4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment. motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 6-0 (Mullen abstained)
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority. motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS. motion to approve, passed 7-0
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club. motion to approve, passed 7-0
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program. motion to approve, passed 7-0
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA. motion to approve, passed 7-0
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Live reporting - Budget desires
Mullen - would like to see a listing of the cuts made in the last ten years
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
Live reporting - Race To The Top Program
The Race To The Top Program
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
Live reporting - Discussion only items
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Live reporting - World Challenge
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Dana Harts - Advisor from World Challenge
introduction to program, a high value program
4 week overseas expedition
1 week climatization
1 week service
1 week trek
1 week reflection
extensive safety measures for the students when they travel
The World Challenge website can be found here http://www.wcexpeditions.com/
7 minute video from World Challenge highlighting features of the teacher/student prepared trip, safety measures, etc.
Video from teachers point of view:
Video from students point of view:
Safety starts with the students first.
Offered to freshman and sophomores so they would travel as rising juniors or seniors
Takes seventeen months to prepare; used for planning, fund raising, etc.
Experienced guide accompanies each teacher and student group
Safety and support centralized in Operations Centre in UK
Story of insurance coverage for medical emergencies; one student five years ago had a case of appendicitis on the approach to Mt Kilimanjaro. He was flown to medical help in Nairobi, his mother was flown to join him before flying both back to the states after three days of medical treatment there.
Trip planning is fully risk assessed before leaving.
Money management: trip is an all inclusive package. 3 day training expedition along the Appalachian Trail training in preparation for the expedition to Peru.
Teamwork and cooperation enhanced during the trek.
Living in a village and seeing what life is like in a different world.
Trip cost would be approximately $6,000 per students.
World Challenge will provide some fund raising ideas and a framework to work to and manage a budget.
Live reporting - Teen Angels
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
Live reporting - Best Buddies
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
Live reporting - Recognitions
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
Live reporting - School Committee Mtg
Attending: Douglas, Cafasso, Rohrbach, Mullen, Roy, Trahan, Glynn
Missing:
Mission Statement
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda - add a general discussion on budget objectives for SchCom members to provide direction to Administration
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting. motion to pass; passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn motion to approve; passed 7-0
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
There is a full house in the Council Chambers this evening.
Missing:
Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.
Mission Statement
The Franklin Public Schools, in collaboration with the community, will cultivate each student's intellectual, social, emotional and physical potential through rigorous academic inquiry and informed problem solving skills within a safe, nurturing and respectful environment.
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda - add a general discussion on budget objectives for SchCom members to provide direction to Administration
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting. motion to pass; passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn motion to approve; passed 7-0
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
There is a full house in the Council Chambers this evening.
School Committee - Agenda - 1/12/10
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane / Students
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Advisors from World Challenge
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Policy - First Readings:
ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
Policy – Second Readings:
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF –Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
The Race To The Top Program
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment.
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School.
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed.
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops.
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies.
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies.
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS.
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed.
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School.
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed.
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club.
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program.
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed.
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top
b. H1N1
c. DESE Financial Review
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 8, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Glynn
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane / Students
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Advisors from World Challenge
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Policy - First Readings:
ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
Policy – Second Readings:
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF –Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
The Race To The Top Program
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment.
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School.
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed.
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops.
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies.
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies.
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS.
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed.
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School.
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed.
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club.
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program.
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed.
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top
b. H1N1
c. DESE Financial Review
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Let's be honest!
The first of three seminars for parents of 5th through 8th grade students will be held Tuesday evening, 7:00 PM Horace Mann Middle School Auditorium.
This is probably one of the few times, I'll say this but if you do have a 5th through 8th grader, instead of coming to or tuning into the School Committee meeting tonight, go to Horace Mann instead.
The School Committee meeting has a full agenda but the first peek at the 2011 School Budget is scheduled for Jan 26th. You can always catch the School Committee meeting via the video on demand from the Town website!
Mindy Craven is the scheduled speaker for Tuesday's Let's be honest seminar:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the attached document.
This is probably one of the few times, I'll say this but if you do have a 5th through 8th grader, instead of coming to or tuning into the School Committee meeting tonight, go to Horace Mann instead.
The School Committee meeting has a full agenda but the first peek at the 2011 School Budget is scheduled for Jan 26th. You can always catch the School Committee meeting via the video on demand from the Town website!
Mindy Craven is the scheduled speaker for Tuesday's Let's be honest seminar:
Mindy Craver is a Senior Community Health and Sexuality Educator for Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts. She has been facilitating sexual health presentations for 14 years and is part of our Professional Training team. Mindy has held teaching positions at several area agencies including Health Awareness, Pro Health and ResourceFul, Inc. and has consulted with many other Central Massachusetts agencies, fostering a solid reputation for providing fact-based, fun and experiential sexual health programs. Mindy has successfully reached a variety of audiences with her participatory teaching style, including public middle school students, high risk youth, social service professionals, and parents. Mindy’s workshops are age-appropriate, thought provoking, and engaging. Currently, Mindy is focusing her efforts on the launch of Planned Parenthood’s parent education program Let’s Be Honest in Worcester. She is a graduate of Bridgewater State College with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the attached document.
"that's one bit of data that hasn't shown any indication of slowing down yet"
The presentation by the Teen Angels group is one of several at the School Committee meeting this evening. Read more in the Milford Daily News here."The best that we can try to do in the schools is endeavor to teach students to properly use resources, including online tools," said Roy.
That's exactly what the Franklin Teenangels chapter, a division of a nationwide group of teen cyber-safety experts, is trying to do.
Worried about online social networking safety, concerned mother and Dean College technology instructor Lisa Keohane stumbled across wiredsafety.org, a Web site dedicated to Internet safety, and learned about the teen initiative which was featured on the Web site.
Monday, January 11, 2010
FM #53 Week Ending 1/10/2010
This is what matters as the week ends Jan 10, 2010 in Franklin, MA. The session covers the Town Council and two items of importance from it's meeting on January 6th.
Time: 7 minutes, 56 seconds
MP3 File
Session notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 53 in the series for Franklin Matters.
Take about ten minutes to keep current with what matters in Franklin, MA as the week ends January 10, 2010
In this session I’ll cover the Town Council meeting of January 6, 2010
Two items of importance occurred during the meeting.
First, Brian Taberner, Director, Planning and Community Development, came before the Council to preview some bylaw changes that will be coming up at the next meeting. The bylaw changes have to do with the welcome mat that Franklin is creating for biotechnology firms to consider relocating here to conduct their business. There were bylaw changes made last year that have helped put Franklin near the top of the pile of MA communities. In an analysis of what it would take to move up the listing, one item sticks out. Franklin currently requires a potential biotech company to obtain a special permit from the Town Council. This is over and over all the normal planing board, health dept, fire dept, etc reviews required. He is proposing that this requirement be removed. He is also making some minor modifications to the zoning map itself. The changes would add about 11 parcels in the industrial park and remove one parcel that recently was obtained by State to add to the Town Forest. The formal discussion to approve these changes will come before the council in future meetings. As these are bylaw changes, they require two readings before final approval.
Second, the big snow storm that hit Franklin the weekend of Dec 19/20 dropping 14-18 inches created problems for students walking to school as the sidewalks were not cleared. Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi reviewed the snow storm planning details and what the Town is currently capable of providing. With the current priority listing as follows:
With storms delivering under six inches of snow, the DPW can clear the sidewalks within a day after the plowing stops.
With storms delivery more than six inches of snow, the DPW will take two-three days after the plowing stops to clear the sidewalks.
This is due to resource constraints. One, equipment to clear the sidewalk. Even if we had money to purchase additional (approx. 120,000 per unit) would that be an effective use of our funds since we would only use them once or twice a year? Consider that this amount would effectively fund two teachers and some supplies or books.
Two, even with the equipment and additional manpower available, you can't start the sidewalks until the roads are complete. Otherwise, you'd end up messing up the sidewalk when the plows went by on the road. Don't believe this? What happens at the end of your driveway? How do you keep that clear with the plows going by multiple times on the roads?
Finally, Franklin has this issue due to the overall budget problems we face. Should we plow the roads less well? Should we accept the way it is? All good questions that should lead to a good discussion.
There is a quick poll set up on this question this week. You can see and respond to the poll on the front page of Franklin Matters.
Looking ahead this week, the School Committee meets on Tuesday, Jan 12th.
As I close this session this week, let me remind you that
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 the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission
I hope you enjoy!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to listen to the audio version.
MP3 File
Session notes:
This internet radio show or podcast is number 53 in the series for Franklin Matters.
Take about ten minutes to keep current with what matters in Franklin, MA as the week ends January 10, 2010
In this session I’ll cover the Town Council meeting of January 6, 2010
Two items of importance occurred during the meeting.
First, Brian Taberner, Director, Planning and Community Development, came before the Council to preview some bylaw changes that will be coming up at the next meeting. The bylaw changes have to do with the welcome mat that Franklin is creating for biotechnology firms to consider relocating here to conduct their business. There were bylaw changes made last year that have helped put Franklin near the top of the pile of MA communities. In an analysis of what it would take to move up the listing, one item sticks out. Franklin currently requires a potential biotech company to obtain a special permit from the Town Council. This is over and over all the normal planing board, health dept, fire dept, etc reviews required. He is proposing that this requirement be removed. He is also making some minor modifications to the zoning map itself. The changes would add about 11 parcels in the industrial park and remove one parcel that recently was obtained by State to add to the Town Forest. The formal discussion to approve these changes will come before the council in future meetings. As these are bylaw changes, they require two readings before final approval.
Second, the big snow storm that hit Franklin the weekend of Dec 19/20 dropping 14-18 inches created problems for students walking to school as the sidewalks were not cleared. Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi reviewed the snow storm planning details and what the Town is currently capable of providing. With the current priority listing as follows:
- the roads
- town buildings and schools
- sidewalks and downtown
With storms delivering under six inches of snow, the DPW can clear the sidewalks within a day after the plowing stops.
With storms delivery more than six inches of snow, the DPW will take two-three days after the plowing stops to clear the sidewalks.
This is due to resource constraints. One, equipment to clear the sidewalk. Even if we had money to purchase additional (approx. 120,000 per unit) would that be an effective use of our funds since we would only use them once or twice a year? Consider that this amount would effectively fund two teachers and some supplies or books.
Two, even with the equipment and additional manpower available, you can't start the sidewalks until the roads are complete. Otherwise, you'd end up messing up the sidewalk when the plows went by on the road. Don't believe this? What happens at the end of your driveway? How do you keep that clear with the plows going by multiple times on the roads?
Finally, Franklin has this issue due to the overall budget problems we face. Should we plow the roads less well? Should we accept the way it is? All good questions that should lead to a good discussion.
There is a quick poll set up on this question this week. You can see and respond to the poll on the front page of Franklin Matters.
Looking ahead this week, the School Committee meets on Tuesday, Jan 12th.
As I close this session this week, let me remind you that
- If you like what I am doing, please tell your neighbors
- If you don’t like something, please tell me
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 the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission
I hope you enjoy!
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the website to listen to the audio version.
Maguro House
Utilization of the retail store front in the new building is coming to completion. East Coast Driving School opened next to Sarapaan. Now a new Japanese restaurant, Maguro House, will be opening on the corner. When running Sunday, I catch sight of the door sign and stopped for a photo.
Construction on the interior is still in progress.
When I find out the tentative opening date, I'll share that here.
Updated - 2/25/10
The Grand Opening Party is scheduled for Sunday, February 28th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
The restaurant website can be found here: http://www.magurohouse.com/
When I find out the tentative opening date, I'll share that here.
Updated - 2/25/10
The Grand Opening Party is scheduled for Sunday, February 28th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
The restaurant website can be found here: http://www.magurohouse.com/
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Franklin, MA: Police Dept
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.It has been a very difficult year for us all. The economic times have left no one unscathed including your Police Department. We have had a reduction in personnel. Currently we are down to 45 sworn officers. Our business, with all its expectations, is still there and we are doing our best to keep Franklin a great place to live.
We continue to seek out grant monies to offset some of our important projects dealing with alcohol, traffic, the elderly and our youth. Franklin has been fortunate in that we have received some grant monies to help us to continue what we have started in these areas.
Our main concerns are that we continue to be an active partner in our youth and elderly programs. Our Community Service Division has been very busy in our schools and offering summer camp programs. We will hopefully be able to provide another great Halloween event at the High School Field House as we did this past year by providing a safe and fun day for the entire family.
The High School Hockey team, the Varsity Basketball team and the Tri-County Football teams all have enjoyed great seasons ending in playoff finals or in the Super Bowl. We would like to think this was in no small part due to several of our police officers in coaching positions. I believe this interaction between our officers as coaches and the student athletes builds bridges of friendships, trust and understanding. Ben Franklin’s adage of “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” certainly appears to be true in this case.
The Alcohol Grant Awards have been very helpful in offsetting costs associated in our attempts to curb underage drinking. The success of our program has been evident with the number of license suspensions, and arrests made of those procuring for minors. Please accept my sincere thanks for being a great community in which to work. I’d like to take this opportunity to also thank the officers of our Police Department for their dedication and hard work over this past year. I boast of being blessed with great people to work with not only within the department but with all the other departments and boards.
Sincerely,
S.T. Williams
Stephen T. Williams
Chief of Police
For additional information, be sure to visit the Police Dept website here
- The Daily Police logs are available here
- You can follow them on Twitter here
- There are a number of safety tips available here
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