Stormwater Information Session Recordings

The Town of Franklin held two storm water information sessions to share information with residents on the facts of storm water and the financial impact. 

Due to the pandemic and social distancing policies being enforced, the event scheduled for Saturday (March 21) at the Library is NOT happening.

As soon as a new date is determined it will be shared.

You can listen to each of the first two session recordings

FM #223 - Stormwater Utility Fee Info Session 1 - March 6, 2020 (audio)
https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-223-stormwater-session-1-3-5-20

FM #225 Stormwater Utility Session 2 - March, 11, 2020 (audio)

https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-225-stormwater-utility-session-2-3-11-20

The presentation doc was updated for the second session and available here.
https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/town-of-franklin-stormwater-info-session-2
 

Town of Franklin: Stormwater Info Session #2 from Franklin Matters

The second session was held at the Franklin TV studio

"He is not worried to take public transportation"

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

The normally bustling downtown Framingham train station resembled a ghost town at rush hour Thursday morning.

Only 20 or so passengers boarded a double-decker train after it pulled into the Waverly Street station shortly after 7:30 a.m. Thursday.

Framingham’s Bryce MacIver was one of the handful of passengers making the trek to Boston via the commuter rail. It was his first trip on the train this week, but he rode it all last week and noticed a substantial drop in ridership as the week went on.

“The parking lot on Friday was a quarter full,” he said as he waited to board.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200319/train-stations-across-framingham-worcester-franklin-lines-ghost-town-amid-coronavirus-outbreak

a black and tan themed photo for the snowy St Patrick's day this week.

Artist Reception - rescheduled to April 26

The previously scheduled art reception hosted by The First Universalist Society in Franklin for Franklin artist Chris Blue Lamb Toubeau has been postponed from March 29 to Sunday, April 26, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Please join the artist and learn about her series of paintings called "Future Awash"
  
Ms. Toubeau (www.chrisbluelamb.com) uses art as a vehicle to communicate about the current climate change crisis, and how humans are complicit. 

The exhibit will run from March 9 - May 3 at the First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin. www.fusf.org.

1 of a series of paintings "Future Awash"

Audible: While school is on pause, kids listen free.

"As all of us around the world confront this difficult new period, we recognize the importance—and the challenge—of staying relaxed and entertained, especially for kids at home who are missing the stimulation of the classroom. From the beginning, Audible has served as an antidote to loneliness and even isolation, as a way to hear words that inspire and transport and for many – words that teach and entertain in deeply intimate ways. 

With all of us experiencing varying degrees of social distancing and school closures, we have created something that we hope makes our customers' lives a little easier. At stories.audible.com, you will find hundreds of our titles available completely free. The collection has been handpicked by our editors and is a mix of stories to entertain, engage, and inform young people, ages 0–18. 

These stories offer a screen-free option that we hope may help break up the day for families with students home from school. 

There are selections for our listeners in English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese and Italian. 

To access the free titles, just visit stories.audible.com from any web browser. 

The experience is completely free – no log-ins, credit cards, or passwords required. Just click, stream and listen. 

We wish you and your loved ones good health, and we hope that listening to a good story will offer some respite during these unsettling times.

All of us at Audible

stories.audible.com

Why wash your hands for 20 seconds? 3 video links worth watching

https://youtu.be/-LKVUarhtvE





https://youtu.be/9Ay4u7OYOhA





https://youtu.be/qPoptbtBjkg




The Town of Franklin Coronavirus Information Portal:
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here

Real time reporting: Town Council - March 19, 2020

Present: Chandler, Hamblen, Dellorco, Mercer, Kelly, Earls, Bissanti, Jones
Absent: Pellegri


1. ANNOUNCEMENTS

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

a. Coronavirus Update and Discussion

4. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

• a. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-854: Changes to §185-40. Water Resource District - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-854 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)

kept on agenda to keep process going, otherwise ad expenses would be required to spent again

motion to refer - second, approved 8-0

• b. Resolution 20-17: Acceptance of Conservation Restriction to Protect Well 3A (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-17 - Majority Vote)

motion to refer - second, approved 8-0

• c. Bylaw Amendment 20-855: Chapter 82, Water Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-855 to a second reading - Majority Vote)

discussion on holding off on the long expected rate increase, bad timing

fees last increased 2 years ago

preference to wait among councilors

con on the water is devastating policy situation; there is a hard ship provision to handle fees, added ambulance fees to that recently

this is to pay off a borrowing payment that this Council had already authorized, there is an $11M dollar contract in jeopardy of default

The con is extremely painful, contractor onsite

This is an enterprise fund, paid for the by the rate payers who use the service

Asking for more explanation on the increases for FY 21 and FY 22

wants to see the plans but forgets that the plans had been reviewed at each step along the way, this is the last step

we have historically done 2 step increase to ensure planning for all parties, employees, contracts, bond rating, auditors, etc.

motion to move to 2nd reading - second, withdrawn

motion to table to our next scheduled meeting (Apr 15), seconded, passed 8-0

• d. Bylaw Amendment 20-856: Chapter 82, Sewer Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-856 to a second reading - Majority Vote)

motion to table to our next scheduled meeting (Apr 15), seconded, passed 8-0

• e. Bylaw Amendment 20-857: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-857 to a second reading - Majority Vote)

motion to table to our next scheduled meeting (Apr 15), seconded, passed 8-0

Councilor Comments (added to agenda)
social distancing doesn't have to mean social isolation

wave hi to your neighbor, check on folks to see if they are okay

look out for everybody

thanks for participation in stormwater information forums
AgCom collecting chemical opt out, check on the Facebook page

we're resilient, we'll come out in the end

thank you for what you have done, stay safe

Thanks to Chris /Franklin TV for coming out tonight, not our normal night
Our first responders, can't thank you enough

be safe, be smart



5. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, seconded, passed 8-0


An updated version has been made available for tonight's meeting
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/march-19-town-council-agenda

FM #226 Virtual Conversation with State Rep Jeff Roy 3/19/20

FM #226 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 226 in the series.

Thanks to Representative Jeff Roy for making some time in his schedule to join me for a virtual conversation about COVID-19 and what’s happening in the state government as he works virtually.

The audio segment runs about 20 minutes, so listen in to my conversation with Representative Jeff Roy  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HNCx93cX


Jeff Roy’s COVID-19 update page (as mentioned) 
https://jeffreyroy.com/covid-19-updates/





--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

COVID-19 updates

GATRA Service Update and Dial-a-Ride Information

Press read the attached press release from GATRA regarding service updates and a Dial-A-Ride option for emergency transportation. (Note: FAB = Franklin Area Bus)

"TO THE RESIDENTS OF FOXBOROUGH, FRANKLIN, NORFOLK AND WRENTHAM. 

The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) Will Be Suspending All Fixed Route Bus Service In Your Towns. The FAB And Tri Town Connector Will No Longer Be In Service As Of Monday March 23,2020 For An Unknown Period Of Time.

However Due To The Serious Situation We Are Facing GATRA Will Be Offering Our Dial-A-Ride Service To All Residents Of Foxborough, Franklin, Norfolk And Wrentham For Critical Transportation Needs Within These Communities.

If Anyone Needs This Reservation Service The Hours And Telephone Numbers Are As Follows:

Monday -Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

800-698-7676. Ext 1


A 24 – 48 Hours Advance Notice Would Be Appreciated. All Vehicles Are Wheelchair Accessible.

GATRA Will Waive All Fares.

Please Be Safe And Follow All Guidelines Set By The CDC And Mass Dept. Of Public Health."

Download or read the full press release PDF
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/press_releasetri_town_and_fab.pdf

Franklin Area Bus

Representative Jeff Roy: COVID-19 update #3

"I share your concerns about the spread of the Corona virus (COVID-19) and, as you know, new information is coming out regularly. So, I am updating you on the latest news. You can also check the special state website for latest updates at https://www.mass.gov/covid19.

Current cases. In Massachusetts, there are a total of 256 cases of COVID-19, out of the 2,271 individuals that have been tested. For complete details, click here. The state's capacity to test has been expanded so we expect that number to rise as more people get tested.

Unemployment Insurance. Today, the House of Representatives and the Senate voted to pass, and the Governor signed, legislation that grants certain workers a waiver from the one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits. DUA may now pay unemployment benefits if a worker is quarantined due to an order by civil authority or medical professional; or leaves employment due to reasonable risk of exposure or infection, or to care for a family member and does not intend, or is not allowed, to return to work. The worker need not provide medical documentation and need only be available for work when and as able. 

Emergency regulations are being filed to allow workers to collect unemployment if a workplace is shut down and expects to reopen in four or fewer weeks; and also to waive the one (1) week waiting period for unemployment benefits. For more information and to file a claim, click here. 

Virtual Office hours. My in-person office hours scheduled for this Thursday and Friday this week were cancelled due to the closure of the Franklin Senior Center and the ban on restaurant service. However, we will be conducting virtual office hours on Friday morning (March 20) using zoom.com. To participate, go to https://zoom.us/j/7345161755 and type in this meeting ID: 734 516 1755. I'll be there to answer questions and provide information. If you do not have access to a computer, you can dial in at 1-646-558-8656 and punch in this access code: 7345161755#."

Continue reading Rep Roy's update
https://mailchi.mp/eefb12f4c1b0/ux2l17im8a-2479485

Representative Jeff Roy: COVID-19 update #3

“The fact is this pattern is obviously not sustainable”

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

"A little less than half of what Franklin Public Schools has requested from the town to fund for its proposed fiscal year 2021 budget will be cut to balance the town’s budget. 

That is what Town Administrator Jamie Hellen told the Town Council on March 4 as he reviewed the town’s FY 21 budget, which shows a $3.484 million deficit. On Wednesday, he announced that public hearings for that budget - originally scheduled for May - have since been postponed to June because of COVID-19 concerns. 

Requesting a $3.9 million increase in town funding for FY21 - about 6% over FY20 - and anticipating a budget gap, the proposed FY21 budget of $68.8 million fills over half of the town’s proposed FY21 budget of $124 million, said Hellen at the meeting. That brings the school budget’s level of service to about 95% of the town’s projected revenue it’s expected to take in the next fiscal year, said Councilman Matt Kelly. 

“It’s a huge chunk of our budget,” he said. “There’s no fluff in this, to be truthful. We came in last year saying we were going to be $3 million and $4 million short, and here we are.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200318/franklin-to-cut-nearly-half-of-requested-town-funding-for-schools-proposed-fy21-budget


Recent podcast with Jamie Hellen

The first of our monthly series with Jamie
https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HcQcbQpX

At the Senior Center, where the budget did come up
https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HNlMs2bX

Additional info can be found on the Town of Franklin budget page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget

additional info can be found on the Town of Franklin budget page

FHS Cheerleaders - video from South Regional Championship

At least part of the video of the FHS Cheerleaders performance for the South Regional.

South Regional Grand Champs with a 93.9! #macheer2020 pic.twitter.com/qgNIdxZ59R

— FHS CHEER (@FHScheer_) March 18, 2020

Shared via Twitter  https://twitter.com/FHScheer_/status/1240083894571073542

FHS Cheerleaders - video from South Regional Championship (Twitter photo cropped)

Town of Franklin: updates on Library, Online services, recreational spaces

Via the Twitterverse:

"We are now increasing our curbside delivery to items available on our shelves! Check the Library's catalog at http://find.minlib.net/iii/encore/?lang=eng… . Give us a call at 508-520-4941 during our modified business hours (Monday-Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm). We will check out up to five items per card."

https://twitter.com/FrkPublicLib/status/1239943700513464320?s=20

"The Town of Franklin is open for business, with adjustments made for the safety of our staff and community. Please see the options that are available for bill pay, census forms, dog licensing, etc... below. Our online licensing portal is always open."

https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1240284548308533248?s=20

"In efforts to encourage social distancing recommendations, the Town of Franklin is closing ALL recreational facilities (parks, playgrounds, etc.) to the public. With growing concerns of COVID-19, it is of the utmost importance to follow guidelines to mitigate the spread."

https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1240328191123865601?s=20

Town of Franklin: updates on Library, Online services, recreational spaces

Mamma Maria’s Care Packages

Gearing up for the launch of Mamma Maria’s Care Packages! 📦💕

We are so excited to implement this program to provide relief for our community and honor our Mamma Maria by helping those who are feeling lost in this time of need.

We know, even in Heaven, our Angel Mamma Maria does not want any families to go hungry or make sacrifices in order to put food on the table, including our staff.

Our Primavera Team will be Mamma’s Angels carrying out her Legacy of making sure everyone is fed. Please help our staff and community continue Mamma’s Legacy by:

1. Ordering Takeout (Wednesday-Sunday, 11:30 AM - 7:30 PM)
2. Fund a Care Package ($30 or more)
3. Pick up & Deliver a Care Package (for your family or someone else in need)
4. Spread the word and help us get more meals to people in need
5. Direct us to people in need so we can bring them meals anonymously

Via the Senior Center and Primavera, Millis   (508) 376-2026
http://www.primav.com/caffesite/index.html

Mamma Maria’s Care Packages

Facebook post by Primavera has additional info

FHS' Fenerty, Powderly recognized by Hockomock League for Girls Indoor Track All Stars

Below are the FHS selections from the official 2020 Hockomock League Girls Indoor Track All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league and published by HockomockSports.com.


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

• Lily Wetherbee, North Attleboro

HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS

• Jill Fenerty, Franklin

Honorable Mentions

• Samantha Powderly, Franklin

You can read the full listing of  Girls Indoor Track All Stars

https://hockomocksports.com/2020-hockomock-league-girls-indoor-track-all-stars/

FHS' Fenerty, Powderly recognized by Hockomock League for Girls Indoor Track All Stars

Sante Fe Burrito Grill: Our restaurant is open! *Pickup your order to go*

Hello from Santa Fe Burrito Grill — 

We will be offering pickup during normal business hours. As a courtesy, please enjoy 5% off every online order! For your safety, our restaurant always ensures that meals are made in a clean environment using only the freshest ingredients. Please enjoy your meal in the comfort of your own home, and as always, we want to thank you for your business!

Order online http://www.santafetogo.com/

Sante Fe Grill: Our restaurant is open! *Pickup your order to go*

Franklin Residents: Trash and Recycling Will be Picked up on Their Regular Schedule

Trash and Recycling Will be Picked up on Their Regular Schedule

"Franklin Residents: 

Please be informed that there has not been any changes made to trash and recycling pickup schedules, as of now your trash and recycling will be picked up on its normal schedule."

Updated: The pink bag pick up has been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Franklin Residents: Trash and Recycling Will be Picked up on Their Regular Schedule

Franklin, MA: Town Council - shortened agenda for March 19, 2020

A NOTE TO RESIDENTS: Due to the growing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus, only Council members and authorized members of the staff will be allowed in the Council Chambers/Municipal Building. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement and comply with open meeting law regulations, we will have a hotline for citizens to call during the meeting and ask questions/voice concerns.

Call-In Phone Number: 508-553-4826

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

a. Coronavirus Update and Discussion

4. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

• a. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-854: Changes to §185-40. Water Resource District - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-854 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)
• b. Resolution 20-17: Acceptance of Conservation Restriction to Protect Well 3A (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-17 - Majority Vote)
• c. Bylaw Amendment 20-855: Chapter 82, Water Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-855 to a second reading - Majority Vote)
• d. Bylaw Amendment 20-856: Chapter 82, Sewer Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-856 to a second reading - Majority Vote)
• e. Bylaw Amendment 20-857: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-857 to a second reading - Majority Vote)

5. ADJOURN


An updated version has been made available for tonight's meeting
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/march-19-town-council-agenda

revised on the ToF page as of 11:17 AM 3/19/20 (updated here at 11:55 AM)


You can find the shortened agenda online at the Town of Franklin
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-03-20_town_council_agenda.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - revised agenda for March 19, 2020

Senator Becca Rausch: CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #4

CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #4

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Friends,

COVID-19 Update #4 of what I’m sure will be many more updates about COVID-19. This update contains: the latest COVID-19 updates from Beacon Hill, the legislative work I’m leading to support all of our towns and cities during the pandemic period, today’s push from me and more than 30 of my legislative colleagues for Governor Baker to take more robust action to protect public health, and suggestions for how you can be part of the solution by helping your community.

In an effort to make all the news and accurate information on the coronavirus a little easier to follow, my staff and I are compiling a page with the latest COVID-19 updates from Beacon Hill on my website. Please bookmark the page - we will update this list of actions taken by the state government two or three times each week, with a date stamp and links to official sources.

Keeping our town governments functioning and planning for elections in a time of necessary social distancing is vital to safeguarding our democracy. As the Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government, I am at the heart of this legislative work, which is happening almost around the clock. Here’s what you can do to help: review H.4572, An Act to address challenges in town governance resulting from COVID-19. Send any comments or input you have to me at becca.rausch@masenate.gov and my House counterpart, Chair Jim O'Day, at James.ODay@mahouse.gov. Due to COVID-19, the State House is closed to the public so we are accepting written testimony only. All testimony is due by 12PM tomorrow, Thursday, March 19. This deadline will be strictly enforced.

Continue reading Update #4
https://mailchi.mp/ae40a9ec176c/covid19-update-12267110

Senator Becca Rausch: CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #4

FPS: Family letter Keeping the Learning Alive - Mar 17, 2020

March 17, 2020

 
Dear Families,

We hope that you are doing well as we all navigate this unprecedented time in education and society. We hope that the information below provides some guidance in “Keeping the Learning Alive” at home. This information was also shared with teachers today and our purpose in sharing it with you is to ensure that students and families are on the same page with regard to expectations. 

There is no one right answer as to how to do this but we share a common goal: we all wish the very best for our students while they are not in school. Flexibility is key as things continue to change and shift. We will continue to communicate directly with you and encourage you to reach out via email to your child’s teacher(s) or principal if you have questions or comments. Together, we will get through this!

This letter will be translated into multiple languages and posted to our webpage on March 18, 2020.

Counseling Support
INTERFACE Referral Service
This is a stressful time and support is available to you and your family. If someone in your Franklin family, including your child is in crisis, where they are a threat to themselves or others, you should call 911. As always, if you feel that someone in your Franklin family, including your child would benefit from outpatient mental health services we encourage you to utilize the INTERFACE Referral Service (https://interface.williamjames.edu/community/franklin), which is free to all Franklin residents.

Teaching and Learning
Logistical Items:
1. Report Cards (Pre-K and Elementary)

• a. Report cards will be generated and sent home upon return to school.
• b. Progress reports will also be sent home upon return from school.

2. Grading

• a. Grading is suspended until we return from school. Teachers may provide feedback on anything students choose to share electronically while out of school.
• b. Teachers have been asked to complete any grading for assignments that were turned in on or by Thursday, March 12. If appropriate, feedback will be sent to students and families electronically.
• c. Report card dates, etc. will be reviewed and revised as needed upon return to school

Expectations of Teachers for Keeping the Learning Alive  
Communication:

1. Teachers and principals will be checking their email daily. Responses should come to you in a reasonable period of time, but please understand that they too are dealing with the impacts of the Coronavirus in their own homes.

2. Teachers will be reaching out to students and families to reconnect. We have asked that they establish a predictable, routine check-in process. We believe that it is critical that students and teachers maintain the connections that have been formed. Relationships are the most important aspect of the home/school partnership, especially during times of stress, such as this unusual extended closure of school.

3. You may also hear from school adjustment counselors, special education teachers, specialists, Unified Arts teachers, etc. Again, the goal is to maintain connections with our students. Your help in facilitating this is greatly appreciated.

4. If you have a specific need that we can help with, please email or reach out to your child’s teacher(s) or principal. We are here to help and support both students and families. We care deeply about and miss our students.

Instruction:
1. The goal of “Keeping Learning Alive” is to provide enrichment opportunities and resources to students and families. There is to be no NEW or forward instruction during the time that we are out of school. While we are working to allow for Chromebook borrowing and connecting families to low cost Internet access, not all students have the learning support they need to complete/learn new work. Therefore, the emphasis is on enrichment, practice, and depth.

2. You will shortly begin to see teachers sharing resources with you to “Keep Learning Alive”. These resources may come from the new FPS Learning page (https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net/fpscommunitylearningresource/home), DESE curated resources (coming soon), or from the teacher/team/grade.

• a. This is not online coursework; it is enrichment and alternative learning opportunities.

3. We are not transferring responsibility for learning or homeschooling to families.

4. These activities are optional for families and student participation is not required. We do encourage it, to the extent possible for your family.

5. We do encourage you to set a regular routine with your children and hope that you will choose to participate in some of the activity suggestions coming your way. A sample schedule for younger children is shared on the family resources section of the FPS Learning page.

6. The materials you receive will not replicate a regular school day.

7. Please connect with your child’s principal if you need Internet access. There are some low-cost options available to you.

Our faculty is eager to connect with students and is/has been actively planning from home to make resources available to children. For us, it was so heartwarming and uplifting to connect with hundreds of our educators across the district during two live virtual calls earlier today. We are all invested in supporting students during this difficult time.

For questions about the FPS Learning Plan, please contact your child’s teacher, principal, or Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, Dr. Joyce Edwards (edwardsj@franklinps.net).

Student Services
New Referrals/Initial Eligibility:

We, along with other schools in the Commonwealth, will freeze evaluation, referral, and individual education plan distribution timelines for all students in a referral cycle during school closure. This means that as soon as schools open again, the timelines will commence as is required by state and federal regulations.

Annual Reviews/Evaluations in Process:
We, along with other schools in the Commonwealth, will freeze evaluation, annual review, and individual education plan distribution timelines for all students on IEPs and 504s during school closure. This means that as soon as schools open again, the timelines will commence as is required by state and federal regulations. Team Chairs will be working with families to understand the impact of the closure on students and to reschedule meetings.

Home ABA Services:
Home ABA services funded by Franklin Public Schools will be suspended until further notice.

Home/Hospital Tutoring:
Home and Hospital Tutoring occurs outside of the school buildings, and as such, families can decide whether or not they will allow tutoring staff into their homes. As a practice, Franklin Public Schools does not provide tutoring when school is not in session. For students currently receiving home or hospital tutoring, please understand that our ability to send contracted service providers into homes is contingent upon student’s and staff’s perceived health and wellness in accordance with state and CDC guidelines.

OOD/Residential Placements:
For students in Out-of-District day or residential placements, Franklin Public Schools will follow the attendance recommendations of the individual school or facility. If the Out-of-District day school is in session, we will continue to transport your child.

365 Day Residential Placements:
For students in 365-day residential placements, Franklin Public Schools will follow the attendance recommendations of the individual school or facility.

For Questions about Student Services, please contact your child’s special education liaison, service provider, principal, or the Director of Student Services, Ms. Paula Marano (maranop@franklinps.net).

English Language Development
Teachers from the English as a Second Language Department will be reaching out to families with information and supportive materials later this week.

Once again, we cannot stress enough that our goal for this time out of school is to maintain the positive relationships we have with students. We are here to help and welcome your comments and suggestions. This situation is new for all of us and your collaboration is encouraged and welcomed. Please take care of yourself and your family.

Respectfully,

Franklin Public Schools


Download a copy of this letter here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-1xpSYgda_MR1RT0TQ6t7fMq33LBbD2a/view?usp=sharing

As noted above, this letter will be translated into multiple languages and posted to the Town of Franklin page on March 18, 2020
 

FPS: Family letter Keeping the Learning Alive - Mar 17, 2020

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting - agenda - Mar 18 - 5:30 PM

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting

Municipal Building

355 East Central Street, 2nd Floor Council Chambers Franklin, MA

March 18, 2020 - 5:30 PM

Announcements:
This meeting may be recorded by audio or video.


Discussion:

1. Lot Line Clean up #4: Lots near Beaver Street and Oak Street Area.
2. Inclusionary Zoning Bylaw Proposal.

This was shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-03-18_edc_agenda_1.pdf

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting - agenda - Mar 18 - 5:30 PM

Franklin Cultural Council: elementray/middle school art challenge underway

The Franklin Cultural Council is doing an art challenge daily for elementary and middle school students. 

What will be today's challenge? Check their Facebook page the post should be there at 7 AM   https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/



Day 1 challenge
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/posts/1106833283003831?

Day 1 - winners
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/posts/1107584372928722?

Day 2 challenge
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/posts/1106842906336202?

Day 2 - winners
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/posts/1108472259506600?

Franklin Cultural Council:  elementary/middle school art challenge underway

Fresh air is good for us, get out to the woods/trail for a walk

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

“I have some good news. Nature is not canceled,” said Bonnie Combs, marketing director for the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor. “Fresh air and sunshine are good for you. Just practice social distancing.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200317/coronavirus-pushes-people-outdoors

The SNETT trail is good walking here in Franklin more info on their page
https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/

DelCarte Open Space on Pleasant St is always a good choice for me. Find more trail maps and info about other options in Franklin here
https://www.franklinma.gov/recreation-department/files/fields-playgrounds

on a trail in the Franklin Town Forest (off Summer St) recently