5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
thanks to Mr Gleason for the article and to the Davis Thayer students for their contribution to the Franklin Food Pantry
Panther Pride night on Monday, an open house for the 8th grade game
Ticket still available for the Thanksgiving football game
Harlem Wizards game sold out for Friday
Horace Mann veterans day celebration for friends and family
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Policy Sub Committee – MaryJane Scofield
meeting on Nov 29th at 7:00 PM
Community Relations meeting last week
mostly about budget, how to get more for the schools
testing and data
communications interest
next meeting Dec 3, 9:00 AM in the conference room
thankful for the response by the policy subcommittee
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
request to have Roy, Ross, and Spilka to talk about the budget process
joint budget subcommittee looking to set meeting in early December
7. Motion to Adjourn
passed 7-0
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Live reporting: Action Items
4. Action Items
a. I recommend approval of the Budget Transfers as detailed.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
b. I recommend moving Policy JICA – School Dress Code Policy to a second reading.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
c. I recommend adoption of Policy JKAA – Physical Restraint of Students as discussed.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
d. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $9,104.61 for Davis Thayer as follows:
1. $8,100.00 from PCC for field trips.
2. $1,004.61 from O’Connor Portraiture for supplemental supplies
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
f. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $2,213.00 from the Oak Street PCC as follows:
1. $1,288.00 for in-house enrichment
2. $925.00 for field trips
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
g. I recommend acceptance of a check for $725.00 from the JF Kennedy PCC for field trips.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $3855.28 for Keller as follows:
1. $2,000.00 – IBM for supplemental supplies
2. 1855.28 – Keller PCC for field trips
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of the grant - donation of 15 Ableton Push music devices, valued at $14,969.85 for FHS Sound Recording Teacher Drew O’Connors’ class.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
j. I recommend acceptance of a check for $440.00 from BJ’s Wholesale Club for the Central Office gift account.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of a check for $150.00 from the Jefferson PCC for in-house enrichment.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
Live reporting: Dress code and student restraint
The draft student dress code policy
The draft policy on physical restraint of students
 |
| community entrance to FHS |
The full agenda can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/11/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda-nov.html
District Curriculum Accommodation Plan - DCAP
The District Curriculum Accommodation Plan as referenced during the School Committee meeting Tuesday, Nov 15, 2016
Live reporting: MCAS and PARCC Results - Spring 2016
2. Guests/Presentations
b. PARCC / MCAS – Joyce Edwards
grades 3-8 took PARCC, computer based testing
science test taken by grades 5 and 8 via paper (only option)
see page 3 of the presentation for the full summary
district schools were held 'harmless' for taking PARCC
could gain, could not lose
Kennedy, Oak, and FHS won the Level 1 status
Oak was the 'new' school to gain this status
Level 2 as a district as it is based upon the lowest school in the district
comparison yr to yr on PARCC as State level data is not yet available
looking for a target growth of 30-60%
students in subgroups still need work to get their results up to the aggregate of all the students
data analysis
looked at in any way possible, down to individual students as necessary
state does not yet provide item analysis for the PARCC results
used in conjunction with other assessment data
Copy of District Curriculum Accommodation Plan published separately
on the Science MCAS, gr 5 16% better than State average; gr 8 18% better than the State
looking ahead to MCAS 2.0 for the spring of 2017
to use PARCC like questions, all via computer
one testing window, largely all of April and May
the district calendar will be finalized and shared with schools/parents in December
current 8th grade class of 2021 will be the first to take the high school competency determination when they get there
PARCC should be disappearing from lexicon, only needed for some reporting comparisons
Jewell - it was a good thing for us to have taken the PARCC questions
Edwards - Yes, it was a good move
did have a number of families opt of the PARCC testing last year, a small number, less than 1% of the district; did not impact the participation rate
at FHS, no MCAS, no diploma
Scofield - What were some of the reasons for the opt out
Edwards - Mostly family desire
for FHS drop out, usually only 2-3 students per year
the final state data should be ready in a couple of weeks
student health absences do usually still allow for re-testing during the testing window
possible future question for the Communications Subcommittee on the standard testing opt out reasons to get additional info
some philosophical objections were raised due to the nature of PARCC and whether that continues with MCAS 2.0 remains to be seen
good writing is about writing for your audience, short cuts in texting does not work well in testing
O'Malley - disgruntled with the State and their progress on tests
b. PARCC / MCAS – Joyce Edwards
grades 3-8 took PARCC, computer based testing
science test taken by grades 5 and 8 via paper (only option)
see page 3 of the presentation for the full summary
district schools were held 'harmless' for taking PARCC
could gain, could not lose
Kennedy, Oak, and FHS won the Level 1 status
Oak was the 'new' school to gain this status
Level 2 as a district as it is based upon the lowest school in the district
comparison yr to yr on PARCC as State level data is not yet available
looking for a target growth of 30-60%
students in subgroups still need work to get their results up to the aggregate of all the students
data analysis
looked at in any way possible, down to individual students as necessary
state does not yet provide item analysis for the PARCC results
used in conjunction with other assessment data
Copy of District Curriculum Accommodation Plan published separately
on the Science MCAS, gr 5 16% better than State average; gr 8 18% better than the State
looking ahead to MCAS 2.0 for the spring of 2017
to use PARCC like questions, all via computer
one testing window, largely all of April and May
the district calendar will be finalized and shared with schools/parents in December
current 8th grade class of 2021 will be the first to take the high school competency determination when they get there
PARCC should be disappearing from lexicon, only needed for some reporting comparisons
Jewell - it was a good thing for us to have taken the PARCC questions
Edwards - Yes, it was a good move
did have a number of families opt of the PARCC testing last year, a small number, less than 1% of the district; did not impact the participation rate
at FHS, no MCAS, no diploma
Scofield - What were some of the reasons for the opt out
Edwards - Mostly family desire
for FHS drop out, usually only 2-3 students per year
the final state data should be ready in a couple of weeks
student health absences do usually still allow for re-testing during the testing window
possible future question for the Communications Subcommittee on the standard testing opt out reasons to get additional info
some philosophical objections were raised due to the nature of PARCC and whether that continues with MCAS 2.0 remains to be seen
good writing is about writing for your audience, short cuts in texting does not work well in testing
O'Malley - disgruntled with the State and their progress on tests
Live reporting: Best Buddies
2. Guests/Presentations
Annie Sullivan
Remington
Horace Mann
Keller
- a. Best Buddies – Sue Streeter
one of the best programs in the State
founded 12 years ago
Friends of Best Buddies to extend the program beyond the classroom
28 awards just under $15,000 total
FHS
Annie Sullivan
Remington
Horace Mann
Keller
working on a chapter at Dean College
it really is a community effort
this is a celebration for us!
Live reporting: School Committee - November 15, 2016
Present: Bilello, Scofield, Bergen, Douglas, O'Malley, Schultz, Jewell
Absent: none
Organizational Meeting
1. Nominations / Vote for Chair
Douglas nominates O'Malley, seconded, passed unanimous
2. Nominations / Vote for Vice Chair
O'Malley nominates Douglas, seconded
Schultz nominates Bergen, seconded
Bergen takes the Vice Chair role by a 4-3 vote
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
none
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 25, 2016 School Committee Meeting.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Dr. O’Malley
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Nicolas Gnaman (absent)
Alexander Chitarra
Correspondence: none
Absent: none
Organizational Meeting
1. Nominations / Vote for Chair
Douglas nominates O'Malley, seconded, passed unanimous
2. Nominations / Vote for Vice Chair
O'Malley nominates Douglas, seconded
Schultz nominates Bergen, seconded
Bergen takes the Vice Chair role by a 4-3 vote
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
none
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 25, 2016 School Committee Meeting.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0
Payment of Bills Dr. O’Malley
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Nicolas Gnaman (absent)
Alexander Chitarra
- 1st Q ended, fall sports mostly ended, football gearing for the Thanksgiving day game at home against KP next week
- Spirit week this week
- Pep rally on Tuesday culminates spirit week
- Homecoming last month, 800 students to the dance (most recently)
- numerous options for students to get help as necessary in light of Mr K's passing
Correspondence: none
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Nov 15, 2016
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.
AGENDA
"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which
may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed
and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent
permitted by law."
Organizational Meeting
1. Nominations / Vote for Chair2. Nominations / Vote for Vice Chair
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 25, 2016 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Dr. O’Malley
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
- Nicolas Gnaman
- Alexander Chitarra
Correspondence: none
2. Guests/Presentations
- a. Best Buddies – Sue Streeter
- b. PARCC / MCAS – Joyce Edwards
- c. DCAP / BCAP – Joyce Edwards
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy – First Reading (New)
- JICA – School Dress Code Policy
Policy – Second Reading
- JKAA – Physical Restraint of Students
4. Action Items
a. I recommend approval of the Budget Transfers as detailed.
b. I recommend moving Policy JICA – School Dress Code Policy to a second reading.
c. I recommend adoption of Policy JKAA – Physical Restraint of Students as discussed.
d. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $9,104.61 for Davis Thayer as follows:
1. $8,100.00 from PCC for field trips.2. $1,004.61 from O’Connor Portraiture for supplemental suppliese. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips.
f. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $2,213.00 from the Oak Street PCC as follows:
1. $1,288.00 for in-house enrichment2. $925.00 for field tripsg. I recommend acceptance of a check for $725.00 from the JF Kennedy PCC for field trips.
h. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $3855.28 for Keller as follows:
1. $2,000.00 – IBM for supplemental supplies2. 1855.28 – Keller PCC for field tripsi. I recommend acceptance of the grant - donation of 15 Ableton Push music devices, valued at $14,969.85 for FHS Sound Recording Teacher
Drew O’Connors’ class.
j. I recommend acceptance of a check for $440.00 from BJ’s Wholesale Club for the Central Office gift account.
k. I recommend acceptance of a check for $150.00 from the Jefferson PCC for in-house enrichment.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
- Policy Sub Committee – MaryJane Scofield
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Motion to Adjourn
 |
| recent autumn glory at the entrance to Franklin High School |
School Committee: policies up for discussion on (1) dress code and (2) physical restraint of students
The draft student dress code policy
The draft policy on physical restraint of students
|
| community entrance to FHS |
The full agenda can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/11/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda-nov.html
Four FHS student athletes signed letters of intent
Four FHS student athletes signed letters of intent on Monday to continue their studies and athletics in college. The signings were acknowledged via Twitter and recaptured here.
To follow all of Franklin on Twitter, I am continually updating this listing
https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/lists/all-franklin
If you see a Twitter account that is missing from this list, please let me know
- Ryan Hodgekins - Baseball. Will attend Stonehill in the fall.
- Grace McDermott - Lacrosse. Will attend Assumption in the fall.
- Dana Lewandowski - Lacrosse. Will attend Bentley in the fall.
- Caroline Lounsbury - Lacrosse. Will attend Franklin Pierce in the fall
Congrats to Ryan, Dana, Caroline and Grace. Proud Panthers on signing day! #PantherPride pic.twitter.com/0bxPmYLblf— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) November 14, 2016
Ryan Hodgekins - Baseball. Will attend Stonehill in the fall. pic.twitter.com/dKHbH0pwNL— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) November 14, 2016
Grace McDermott - Lacrosse. Will attend Assumption in the fall. pic.twitter.com/SJ1cfFxv80— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) November 14, 2016
Dana Lewandowski - Lacrosse. Will attend Bentley in the fall. pic.twitter.com/oHG00Fq9kx— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) November 14, 2016
Caroline Lounsbury - Lacrosse. Will attend Franklin Pierce in the fall. pic.twitter.com/oSzvz7jlTY— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) November 14, 2016
 |
| FHS Panthers |
To follow all of Franklin on Twitter, I am continually updating this listing
https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/lists/all-franklin
If you see a Twitter account that is missing from this list, please let me know
Hockomock Area YMCA to offer new Blood Pressure Management Program - Upcoming Screenings
The Hockomock Area YMCA is proud to announce it will begin offering the YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring, a program designed to help participants with hypertension lower their blood pressure by following an evidence-based program that combines blood pressure self-monitoring, nutrition education and personalized support.
High blood pressure is often referred to as “The Silent Killer” because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms. According to the American Heart Association, more than 80 million Americans have high blood pressure, but less than half have it under control. The Y developed this program to help individuals better manage hypertension, and improve their overall health. Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension. In addition, evidence shows that proper nutrition, particularly with a reduction in sodium intake, may help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
As part of the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program, participants will strive to reduce their blood pressure by measuring their blood pressure at least two times a month for four consecutive months—a minimum of eight times, and record their blood pressure readings in a self-selected tracking tool. A nutrition education component will encourage the participants to practice healthier eating habits, including reducing sodium in their diet. During this program participants will also increase their awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure.
Hockomock Area YMCA staff will hold free screenings for the program at the following dates, times and locations:
The program is facilitated by Healthy Heart Ambassadors, appointed and trained by the Y, who will show participants how to use a blood pressure cuff, encourage self-monitoring and facilitate monthly nutrition education seminars.
The Hockomock Area YMCA is looking for adults with high blood pressure to take part in this program. For a small investment of time and minimal fee, participants will receive; a simple evidence-based program that may lower blood pressure, personalized support from a Y Healthy Heart Ambassador, tips for maintaining cardiovascular health, a easy-to-use portable self-tracking tool, heart healthy nutrition seminars, and a blood pressure monitoring cuff if participant does not own one.
To participate in this program participants must be at least 18 years old, be diagnosed with high blood pressure, must not have experienced a recent cardiac event, must not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias, and must not be at ricks for lymphedema.
Enrollment is ongoing at the three Hockomock Area YMCA’s branches. For more information or to set up your initial consultation, contact bloodpressure@hockymca.org or 508-772-1310.
About the Hockomock Area YMCA:
High blood pressure is often referred to as “The Silent Killer” because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms. According to the American Heart Association, more than 80 million Americans have high blood pressure, but less than half have it under control. The Y developed this program to help individuals better manage hypertension, and improve their overall health. Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension. In addition, evidence shows that proper nutrition, particularly with a reduction in sodium intake, may help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
As part of the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program, participants will strive to reduce their blood pressure by measuring their blood pressure at least two times a month for four consecutive months—a minimum of eight times, and record their blood pressure readings in a self-selected tracking tool. A nutrition education component will encourage the participants to practice healthier eating habits, including reducing sodium in their diet. During this program participants will also increase their awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure.
Hockomock Area YMCA staff will hold free screenings for the program at the following dates, times and locations:
- North Attleboro Branch: Wednesday, November 16 from 9:00am – 11:00am and 3:00pm – 6:00pm.
- Bernon Family Branch, Franklin and Invensys Foxboro Branch: Tuesday, November 29 from 9:00am – 12:00pm and 3:00pm – 6:00pm.
The program is facilitated by Healthy Heart Ambassadors, appointed and trained by the Y, who will show participants how to use a blood pressure cuff, encourage self-monitoring and facilitate monthly nutrition education seminars.
The Hockomock Area YMCA is looking for adults with high blood pressure to take part in this program. For a small investment of time and minimal fee, participants will receive; a simple evidence-based program that may lower blood pressure, personalized support from a Y Healthy Heart Ambassador, tips for maintaining cardiovascular health, a easy-to-use portable self-tracking tool, heart healthy nutrition seminars, and a blood pressure monitoring cuff if participant does not own one.
To participate in this program participants must be at least 18 years old, be diagnosed with high blood pressure, must not have experienced a recent cardiac event, must not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias, and must not be at ricks for lymphedema.
Enrollment is ongoing at the three Hockomock Area YMCA’s branches. For more information or to set up your initial consultation, contact bloodpressure@hockymca.org or 508-772-1310.
 |
| hockymca.org |
About the Hockomock Area YMCA:
Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.
The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.
Downtown Partnership: Networking Luncheon - Tuesday, November 15
Networking Luncheon Tuesday, November 15
There's no such thing as a free lunch BUT there are lunches that are inexpensive, delicious and worth your lunch hour! Join FDP members for a
Networking Luncheon
Tuesday, November 15, 1 p.m.
Dean College Dining Center
$6.55
RSVP to Matt Lechter, mlechter@dean.edu, or
Gary Donelan, gary.donelan@middlesexbank.com.
There's no such thing as a free lunch BUT there are lunches that are inexpensive, delicious and worth your lunch hour! Join FDP members for a
Networking Luncheon
 |
| Downtown Partnership: Networking Luncheon - Tuesday, November 15 |
Dean College Dining Center
$6.55
RSVP to Matt Lechter, mlechter@dean.edu, or
Gary Donelan, gary.donelan@middlesexbank.com.
"the drive this year focused on meeting people's needs"
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161114/franklin-students-walk-donations-to-food-pantry
"Davis Thayer Elementary School students continued a school tradition Monday, walking hundreds of pounds of donations to the nearby Franklin Food Pantry.
The fifth-grade students carried 602 donated items - weighing 294 pounds - to the pantry to help with the group's Thanksgiving season demand.
Jen Violet, a math specialist with the school, said this year's drive - conducted by students from each grade level - had outpaced the 2015 effort.
"There were approximately 400 (items) last year," she said. "Our goal this year was 500 items - we exceeded that."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161114/franklin-students-walk-donations-to-food-pantry
It was a beautiful walk to the Franklin Food Pantry this morning! Thanks to all who donated! @DTGrade5 pic.twitter.com/Myh904zMuQ— Davis Thayer School (@DT_Bobcats) November 14, 2016
 |
| Davis Thayer students walking to the Franklin Food Pantry (school photo) |
Monday, November 14, 2016
Annual Christmas Concert on Saturday, Nov. 26 featuring New England Ringers
The New England Ringers, the region's premier community handbell ensemble, is returning to Franklin after a two-year hiatus to perform at the Franklin Federated Church Annual Christmas Concert on Saturday, Nov. 26, at 7:30 PM.
The concert will feature an arrangement of winter and Christmas melodies. including the familiar and beloved Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, a rousing version of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, and a haunting rendition of God With Us for All Time, arranged by Betty Garee and featuring the gorgeous sound of Cathedral Bells.
New England Ringers is a 15-member community handbell ensemble of highly energetic musicians playing the most advanced level of handbell literature. NER performances are a blend of lively and diverse musical moods and styles. Repertoire includes classical transcriptions, familiar favorites, and original compositions.
Proceeds from the concert will benefit the mission and ministry of Franklin Federated Church. Franklin Federated engages in a wide variety of mission activities, with a particular focus on feeding the hungry.
Admission is $15 per person. Tickets will be available at the door or in advance by calling the church office at 508-528-3803.
The concert will feature an arrangement of winter and Christmas melodies. including the familiar and beloved Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, a rousing version of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, and a haunting rendition of God With Us for All Time, arranged by Betty Garee and featuring the gorgeous sound of Cathedral Bells.
New England Ringers is a 15-member community handbell ensemble of highly energetic musicians playing the most advanced level of handbell literature. NER performances are a blend of lively and diverse musical moods and styles. Repertoire includes classical transcriptions, familiar favorites, and original compositions.
 |
| New England Ringers is a 15-member community handbell ensemble |
Proceeds from the concert will benefit the mission and ministry of Franklin Federated Church. Franklin Federated engages in a wide variety of mission activities, with a particular focus on feeding the hungry.
Admission is $15 per person. Tickets will be available at the door or in advance by calling the church office at 508-528-3803.
DelCarte Open Space - 11/12/16 (video)
A brief video to share of the DelCarte open space that I took while on my walk Saturday morning.
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/10/delcarte-property-video.html
Other videos recorded at DelCarte
- Video from Dec 2012
- Video from Oct 2013
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/10/delcarte-property-video.html
- Video from Mar 2014
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