Fund raising for the Franklin Food Pantry
Christmas concert to raise funds for Franklin Food Pantry
-----
The annual Christmas lunch provided by the Franklin Police at the Senior Center
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Historical Commission is looking for help
The Historical Commission is in need of your help.
The Historical Commission is in the process of planning the move of the Franklin Historic Museum from Washington Street to West Central Street and they are looking for assistance.
On December 29th, they are planning a work session at the Washington St. Museum. Your assistance is requested to help pack, label and box items for transfer to the new museum.
If you are able to offer some time, please contact Alan Earls at 508-528-6930 or alan.earls@comcast.net or Del Arnold at 508-528-0867 or delarn@aol.com for more details. Thank you.
The Historical Commission is in the process of planning the move of the Franklin Historic Museum from Washington Street to West Central Street and they are looking for assistance.
On December 29th, they are planning a work session at the Washington St. Museum. Your assistance is requested to help pack, label and box items for transfer to the new museum.
If you are able to offer some time, please contact Alan Earls at 508-528-6930 or alan.earls@comcast.net or Del Arnold at 508-528-0867 or delarn@aol.com for more details. Thank you.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Laughter will keep you warm
One way to keep warm is with laughter. Laughter comes naturally with fun. Bernie DeKoven, the Funsmith, has a collection of quotes on fun that is purely delightful:
If you have a quote that could be redone to make it more fun, please send it on to Bernie.
"Ask not what fun does for you. Ask rather what you do for fun." - the OaquiFor more quotes from the Oaqui, click through here.
"The more fun you have, the greater your value to yourself and to your society. The more fun you share with others, the more fun you have." - the Oaqui
"For every Way there's a way of following that Way that's fun" - the Oaqui
"The Path that is best for you is the Path that keeps the best of you in play" - the Oaqui
If you have a quote that could be redone to make it more fun, please send it on to Bernie.
Cold and frosty
The window at Berry Insurance provided a holiday scene on the cold and frosty Thursday morning:
Meeting summaries
The last official Town meeting I will attend during 2009 completed Wednesday evening. If you need to recall some detail from a meeting of the Finance Committee, Financial Planning Committee, School Committee or Town Council, the archives are available here.
My published notes are not perfect as they are captured real time (and updated as necessary). If you don't find the detail you are looking for, please ask me.
You can also view the video archive for most of these meetings on the Town website here
My meeting summaries:
By the way, the meeting summaries for 2008 are contained in the far right column.
Express LIne #4
The latest Express Line is available.
You can subscribe to this newsletter and other email notifications on the Franklin Town website here
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
You can subscribe to this newsletter and other email notifications on the Franklin Town website here
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Town Council Mtg Smry 12/16/09
The live reported posts from the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, Dec 16 can be found here:
In the News - affordable housing, Abbey wind power
A good use for the money that has accumulated in the Housing Trust Fund. This creates affordable housing for folks wanting to live in Franklin by using houses already on the market rather than creating new housing.
Franklin to offer grants to first-time homebuyers
Abbey has wind turbine installed
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
live reporting - closing items
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Express Line #4 published
Maxine did good work on this
recycle holiday wrappings, etc
Tree pick up Jan 9th
H1N1 Flu clinic
last week and today, thanks for all helping
well attended moving smoothly
a huge success
10-12 year history on snow budget
highlight in Express Line
in 1998 vs 2009 police statistics
more calls with less folks
thanks to the employees for doing this
Fire Dept calls are up, DPW road miles have grown
DPW is down 6 positions so handling the snow will be a little be slower this time around
trying not to fill jobs until the budget picture clarifies in a couple of months
belt tightening across many departments
some positions are critical and can't go unfilled but for others we are waiting to see what the numbers from the State will be
Community Development
application scoring increased from 83 to 89 (need to check the numbers)
this helps with grant applications
L. OLD BUSINESS - none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Powderly - request to examine tax waiver and see if this can be increased from $20K to 40K
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Powderly - tour of the schools today, very amazing and eye opening
Zollo - thanks to Rep Vallee for the visit to the State for insight into State finances
Pfeffer - holiday wishes to all
Jones - thanks to Rep Vallee for lunch and the info yesterday, thanks to Roy and Sabolinski for the world wind tour of the schools today
Vallee - Merry Christmas to all
Mason - Senior Center first councilors forum, was a great event. Will be back. This Senior Center is so well liked, it draws seniors from other towns. We will be back in February
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed 8-0
Express Line #4 published
Maxine did good work on this
recycle holiday wrappings, etc
Tree pick up Jan 9th
H1N1 Flu clinic
last week and today, thanks for all helping
well attended moving smoothly
a huge success
10-12 year history on snow budget
highlight in Express Line
in 1998 vs 2009 police statistics
more calls with less folks
thanks to the employees for doing this
Fire Dept calls are up, DPW road miles have grown
DPW is down 6 positions so handling the snow will be a little be slower this time around
trying not to fill jobs until the budget picture clarifies in a couple of months
belt tightening across many departments
some positions are critical and can't go unfilled but for others we are waiting to see what the numbers from the State will be
Community Development
application scoring increased from 83 to 89 (need to check the numbers)
this helps with grant applications
L. OLD BUSINESS - none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Powderly - request to examine tax waiver and see if this can be increased from $20K to 40K
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Powderly - tour of the schools today, very amazing and eye opening
Zollo - thanks to Rep Vallee for the visit to the State for insight into State finances
Pfeffer - holiday wishes to all
Jones - thanks to Rep Vallee for lunch and the info yesterday, thanks to Roy and Sabolinski for the world wind tour of the schools today
Vallee - Merry Christmas to all
Mason - Senior Center first councilors forum, was a great event. Will be back. This Senior Center is so well liked, it draws seniors from other towns. We will be back in February
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed 8-0
Live reporting - Legislation
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - Municipal Housing Trust
funding to create at least six low income housing units from existing housing not to be used for new housing
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-82: Legal Notices
motion to approve - passed 8-0
2. Resolution 09-83: 2010 Town Council Meeting Schedule
motion to approve - passed 8-0
Whalen - question on the April schedule
Nutting - this was done to avoid the school vacation schedule, it can be changed
Mason - there are no special meetings scheduled
Nutting - we can schedule them as needed, rather than schedule them and cancel them if we don't need them
3. Resolution 09-84: Endorsement of Fiscal Policies
motion to approve - passed 8-0
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 2nd Reading
motion to approve - passed 8-0 (via roll call vote, all yes)
Beth Dahlstrom, Nick Alfieri attending to answer questions
vote re-done to clarify the motion
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 2nd Reading
motion to approve - passed 8-0
funding to create at least six low income housing units from existing housing not to be used for new housing
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-82: Legal Notices
motion to approve - passed 8-0
2. Resolution 09-83: 2010 Town Council Meeting Schedule
motion to approve - passed 8-0
Whalen - question on the April schedule
Nutting - this was done to avoid the school vacation schedule, it can be changed
Mason - there are no special meetings scheduled
Nutting - we can schedule them as needed, rather than schedule them and cancel them if we don't need them
3. Resolution 09-84: Endorsement of Fiscal Policies
motion to approve - passed 8-0
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 2nd Reading
motion to approve - passed 8-0 (via roll call vote, all yes)
Beth Dahlstrom, Nick Alfieri attending to answer questions
vote re-done to clarify the motion
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 2nd Reading
motion to approve - passed 8-0
Live reporting - Town Council
Attending: Kelly, Jones, Vallee, Whalen, Mason, Pfeffer, Zollo, Powderly
Missing: McGann
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – November 18, 2009
motion to approve, passed 7-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS - none
F. HEARINGS - none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Change of Manager – Shaw’s
motion to approve - passed 8-0 (Vallee arrived)
Missing: McGann
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – November 18, 2009
motion to approve, passed 7-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS - none
F. HEARINGS - none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Change of Manager – Shaw’s
motion to approve - passed 8-0 (Vallee arrived)
K12 Online Conference
There is a great conference om K12 education occurring using the Internet this week. Three good links for presentations that occurred yesterday can be found here. Each link will take you to the individual page where you can see the video or listen to the audio of the presentation along with additional reference links.
1 -
Parallel Play or Collaboration–Leveraging the Wiki Platform for High Quality Work
Thriving in a Collaborative Web 2.0 Classroom: The “Great Debate” and “Student News Action Network”
Engaging Our Youngest Minds
School Committee Mtg 12/15/09
The live reporting post from the School Committee meeting on Tuesday Dec 15th can be found here:
This was the annual self evaluation session for the Committee. 5 of the 7 had filled out the form prior to the meeting. Jeff Roy presented what the feedback on the survey was for each point. Then it was open for discussion to add anything.
The self evaluation form:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the document.
This was the annual self evaluation session for the Committee. 5 of the 7 had filled out the form prior to the meeting. Jeff Roy presented what the feedback on the survey was for each point. Then it was open for discussion to add anything.
The self evaluation form:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the document.
"there's always room for improvement"
Chairman Jeffrey Roy said board members' e-mail addresses are listed online, and people with complaints should take the time to find them to send a message.
"Today, with e-mail, people get (angry), send an e-mail and regret it 15 minutes later," he said. "I like the idea of making people work a little bit so they have to formulate their thoughts."
Though there's always room for improvement, Roy said the committee provides the community with an abundance of information. He cited the School Committee's Web site, blog and the superintendent's site.
"I've got to say the level of involvement and effort in education materials is incredible ... we've made this stuff available to the community," he said. "There's a certain level of accountability for the public to take some steps" to get the information.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Live reporting - School Committee Meeting (part 2)
meeting resume
Recap of prior discussions:
read mission statement at each meeting
leave cell phones in purse or pocket, off
work on website
review strategic plan a couple of times
work collaboratively with other boards
look to self publishing
1 - discussion on use of email
Ed to check with T Raposa on school email addresses, could be a third email address for some members
would provide archiving and retention for official business
pro - if discovery were required, one the system would handle the archiving email, two the email would be separate from personal email
con - would add an additional email for some members, need to explore the client option
2 - new member questions
none
3 - budget subcommittee
discussion on level service vs. level funding
schedule a specific meeting for discussion on the budget to review ways to bridge the gap
meeting adjourns
Recap of prior discussions:
read mission statement at each meeting
leave cell phones in purse or pocket, off
work on website
review strategic plan a couple of times
work collaboratively with other boards
look to self publishing
1 - discussion on use of email
Ed to check with T Raposa on school email addresses, could be a third email address for some members
would provide archiving and retention for official business
pro - if discovery were required, one the system would handle the archiving email, two the email would be separate from personal email
con - would add an additional email for some members, need to explore the client option
2 - new member questions
none
3 - budget subcommittee
discussion on level service vs. level funding
schedule a specific meeting for discussion on the budget to review ways to bridge the gap
will start general discussions on the budget at Jan 12th
Committee to provide some input to the Administration on what the Committee would like to see
the meeting on January 26th would be the Administration presentation on the first pass of the budget
Sue looking for suggestions on the budget subcommittee
meeting adjourns
Live reporting - School Committee Meeting
Attending: Mullen, Roy, Rohrbach, Cafasso, Trahan, Glynn, Douglas
Missing: none
Also present: Ashley Studley, Maureen Sabolinksi, Miriam Goodman, Sally Winslow
Topic 1 - Budget
suggestion to read one of the Strategic Objectives at the beginning of each meeting
suggestion to help the community follow the numbers discussion with a single document referenced at each meeting so we can all stay "on the same page"
Topic 2 - Develop Policy
need one location for policies
Maureen to check on this with T Raposa on a solution
The MASC requires the naming scheme
Topic 3 - Evaluation Process of Superintendent
discussion on strategic plan and timing of updates considering the District and individual School Improvement Plans
(note this is covering the evaluation process itself, the specific evaluation is done separately)
Topic 4 - Modeling Behavior
Do well most of the time but laptops can be a distraction
some laptop usability insights should be provided to help project a professional and consistent appearance
maintain eye contact during presentations
speak into the microphones so your valid comments can be heard properly
Topic 5 - Working with other Boards
varied responses on this one
there was a problem over the consolidation of facilities but things have improved considerably since then
the two approaches to solving the problem that were very different but both had the same cost savings benefits in mind
the relationship with the new Council has gotten off to a good start
Topic 6 - Ambassadors to the Public
School Committee blog getting good traffic, Ed's email listing has grown
Could do more in the way of other forums, hold a public forum to communicate more directly twice a year
level of involvement in the committee has been good, there is a level of accountability for the community
Website issue causing some problems since the upgrade for the Town and the split from the service
move towards self publishing to help address this
members of the community do have the opportunity to participate
there is a difference between the citizens comment and agenda items
issues will attract attendance, raising fees, cutting buses, music, sports, will generate attendance but we don't want to create a crisis for each meeting
if someone has something to say, they can sit down and write a letter, or work a little bit to formulate their thoughts to send an email
break
Missing: none
Also present: Ashley Studley, Maureen Sabolinksi, Miriam Goodman, Sally Winslow
Topic 1 - Budget
suggestion to read one of the Strategic Objectives at the beginning of each meeting
suggestion to help the community follow the numbers discussion with a single document referenced at each meeting so we can all stay "on the same page"
Topic 2 - Develop Policy
need one location for policies
Maureen to check on this with T Raposa on a solution
The MASC requires the naming scheme
Topic 3 - Evaluation Process of Superintendent
discussion on strategic plan and timing of updates considering the District and individual School Improvement Plans
(note this is covering the evaluation process itself, the specific evaluation is done separately)
Topic 4 - Modeling Behavior
Do well most of the time but laptops can be a distraction
some laptop usability insights should be provided to help project a professional and consistent appearance
maintain eye contact during presentations
speak into the microphones so your valid comments can be heard properly
Topic 5 - Working with other Boards
varied responses on this one
there was a problem over the consolidation of facilities but things have improved considerably since then
the two approaches to solving the problem that were very different but both had the same cost savings benefits in mind
the relationship with the new Council has gotten off to a good start
Topic 6 - Ambassadors to the Public
School Committee blog getting good traffic, Ed's email listing has grown
Could do more in the way of other forums, hold a public forum to communicate more directly twice a year
level of involvement in the committee has been good, there is a level of accountability for the community
Website issue causing some problems since the upgrade for the Town and the split from the service
move towards self publishing to help address this
members of the community do have the opportunity to participate
there is a difference between the citizens comment and agenda items
issues will attract attendance, raising fees, cutting buses, music, sports, will generate attendance but we don't want to create a crisis for each meeting
if someone has something to say, they can sit down and write a letter, or work a little bit to formulate their thoughts to send an email
break
School Committee - no agenda
There is a School Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday evening December 15th.
No agenda has been posted for this meeting.
No agenda has been posted for this meeting.
Town Council and School Committee Attendance
I have added and will be updating a spreadsheet to keep track of the attendance records for the Town Council and School Committee as these two groups go forward. Keeping track of the sheet as each meeting occurs will be easier than trying to do a year or more at a time.
The spreadsheet can be found here and in the Important Links section in the middle column. You should be able to view the spreadsheet but not be able to update it (assuming the permissions work out properly).
The spreadsheet has two tabs: one for each group. The tabs are found on the bottom of the spreadsheet.
The coding for attendance will be as follows:
Yes, an easy mnemonic to see if someone's attendance will pale in comparison to another's. Pun fully intended as the mnemonic.
The spreadsheet can be found here and in the Important Links section in the middle column. You should be able to view the spreadsheet but not be able to update it (assuming the permissions work out properly).
The spreadsheet has two tabs: one for each group. The tabs are found on the bottom of the spreadsheet.
The coding for attendance will be as follows:
P - Present
A - Absent
L - Late (arriving)
E - Early (to leave)
Yes, an easy mnemonic to see if someone's attendance will pale in comparison to another's. Pun fully intended as the mnemonic.
In the News - Dean College
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News hereDean College in Franklin will receive $125,000 for its embedded study model project, which aims to include academic support methods in the classroom.
"This is what students need to learn in tandem with the techniques they need," said Pat Samson, the school's communications director. "It embeds academic support techniques into the curriculum, making them available for all students. It's what we call the Dean method."
Principally a two-year school, Dean differs from community colleges in that it goes further to ensure students have the tools they need to learn in a college atmosphere, said Samson, adding that the school's retention and graduation rates are above average.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Franklin - H1N1 Flu Clinic - Wed - 12/16/09
FRANKLIN HEALTH DEPARTMENT H1N1 FLU CLINIC ANNOUNCEMENT
December 14, 2009
The Franklin Health Department will be holding an H1N1 flu clinic for Franklin residents on Wednesday December 16, 2009 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Franklin High School Field House 218 Oak Street.
The following persons are eligible to receive the H1N1 on a first come first served basis, consistent with Massachusetts Department of Public Health and CDC guidelines for vaccine administration:
* Children in 1st through 8th grades.
Please be advised, the Health Department has received nearly 70% of our vaccine allocation in the nasal spray form. Because this is a live attenuated vaccine, this formulation is only for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 years of age.
All individuals to be vaccinated in the 2-49 age groups without a contra-indicated medical history will be administered the nasal spray.
All individuals to be vaccinated are to present a completed consent form. No vaccine will be administered without a completed and signed consent form. A downloadable consent form is available on both the Health Department and School Department websites as well.
All residents will be asked to produce a valid driver’s license or other identification at the time of registration.
The Franklin Health Department will continue to hold additional H1N1 flu clinics in the coming weeks until all the high priority groups have been vaccinated. Once the priority groups are vaccinated, vaccine will be available for all residents until our supply has been exhausted.
We ask all residents to please be patient and to anticipate some waiting, as we institute our large-scale public vaccination plan.
David E. McKearney, R.S.
Public Health Director
Franklin Health Department
Franklin Board of Health
Bruce Hunchard, Chair
Paul Cheli
Donald Ranieri, JR.
This was originally posted to the Town website. You can visit the site to obtain the consent form required.
December 14, 2009
The Franklin Health Department will be holding an H1N1 flu clinic for Franklin residents on Wednesday December 16, 2009 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Franklin High School Field House 218 Oak Street.
The following persons are eligible to receive the H1N1 on a first come first served basis, consistent with Massachusetts Department of Public Health and CDC guidelines for vaccine administration:
* Children in 1st through 8th grades.
Please be advised, the Health Department has received nearly 70% of our vaccine allocation in the nasal spray form. Because this is a live attenuated vaccine, this formulation is only for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 years of age.
All individuals to be vaccinated in the 2-49 age groups without a contra-indicated medical history will be administered the nasal spray.
All individuals to be vaccinated are to present a completed consent form. No vaccine will be administered without a completed and signed consent form. A downloadable consent form is available on both the Health Department and School Department websites as well.
All residents will be asked to produce a valid driver’s license or other identification at the time of registration.
The Franklin Health Department will continue to hold additional H1N1 flu clinics in the coming weeks until all the high priority groups have been vaccinated. Once the priority groups are vaccinated, vaccine will be available for all residents until our supply has been exhausted.
We ask all residents to please be patient and to anticipate some waiting, as we institute our large-scale public vaccination plan.
David E. McKearney, R.S.
Public Health Director
Franklin Health Department
Franklin Board of Health
Bruce Hunchard, Chair
Paul Cheli
Donald Ranieri, JR.
This was originally posted to the Town website. You can visit the site to obtain the consent form required.
FM #51 The Nutcracker Voting Episode
This internet radio show or podcast is number 51 in the series for Franklin Matters.
In this session, you give me about ten minutes and I'll fill you in on what matters in Franklin, MA as it comes to a close this week, December 13, 2009
Time: 8 minutes, 4 seconds
MP3 File
Note: email subscribers should click through to the website to hear the audio version and to view the video sample from the Bolshoi Ballet performing a portion of the Nutcracker.
Session Notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 51 in the series for Franklin Matters.
In this session, you give me about ten minutes and I'll fill you in on what matters in Franklin, MA as it comes to a close this week, December 13, 2009.
'Tis the season, girls in red dresses, boys with green ties, ladies with patten leather shoes...
All gathering on a night out for the annual production of The Nutcracker by the Franklin Performing Arts Company.
The parking lot for the Thomas Mercer Auditorium at the Horace Mann/Oak Street complex is filling rapidly.
Ahead of us a mother talks with her daughter about the school friend who'll be an angel and the play friend who'll be a polychannelle. While the father talks with son sternly, come on, we gotta go, you'll end up liking this … and the parents shepherd their children to the door.
Inside the door, the warmth of the corridor is welcome. The buzz is enchanting. The ticket table has a line for the “will call” tickets, all others have been sold out for this performance.
A table is set up to send a message to a 'star' performer and put it into the special mailbox.
The Spotlight Shop has oodles of stuff for sale, Nutcracker souvenirs to wear or hang or dust eventually!
The crowd moves along slowly towards the hall entrance. Odd number tickets to the left, even to the right. Triple digit tickets are in the center section so you can go in either way. A new box of playbills is cracked open, some one graciously checks your ticket, hands you a booklet and your off down the aisle to find your seat.
The audience is filling the hall, the orchestra is tuning their instruments, you may pick up a recognizable string of notes here and there as you settle in your seat.
The lights dim, Instead of the usual grand voice announcing this production and making the usual reminders to turn off your cell phones and pagers, reminding you of the prohibition on all photography, video or camera, you are startled to hear the following:
Ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for coming this evening, let's just take a couple of moments to reflect on the audience here tonight.
Please look around you. Don't be bashful, these are friendly folks, all related in someway to the performers this evening, hence all are connected to Franklin.
This hall seats over 800 people. There shouldn't be an empty seat here this evening, the performance is sold out. It has taken months of rehearsals, planning, posting flyers, selling tickets for this successful event. Which you are all here to enjoy.
Would the folks in the center section, rows A through J please stand up? Yes, please. Rows A through J. that's right, Thank you!
Ladies and gentlemen, the folks represent 16% of the audience here this evening. Why 16%? It was 16% of the registered Franklin voters, the folks who cared enough to cast a ballot for the most recent Town election on November 3rd. Please give them a round of applause!
These folks are the ones who have cast their ballots to elect the Town Council, School Committee and other elected board positions that effectively and on a volunteer basis will oversee Franklin's operations. These elected folks will make decisions on your behalf for the police, fire, DPW, library and School services. These folks will determine the priorities for how your property tax dollars are spent.
You may complain about what you don't like but you had a choice to vote.
You have a choice to become involved and more aware of what is going on in Franklin.
You bought a ticket to come here this evening.
You don't need to buy a ticket to go to a Town Council meeting, a School Committee meeting, or to vote.
It is your choice.
The Town Council will be approving a new trash collection contract next year. You can get involved now.
The Town Council will eventually approve the downtown renovation plan that may change some streets from one-way to two way traffic through downtown.
You can start paying attention now.
The School Committee will be determining how to meet the needs of your children's education. You can get involved now.
It is your choice.
Now, we'll return you to the scheduled performance of the Nutcracker:
---- ---- ----
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I can use your help.
How can you help?
If you like this, please tell a neighbor.
If you don't like this, please tell me.
Thank you for listening.
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 music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and East of Shirley. The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with permission.
In this session, you give me about ten minutes and I'll fill you in on what matters in Franklin, MA as it comes to a close this week, December 13, 2009
Time: 8 minutes, 4 seconds
MP3 File
Note: email subscribers should click through to the website to hear the audio version and to view the video sample from the Bolshoi Ballet performing a portion of the Nutcracker.
Session Notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 51 in the series for Franklin Matters.
In this session, you give me about ten minutes and I'll fill you in on what matters in Franklin, MA as it comes to a close this week, December 13, 2009.
'Tis the season, girls in red dresses, boys with green ties, ladies with patten leather shoes...
All gathering on a night out for the annual production of The Nutcracker by the Franklin Performing Arts Company.
The parking lot for the Thomas Mercer Auditorium at the Horace Mann/Oak Street complex is filling rapidly.
Ahead of us a mother talks with her daughter about the school friend who'll be an angel and the play friend who'll be a polychannelle. While the father talks with son sternly, come on, we gotta go, you'll end up liking this … and the parents shepherd their children to the door.
Inside the door, the warmth of the corridor is welcome. The buzz is enchanting. The ticket table has a line for the “will call” tickets, all others have been sold out for this performance.
A table is set up to send a message to a 'star' performer and put it into the special mailbox.
The Spotlight Shop has oodles of stuff for sale, Nutcracker souvenirs to wear or hang or dust eventually!
The crowd moves along slowly towards the hall entrance. Odd number tickets to the left, even to the right. Triple digit tickets are in the center section so you can go in either way. A new box of playbills is cracked open, some one graciously checks your ticket, hands you a booklet and your off down the aisle to find your seat.
The audience is filling the hall, the orchestra is tuning their instruments, you may pick up a recognizable string of notes here and there as you settle in your seat.
The lights dim, Instead of the usual grand voice announcing this production and making the usual reminders to turn off your cell phones and pagers, reminding you of the prohibition on all photography, video or camera, you are startled to hear the following:
Ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for coming this evening, let's just take a couple of moments to reflect on the audience here tonight.
Please look around you. Don't be bashful, these are friendly folks, all related in someway to the performers this evening, hence all are connected to Franklin.
This hall seats over 800 people. There shouldn't be an empty seat here this evening, the performance is sold out. It has taken months of rehearsals, planning, posting flyers, selling tickets for this successful event. Which you are all here to enjoy.
Would the folks in the center section, rows A through J please stand up? Yes, please. Rows A through J. that's right, Thank you!
Ladies and gentlemen, the folks represent 16% of the audience here this evening. Why 16%? It was 16% of the registered Franklin voters, the folks who cared enough to cast a ballot for the most recent Town election on November 3rd. Please give them a round of applause!
These folks are the ones who have cast their ballots to elect the Town Council, School Committee and other elected board positions that effectively and on a volunteer basis will oversee Franklin's operations. These elected folks will make decisions on your behalf for the police, fire, DPW, library and School services. These folks will determine the priorities for how your property tax dollars are spent.
You may complain about what you don't like but you had a choice to vote.
You have a choice to become involved and more aware of what is going on in Franklin.
You bought a ticket to come here this evening.
You don't need to buy a ticket to go to a Town Council meeting, a School Committee meeting, or to vote.
It is your choice.
The Town Council will be approving a new trash collection contract next year. You can get involved now.
The Town Council will eventually approve the downtown renovation plan that may change some streets from one-way to two way traffic through downtown.
You can start paying attention now.
The School Committee will be determining how to meet the needs of your children's education. You can get involved now.
It is your choice.
Now, we'll return you to the scheduled performance of the Nutcracker:
---- ---- ----
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I can use your help.
How can you help?
If you like this, please tell a neighbor.
If you don't like this, please tell me.
Thank you for listening.
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 music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and East of Shirley. The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with permission.
Municipal Lot Parking Lottery
Use the Dean College MBTA stop on Depot Street?
Want a parking permit for the Municipal Lots
Town of Franklin: one is on Depot Street
View Larger Map
and one is on W Central St next to White Hen?
View Larger Map
We hold a lottery every quarter (three months; Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep and Oct-Dec).
Permits are $120 per quarter.
More information? Call 1-508-528-1212 extension 2721 or 2777
To receive notifications like these directly to your email, you can sign up on the Town website here
Want a parking permit for the Municipal Lots
Town of Franklin: one is on Depot Street
View Larger Map
and one is on W Central St next to White Hen?
View Larger Map
We hold a lottery every quarter (three months; Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep and Oct-Dec).
Permits are $120 per quarter.
More information? Call 1-508-528-1212 extension 2721 or 2777
To receive notifications like these directly to your email, you can sign up on the Town website here
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Town Council - Agenda - 12/16/09
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – November 18, 2009
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Change of Manager – Shaw’s
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - Municipal Housing Trust
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-82: Legal Notices
2. Resolution 09-83: 2010 Town Council Meeting Schedule
3. Resolution 09-84: Endorsement of Fiscal Policies
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 2nd Reading
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 2nd Reading
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
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Change of Manager – Shaw’s
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - Municipal Housing Trust
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-82: Legal Notices
2. Resolution 09-83: 2010 Town Council Meeting Schedule
3. Resolution 09-84: Endorsement of Fiscal Policies
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 2nd Reading
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 2nd Reading
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
Green recycling for the holidays
From Franklin Recycling comes these tips on recycling for the holidays
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the document.
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_vKSsOwE0x9FIdiF4m5TGF6AmPqhGY76cBzPtm39ZuL3HIkbJPWGLWXS2967Q5HykvqCFlLuUpTCyt8OD0X2GBkg6TXurBm6KzT3TaRp6O37T6cl-Vuaqv3Qst4nyTEQ-MTNY-KKAi3HJTbvm4wagtw=s0-d)
‘Tis the season for gift giving and with it comes large amounts that can be recycled before it goes in the trash. Remember the trash limit is 3 bags; so recycling makes even more sense. More than 60% of trash can be recycled so if you are putting more trash out than recycling, there is more you can do.
You can read the reminder online at the Town website
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the document.
In the News - Garelick, Carberry
Garelick Farms ammonia leak
Ammonia leak released vapor cloud at Garelick Farms this morning
------
Helen Carberry celebrates 100
Generations in Franklin know Helen Carberry
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Snow Removal Bylaws
Uses of Streets, Chapter 155-20
No person shall plow, push, deposit, throw or pile snow or ice into or across any public street, sidewalk or property nor direct nor cause the same to be done unless in the employ of the Town.
This bylaw is important and necessary to ensure safe roads and sidewalks. It also helps the DPW to reduce its cost of snow and ice operations.
No person shall plow, push, deposit, throw or pile snow or ice into or across any public street, sidewalk or property nor direct nor cause the same to be done unless in the employ of the Town.
This bylaw is important and necessary to ensure safe roads and sidewalks. It also helps the DPW to reduce its cost of snow and ice operations.
Violators may be fined up to $300 for each day such violation continues.
No All Night Parking, Chapter 170-7
It shall be unlawful for the driver of any vehicle, other than one acting in an emergency, to park said vehicle on any street between the hours of 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM of any day between November 15th and April 15th.
No All Night Parking, Chapter 170-7
It shall be unlawful for the driver of any vehicle, other than one acting in an emergency, to park said vehicle on any street between the hours of 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM of any day between November 15th and April 15th.
It shall be unlawful for the driver of any vehicle, other than one acting in an emergency, to park said vehicle on any street during a snow storm in a way that obstructs snow removal equipment.
Parking on Sidewalks
Parking on sidewalks is illegal at all times and prevents the clearing of snow and ice.
Parking on Sidewalks
Parking on sidewalks is illegal at all times and prevents the clearing of snow and ice.
This can be found on the Town website along with the following Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Can I push snow from my property onto the sidewalk.
A. NO. A Town bylaw restricts this act. Additionally, such action may bring liability if an accident should occur. This also increases the town’s costs for snow operations.
Q. Do some streets receive priority during a snow storm?
A. YES. Major roadways and hills are a top priority.
Q. Does the Town really need a parking ban?
A. YES. Snowplowing and removal are difficult; parked cars on the roadways not only increase the number of hazards, but also the time it takes to remove the snow.
Q. Do sidewalks receive the same priority as streets?
A. NO. The roads are always plowed first. Only certain sidewalks are plowed when the storm has ended.
Q. Why is snow pushed into my driveway?
A. The situation is unavoidable. The plows remove the snow from curb to curb for maximum clearance of the roadway. This provides for maximum drainage and public safety.
Q. Will trash and recyclables be collected during a snow storm?
A. YES. Trash should be placed so it does not hinder the street plows or sidewalk plows.
Q. Who determines the opening, closing or delayed opening of school during snow and ice storms?
A. The school superintendent.
Intimacy, control and learning environments
Some food for thought
from TED Talks, Stefana Broadbent: How the Internet enables intimacy
Intimacy? Control? Learning environment?
Note: for email subscribers, you will need to clock through to the website to view the video
from TED Talks, Stefana Broadbent: How the Internet enables intimacy
Intimacy? Control? Learning environment?
Note: for email subscribers, you will need to clock through to the website to view the video
Friday, December 11, 2009
"There is no limit on changes in the tax rates"
It is tax rate season. Franklin's property tax rate was set last week and Boston's tax rate was set this week. There was a good write up on Boston's tax rate situation especially given the mishandling in the Boston Globe story. I thought this paragraph was succinct:
Proposition 2 1/2 limits the overall annual levy increase in a community to 2.5 percent plus taxes on any new development. There is no limit on changes in the tax rates, which are simply adjusted up or down, depending on what has happened with assessed values, in order to arrive at the total levy target from residential and commercial properties that city budget writers have drawn-up.You can read the full article by Michael Jonas in Commonwealth Unbound here
Sustainable Farming event rescheduled
Metacomet Land Trust has re-scheduled its program on Sustainable Farming due to the after effects of Wednesday's snow storm...
Please join us Wednesday, December 16th, at the Mendon Senior Center, 62 Providence Street, Mendon for this program with Carolyn and Rob Nicholson of Sweetwilliam Farm (Upton). Rob and Carolyn will discuss Sustainable Farming in our region.
Come hear the perspective of a practicing farmer when Rob and Caroline present our Annual Meeting program. We'll also discuss the important connection our land preservation efforts have to supporting agriculture in the region.
Metacomet's short annual meeting will begin at 6:30, followed by the program with Carolyn and Rob at 7:00. Please stay for refreshments and conversation after the program.
This program is free; a small donation is requested at the door.
Please join us Wednesday, December 16th, at the Mendon Senior Center, 62 Providence Street, Mendon for this program with Carolyn and Rob Nicholson of Sweetwilliam Farm (Upton). Rob and Carolyn will discuss Sustainable Farming in our region.
Come hear the perspective of a practicing farmer when Rob and Caroline present our Annual Meeting program. We'll also discuss the important connection our land preservation efforts have to supporting agriculture in the region.
Metacomet's short annual meeting will begin at 6:30, followed by the program with Carolyn and Rob at 7:00. Please stay for refreshments and conversation after the program.
This program is free; a small donation is requested at the door.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Town Council Goal Setting - 12/09/09
The Town Council met on Wednesday evening for a "Goal setting session". Councilors Whalen and Zollo arrived late as the meeting started earlier than normal at 6:00 PM. Councilor Vallee left about 7:00 PM. The remaining Councilors went into Executive Session approx. 7:45 PM not to return to open meeting.
I chose not to live blog the meeting as I wasn't sure how long it would be. I took my notes the old fashioned way.
Briefly, it wasn't as much a goal setting session as it was a getting up to speed session for the new council. A review of standard policies and procedures was covered to set the stage for an effective operation as the Council would handle business going forward.
The key take-aways for me were:
The Council will bring forward and approve the existing fiscal policies that had guided the prior councils. These determine the operating guidelines for how much the stabilization fund should be, how much long term debt we should service from the operating budget, etc. A copy of the policy document will be provided later.
Councilors Whalen and Zollo will bring forward the prior subcommittee work on the the Charter revisions for presentation and discussion with the full Council.
The Planning and Community Development Dept will be bringing forward a number of by-law change proposals. The proposal on signs will likely be of interest to many. The Franklin Downtown Planning group received a preview of it and had a good discussion on the proposal.
The plans for the downtown renovation will be coming to the Council in the next 90-120 days. A decision on whether to put the utilities underground will need to be incorporated into the overall project plan. The Council decision will be (1) to put them underground (2) how to fund the work associated with the utilities (existing grants can not be used so it would either be debt or cash).
Much of the discussion was on the overall financial picture for the town. Currently, the Town has a revenue problem (insufficient tax base and over-reliance on State revenue) but even in good times the Town has an expense problem with health and pension benefits in particular rising at a 10-15% rate and the tax levy limited to 2.5%. The draft capital plan was reviewed including how the town will have room in their debt structure beginning 2011 to take on projects up to a total of $6 million (and finance them via debt).
Franklin eyes expensive projects
Panther Pride 2009
This video was shown during the School Committee meeting of October 27, 2009 and available during the Panther Pride night to provide an overview to the current 8th grade class.
Panther Pride 2009 from Franklin High School on Vimeo.
Enjoy!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters site to view the video.
Panther Pride 2009 from Franklin High School on Vimeo.
Enjoy!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters site to view the video.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
School Committee Mtg 12/08/09
The collection of live reported posts for the School Committee meeting on Tuesday Dec 8, 2009 can be found here:
- Live reporting - Closing
- Live reporting - Information matters
- Live reporting - Action items
- Live reporting - policies
- Live reporting - Discussion only items
- Live reporting - Metrowest Health Update
- Live reporting - Arts Academy Q&A
- Live reporting - Franklin Arts Academy
- Live reporting - School Committee Meeting
Knuf Said at Soco Rose, Dec 11th
The local group Knuf Said will be performing this Friday night, Dec 11th at the Soco Rose on Union Ave beginning at 9:30 PM.
Knuf Said on Myspace
Knuf Said at RI's Got Talent:
KnufSaid is made up of 4 young musicians who write and perform original music. They are influenced by Jazz, Blues, Rock and Funk Styles. They have performed at venues such as Cheers, Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, The Situate Art Festival, and many other local venues. They have opened for the John Allmark Jazz Orchestra and the Velveteen Playboys to name a few. They recently placed highest musical act and 3rd overall in the statewide competition, Rhode Island’s got talent. Band members include John Kinney on Vocals and lead guitar, Butch Giguere on Bass, Tyler Whetstone on Drums and Vocals and Steve Linscott on Alto Sax.Knuf Said performed at the recent Harvest Festival.
Knuf Said on Myspace
Knuf Said at RI's Got Talent:
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Live reporting - Closing
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports - none
School Committee Liaison Reports - none
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Cafasso - Would request to the Budget Committee, to see if it is feasible to use the vast number of empty seats to add a pay to ride and utilize those empty seats for the ride home.
Trahan - thanks for supporting the FEF Casino Night, please hold the date for the Trivia Bee - April 10th
Motion to enter executive session to not return to open meeting
Passed 7-0
School Committee Liaison Reports - none
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Cafasso - Would request to the Budget Committee, to see if it is feasible to use the vast number of empty seats to add a pay to ride and utilize those empty seats for the ride home.
Trahan - thanks for supporting the FEF Casino Night, please hold the date for the Trivia Bee - April 10th
Motion to enter executive session to not return to open meeting
Passed 7-0
Live reporting - Information matters
Letter received from NEASC continuing accreditation for Franklin High School
Principal Peter Light was creative to re-invent the high school within the budget considerations. Accreditation is a ten year cycle. A self-study is prepared and then updated with a visit from NEASC. We have been on a warning status due to budget problems. We have been providing status reports yearly. We submitted this last status late as the budget had been approved late. We feel pretty confident as we move forward. We are seeing a doubling of usage for the library/resource center under the new configuration.
We still have $38,000 for subscriptions to periodicals and other materials to keep our collection current.
We have basically four major things left to respond to, the four items are related to the renovation of the building.
We'll start the process five years out for the next accreditation cycle.
Glynn - congratulations and thank you!
Building Committee meeting on Dec 14th to move forward on the project to hire the OPM and hire the architect.
Principal Peter Light was creative to re-invent the high school within the budget considerations. Accreditation is a ten year cycle. A self-study is prepared and then updated with a visit from NEASC. We have been on a warning status due to budget problems. We have been providing status reports yearly. We submitted this last status late as the budget had been approved late. We feel pretty confident as we move forward. We are seeing a doubling of usage for the library/resource center under the new configuration.
We still have $38,000 for subscriptions to periodicals and other materials to keep our collection current.
We have basically four major things left to respond to, the four items are related to the renovation of the building.
We'll start the process five years out for the next accreditation cycle.
Glynn - congratulations and thank you!
Building Committee meeting on Dec 14th to move forward on the project to hire the OPM and hire the architect.
Live reporting - Action items
4. Action Items
a. I recommend adoption of Option One of the 2010-2011 School Calendar. motion to approve, passed 6-1 (Cafasso no)
b. I recommend approval of Remington Middle School’s request to declare the listed books as surplus. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend acceptance of two checks ($25.00 & $53.30) totaling $78.30 from Adirondack Vending for the RMS for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.00 from Fidelity for the Annie Sullivan Middle School for in-house enrichment, supplies and supplemental curriculum materials. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1050.00 from ASMS PCC for buses for field trips. motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend approval of Policy JIEE
motion to approve, passed 7-0
a. I recommend adoption of Option One of the 2010-2011 School Calendar. motion to approve, passed 6-1 (Cafasso no)
b. I recommend approval of Remington Middle School’s request to declare the listed books as surplus. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend acceptance of two checks ($25.00 & $53.30) totaling $78.30 from Adirondack Vending for the RMS for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.00 from Fidelity for the Annie Sullivan Middle School for in-house enrichment, supplies and supplemental curriculum materials. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1050.00 from ASMS PCC for buses for field trips. motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend approval of Policy JIEE
motion to approve, passed 7-0
Live reporting - policies
This was added to the agenda at the beginning of the meeting. The School Committee plans to review one third of their policies each year, hence covering all policies over a three year cycle.
BIBA
took out bullet point on reimbursement for travel
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
BID
took out bullet point on reimbursement for travel
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
BGS
change from 2/3 vote to a majority vote
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
DJA
Superintendent has authority to purchase
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
JIEE
no changes to this one covering the pregnant students
up for vote on the listing of action items
BIBA
took out bullet point on reimbursement for travel
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
BID
took out bullet point on reimbursement for travel
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
BGS
change from 2/3 vote to a majority vote
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
DJA
Superintendent has authority to purchase
motion to move to second reading, passed 7-0
JIEE
no changes to this one covering the pregnant students
up for vote on the listing of action items
Live reporting - Discussion only items
3. Discussion Only Items
a. 2010-2011 School Calendar Options - Maureen Sabolinski
discussion on the two options, proposing to have a professional day on Nov 2 which will be a major election day for the safety of the students and voters at the high school
Recommendation to start school before Labor Day.
Q - is this the first year we have had the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off?
A - No, we have had it for a number of years. It had been a low attendance day and this helps those who would travel.
b. H1N1 – Sally Winslow
First clinic Thursday, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Clinic to be manned by an all volunteer staff
Other dates are being evaluated as additional vaccine arrives. At the additional clinics we'll vaccinate other target groups and then the students by grade level.
via the attendance records, the virus seems to be declining throughout the district.
DPH will be onsite monitoring and coming to assist. Feedback thus far is that we have been far ahead of others in our organizational efforts.
c. Healthy Futures Summit – Maureen Sabolinski, Roberta Trahan
Mark Fenton has a show on PBS, did a bus tour of the communities before hand to explore the recreation opportunities, to provide some feedback on how to make Franklin more walkable.
Drafted an action plan. It was an incredible day, very engaging. Started implementing some of the plan, initiating changes to our food lunches at schools.
This is not just a school problem It will require a partnership to resolve.
What we are doing is better than implementing BMI.
There are some grants they we have applied for in conjunction with the YMCA, $120,000 for MASS in Motion. Metrowest Hospital grant was also just received just before the summit.
a. 2010-2011 School Calendar Options - Maureen Sabolinski
discussion on the two options, proposing to have a professional day on Nov 2 which will be a major election day for the safety of the students and voters at the high school
Recommendation to start school before Labor Day.
Q - is this the first year we have had the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off?
A - No, we have had it for a number of years. It had been a low attendance day and this helps those who would travel.
b. H1N1 – Sally Winslow
First clinic Thursday, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Clinic to be manned by an all volunteer staff
Other dates are being evaluated as additional vaccine arrives. At the additional clinics we'll vaccinate other target groups and then the students by grade level.
via the attendance records, the virus seems to be declining throughout the district.
DPH will be onsite monitoring and coming to assist. Feedback thus far is that we have been far ahead of others in our organizational efforts.
c. Healthy Futures Summit – Maureen Sabolinski, Roberta Trahan
Mark Fenton has a show on PBS, did a bus tour of the communities before hand to explore the recreation opportunities, to provide some feedback on how to make Franklin more walkable.
Drafted an action plan. It was an incredible day, very engaging. Started implementing some of the plan, initiating changes to our food lunches at schools.
This is not just a school problem It will require a partnership to resolve.
What we are doing is better than implementing BMI.
There are some grants they we have applied for in conjunction with the YMCA, $120,000 for MASS in Motion. Metrowest Hospital grant was also just received just before the summit.
Live reporting - Metrowest Health Update
b. Metrowest Health Update – Michele Kingsland-Smith
The survey is optional, parents/students can opt out of participation
tobacco use is declining
bullying is increasing
drinking has declined but the stats are still fairly high
experimentation with drugs does begin at the middle school
The Community Health Council is meeting every other month to address issues from this report.
Dean College has been helpful to charter the first "teen angels" in New England for our middle school students. More info on this national program can be found here.
Information on Rachel's Challenge can be found here.
Q - How many students actually took the survey?
A - About 80-90%, I don't have the exact numbers but the response rate is really high.
Q - Have there been discussion about the validity of the data?
A - The fact that the data is consistent with the regional, national results leads one to believe that the numbers are good. There is also work on the survey design to ensure that the questions are worded such to ensure good results.
Cafasso - There is no consequence for somethings that are said in Facebook. It may not be done in school, it is likely after school. The parents may not be away of it.
Kingsland-Smith - parents are not aware of what their kids are involved in, and I mean that in the kindest way.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the presentation.
The survey is optional, parents/students can opt out of participation
tobacco use is declining
bullying is increasing
drinking has declined but the stats are still fairly high
experimentation with drugs does begin at the middle school
The Community Health Council is meeting every other month to address issues from this report.
Dean College has been helpful to charter the first "teen angels" in New England for our middle school students. More info on this national program can be found here.
Information on Rachel's Challenge can be found here.
Q - How many students actually took the survey?
A - About 80-90%, I don't have the exact numbers but the response rate is really high.
Q - Have there been discussion about the validity of the data?
A - The fact that the data is consistent with the regional, national results leads one to believe that the numbers are good. There is also work on the survey design to ensure that the questions are worded such to ensure good results.
Cafasso - There is no consequence for somethings that are said in Facebook. It may not be done in school, it is likely after school. The parents may not be away of it.
Kingsland-Smith - parents are not aware of what their kids are involved in, and I mean that in the kindest way.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the presentation.
Live reporting - Arts Academy Q&A
The video that was shown during the presentation:
Q - How will you handle the grading?
A - They will met the regular course program. We are arranging to visit the Boston Arts Academy tomorrow to further explore some of the details behind that.
Q - Is it positioned for students who want arts as a career or for those students who struggle with the traditional curriculum?
A - Both.
Q - Where are others doing this?
A - There are many others, this is not a new concept. The Boston Arts Academy is the main one. There are others. Tolman High School in Pawtuclet, RI.
C - Mullen, we have talked about creating communities at FHS and it is continuing to grow so this is a great step. I am excited to see how this plays out. It is really impressive that this is teacher driven.
Caple - the team is very good, it is not just lip service, the real work is being done by the team and others whom we need from time to time.
Roy - Thank you for having the opportunity to work with you. I am delighted to be able to sit at the table and see the energy around the room where folks are trying to improve the education for our students. In the Globe, there was an article yesterday about a surgeon who is exploring using music in the operating room and it is improving his performance. Recalls Daniel Pinks book: A Whole New Mind.
Story of Rosanne Walsh suggesting to read this book 3-4 years ago when budget cuts were being talked of. Rosanne is on the committee now.
Sabolinski - Thanks to the team, this has not been without controversy and they have been very courageous doing this.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the video
Franklin, MA - Franklin Arts Academy from Steve Sherlock on Vimeo.
Q - How will you handle the grading?
A - They will met the regular course program. We are arranging to visit the Boston Arts Academy tomorrow to further explore some of the details behind that.
Q - Is it positioned for students who want arts as a career or for those students who struggle with the traditional curriculum?
A - Both.
Q - Where are others doing this?
A - There are many others, this is not a new concept. The Boston Arts Academy is the main one. There are others. Tolman High School in Pawtuclet, RI.
C - Mullen, we have talked about creating communities at FHS and it is continuing to grow so this is a great step. I am excited to see how this plays out. It is really impressive that this is teacher driven.
Caple - the team is very good, it is not just lip service, the real work is being done by the team and others whom we need from time to time.
Roy - Thank you for having the opportunity to work with you. I am delighted to be able to sit at the table and see the energy around the room where folks are trying to improve the education for our students. In the Globe, there was an article yesterday about a surgeon who is exploring using music in the operating room and it is improving his performance. Recalls Daniel Pinks book: A Whole New Mind.
Story of Rosanne Walsh suggesting to read this book 3-4 years ago when budget cuts were being talked of. Rosanne is on the committee now.
Sabolinski - Thanks to the team, this has not been without controversy and they have been very courageous doing this.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to view the video
Live reporting - Franklin Arts Academy
2. Guests/Presentations
a. Fine Arts Academy – Mike Caple, Marushka Waters
_ the video will be added to this posting later_
"budget neutral repackaging of the curriculum"
Proposal to start in Fall of 2010 with the Junior Class at that time
Example of math and science combination: to study the parabola of the basketball free throw and explain it with a video production.
Example of humanities: read "The Sun Also Rises", study the art cubism and Picasso that was being done at that time, the post WWI period.
Students would apply for this program.
coordinated with guidance counselor and special education liaison, teacher to be assigned as a mentor to the student to accompany them through the program.
a. Fine Arts Academy – Mike Caple, Marushka Waters
Franklin Arts Academy
View more presentations from Steve Sherlock.
_ the video will be added to this posting later_
"budget neutral repackaging of the curriculum"
Proposal to start in Fall of 2010 with the Junior Class at that time
- Creative Literacy
- Humanities
- Mathematics and Science
Example of math and science combination: to study the parabola of the basketball free throw and explain it with a video production.
Example of humanities: read "The Sun Also Rises", study the art cubism and Picasso that was being done at that time, the post WWI period.
Students would apply for this program.
coordinated with guidance counselor and special education liaison, teacher to be assigned as a mentor to the student to accompany them through the program.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)