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Thursday, January 30, 2020
Deadline approaching! Apply now for ArtWeek grants!
Diana Reinhardt Annis scheduled to talk about the history of Redwork quilts - Feb 11
Yankee Quilters, Inc. is pleased to announce that Diana Reinhardt Annis will present a program on the history of Redwork quilts, on Tuesday, February 11 at 7:00 PM at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Franklin. Redwork quilts feature hand embroidered stitching on white background in designs that range from intricate florals to charming motifs of family life in 20th century America.
Annis will tell the history of this craft from the Renaissance to the present day, with beautiful examples of Redwork, and show the ebb and flow of the history of this contagious art form. She will show antique, vintage and contemporary Redwork quilts.
Annis, who lives in Norton, is the owner of In Stitches. She started quilting in 1979, using cardboard templates, sewing one block at a time, the common quilt construction method before machine piecing and quilting became the norm.
Annis started longarm quilting in the summer of 2002, guiding her large machine by hand. She teaches longarm quilting techniques to longarm quilters and piecing classes at local quilt shops. She also presents lectures and workshops at quilt guilds and works at MQX, one of the largest longarm quilt shows in the Northeast.
This program is supported in part a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. If you are a quilter or just enjoy learning about the history of quilts, please join us, on February 11th, at 7:00 PM, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant St., Franklin, MA 02038. Admission is free for members or $5.00 for visitors.
Follow the event on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/events/s/history-of-redwork-quilts-pres/639943306759969/
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| Redwork quilts - photo by Diana Reinhardt Annis |
Annis, who lives in Norton, is the owner of In Stitches. She started quilting in 1979, using cardboard templates, sewing one block at a time, the common quilt construction method before machine piecing and quilting became the norm.
Annis started longarm quilting in the summer of 2002, guiding her large machine by hand. She teaches longarm quilting techniques to longarm quilters and piecing classes at local quilt shops. She also presents lectures and workshops at quilt guilds and works at MQX, one of the largest longarm quilt shows in the Northeast.
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| Redwork quilts 2 - photo by Diana Reinhardt Annis |
This program is supported in part a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. If you are a quilter or just enjoy learning about the history of quilts, please join us, on February 11th, at 7:00 PM, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant St., Franklin, MA 02038. Admission is free for members or $5.00 for visitors.
Yankee Quilters, Inc. is a nonprofit organization for those interested in the art of quilting. The Guild is organized for charitable and educational purposes and includes members from throughout the MetroWest area and Central Massachusetts. Our purpose is two-fold: to promote education in and appreciation for all aspects of quilt making and to use our talents to produce quilts for individuals in times of need, as distributed through designated charitable organizations.
Follow the event on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/events/s/history-of-redwork-quilts-pres/639943306759969/
FHS girls and boys hockey teams posts wins
Via HockomockSports.com, we share the results of FHS winter sports action on Wednesday
Girls Hockey = Franklin, 6 @ Stoughton, 0 – Final
Boys Hockey = King Philip, 2 @ Franklin, 4 – Final
Ryan Lanigan, founder and Editor-in-Chief of HockomockSports.com, provides the game recap:
For a photo gallery of this game:
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/2019-2020/Winter-2019-2020/Franklin-King-Philip-Boys-Hockey-01-29-20/
For other results around the Hockomock League:
https://hockomocksports.com/wednesdays-schedule-scoreboard-01-29-20/
Girls Hockey = Franklin, 6 @ Stoughton, 0 – Final
Boys Hockey = King Philip, 2 @ Franklin, 4 – Final
Ryan Lanigan, founder and Editor-in-Chief of HockomockSports.com, provides the game recap:
"Coming off a tie to Mansfield and a loss to Canton, and now trailing by a goal to King Philip with just a period left, the Franklin boys hockey was on the verge of letting its grasp of the Kelley-Rex division slip away.
But first-year Panther coach Anthony Sarno challenged his squad to rise to the occasion over the final 15 minutes, and the team delivered.
Franklin scored three goals in the third period, erasing a one-goal deficit and landing a 4-2 win over King Philip. With the win, the Panthers move into sole possession of first place in the division with 10 points with one game to go. The win also secures a playoff spot because Franklin can’t finish worse than second place in the Kelley-Rex.
“‘How bad do you want it?’” Sarno asked his players between the second and third periods. “It’s not the X’s and O’s, it’s the will to win, how bad do you want to push back? We’re tired of being slapped in mouth late in the games with all these ties. And against Canton last game, they the best team in the league no doubt, but we didn’t really challenge them the way we should have or could have."
For a photo gallery of this game:
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/2019-2020/Winter-2019-2020/Franklin-King-Philip-Boys-Hockey-01-29-20/
For other results around the Hockomock League:
https://hockomocksports.com/wednesdays-schedule-scoreboard-01-29-20/
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| Franklin senior Kevin O’Rielly fires a shot against King Philip in the second period on Wednesday night. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com) |
Missed getting the Christmas tree picked up? Take it to Beaver St
I was walking on Wednesday and saw another Christmas tree on Pleasant St. I slowed to type an email to the DPW email address:
I got a quick reply from DPW Director Robert "Brutus Cantoreggi:
Per the DPW page https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste
"As I walk around I do see some trees still in front of houses. Whether they came out late or missed getting picked up, is unknown. is there anything that can be done with the trees now? Will recycling center take them? Or??"
I got a quick reply from DPW Director Robert "Brutus Cantoreggi:
"I have instructed to folks at the recycling center to allow people to drop xmas tress off even if they do not have a sticker.
Thanks for your support.
Brutus"So if your tree is still around, you can take it to the Recycle Center on Beaver St. It is open Friday/Saturday and Sunday and they will take your tree if you have a sticker or not. They'll tell which place in the Center to put the tree.
Per the DPW page https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste
Recycling Center Hours of Operation (445 Beaver St.)
Fri/Sat: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Sun: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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| Missed getting your Christmas tree picked up? Take it to Beaver St |
Fiscal 2020 Real Estate & Personal Property Tax Bills Have Been Mailed, Due 2-3-2020
Fiscal 2020 Real Estate & Personal Property Tax Bills Have Been Mailed, Due 2-3-2020
Treasurer Collector Kerri A. Bertone has mailed the Fiscal 2020 Real Estate and Personal Property tax bills.
Payment is due February 3, 2020. Payments received after the due date are charged 14% interest.
Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/treasurer-collector/news/fiscal-2020-real-estate-personal-property-tax-bills-have-been-mailed-due-2
Treasurer Collector Kerri A. Bertone has mailed the Fiscal 2020 Real Estate and Personal Property tax bills.
Payment is due February 3, 2020. Payments received after the due date are charged 14% interest.
Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/treasurer-collector/news/fiscal-2020-real-estate-personal-property-tax-bills-have-been-mailed-due-2
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| Did you know there are six ways to pay bills? Drive through window, Drop Box, Online, By Mail, In-person at the Municipal Building with our friendly staff or there's always Pony Express! |
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
THE BLACK BOX Classical Series Continues on Feb 9
Irina Fainkichen and pianist Irina Kotlyar return to THE BLACK BOX on February 9th at 4:00 p.m. as part of the THE BLACK BOX Classical Series. The concert program features music by titan composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven, Igor Stravinsky, and Maurice Ravel. Audiences will experience music through beautiful dances and emotions.
Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Irina Fainkichen is member of Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra and has performed with New Hampshire Symphony, Lexington Symphony, Pro-Arte Chamber Orchestra, and recently with Broadway on Tour’s Phantom of the Opera at Boston Opera House.
Born in Ukraine, Irina Kotlyar received degrees from the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, Israel. With Gregory Shifrin, the Kotlyar-Shifrin Piano Duo has won several international prizes and awards and has performed throughout Israel, Europe, and America.
Tea service by Intermission Cafe will be available in the lobby. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in downtown Franklin.
Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Irina Fainkichen is member of Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra and has performed with New Hampshire Symphony, Lexington Symphony, Pro-Arte Chamber Orchestra, and recently with Broadway on Tour’s Phantom of the Opera at Boston Opera House.
Born in Ukraine, Irina Kotlyar received degrees from the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, Israel. With Gregory Shifrin, the Kotlyar-Shifrin Piano Duo has won several international prizes and awards and has performed throughout Israel, Europe, and America.
Tea service by Intermission Cafe will be available in the lobby. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in downtown Franklin.
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| THE BLACK BOX Classical Series Continues on Feb 9 |
Superintendent’s Report to School Committee - Jan 28, 2020
Professional Development Day Recap
In the afternoon of Friday, January 17, FPS hosted professional development for faculty across the district. This day was building-directed professional learning, under the direction of building principals. The following are some highlights:
● ECDC -- ECDC teaching teams analyzed the first round of the new “Developmental Summary” (report card/progress report), considering what worked well, what was challenging, and feedback from families.
● FHS -- Franklin High School staff continued to engage in our ongoing work with SEL and Teaching and Learning. They also included Cultural Proficiency as part of this work.
● Remington -- Remington staff reviewed the draft skills of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG) and provided feedback. Then educators collaborated on inclusive practices related to inclusion of students with special needs.
● Annie Sullivan -- Annie Sullivan staff explored the current discipline practices in place, reviewed data to analyze trends, and identified ways to support student needs in the classroom. Teachers met as teams/grade levels to apply their learning in discussions about specific students and share strategies, review/update behavior plans, etc.
● Horace Mann -- HMMS staff focused on developing Keys to Literacy Comprehension, Vocabulary and Writing strategies across content areas. Sessions were facilitated by coaches and administration, based on feedback from staff provided in a recent survey.
● Davis Thayer -- Davis Thayer Staff engaged in a recommitment to Core Values, redefining how those Core Values look and feel across settings, and examined the interrelation between our Core Values and the five core competencies for SEL.
● Parmenter -- Parmenter staff engaged in PD focused on mathematics and planning using the Understanding by Design framework.
● Kennedy -- Kennedy teachers participated in the following workshops: Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices, Analyzing Literacy Assessments, and Developing Math Fluency Instructional Materials.
● Keller -- Keller School staff engaged to learn more about the Understanding by Design framework for curriculum development.
● Jefferson -- The Jefferson staff continued their learning about cultural proficiency; they reviewed books and other curriculum materials for bias within the content.
● Oak Street -- Oak School staff continued to engaged to learn more about the Understanding by Design framework for curriculum development.
● District Nursing Staff -- The district’s nurses worked together to share (compare & contrast) current office practices and assess specific school needs in order to provide better consistency for nurses covering the health offices.
Franklin Educators Provide PD Regionally
We are very excited to share that several FPS educators are presenting at this year’s Local Staff Development Opportunities workshop/dinner Series, running regionally January through March. We are fortunate to have such talented educators within our system, as evidenced by regional interest in them sharing through professional learning.
● Kate Merten and Anne Williams 4th grade teachers at Kennedy Elementary School) will lead a workshop on “I Do Readers’ Workshop -- Now What?”. Participants will take a deeper dive into the aspects of the Readers’ Workshop instructional strategy, which is a means of differentiating to meet individual student’s needs and provide a more personalized learning approach in the elementary classroom.
● Jaime Hulbig, Jennifer Violet, and Jennifer Young (Math Specialists at Jefferson, Davis Thayer, and Keller elementary schools) will lead a workshop titled “Beyond Pizza and Pies: Teaching Fractions and Decimals for True Understanding” -- This two-part session will help educators build conceptual understanding, number sense,problem solving and procedural fluency with fractions, a foundation for future math learning.
Report from the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents’ (MASS) Mid-Winter Meeting
MASS holds two meetings during the school year to provide professional development to its members. The mid-winter meeting was held last week on January 23, 2020 and Mr. Giguere, Assistant Superintendent, and I attended.
We started the morning with a breakfast discussion as part of our partnership with MAPLE, the Massachusetts Personalized Learning Edtech consortium. We learned about various districts personalized learning initiatives and joined a conversation about personalizing professional development. Philosophically, we seek to progress towards more personalization in our professional development program, in order to model for staff the types of personalized experiences we wish to see within classrooms. Central to this idea is the notion of choice and voice in the process as well as matching learning to skill development. We shared our initial strategies in personalizing professional development for staff through Edcamp-style PD, which is occurring in many of our buildings. We also learned from two districts about their progressive approaches. We look forward to applying our new learning in FPS.
The formal MASS program then began and we heard from Jeff Lawrence, Managing Director of Organizational Agility Advisors. He presented a keynote speech on “Thinking Systemically -- Acting Relationally”. The focus of this session was on the complexity of leadership in education today. He urged Superintendents to engage in self-care strategies and thinking, engaging, and acting differently in order to develop more leadership agility. Mr. Giguere and I are looking forward to bringing these concepts to the leadership team, likely during our summer retreat.
Jeff Riley, Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, then shared the developing details of the DESE required implementation plans that are part of the Student Opportunities Act. These plans are designed to hold districts accountable to using additional funding provided by SOA for their intended results: closing achievement gaps among student groups, including English learners, students with disabilities, and students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds. Details are still emerging. The School Committee can expect that the FPS plan will be shared at a meeting in March, where a vote to approve will be requested.
Dr. Edwards and I will attend the spring meeting of MASS in May.
A Word about Grant Funding
I am aware that some conversation has been percolating in the community about grant opportunities. I wish to convey that the district pursues grant funding that seems reasonable and appropriate when they arise. Some of our grant funding comes in the form of government entitlement grants, but we do also pursue competitive grants. Due to our student population and demographics, these opportunities are not as widespread as they may be for other communities. However, when appropriate we seek additional resources. For example, we secured a state-offered competitive school safety grant last year to support school safety upgrades. Our ECDC secured a local grant from Big Y to develop a “Chill Zone” to assist students with the SEL skill of self-management.
Many grants come with expectations and additional management that may be inconsistent with our improvement plan, potentially siphoning resources away from our current priorities. Therefore, we critically evaluate the benefit of the grant application/award.
We appreciate the public’s interest in this area. Also, we always welcome outreach and ideas from the community, even if we can not support each one.
FHS Chorus Highlight with Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Choral Director
I had the pleasure to attend a special Chorus workshop today, at the invitation of Director Olivia Goliger. She hosted Mr. James Burton, the Choral Director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Conductor of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus. Mr. Burton spent the hours of 10:30-3:30 PM today at FHS workshopping pieces for festival and recording, including his own large work, The Lost Words. He worked with students on musicianship and musicality, vocal, and choral technique with the singers, while simultaneously working with Ms. Goliger on conducting and rehearsal technique. The instruction was inspiring and motivating. The students were phenomenal but one could also hear how his coaching techniques developed their sound.
Additionally, I was so moved with the connection to social-emotional learning as he drew out their emotions through voice. It was a very powerful and unique experience and a real highlight for our students.
Download a copy of the Report (PDF file)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xtGiLiBEnWKbrGVZTe2M0ls0j_gNL7DO/view?usp=sharing
For more about Superintendent Sara E Ahern, visit the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/superintendent
In the afternoon of Friday, January 17, FPS hosted professional development for faculty across the district. This day was building-directed professional learning, under the direction of building principals. The following are some highlights:
● ECDC -- ECDC teaching teams analyzed the first round of the new “Developmental Summary” (report card/progress report), considering what worked well, what was challenging, and feedback from families.
● FHS -- Franklin High School staff continued to engage in our ongoing work with SEL and Teaching and Learning. They also included Cultural Proficiency as part of this work.
● Remington -- Remington staff reviewed the draft skills of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG) and provided feedback. Then educators collaborated on inclusive practices related to inclusion of students with special needs.
● Annie Sullivan -- Annie Sullivan staff explored the current discipline practices in place, reviewed data to analyze trends, and identified ways to support student needs in the classroom. Teachers met as teams/grade levels to apply their learning in discussions about specific students and share strategies, review/update behavior plans, etc.
● Horace Mann -- HMMS staff focused on developing Keys to Literacy Comprehension, Vocabulary and Writing strategies across content areas. Sessions were facilitated by coaches and administration, based on feedback from staff provided in a recent survey.
● Davis Thayer -- Davis Thayer Staff engaged in a recommitment to Core Values, redefining how those Core Values look and feel across settings, and examined the interrelation between our Core Values and the five core competencies for SEL.
● Parmenter -- Parmenter staff engaged in PD focused on mathematics and planning using the Understanding by Design framework.
● Kennedy -- Kennedy teachers participated in the following workshops: Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices, Analyzing Literacy Assessments, and Developing Math Fluency Instructional Materials.
● Keller -- Keller School staff engaged to learn more about the Understanding by Design framework for curriculum development.
● Jefferson -- The Jefferson staff continued their learning about cultural proficiency; they reviewed books and other curriculum materials for bias within the content.
● Oak Street -- Oak School staff continued to engaged to learn more about the Understanding by Design framework for curriculum development.
● District Nursing Staff -- The district’s nurses worked together to share (compare & contrast) current office practices and assess specific school needs in order to provide better consistency for nurses covering the health offices.
Franklin Educators Provide PD Regionally
We are very excited to share that several FPS educators are presenting at this year’s Local Staff Development Opportunities workshop/dinner Series, running regionally January through March. We are fortunate to have such talented educators within our system, as evidenced by regional interest in them sharing through professional learning.
● Kate Merten and Anne Williams 4th grade teachers at Kennedy Elementary School) will lead a workshop on “I Do Readers’ Workshop -- Now What?”. Participants will take a deeper dive into the aspects of the Readers’ Workshop instructional strategy, which is a means of differentiating to meet individual student’s needs and provide a more personalized learning approach in the elementary classroom.
● Jaime Hulbig, Jennifer Violet, and Jennifer Young (Math Specialists at Jefferson, Davis Thayer, and Keller elementary schools) will lead a workshop titled “Beyond Pizza and Pies: Teaching Fractions and Decimals for True Understanding” -- This two-part session will help educators build conceptual understanding, number sense,problem solving and procedural fluency with fractions, a foundation for future math learning.
Report from the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents’ (MASS) Mid-Winter Meeting
MASS holds two meetings during the school year to provide professional development to its members. The mid-winter meeting was held last week on January 23, 2020 and Mr. Giguere, Assistant Superintendent, and I attended.
We started the morning with a breakfast discussion as part of our partnership with MAPLE, the Massachusetts Personalized Learning Edtech consortium. We learned about various districts personalized learning initiatives and joined a conversation about personalizing professional development. Philosophically, we seek to progress towards more personalization in our professional development program, in order to model for staff the types of personalized experiences we wish to see within classrooms. Central to this idea is the notion of choice and voice in the process as well as matching learning to skill development. We shared our initial strategies in personalizing professional development for staff through Edcamp-style PD, which is occurring in many of our buildings. We also learned from two districts about their progressive approaches. We look forward to applying our new learning in FPS.
The formal MASS program then began and we heard from Jeff Lawrence, Managing Director of Organizational Agility Advisors. He presented a keynote speech on “Thinking Systemically -- Acting Relationally”. The focus of this session was on the complexity of leadership in education today. He urged Superintendents to engage in self-care strategies and thinking, engaging, and acting differently in order to develop more leadership agility. Mr. Giguere and I are looking forward to bringing these concepts to the leadership team, likely during our summer retreat.
Jeff Riley, Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, then shared the developing details of the DESE required implementation plans that are part of the Student Opportunities Act. These plans are designed to hold districts accountable to using additional funding provided by SOA for their intended results: closing achievement gaps among student groups, including English learners, students with disabilities, and students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds. Details are still emerging. The School Committee can expect that the FPS plan will be shared at a meeting in March, where a vote to approve will be requested.
Dr. Edwards and I will attend the spring meeting of MASS in May.
A Word about Grant Funding
I am aware that some conversation has been percolating in the community about grant opportunities. I wish to convey that the district pursues grant funding that seems reasonable and appropriate when they arise. Some of our grant funding comes in the form of government entitlement grants, but we do also pursue competitive grants. Due to our student population and demographics, these opportunities are not as widespread as they may be for other communities. However, when appropriate we seek additional resources. For example, we secured a state-offered competitive school safety grant last year to support school safety upgrades. Our ECDC secured a local grant from Big Y to develop a “Chill Zone” to assist students with the SEL skill of self-management.
Many grants come with expectations and additional management that may be inconsistent with our improvement plan, potentially siphoning resources away from our current priorities. Therefore, we critically evaluate the benefit of the grant application/award.
We appreciate the public’s interest in this area. Also, we always welcome outreach and ideas from the community, even if we can not support each one.
FHS Chorus Highlight with Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Choral Director
I had the pleasure to attend a special Chorus workshop today, at the invitation of Director Olivia Goliger. She hosted Mr. James Burton, the Choral Director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Conductor of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus. Mr. Burton spent the hours of 10:30-3:30 PM today at FHS workshopping pieces for festival and recording, including his own large work, The Lost Words. He worked with students on musicianship and musicality, vocal, and choral technique with the singers, while simultaneously working with Ms. Goliger on conducting and rehearsal technique. The instruction was inspiring and motivating. The students were phenomenal but one could also hear how his coaching techniques developed their sound.
Additionally, I was so moved with the connection to social-emotional learning as he drew out their emotions through voice. It was a very powerful and unique experience and a real highlight for our students.
Download a copy of the Report (PDF file)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xtGiLiBEnWKbrGVZTe2M0ls0j_gNL7DO/view?usp=sharing
For more about Superintendent Sara E Ahern, visit the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/superintendent
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“Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18
Presenter: Kevin Martin of “Nerds to Go” of Franklin
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 6:30 pm
Location: Franklin Public Library, 118 Main St., Franklin, MA
Talk Content:
At a time when our community might reap the benefits of the Internet and technology to keep in touch with grandchildren, classmates and long-time friends, they are often leery of the new electronic landscape. From computers to smart phones to smart speakers - people can get overwhelmed!
The Franklin Odd Fellows are hosting an informal presentation on “Taming Technology for Community Members”. Kevin Martin will explore how to stay safe on the Internet and enjoy some of the key components and resources.
Martin has more than two decades of experience working in technology – from advanced electronics in submarines in the U.S. Navy to IT executive positions in the private sector.
The Internet offers a boundless amount of useful and interesting information and access to the world. Unfortunately, technology is also a daunting new landscape to many people. This presentation is intended to outline both the security and scope of technology.
For more about Nerds to Go - www.nerdstogo.com
For more about the OddFellows - www.franklinmassoddfellows.org
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 6:30 pm
Location: Franklin Public Library, 118 Main St., Franklin, MA
Talk Content:
At a time when our community might reap the benefits of the Internet and technology to keep in touch with grandchildren, classmates and long-time friends, they are often leery of the new electronic landscape. From computers to smart phones to smart speakers - people can get overwhelmed!
The Franklin Odd Fellows are hosting an informal presentation on “Taming Technology for Community Members”. Kevin Martin will explore how to stay safe on the Internet and enjoy some of the key components and resources.
Martin has more than two decades of experience working in technology – from advanced electronics in submarines in the U.S. Navy to IT executive positions in the private sector.
The Internet offers a boundless amount of useful and interesting information and access to the world. Unfortunately, technology is also a daunting new landscape to many people. This presentation is intended to outline both the security and scope of technology.
For more about Nerds to Go - www.nerdstogo.com
For more about the OddFellows - www.franklinmassoddfellows.org
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| “Taming Technology for Community Members” - March 18 |
FHS girls and boys basketball teams top Sharon
Via HockomockSports.com and Twitter, we share the results of FHS winter sports action on Tuesday.
Boys Basketball = Sharon, 50 @ Franklin, 64 – Final
– Franklin got off to a strong start in the opening quarter and built on that lead throughout the game to knock off visiting Sharon. Seniors Brayden Sullivan (21 points), Jack Rudolph, and Steven Karayan each hit a three in the opening frame to help the Panthers race out to a 17-9 lead. Sullivan added eight more in the second and senior Chris Edgehill (15 points) connected from three as the Panthers pushed the lead to double-digits, 33-22, at half. Sharon kept pace in the third, down 46-35, but Franklin put the game away with an 18-point fourth quarter. Declan Walmsey added 10 points for Franklin. Andrew Burton led Sharon with 14 points while Aidan Kane added 10 points.
Girls Basketball = Franklin, 53 @ Sharon, 20 – Final
– Franklin put in another full-team effort to get the win on the road. Ten Panthers scored in the game, led by Ali Brigham’s 12. Nicole Teven and Trinity Payne each scored five to lead the Eagles.
Other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/tuesdays-schedule-scoreboard-01-28-20/
And via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/lists/fhs-sports
Boys Basketball = Sharon, 50 @ Franklin, 64 – Final
– Franklin got off to a strong start in the opening quarter and built on that lead throughout the game to knock off visiting Sharon. Seniors Brayden Sullivan (21 points), Jack Rudolph, and Steven Karayan each hit a three in the opening frame to help the Panthers race out to a 17-9 lead. Sullivan added eight more in the second and senior Chris Edgehill (15 points) connected from three as the Panthers pushed the lead to double-digits, 33-22, at half. Sharon kept pace in the third, down 46-35, but Franklin put the game away with an 18-point fourth quarter. Declan Walmsey added 10 points for Franklin. Andrew Burton led Sharon with 14 points while Aidan Kane added 10 points.
Girls Basketball = Franklin, 53 @ Sharon, 20 – Final
– Franklin put in another full-team effort to get the win on the road. Ten Panthers scored in the game, led by Ali Brigham’s 12. Nicole Teven and Trinity Payne each scored five to lead the Eagles.
Other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/tuesdays-schedule-scoreboard-01-28-20/
And via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/lists/fhs-sports
Unified music singing the national anthem #PantherPride @FHSUnifiedMusic @FranklinUnified @FHSSports pic.twitter.com/fFn9qVTAMn— FranklinHighSchool (@FranklinHS) January 29, 2020
Unifiedmusic#nationalanthem🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/cIL7sgdFUm— taylor padula (@padula_rose) January 29, 2020
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Tri-County shares honor roll and State Senator Rebecca Rausch's recent visit
State Senator Rebecca Rausch, who represents parts of the Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex counties, met students and faculty on a tour of Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School. Senator Rausch also spoke with students in the Practical Nursing Programs, part of Tri-County’s Adult Education program, and discussed their coursework, the skills they acquire in the program and how their education propels them forward into the nursing profession.
State Senator Rausch met with both students and faculty to learn more about the career programs, academics and extracurricular activities available.
Tri-County shared the listing of student with High Honors and Honors for the first trimester of the school year. (Listing in PDF below)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OYiqFQPVRPmJuhTU7dpBrEKSer45q89Z/view?usp=sharing
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| Senator Rausch also spoke with students in the Practical Nursing Programs |
State Senator Rausch met with both students and faculty to learn more about the career programs, academics and extracurricular activities available.
 |
| State Senator Rausch met with both students and faculty to learn more about the career programs |
Tri-County shared the listing of student with High Honors and Honors for the first trimester of the school year. (Listing in PDF below)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OYiqFQPVRPmJuhTU7dpBrEKSer45q89Z/view?usp=sharing
Collaborative Cultural Grants in Franklin
The Franklin Cultural District Committee (FCDC) was honored to receive a $5,000 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC). Franklin Cultural District (FCD) Partners were invited to submit their ideas for use of the MCC funds that would support and enhance collaborative events highlighting culture and the arts. The result of this call for proposals was well met with several Partners sharing ideas for collaborative events.
Importantly, the FCDC would like to thank all who attended the FCDC meeting and shared their ideas. It was an inspiring meeting that resulted in events proposed that are collaborative, invoke culture and the arts, and are reflective of Franklin’s community spirit
The FCDC is pleased to announce that the following Partners have been awarded grant funding for projects and events, which will help to enhance culture and the arts in the Town of Franklin.
Grants were awarded to:
• Franklin Art Association, for an interactive, visual arts project to take place during the Strawberry Stroll
• Dave Burnham, on behalf of LiveARTS, for a teaching/learning music performance at Franklin High School
• Anne Marie Tracey, Town of Franklin Marketing and Communication Specialist, in support of the Recreation Department’s Community Art Initiative, a visual art experience
• Caleigh Keating, Children’s Librarian at Franklin Public Library, for a “Mini Franklin” event to take place on the Franklin Town Common
• Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) for THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series presents Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey In Concert on Saturday, March 7 at 8:00 PM and a Sunday morning Master Class with the Broadway stars on March 8, 2020
• Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) at THE BLACK BOX, to host a Kickoff Event for ArtWeek on Friday, May 1st, 4:00 – 6:00 PM
• Franklin Downtown Partnership, to support musicians performing during the Strawberry Stroll
The FCDC and its Partners are grateful to the MCC for the grant funding to be able to support and promote culture and the arts in Franklin
Importantly, the FCDC would like to thank all who attended the FCDC meeting and shared their ideas. It was an inspiring meeting that resulted in events proposed that are collaborative, invoke culture and the arts, and are reflective of Franklin’s community spirit
The FCDC is pleased to announce that the following Partners have been awarded grant funding for projects and events, which will help to enhance culture and the arts in the Town of Franklin.
Grants were awarded to:
• Franklin Art Association, for an interactive, visual arts project to take place during the Strawberry Stroll
• Dave Burnham, on behalf of LiveARTS, for a teaching/learning music performance at Franklin High School
• Anne Marie Tracey, Town of Franklin Marketing and Communication Specialist, in support of the Recreation Department’s Community Art Initiative, a visual art experience
• Caleigh Keating, Children’s Librarian at Franklin Public Library, for a “Mini Franklin” event to take place on the Franklin Town Common
• Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) for THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series presents Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey In Concert on Saturday, March 7 at 8:00 PM and a Sunday morning Master Class with the Broadway stars on March 8, 2020
• Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) at THE BLACK BOX, to host a Kickoff Event for ArtWeek on Friday, May 1st, 4:00 – 6:00 PM
• Franklin Downtown Partnership, to support musicians performing during the Strawberry Stroll
The FCDC and its Partners are grateful to the MCC for the grant funding to be able to support and promote culture and the arts in Franklin
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| Collaborative Cultural Grants in Franklin |
"It’s that time again" - IRS has started processing tax returns
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200128/what-to-know-for-year-two-of-trump-tax-plan
"The IRS began accepting and processing tax returns for individuals on Monday.Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
Last year’s filing season was an adjustment for taxpayers and industry professionals alike as it was the first under a massive overhaul of federal tax law. While this year’s season is expected to be more sedate, there are a few tweaks to be aware of.
Standard deduction
The standard deduction doubled under the new tax law that took effect in 2018. In turn, the number of taxpayers who took that instead of itemizing on their taxes jumped sharply. An estimated 90% of taxpayers are expected to take the deduction this year.
While the standard deduction usually increases each year for inflation, it’s worth keeping the figure in mind as taxpayers adjust to the new system. Some people may still want to run through the exercise of deciding whether to itemize or not. The decision comes down to whether your deductible expenses are greater than the standard deduction. Tax preparation software or a tax professional can walk you through this with ease."
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200128/what-to-know-for-year-two-of-trump-tax-plan
"The Internal Revenue Service today reminded active duty military personnel that IRS Free File offers them multiple options for free federal tax preparation.https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/irs-free-file-offers-free-tax-prep.html
Free File is for individuals or families whose adjusted gross income was $69,000 or less last year. Free File is a private-public partnership between the IRS and the Free File Inc."
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| To make sure you are using the IRS Free File system, go to IRS.gov/freefile to review your choices |
Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Live reporting: Information Matters to Closing/Executive Session
V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Budget,
Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy
met last week, prepared for Feb Forum
Policy
next Feb 12, Mar 19
Facility analysis
meeting Weds night
B. School Committee Liaison Reports
Joint PCC
2 meetings, portrait of the graduate
involvement of the PCCs from the schools
reviewed schedule for Feb 4
student opportunity act
only Thayer 2nd grade tours the Library, all should have the opportunity
Substance Abuse Task Force
did share the Ride At Home booklet
kids starting to see that vaping is stupid
School Wellness Advisory Council
Feb 11, next meeting
to be featured by the FPS Voice in future episode
VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items
update on improvement goal on SEL, students from Jefferson
DECA invite out
Technology presentation coming
VII. Consent Agenda
A. Minutes
a. I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 10, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
b. I recommend approval of the revised minutes from the November 26, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B. FHS Scholarship
I recommend acceptance of three checks totaling $250.00 for the Jacqueline Schaeffer Memorial Scholarship as follows:
- Shanna Culloty Jobin $100.00
- Sean S. Jobin $100.00
- Maura C. Schaeffer $ 50.00
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $375.00 as detailed:
- $75.00 Leuders Environmental, Inc. for in-house enrichment
- $300.00 Anonymous donation to pay off lunch balances
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $3,798.15 as detailed:
- $2,798.15 from Lifetouch National School Studio for in-house enrichment
- $1,000.00 from Patriot’s Foundation for Athletic supplies
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,500.00 from music parents for in- house enrichment as detailed.
F. Remington Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,535.00 from Lifetouch for in-house enrichment at Remington Middle School as detailed.
G. JFK Gifts
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $2,574.00 from the JFK PCC as follows:
- $775.00 – Field Trips
- $1,799.00 – Supplemental Supplies
I recommend acceptance of the following donations totaling $6,902.34 for Parmenter Elementary School:
- $3,000.00 worth of Furniture from Cardi’s
- $992.34 from PCC for In-house enrichment
- $1,800.00 Anonymous donation to pay off lunch balances
- $1,110.00 from Hockomock Area YMCA for in-house enrichment
I recommend approval of the request of Leighanne Rudsit and Matthew Geisinger to take 2 jazz bands and 2 jazz combos to the University of New Hampshire on Saturday, March 14, 2020 for the annual Jazz Festival as detailed.
J. Jefferson Donation
I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Keurig Coffee Machine from Brody Nunley for the Jefferson teacher’s dining room as detailed.
Motion to accept consent agenda, seconded, passed 7-0
VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo
X. Executive Session
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.
motion to enter executive session, seconded, passed 7-0 via roll call
Agenda shared from the Town of Franklin School Committee page
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/scagenda_1-28-20.pdf
Other documents released before the meeting can be found online
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/january-28-2020-school-committee-packet
Additional documents will be posted after the meeting.
Live reporting: Discussion/Action Items - Discussion Only Items
III. Discussion/Action Items
A. 2020-2021 School Calendar
I recommend adoption of the proposed 2020-2021 School Calendar as discussed with adjustment of parent teach conferences of Oct 22-23 not Nov 5-6.
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-calendar
discussion on half days in early November, i.e. choppy schedule
problem with teacher goals/PD at end of October
7 more teaching day with original proposal but not necessarily 'more' info
motion made, seconded, passed 7-0
B. Policy - First Reading
I recommend moving Policy EEAE – School Bus Safety to a second reading as discussed.
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-b-policy
intro of new policy
leads to the general safety policy for the district
may be additional policies for review in future
highlights procedures and practices already in place
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed 7-0
IV. Discussion Only Items
A. ACCEPT Annual Report
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/accept-annual-report-2019
B. BICO Annual Report
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/bico-annual-rpt-2019
Live reporting: Guests/Presentations
II. Guests/Presentations
A. FHS Program of Study Update
Paul Peri, Bill Klements
FHS doc to be added later, not posted yet to the 'packet folder'
AP 2-D design course, more design focused
Illustration and Murals, conscious decision to not run Art II
Multi-Cultural Art, responding to needs and wants of students
Life in Literature, for second half of senior year
Health/PE courses, in calendar but not necessarily run due to staffing availability
Math, element of stats also building upon wants and needs
Economics - open honors course
Latin 5 - taught with Latin 4
adding AP level course also
Q - how do you determine a course when quantity may be small?
A - carefully, student, need and ability but also based upon enrollment, if not meeting minimum needs, it won't run
B. Homework Update
Dr Edwards
inconsistent homework practices across the district never mind within a building
policy revision completed, recognizing the value of family and whole child
developed study group to help implement "homework guidelines"
to get to consistency of practices, still have meet student needs
consistency of expectation set
monitoring and revising as needed
survey results had good representation, 349 responses
when homework is done vs assigned; i.e. middle school has a period available
what is homework vs. prep for the next day of class?
addressing inconsistencies
Parent Ed night on homework scheduled for 3/18 (snow date 3/25) 6:30 PM -8:00 PM at FHS Media Center
did get request from elementary parents for no homework, under consideration
survey again in April (last for this year)
Pfeffer disagrees with trend towards no homework, "I find it absurd"
There is a place for homework, family life and support structures for homework have changed over the changes, esp. more recently
trying to find the balance to prepare for the life skills needed to be successful in the world
some AP class loads may require multiple hours of homework which can affect the required number of hours of sleep
Keenan - is there really a need for homework?
research for young children show need for developing study skills and reading time
MCAS scores have been stable, in many cases students weren't doing homework
there is rampant sharing of homework, if it is being assigned it needs to be personalized and executed; you can't share an essay, needs to be personalized, meaningful and relevant
look for CNN article on homework for young kids just came to one of the SchComm members as he was coming to the meeting
parents should be encouraged to talk with the teacher first, check out what should be happening vs what they see and start there
parent raising issue with 3-4 hours of home work for 7th grade
in middle schools should be able to calibrate across the teams
the principal is the next step
inconsistent homework practices across the district never mind within a building
policy revision completed, recognizing the value of family and whole child
developed study group to help implement "homework guidelines"
to get to consistency of practices, still have meet student needs
consistency of expectation set
monitoring and revising as needed
survey results had good representation, 349 responses
when homework is done vs assigned; i.e. middle school has a period available
what is homework vs. prep for the next day of class?
addressing inconsistencies
Parent Ed night on homework scheduled for 3/18 (snow date 3/25) 6:30 PM -8:00 PM at FHS Media Center
did get request from elementary parents for no homework, under consideration
survey again in April (last for this year)
Pfeffer disagrees with trend towards no homework, "I find it absurd"
There is a place for homework, family life and support structures for homework have changed over the changes, esp. more recently
trying to find the balance to prepare for the life skills needed to be successful in the world
some AP class loads may require multiple hours of homework which can affect the required number of hours of sleep
Keenan - is there really a need for homework?
research for young children show need for developing study skills and reading time
MCAS scores have been stable, in many cases students weren't doing homework
there is rampant sharing of homework, if it is being assigned it needs to be personalized and executed; you can't share an essay, needs to be personalized, meaningful and relevant
look for CNN article on homework for young kids just came to one of the SchComm members as he was coming to the meeting
parents should be encouraged to talk with the teacher first, check out what should be happening vs what they see and start there
parent raising issue with 3-4 hours of home work for 7th grade
in middle schools should be able to calibrate across the teams
the principal is the next step
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