanted it longer. We had it for two hours and they wanted three. Thanks to the teachers for making it happen,
Trahan - echo compliments, thank you
Cafasso - This is not coming from a budget, this is self funded.
Carlucci - We do give out scholarhsips for most of the programs.
Live reporting - FHS Update
2. Guests/Presentations
a. FHS Update – Peter Light
Viewing a quality movie tour and intro to FHS produced by the school for Panther Pride Night.
updated: 7:32 PM
Peter Lights comments after the video.
The video was all student work, production, script, made contacts with Alumni to return for interviews, etc.
From the PSAT scores, 2 FHS students were semifinalists amongst 5,000 across the country. The program averages 1.5 students per high school and Franklin has 10.
Friday halftime, Senior players recognized 20 faculty for their educational contribution over their high school years.
FHS Discipline stats:
Armenio: I was impressed with the entry to the Panther Pride Night. The one thing that really impressed me were the kids talking to kids. I could not get over the attendance.
Light: We are going to estimate that we had about 750 people over the course of the night. Thanks to Bob Lima for the layout and to the PCC (Barbara Brunelli esp.) for all the help they did to create a great night.
Kelly: the discipline speaks well for the job you are doing. Can the video be posted for others to view regularly.
Light: we don't have a video server but we can try to find a way. (Steve Sherlock can help with this)
Rohrbach: Can you leave the marketing program for us to view? Can you reach out to the 6th grade? They are getting inundated with materials from other schools. This would help them think about and make a decision.
Rohrbach: Why are the numbers down?
Light: we are trying to figure that out. One factor clearly is that there are less passes in the hallway so there is less opportunity for somethings to occur. We have the asst principals in the hallways instead of teachers. The one stat that is up is cutting classes. We are better at catching them because they are in the hallway and looking for them.
Sabolinksi: One thing is you and your administration has made the students more responsible for their own behavior. You have changed that whole atmosphere.
Light: Give credit to the teachers, they are teaching more during the day.
Trahan: you have changed the face of the high school, thank you.
Mullen: I don't like to repeat things that others have said. It is great work there with the administrative team, the teachers, the students. If you would have told me last year of the change that would have occured, I would have said, "yea right." but you have.
Roy: in the eyes of my 8th grader, he really enjoyed the night. The evening flowed, there was something to do.
Light: All the music in the video was produced by the students.
a. FHS Update – Peter Light
Viewing a quality movie tour and intro to FHS produced by the school for Panther Pride Night.
updated: 7:32 PM
Peter Lights comments after the video.
The video was all student work, production, script, made contacts with Alumni to return for interviews, etc.
From the PSAT scores, 2 FHS students were semifinalists amongst 5,000 across the country. The program averages 1.5 students per high school and Franklin has 10.
Friday halftime, Senior players recognized 20 faculty for their educational contribution over their high school years.
FHS Discipline stats:
- Tardiness has decreased 20% this year with an increase in student population.
- Tardiness to school down 33%.
- Misbehaving in class down 60%.
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
Armenio: I was impressed with the entry to the Panther Pride Night. The one thing that really impressed me were the kids talking to kids. I could not get over the attendance.
Light: We are going to estimate that we had about 750 people over the course of the night. Thanks to Bob Lima for the layout and to the PCC (Barbara Brunelli esp.) for all the help they did to create a great night.
Kelly: the discipline speaks well for the job you are doing. Can the video be posted for others to view regularly.
Light: we don't have a video server but we can try to find a way. (Steve Sherlock can help with this)
Rohrbach: Can you leave the marketing program for us to view? Can you reach out to the 6th grade? They are getting inundated with materials from other schools. This would help them think about and make a decision.
Rohrbach: Why are the numbers down?
Light: we are trying to figure that out. One factor clearly is that there are less passes in the hallway so there is less opportunity for somethings to occur. We have the asst principals in the hallways instead of teachers. The one stat that is up is cutting classes. We are better at catching them because they are in the hallway and looking for them.
Sabolinksi: One thing is you and your administration has made the students more responsible for their own behavior. You have changed that whole atmosphere.
Light: Give credit to the teachers, they are teaching more during the day.
Trahan: you have changed the face of the high school, thank you.
Mullen: I don't like to repeat things that others have said. It is great work there with the administrative team, the teachers, the students. If you would have told me last year of the change that would have occured, I would have said, "yea right." but you have.
Roy: in the eyes of my 8th grader, he really enjoyed the night. The evening flowed, there was something to do.
Light: All the music in the video was produced by the students.
Live reporting - School Committee 10/27/09
Attending: Armenio, Cafasso, Kelly, Mullen, Roy, Rohrbach, Trahan
Missing:
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments none
Review of Agenda none
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 13, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
motion to approve minutes, passed 7-0
Payment of Bills - Mr. Kelly
Motion to approve, 7-0
Payroll - Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: None
Sabolinski made the announcement that the Kennedy School was one of 12 schools in the State to be highlighted for high growth according to the new State MCAS reporting released today.
Missing:
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments none
Review of Agenda none
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 13, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
motion to approve minutes, passed 7-0
Payment of Bills - Mr. Kelly
Motion to approve, 7-0
Payroll - Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: None
Sabolinski made the announcement that the Kennedy School was one of 12 schools in the State to be highlighted for high growth according to the new State MCAS reporting released today.
Candidates Night - Photo Slideshow
Here are the photos from the Candidates Night in the Council Chambers on Monday evening, October 26th.
If you click through to Flickr to view the photos, the captions identify the candidates. This slide show format, hides that info.
If you click through to Flickr to view the photos, the captions identify the candidates. This slide show format, hides that info.
Candidate Forum Town Council/Board of Health
The collection of live reporting posts from the Franklin Candidates Forum at the Municipal Bldg on Monday evening, Oct 26th can be found here
- Live reporting - Closing comments
- Live reporting - Council questions continued
- Live reporting - Town Council candidates
- Live reporting - Town Council candidates
- Live reporting - Town Council candidates
- Live reporting - Borad of Health 1 minute intro, q...
- Live reporting - starting now
- Live reporting - Board of Health candidates
- Live reporting - Candidate night
- Live reporting - Candidate night
- Live reporting - Franklin candidate debate night
In the News - candidate views, BMI question
The Milford Daily News recap of the Candidate Forum can be found here
--------
One item scheduled for discussion at the School Committee meeting Tuesday night is covered in the news today:
Franklin candidates express views at forum
--------
One item scheduled for discussion at the School Committee meeting Tuesday night is covered in the news today:
Franklin schools to weigh BMI question
Monday, October 26, 2009
Live reporting - Closing comments
2 minutes for closing comments by each candidate
Mason - essential for citizens to exercise their right to vote. The decisions the Council make will be critical over the next two years.
McGann's statement being read by Larry Benedetto. Public safety, schools and the seniors are our primary concerns Promote increased mixed use development.
Pfeffer - I don't have all the answers, nobody else does either. We are all volunteers trying to make it work under tough circumstances. Seniors in Franklin are making decisions between food and medicine right now.
Vallee - I decided to return to the council because the cuts will have to made and be fair and equitable. Let's not dissect our school system to lose it's accreditation. I am concerned about the seniors and others with low income. We need to be vigilant about finding new revenue streams. I wan to reinforce and re-look at some bylaws.
Whalen - I am very concerned about the projected deficit for next year ($5-7 million). I would like to maintain a level service budget. It will be difficult but should be achievable.
Zollo - The strength of any community is how it treats its most vulnerable. It is not any one group. It can be one or more as the circumstances go. I am discouraged by some of the things said about having somethings off the table. In this crisis, everything must be on the table. Service on the council should help to generate a greater level of pride in Franklin. I urge you all to vote, there needs to be civic participation on Nov 3rd.
Avakian - There has been always a fiscal problem, we didn't know how to spend the money in the times of high grown, now we don't know where to cut. This is our community our town.
Ballenger - I think it obvious we are heading to a fiscal crisis. We will get through this. Look for as many solutions outside the normal. Use of college students for labor; i.e. cheap labor. Ask the citizens of Franklin to donate some time and not just their money. You don't know until you ask.
Jones - A lot of topics have come across tonight, there will be lots of solutions too. It takes a tough individual to put aside biases to deal with the issues. I am that individual. Respect, honor, dedication. Never give up, never give in.
Kelly - Thanks for the opportunity for sharing my opinions in this forum. The challenges are here. My participation on the School Committee and Long Range Planning have prepared me for the challenges. You vote on Nov 3rd will show me how much you know and love the Town.
Powderly - I hope everyone comes away from the Forum with a better idea of what we all bring. The budget crisis is real but we have a lot of strengths, our energy should be spent on addressing the causes of the crisis, like our over reliance on the State Aid. Communication is a two way street. Please vote, please make sure your friends vote.
Mason - essential for citizens to exercise their right to vote. The decisions the Council make will be critical over the next two years.
McGann's statement being read by Larry Benedetto. Public safety, schools and the seniors are our primary concerns Promote increased mixed use development.
Pfeffer - I don't have all the answers, nobody else does either. We are all volunteers trying to make it work under tough circumstances. Seniors in Franklin are making decisions between food and medicine right now.
Vallee - I decided to return to the council because the cuts will have to made and be fair and equitable. Let's not dissect our school system to lose it's accreditation. I am concerned about the seniors and others with low income. We need to be vigilant about finding new revenue streams. I wan to reinforce and re-look at some bylaws.
Whalen - I am very concerned about the projected deficit for next year ($5-7 million). I would like to maintain a level service budget. It will be difficult but should be achievable.
Zollo - The strength of any community is how it treats its most vulnerable. It is not any one group. It can be one or more as the circumstances go. I am discouraged by some of the things said about having somethings off the table. In this crisis, everything must be on the table. Service on the council should help to generate a greater level of pride in Franklin. I urge you all to vote, there needs to be civic participation on Nov 3rd.
Avakian - There has been always a fiscal problem, we didn't know how to spend the money in the times of high grown, now we don't know where to cut. This is our community our town.
Ballenger - I think it obvious we are heading to a fiscal crisis. We will get through this. Look for as many solutions outside the normal. Use of college students for labor; i.e. cheap labor. Ask the citizens of Franklin to donate some time and not just their money. You don't know until you ask.
Jones - A lot of topics have come across tonight, there will be lots of solutions too. It takes a tough individual to put aside biases to deal with the issues. I am that individual. Respect, honor, dedication. Never give up, never give in.
Kelly - Thanks for the opportunity for sharing my opinions in this forum. The challenges are here. My participation on the School Committee and Long Range Planning have prepared me for the challenges. You vote on Nov 3rd will show me how much you know and love the Town.
Powderly - I hope everyone comes away from the Forum with a better idea of what we all bring. The budget crisis is real but we have a lot of strengths, our energy should be spent on addressing the causes of the crisis, like our over reliance on the State Aid. Communication is a two way street. Please vote, please make sure your friends vote.
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