“Farmers are one percent of the population feeding the other 99 percent"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Organic Italian wine pouring, fresh microbrews, locally churned ice cream, and everything else grown by local farmers, all in one place. 

That will be the scene at the second annual FUNdraiser, hosted by Franklin’s Pour Richard’s Wine and Spirits on 14 Grove St. and the Norfolk County Farm Bureau. Tickets will be sold for $10 at the door, and the event is open from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8. 

Chef Daniele Baliani, of La Campania in Waltham, will be making various dishes from the donated, locally grown materials, including a full pig roast. 

Jay Needleman, owner of Ipswich-based Privateer Rum, will tend bar. He’ll be shaking up cocktail samples spiced with locally sourced vegetables, fruits, honeys and herbs."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180829/pour-richards-invites-local-farms-to-show-off-their-goods

Additional information can be found on Pour Richard's page
http://pourrichardswine.com/content/no-farms-no-food

No farms, no food

YMCA Youth Sports Leagues Begin September 7

The Y is a great place to learn to love a sport. And YMCA Fall Sports Leagues offer a great means for kids to be connected with others while being active outdoors. Sports teams led by expert staff are enrolling today for children ages 4-14 at the YMCAs located in Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro.

With an emphasis on skill development and sportsmanship, you’re sure to find an environment where everyone plays and develops. The upcoming season runs September 7-October 28, 2018.

The Y soccer league includes three practices and five games, and players will be given a t-shirt and end of season award. The Y NFL flag football also involves three practices and five games, with team jersey provided. The Y beginner cheerleading will introduce girls to basic cheerleading and gymnastics including jumps, tumbling, and cheering.

Coed NFL Flag Football

Coed Soccer to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Sundays 10:00am (age 4), 11:00am (age 5–6)
@ the Franklin Y, Saturdays 9:00am (age 3-4), 10:15am (age 5–6)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Sundays 10:00am (age 4), 11:00am (age 5–6)

Coed NFL Flag Football to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Fridays 6:00pm (age 6-7), 7:00pm (age 8–10), 8:00pm (age 11-14)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Fridays 5:30pm (age 5-6), 6:30pm (age 7-8), 7:30pm (age 9-14)

Beginner Cheerleading to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Fridays 5:00pm (age 4-5), 6:00pm (age 6-9)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Fridays 5:30pm (age 4-5), 6:30pm (age 6-9)
The younger group will learn basic cheerleading skills, while the older girls will include jumps/tumbling and also cheering at games the second half of the season.

Beginner Cheerleading

Family and Single-Parent members of the Hockomock Area YMCA will pay the cost of uniform only as a perk of membership. Costs: Soccer $10 Family-type member; $84 youth member; $126 program member. Cheer and Football $30 Family-type member; $114 youth member; $171 program member. Teams will be arranged so that everyone plays and is encouraged to perform at the best of their ability. 60 minutes each. To register, visit hockymca.org/fall-leagues.


About 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. 

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we 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.

State Representative Jeffrey Roy will welcome Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy III to Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.

Beginning at the Franklin Fire Station at 1:30 PM Representative Roy and Congressman Kennedy will be visiting some of the many small businesses that are part of the successful effort to revitalize Franklin's Downtown. 

These will include the Intermission Cafe, Dean Bank, Rome Restaurant and Keefe Insurance. 

Rae Lynn Mercer owner of the Intermission Cafe, worked with Congressman Kennedy's great-uncle, the late Senator Edward Kennedy, to obtain funding for the Franklin Downtown Revitalization efforts. 

They will also visit the Franklin Food Pantry. At the Food pantry Representative Roy and Congressman Kennedy will be greeted by Executive Director Erin Lynch who at one point struggled to feed her own family and is now committed to helping others overcome food insecurity. 

"It is always a privilege to welcome our Congressman to Franklin and I am looking forward to highlighting the great work that local businesses are doing to create a strong local economy." said Representative Roy.

Intermission Cafe one of the downtown Franklin businesses scheduled for a visit

Elks present large US Flag to Franklin Fire Dept.

"We proudly presented the Franklin Fire Department with a 40 x 25 foot American Flag last night before our Lodge Meeting! ️

We can not THANK the Franklin Fire Department enough for all of their dedication and hard work to our community and now they can have this Flag to proudly wave at Community and Veterans Events. 

This was made possible by the use of the 150th Anniversary Grant from Grand Lodge as well as Lodge fundraisers. 

Thank you to our Secretary, Michele and our Organist, Frank for making this possible! #ElksCareElksShare 

Photos from: Paul Vicario Studios in Franklin, MA!"

Elks present large US Flag to Franklin Fire Dept. (photo by Paul Vicario Studios)

"It was about the power of the positive”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Yellow buses packed with smiling youngsters pulled up at Davis Thayer Elementary School first thing Tuesday morning. 

Principal Kathleen Gerber said she was happy to see the children back, hearing them greet their old teachers with excited hellos on their way to meet their new instructors. 

“It’s always great to see new faces and welcome new students as well,” she said. “There are lots of smiles, and just the energy of that first day.” 

Superintendent Sara Ahern said the first day was a success in the district."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180828/school-bells-ring-in-franklin

screen grab of presentation on Monday captured and shared by Oak St via Twitter

"Teaching our Children to Be Good Digital Citizens" - Sep 5

This parent education night is free and open to the public. Please join us to for "Teaching our Children to Be Good Digital Citizens" The event has been coordinated by Mrs. McCoy in conjunction with the Norfolk District Attorney's Office. We believe that in this digital age, this topic is of value to all BFCCPS parents, no matter how old your child(ren) are. Please RSVP using the online form linked so that we can gauge attendance for the evening.

Parent Education Night: Digital Citizenship September 5 at 6 PM Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School in Franklin, Massachusetts

FTC Consumer Alerts: Let's talk about cyberbullying

Let's talk about cyberbullying by Ari Lazarus Consumer Education Specialist, FTC Last week, the FTC joined several other agencies and the First Lady for an important conversation about cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is a tough subject for both parents and educators. That's why most of our materials are built around having conversations, in small doses, and in your own language. Here are some easy ways to start these conversations: Read more   https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/08/lets-talk-about-cyberbullying?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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Live reporting: from Consent Agenda to Closing

7. Consent Agenda 
a. Minutes 

I recommend approval of the minutes from the August 14, 2018 School Committee meeting as detailed.

b. Student Activity Accounts 

I recommend approval of student activity accounts as detailed. 

c. FHS GiftI recommend acceptance of a check for $82.37 from Ohiopyle Prints for FHS Gift account as detailed.

motion to approve consent agenda, seconded, passed 7-0

8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen 

9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas 

10. Correspondence 
- none 

11. Adjournment 
motion to adjourn, seconded, passed 7-0


The agenda can be found on the Town of Franklin School District page
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/agendas/scagenda_8-28-18.pdf

Live reporting: Information Matters - updates

4. Discussion Only Items 
none 

5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports

Budget
meeting with joint subcommittee - Sep 26, meeting to be scheduled prior to

Community Relations; 
coffee, next Sep 14 at Senior Center - theme - middle school
Oct, 3, Nov 3, and Dec 5
Sep 25 planning meeting
Oct 13 - Harvest Festival planning for space
there are other forums, not just the School COmmittee meetings
next newsletter in Sep

Policy
no meeting tomorrow night
Weds Sep 12, Oct 17 meetings for policy work

Public Schools Advocacy
handbook meeting


b. School Committee Liaison Reports
Joint PCC 
Sep 24 next meeting, looking for agenda items

Substance Abuse Task Force

School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]
Sep 25

School Start Times Advisory Committee [SSTAC] 
Sep 17 steering committee, Sep 20 full meeting

MASC

6. New Business 
a. To discuss any future agenda items 
school improvement plans for middle and high school
elementary for meeting after to split that up
lifelong learning goals and plans
proposed presentation schedule for review

Live reporting: District Strategy for Improvement

3. Discussion / Action Items 
a. Strategy for Improvement Presentation – Dr. Ahern 
I recommend approval of the District Strategy for Improvement for 2018-2019 

(previously referred to as the "District Improvement Plan" or DIP)

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/strategy-improvement-discussion-action

(discovered minor glitch with one of the new HD microphones in the line of sight with the slides projected on the screen - Franklin TV will address)

Dr Ahern presenting on Strategic Improvement Plan

intro slide to Strategic Improvement Plan

The strategic improvement plan (skip to page 2 for the details)



A key item for community engagement (and aligned with determining Franklin's future)

"Engage educators and community members in the development of Franklin Public Schools’ Portrait of a Graduate"

Especially look at the detailed page (page 4) for areas where there are community engagement opportunity. For example, expanding the weekend backpack program with the Franklin Food Pantry to ensure that families and children with food security issues have some additional food options.

District Strategy for Improvement - next steps

what does 'rigorous curriculum' mean?
it is a big discussion and should come from the "Portrait of a FHS Graduate" process

clarification on counseling services study to also show the implementation of the findings, which is implied but not shown explicitly

I recommend approval of the District Strategy for Improvement for 2018-2019 with the changes as discussed; motion approved 7-0

Live reporting: New Hires and Introduction of New Administrators

2. Guests / Presentations 
a. New Hires and Introduction of New Administrators – Dr. Ahern

New hire listing
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/new_hire_list_8-28-18.pdf

new administrators, principals and assistant principals

new administrators; principals and assistant principals introduced by Dr Ahern

Live reporting: School Committee - Aug 28, 2018

Present: Feeley, Linden, Douglas, Scofield, Bergen, Schultz, Zub
Absent: none


1. Routine Business 
a. Review of Agenda 
ok for all

b. Citizen’s Comments 

i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee Meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment” – from Policy BEDH

none

c. Superintendent’s Report 
Dr Ahern
school opening today, faculty yesterday
Carrie Stack, Say Yes Institute motivation speaker for yesterday faculty

by and large things were on time, buses ran

well aware of temperatures
all classrooms have fans to help monitor temperatures
schedules adjusted to rotate classes through the cooler spaces within the building
recess to be indoor tomorrow
athletic events curtailed today in lieu of weather conditions

playground at Jefferson was completed but unfortunately not used today

concession stand
plumbing fixtures remained to be installed
exterior painting underway this week
landscaping planned for in front of the stand
scheduled for completion for home opener Friday, Sep 7

FHS one of 131 to be recognized as a national banner school
inclusive school climate
had to meet ten national standards of excellence

reminder of Professional Development Day on Friday, Aug 31
literacy and science focus for elementary
Jessica Minahan working with educators and students with challenging behaviors
content based development at middle and high school
new curriculum frameworks for social studies being worked to understand implications
ESP working with consultant on managing student behaviors

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 28, 2018

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.

A G E N D A

“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.”

1. Routine Business
a. Review of Agenda
b. Citizen’s Comments

i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee Meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment” – from Policy BEDH

c. Superintendent’s Report

2. Guests / Presentations
a. New Hires and Introduction of New Administrators – Dr. Ahern

3. Discussion / Action Items
a. Strategy for Improvement Presentation – Dr. Ahern
I recommend approval of the District Strategy for Improvement for 2018-2019

4. Discussion Only Items 
none

5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Budget; Community Relations;
Policy; Transportation; Public Schools Advocacy; Ad Hoc Superintendent’s
Evaluation)
b. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task
Force; School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]; School Start Times Advisory Committee [SSTAC], MASC)

6. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items

7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from the August 14, 2018 School Committee meeting as detailed.

b. Student Activity Accounts

I recommend approval of student activity accounts as detailed. c. FHS Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $82.37 from Ohiopyle Prints for FHS Gift account as detailed.

8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas

10. Correspondence 
- none

11. Adjournment

The agenda can be found on the Town of Franklin School District page
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/agendas/scagenda_8-28-18.pdf

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 28, 2018

Hockomock Area YMCA hosts 16th annual Foxboro 5K & Family Day

On Sunday, September 23 the Invensys Foxboro Branch of the Hockomock Area YMCA will host its 16th annual Foxboro 5K and Family Day at their 67 Mechanic St. location. Registration begins at 8:00 am. The USTAF certified 5K race begins at 10:00 AM. The route is a flat course through Foxboro, which makes it perfect for all fitness levels. There will be both running and walking divisions, awarding the top 3 finishers in each running division. A Kids Fun Run will begin at 9:00 AM for children ages 4 and above, with each youth getting a finisher prize.

Hockomock Area YMCA hosts 16th annual Foxboro 5K

The cost to participate is $35 per 5K participant and $15 per Kids Fun Run participant. Everyone who signs up will be given a runner bag and bib and the 5K results will be made available from a professional timing company.

The Foxboro 5K and Family Day is a great way for families to support an active lifestyle while giving back to the community. From 9:00 AM until noon, the YMCA will offer family activities that include favorite camp games, a D.J., bouncies, face painting, refreshments, and more. The event is held in loving memory of Linda Cavossa, Michael Baker, and Jackie Thomas. Funds raised will support the Hockomock YMCA’s Reach Out for Youth and Families Campaign to provide anonymous scholarships to families and individuals in our community.

Hockomock Area YMCA hosts 16th annual Foxboro 5K & Family Day

Team LIVESTRONG at the YMCA participants will also raise funds for the Hockomock Y’s 12-week strength and conditioning program for adult cancer survivors deconditioned and fatigued from cancer and/or treatment.

To register for the 5K and Kids Fun Run and to learn more, visit hockymca.org/foxboro-5k. Registrations received by September 16th include a cooling towel; Fun Run participants will receive a cotton T-shirt if registered by the above date.

About 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.

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we 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.

Evan Sholudko Named Assumption Men’s Swimming Head Coach

The Franklin radar picks up with bit from Assumption College. Evan was one of the younger swimmers when my daughters were on the swim teams at Hockomock Y/Adirondack.

"Assumption College Director of Athletics Jamie Marcoux is pleased to announce Evan Sholudko as the College’s Blue and White Sports Men’s Swimming Head Coach. Sholudko officially began his duties in August of 2018 and the team will begin competition in the fall of 2019. 

“I’m excited to welcome Evan as head men’s swimming coach at Assumption,” said Marcoux. “He has proven to be an excellent coach in his young career and will lead our men’s program as a part of Blue and White Sports. I look forward to seeing him develop our swimmers in the pool, in the classroom and the community.” 

Sholudko spent the past year as an assistant with the Assumption women’s swimming program. Sholudko was instrumental in helping the Hounds place second at the NE10 Championships for the second consecutive year. The team also won the Gompei Invitational and claimed the Worcester City Championships. 

“I want to thank Director of Athletics Jaime Marcoux and the Assumption Athletic Department for supporting me in my new role as the head men’s swimming coach,” Sholudko said. “I am excited to continue to work with the amazing student-athletes here at Assumption. My goal is to build this program by instilling a positive culture and tradition so that we as a team can compete and make an impact as soon as possible. I expect the men’s swim team to be one that the Assumption community, student-athletes, parents and alumni can be proud of and support.”

Continue reading online 
http://www.assumptiongreyhounds.com/sports/bluewhite/2018-19/releases/sholudko_hire

Evan Sholudko - Assumption College’s Men’s Swimming Head Coach

Franklin Liquors: Class and Wine Club Events in September

Tri-County Adult Education Class - Noble Grape VarietiesSeptember 11th 7 PM

A great introduction to the basics of wine grapes and the six varieties that produce most of the wines that consumers are familiar with.
This is a sit down tasting/education event held in the Franklin Liquors wine room.
We’ll discuss what makes these grapes so special, where you’ll see them grown, and which famous wines you’ll find them in. And of course we’ll taste all six!

Registration Link:  https://bit.ly/2ObIy9d

Franklin Wine Club EventSeptember13th 7pm

Exploring Wines Of Joseph Carr And Josh
Host Adam Cataldo

Please join us for an immersive tasting experience as we weave through the story of Joseph Carr.
We will talk about how Joe discovered his passion for wine; what led him to starting his namesake label from the Napa Valley; and how the wine he made to honor his father, Josh, became one of America’s most beloved Cabernets.
You’ll have the opportunity to taste and discover how the Josh Cellars varietals compare with their Joseph Carr counterparts

Adams Bio
Adam Cataldo is a recovering history major, IT guy, and bartender who has spent the last 8 years in the wine and spirits industry. He can often be found spreading the good word of Josh Cellars throughout South Eastern Massachusetts as its District Manager for Deutsch Family Wine and Spirits, at least when he’s not complaining about the Boston Bruins.

Registration Link:  https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/254096004/

Franklin Liquors: Class and Wine Club Events in September

In the News: flag displays in Milford; school calendar challenges return

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Two eye-catching flag displays surfaced downtown on Monday. 

One, in Draper Memorial Park, is a tribute to war veterans, with tall poles bearing American flags stationed at intervals, most including a photo and the name of a military serviceman. 

The other is a sea of 2,000 small pink flags across the street, filling the front lawn of the Milford Police Station. 

The second is an effort by a local organization, Missin’ Matt, Inc., to raise awareness for the opioid epidemic during the week of International Overdose Awareness Day."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180827/what-are-pink-flags-in-downtown-milford

"Margaret Robicheau keeps a calendar on her desk at work to keep track of her 7-year-old’s school schedule. 

She has marked off at least four full days and five half-days for professional development, along with 25 vacation days. And ensuring someone can look after her children each of those days seems impossible. 

“My husband and I cannot possibly take all the time off in addition to the summer-school vacation,” Robicheau said. 

The Plainville mother is not alone."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180827/tradition-prevails-when-it-comes-to-school-calendars-in-massachusetts

The Franklin School District calendar for 2018-2019
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/18-19_calendar.pdf

Explore the new website for the School District:  https://www.franklinps.net/

The Franklin School District calendar for 2018-2019

Open Auditions for Disney’s Newsies choreographed by Broadway’s Clay Thomson

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is thrilled to announce open auditions for their October production of Disney’s Newsies. This exciting production at THE BLACK BOX will be choreographed by Broadway cast member Clay Thomson. Vocal Auditions will be held Thursday, September 6 at 7 pm. Auditioners are asked to prepare 16 bars in the style of the show. From the Vocal Audition, some will be asked to attend the Invited Dance Call on Saturday, September 8 at 2 pm. 

Auditions will be held at THE BLACK BOX at 15 W. Central St. Franklin, MA 02038. Disney’s Newsies will run October 13-14 and 19-21 at THE BLACK BOX.

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Disney's Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). It features the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe.” Disney’s Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.

Broadway’s Clay Thomson started out as a competitive gymnast at the age of four, which eventually led him into the performing arts. At age twelve, Clay joined the national tour of Oliver!. He toured the U.S, Canada, and Japan with the Broadway First National Tour of West Side Story as A-rab. He made his Broadway debut in Newsies, playing Spot Conlon. After that, he was cast in the Original Broadway Cast of Matilda The Musical. 

choreographed by Broadway
cast member Clay Thomson

Clay performed in New York City Center Encores' productions of Little Me and The Most Happy Fella. He has also made numerous television appearances, performing on shows such as Dancing with the Stars, The 2013 TONY Awards, The 2012 and 2013 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Late Show with David Letterman, The View, Good Morning America, and more. He is featured in the viral YouTube video #CupsTapDance as well as his most recent appearance in The Happy Tap Dance #TAPPY.

For more information about auditions for Disney’s Newsies presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.fpaconline.com. You can follow FPAC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Franklin Library: Ted Reinstein - Sep 24

Journalist and Author Ted Reinstein is scheduled to speak at the Franklin Public Library on Monday, September 24, 6:30 PM

This was shared from the Franklin Library page
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2018/08/journalist-author-ted-reinstein-monday.html

Ted spoke in 2014 at the Library. At the time the enthusiastic group who listened and wanted to buy his book, went across the street to the Ginley Funeral Home parking lot where he sold copies of his book. Maybe the capability to sell books on the Library grounds has changed. It was being talked of during the renovation of the Library. We'll see.

Ted in the center of the Franklin book buyers!

The post in April 2014
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/04/i-bought-my-book-at-ginleys.html

Back to School - School Handbooks

Teachers report today, students grades 1-12 on Tuesday, with Kindergarten on Wednesday.

Back to School - School Handbooks

The school handbook for each school can be found on each school page which actually links to the same place on the District page. 

"The purpose of the School Handbook is to provide students and families with information about the policies and procedures which govern academic and student life at the school. The policies and procedures set forth in the handbook are designed to promote a rigorous, safe and nurturing environment for students that enable the school community to focus on the learning process."

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-handbooks