School Committee Recap - Sep 8, 2020: midpoint of professional development, communication issues acknowledged, budget remains a concern

The School Committee meeting of Tuesday, Sep 8, 2020 can be summarized as follows:

• The Franklin school district is at the midpoint of the professional development period before schools re-open this month. Teachers in buildings preparing, work on air quality and circulation continues. 
• Communications to parents  on cohorts and teacher assignments acknowledged as a problem. A combination of technical glitches and fluid situation. Additional communications coming this week
• Handbooks and associated policy changes approved for distribution. The number of pages for handbooks surprised one school committee member. A video presentation to highlight what to expect with the new school operations in this pandemic period is in development. 
• The Early Childhood and Development Center reviewed their plans and operational adjustments.
• The school budget remains a major item. While there are some savings being realized, there are additional costs, and concern over some of the COVID-19 funding that may expire before the pandemic is done.

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online #schcomm0908
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcomm0908&src=typed_query 

• Ready for the real time reporting of #schcomm0908
• Right into the superintendent's report, Midpoint of professional development for school staff, comms on cohorts going out, tech glitches acknowledged, more coming later this week, presentation in development #schcomm0908
• Work on increase of air flow during and after school day, units got preventive maintenance done during summer, filters changed, CO2 filters adjusted, air transfer adjusted, about to bid project for further improvement, To be completed in Dec, fans in exhaust mode #schcomm0908
• Flu vaccine is a requirement, exception will need to be supported by documents from nurse/doctor for medical, parent for religious reasons
• #schcomm0908 no mandate for staff vaccine, day to be scheduled for staff to make it easier
• #schcomm0908 Q on COVID-19 cases Communications, to be handled with privacy in mind, please be generous and kind with notifications, pls avoid stigma and harassment. Health dept to maintain contact tracing
• Q on FHS could they come in early? Open to it but want to focus on getting underway first and then relook at bringing students in, #schcomm0908
• Kelly Kelly provides an update for ECDC presentation similar to that made to parents Aug 5, classes are integrated (sped and peers), task force worked on, core values and mission important to keep in mind #schcomm0908 present doc not available on FPS page (will share when avail)
• Note prior tweet should be Kelty Kelley (auto corrected wasn't overridden, oops) #schcomm0908 additional cleaning between sessions added, already did quite a bit given nature of program
• Will be using outside space where possible, tent in place, easels ready, fencing to be added, drop off changed #schcomm0908 some students pay tuition, some recieve as part of IEP, some may not get peers all the time in order to get services
• Some tuition based students are not returning, most folks did get first or second choices; if they do go remote (due to health reasons) would need to relook at tuition #schcomm0908 short personal visit with teachers before starting via Google meet planned
• Sep 16 family orientation scheduled, 16-17-18 remote option welcome sessions planned with team members, a parent teacher conf via Google meet also scheduled to help with transition to first day of school Sep 21 #schcomm0908 approx 100 students this far
• Playground off limits (as good as it is) due to complexity of cleaning after sessions. Being creative with the spaces they do have, will be able to use the garden when harvested and play with dirt. #schcomm0908 if guidance changes, they'll relook at it.
• Discussion/Action items up now; #schcomm0908 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_policy_2ndread-adoption.pdf comms back to family on mask non-compliance an issue of privacy/confidentiality. Plexiglass only in certain areas of high frequency close contact motion to approve, second, pass 7-0 via roll call
• Handbooks up next https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_handbooks.pdf  #schcomm0908 process to review/revise began in Jun, built terminology and framework as a team before getting to details. (Kudos to that approach!!!)
• Some of the policies already were approved during the year by #schcomm0908 section 3 new this year, section 2, section 1 school specific, middle schools have an FAQ section, all this non-COVID; school Council was leveraged during spring and currently for Communications
• COVID specific sections, some across schools, some for both remote and hybrid, Google enterprise adding features to help management, need to set expectations and how to support them #schcomm0908 what can teachers, family and admin do to support process
• Visitors limited even more so in these COVID circumstances, stopped for questions; Judy shocked by size of handbooks, 100+ pages for Davis Thayer. #schcomm0908 printed copies only upon request. Presentation on over view, monumental approach. Impressed by bully section
• Handbook info to be included in presentation being put together, assistant principals were key to this effort. #schcomm0908 motion to approve second, passes 7-0 via roll call
• Discussion only; annual report draft for #schcomm0908 for review, Dr Bergen for SchComm, Superintendent, unaudited FY 2020 budget figures. 
• Budget update https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/budget-update  shared via link
• Many leaves and retirements being covered by substitutes, hence a cost savings, transportation cost savings due to 45 days less than normal as well as less students (only 30%) reduction in fees for transportation also could be a revenue hit, along with sports/activity fees
• Lifelong Learning getting hit with revenue drop, can't cover health costs. Will stay within constraints of bottom line budget (something will give but no indication yet of what) #schcomm0908 tents funded through Cares act
• Tim: we were in a budget shortfall and will be still in the future. Judy: concern about folks not funded after Dec. There is some favorable numbers but we'll make decisions based upon info at that time. #schcomm0908 "budget situation unlike previous years"
• Davis Thayer, ready to schedule meeting to resume work. Other subcommittees will resume as school reopens. #schcomm0908 mental health issues sky rocketing, looking to DESE and other state agencies for funding help
• Next meeting: preview of district goals, hiring process explained, update on total staff retired, riffed, leaves, cafeteria, etc.
• Judy - request for comments, should be part of agenda, was looked at previously and not included #schcomm0908 status of chromebooks
• Consent agenda, motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0 via roll call
• Motion to executive session, not to return to public meeting, passed via roll call 7-0  That's all for tonight, catch you next time!! #schcomm0908

Photos taken during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one folder
https://photos.app.goo.gl/aaVGfjybqqMDm1pu7

ECDC Principal Kelty Kelley

Franklin DPW introduces "Water Smart" program

"A leaky faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. 

Sign up for leak alerts at www.franklinma.watersmart.com to save water and money!"

www.franklinma.watersmart.com

Follow the post on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/931498886934582/posts/3409673615783751/

50+ Job Seekers Networking Group - Sep 15 - "Self-Assessment, Career Pathways, and Ageism"

Session #1 = Self-Assessment, Career Pathways, and Ageism

• Wednesday, September 15th from 10:00 am – 12 pm
• Virtual Doors open at 9:45 am!
• The session shall start promptly at 10 am

Facilitators: Ed Lawrence and Melody Beach

This first interactive session in our fall program discusses ageism, career pathways, and assessments.

Ageism is real. Bias is inevitable. So, what do you do?

What’s your career path? Do you want to stay in the same field or transition to a new one? What’s your plan?

Assessments may be required by many companies, but they are a necessity for the modern job seeker. Knowing yourself--your values and preferences--enables you to set realistic career goals and ultimately land the job you want.

This session isn’t just a presentation; it poses questions, presents real- time exercises, and challenges your mindset.

This is your first step in mastering the 21st-century job-search in a world of Millennials still reeling from an ongoing pandemic.

Are you willing to do what it takes to land a job during uncertain, challenging times? If so, we invite you to join the 50+program this fall. Eight sessions that build a foundation for one purpose---land you a job.

Pre-Registration is Required: https://50plusjobseekers.org/outreach/registration/ 

Get your copy of the flyer here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X9NH62bZBEGAcpd2rkefxi4RyXf02GR4/view?usp=sharing

Sep 15 - "Self-Assessment, Career Pathways, and Ageism"

Significant Drought Conditions Continue Across MA

"Due to four months of below normal rainfall, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Kathleen Theoharides today declared a Level 2 – Significant Drought in all seven regions of the Commonwealth – the Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast, Southeast, Cape Cod, and Islands regions. The drought level remains unchanged from the previous month’s declaration. 

At a Level 2 – Significant Drought, as outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, conditions are becoming significantly dry and warrant detailed monitoring of drought conditions, close coordination among state and federal agencies, emphasis on water conservation, more stringent watering restrictions, and technical outreach and assistance for the affected municipalities.

“Although recent rain events have been helpful, the combination of four months of below normal rainfall and consistently above normal temperatures throughout the summer have led to very dry conditions in every region of Massachusetts,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. 

“All levels of government are coordinating to address these critical drought conditions, and it is essential that residents and businesses across the Commonwealth take extra care to conserve water both indoors and outdoors and be mindful of the increased risk of brush and wildland fire when using any fire or smoking materials.”

Continue reading the article on the MA.gov page  

https://www.mass.gov/news/significant-drought-conditions-continue-across-massachusetts

Significant Drought Conditions Continue Across MA

Picked up for Franklin radar from Twitter  https://t.co/vccgSca2fD 

“This model is going to be unique, because it’s a learning model”

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

"As students prepare to spend at least part of their week this fall learning remotely, many families are faced with a practical problem they’ve been wrestling with since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Someone needs to watch their children from the same side of the computer screen during the work day.

School systems in Milford, Franklin and three other communities have teamed up with the local YMCA to offer that opportunity.

“We’ve been able to work with the town, as well as the youth center and the YMCA, to provide a low-cost child care option for families, to be open throughout the school year,” Milford Superintendent of Schools Kevin McIntyre said. “We know that child care is going to be one of the biggest challenges.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200908/working-families-in-milford-franklin-get-relief-from-ymca-remote-school-program?rssfeed=true

For reference, the press release from the Hockomock YMCA

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/hockomock-area-ymca-opens-virtual.html

hockymca.org

Stormwater Ad Hoc Subcommittee Meeting - Agenda - Sep 9, 2020

Agenda

1. Stormwater Implementation Update, Plan Proposal & Discussion

• Stormwater Town website  https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division

Connection info in Agenda doc
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2020-09-09_stormwater_ad_hoc_committee.pdf

• Aug 8 meeting recap

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/08/stormwater-ad-hoc-subcommittee-meeting_9.html

• Aug 8 meeting audio

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/08/fm-327-stormwater-subcomm-mtg-80520.html

https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division

Franklin, MA: Budget Update Memo to School Committee - Sep 3, 2020

To: Franklin School Committee

From: Miriam Goodman, School Business Administrator 

Date: September 3, 2020

Re: Updated Budget Information

Due to the pandemic, we find our budgetary needs changing rapidly. Concurrently, we find our revenue sources also changing. This memo is to provide you with some updated information relative to budget fluctuations based on the information that we know at this time.

Budgetary Savings:

We anticipate some favorability based on retirements and resignations that currently approximates $414,000. We are still filling some vacant positions as well, so this figure will change as the year progresses.

Midyear leaves of absences would be replaced by a substitute which would generate savings as well. Additionally, contract negotiations were favorable, and after school stipends are likely to be reduced due to the pandemic and the limitations of what we can provide for students.

We expect there will be some savings in transportation due to the reduction in the number of student in-person days by about 45 days. Additionally, there are fewer students being transported on any given day due to the AAXBB hybrid schedule. While there is still reduced capacity on buses, I expect that we will be able to reduce the number of buses used on our contract by at least ten. We will be negotiating with our vendor and will keep you apprised.

At the end of last year we were able to prepay additional tuition amounts in excess of the amount that was budgeted, so there is additional favorability there as well.

Changes to Revenue:

The local appropriation budget is currently approved at 65,658,500. As of now, we expect Chapter 70 funding to be fully funded.

We expect to see a reduction in transportation fees collected. The School Committee should consider a reduction in the fee based on the AAXBB hybrid schedule in place for the year. Most students will only be riding a bus 2 times per week. Some would ride more, many would ride fewer. None are riding until at least October 1, 2020. Additionally, based on current signups, we have about 30% fewer students riding.

We will see a reduction in Preschool Tuition revenue based on the current climate.

With changes to the Athletic program, we expect reduced revenue in this area.

Our Lifelong Learning program suffered significantly last year and will not be able to continue to support the cost of healthcare or central services as expected. This amount could approximate $200,000 and we are still working on finalizing this.

Added Expenses:

Due to additional enrollments, which has increased class sizes at the elementary level, and significant space constraints due to physical distancing requirements, we need to hire three additional elementary teaching positions.

Of course, as you know, the School Committee’s budget is a bottom line budget, and we expect as usual, to stay within the constraints of this bottom line.

 GRANT FUNDING:

Entitlement Grants such as Title I, Title IIa, Title IV, IDEA and IDEA preschool have all been received as expected and the budget has been adjusted accordingly.

ESSER - Federal Grant - Allocation $123,235 - This grant was identified during the budgetary process and will support interventionists. The budget was already reduced accordingly.

CvRF - Federal Grant - Allocation $!,156,275 - This grant will support the addition of 3 Digital Learning Integrationists as well as monitors, long-term and permanent substitutes, ESPs, LPNs, and Crossing Guards through December, 2020. These will be strategically hired as the need arises. Additionally, these funds will be used for the rental of tents at each location to support outdoor mask breaks. Vendor professional development is included as well as additional software subscriptions to support learning in a remote environment. And finally, there is an allocation for personal protective equipment (PPE) also included in this grant.

Thank you for the opportunity to present this information to you. Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Memo PDF copy on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/budget_update_for_school_committee_9_2_2020.pdf

School Committee agenda for Sep 8, 2020 meeting

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda-sep.html

Franklin, MA: Budget Update Memo to School Committee - Sep 3, 2020

Register O’Donnell Reports Strong Lending Numbers Driving Norfolk County Real Estate Market

Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and high unemployment rate seen in Massachusetts, the Norfolk County real estate market more than held its own during the month of August 2020.

Register O’Donnell noted, “During August, a total of 1,865 real estate sales transactions, both residential and commercial, were recorded. This represented a slight 2% increase year over year. However, the average sales price for a property, again both residential and commercial, actually fell 9% to $877,906. Also, the total real estate sales volume in Norfolk County, both residential and commercial, also fell 9% to $1.1 billion. The drop in average sales price and total sales volume can be explained by the $270 million sale of the Windsor Gardens apartment complex located in Norwood and Walpole that took place in August 2019.”

Norfolk County lending numbers continued to show significant strength in August. A total of 4,096 mortgages were recorded countywide, a 36% increase from the previous year. In addition, the total dollar amount borrowed in Norfolk County also increased 24% to $2 billion. “These numbers,” noted the Register, “are a direct result of historically low interest rates and the continuing appeal of Norfolk County as a place to live and work. A recent announcement by Fed Chairman Jerome Powell indicates low interest rates may persist well into the next year no matter what happens with the economy.”

Homestead recordings also showed some life in August. A total of 1,344 Homesteads were recorded, a 2% increase compared to August 2019. Register O’Donnell stated, “I am especially pleased to see Norfolk County homeowners taking advantage of the benefits afforded by the Homestead law. It is another layer of protection that can be utilized by a homeowner on their primary residence. Specifically, a Homestead prevents the forced sale of a homeowner’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000.”

During August, a total of 5 foreclosure deeds were recorded against Norfolk County property. However, due to the ongoing statewide moratorium against initiation of foreclosure or eviction activity, no Notice to Foreclose Mortgages, the first step in the foreclosure process, were recorded.

Register O’Donnell stated, “While the vast majority of foreclosure activity has been suspended while the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, we know many of our neighbors and friends are experiencing economic hardship due to the pandemic. One of the programs I am most proud of here at the Registry of Deeds is our ongoing partnership with Quincy Community Action Programs (QCAP), 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950. Each of these agencies are staffed by knowledgeable professionals who can help individuals and families who are facing challenges paying their monthly mortgage payment. Another program available is the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Like QCAP and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, the CARD program can help those having difficulty paying their mortgage. Each of these programs are excellent examples of non-profit and government agencies helping those in need.”

Concluding his remarks, Register O’Donnell stated, “I am pleased and frankly happily surprised by the relative strength of the Norfolk County real estate market while the COVID-19 pandemic has been ongoing. The importance of low interest rates can not be overstated as the primary reason for these solid sales and lending numbers. As long as interest rates remain low, we should be able to sustain these numbers in Norfolk County. Additionally, real estate observers are continuing to see the demand for housing far exceeding the available supply. Antidotally, we have been made aware of instances of housing selling for above the original asking price. While all of us are hopeful a vaccine to eradicate COVID-19 will be available sooner than later, the after effects of the pandemic will be interesting to watch. Will remote work continue to be utilized by companies large and small? Will remote work result in individuals and families considering more rural areas to live? Going forward, will individuals and families be more inclined to live in single-family homes as opposed to condominiums? These are just a few of the many questions facing the Norfolk County real estate market over the next few months and years.”

“I want to remind Norfolk County citizens and all our users that the Registry of Deeds building continues to remain closed to the general public and real estate professionals alike. This is being done out of an abundance of caution. Registry staff continues to be onsite doing the important work of recording land documents in a safe, accurate and secure manner.  We are receiving documents via regular mail, Federal Express and a drop-off box located just outside the main entrance to our building located at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA. Many of our institutional users, banks, law firms, title companies, are utilizing electronic recording for their land document submissions. I urge any institutional user not using electronic recording to consider its usage.”

“Finally, I want to thank all Norfolk County residents for their patience and understanding while the pandemic has been ongoing. It has not been easy but working in a spirit of cooperation, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been able to remain open. This has kept the Norfolk County real estate market viable benefiting individuals, families and real estate professionals alike. I am hopeful the end of this pandemic will be sooner than later. In the meantime, be healthy, be safe.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and/or Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street, Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

 

www.norfolkdeeds.org

"Everyone has a stake in ensuring that the workers we all depend on are secure and healthy"

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin: 

"It’s simple. If the workers who make our economy run aren’t healthy and secure, then our economy isn’t healthy and secure. Especially in the absence of any leadership or plan from the Trump administration, we need Massachusetts leaders to walk the walk when it comes to our workers, and not just talk the talk.

Essential workers need a bill of rights. They deserve hazard pay for the dangerous and critical work they are performing for the public. Everyone agrees on the importance of people with symptoms staying home from work and school, but that should come with the guarantee that nobody will lose their job or the ability to feed their families should they need to stay home.

Essential workers here in Massachusetts, like many of their counterparts in other states, deserve a presumption that if they contract COVID-19 they did so in the line of duty so they are covered by workers compensation. Workers need a reliable place to turn to if they think their workplaces are unsafe, and they need protection from employer retaliation for whistleblowing.

We need comprehensive data collection on the infection rates of workers — by occupation, industry, and employer — which are crucial data points to identify new outbreaks and guide future responses to protect these workers and the public they serve.  And we need science, workers, and occupational safety experts to guide how our workplaces and economy reopens, definitely not CEOs. "

Continue reading the article online
https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/essential-workers-need-a-bill-of-rights/

“I do think there’s an opportunity to not have snow days anymore”

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

Snow days are typically tacked on at the end of the year, pushing classes into summer, when students’ minds tend to be drifting toward vacation, Tremblay pointed out. “Those are really lost days. They’re never going to be the same value,” he said.

Could widespread remote learning mean the end of snow days?

“It’s possible, at least for this year, that the state ... (may) allow districts to go remote during snow days,” said Milford Superintendent of Schools Kevin McIntyre. “It wouldn’t be that big of a lift for our teachers or our school because they’ll be very, very engaged in remote learning.”

With many school districts opting to begin the year either fully or partially remote because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, school leaders were forced to find speedier ways to make remote learning accessible to all students. 

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200907/so-long-snow-days-routine-of-remote-learning-may-allow-classes-to-stay-on-course?rssfeed=true
 

Join us for our 2020-2021 Donation-Based Zoom Concert Series

Announcing our Exciting 2020-2021 Season

COVID-19 CAN'T STOP THE MUSIC AT LIVEARTS!

We are very pleased to be presenting our regular season of four concerts.

Keep reading for details!

• Sunday, September 20, 2020 at 3 p.m.

WILLIAM RILEY, classical guitar = Music of Granados, de Falla, and more

• Sunday, October 18, 2020 at 3 p.m.

VICTOR ROSENBAUM, piano = All Schubert Program

• Sunday, February 28, 2021 at 3 p.m.

AMY PORTER, flute = Program to be announced

• Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 3 p.m. 

Borromeo StringQuartet members - Nicholas Kitchen, violin, and Yeesun Kim, cello, with Ann Sears, piano  = All Beethoven Program 

For additional info visit the web page  https://www.liveartsma.org/

Join us for our 2020-2021 Donation-Based Zoom Concert Series

StoryWalk(R) on the SNETT

Please enjoy the StoryWalk(R) along the SNETT in Bellingham, MA. The StoryWalk(R) will be installed at the Center St. trailhead. Please observe social distancing when visiting or wear a mask if 6ft distance cannot be maintained. Thank you.

The featured book is The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.

The StoryWalk(R) Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kello-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk(R) is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson. 

For additional rail trail events  https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/events/

StoryWalk(R) on the SNETT

Trash/Recycling schedule delayed one day this week (due to Labor Day)

Trash/Recycling schedule delayed one day this week (due to Labor Day) 

The annual program guide for this year can be found online if you miss placed the mailing
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/franklin_program_guide_2020-2021.pdf

Shared from the Franklin DPW Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinDPW/posts/3413612852056494

Trash/Recycling schedule delayed one day this week (due to Labor Day)

Hockomock Area YMCA Opens Virtual Learning Space For Children

With the announcement by area school superintendents that schools will be run virtually or hybrid this fall, the Y, which typically offers before- and after-school care to children, will now offer programming during school hours to provide children a space where they can attend virtual classes while supervised by Y staff.  

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our Y is committed to best serving our community and be a safety net for those who need us,” said Ed Hurley, president of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “As an organization dedicated to youth development, we know how important it is that children have a safe and enriching environment for learning and to provide essential child care to those parents who need to return to work.”

The Hockomock Y is offering Out of School Time to provide children a place where they can attend virtual classes while their parents are at work. The Out of School Time Program will be run at Hockomock Area YMCA branches in Foxboro, Mansfield and North Attleboro, as well as at the former St. Mary school building in Franklin and the Milford Youth Center in downtown Milford. Virtual learning/enrichment programs are available for enrollment for children in grades K-6.

YMCA Opens Virtual Learning Space For Children

Working with school partners, the Y has created this program with the intent to complement the students’ remote school day curriculum while providing participants with enrichment and physical activities to keep kids active and engaged.  

Financial assistance is available to those who qualify, ensuring every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y. 

In order to help keep children and staff healthy and safe, the Hockomock Area YMCA, following state and local requirements, has adapted several changes to its day-to-day operations in licensed Y school-age programs, including:

• Required facial covering for all participants and staff 
• Daily health screenings for children and staff
• Reduced capacity in group activities
• Staggered mealtimes to reduce crowds
• Classrooms arranged by academic pods
• Enhanced outdoor play

“We are very fortunate to have the Hockomock Area YMCA as a partner in education,” said Allan Cameron, Ph.D., Superintendent of Wrentham Public Schools. "The Hockomock YMCA's Out of School Time program is a tremendous benefit for Wrentham families. The hybrid learning schedule is very challenging for families. Unfortunately, the school district does not have the space or staff to supervise students when they are learning remotely. The YMCA Out of School Time program provides families with a safe and supervised learning environment for students when they are learning remotely.”

For more information and to sign up for the Out of School Time Program and Before & After School Care, visit www.hockymca.org/out-of-school-time or call 508-528-8708.

About the Hockomock Area YMCA

Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.  

The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

 

Talking the Blues!: Piano Blues

"This weeks' episode focuses on piano blues.  We talk about and listen to a range of blues pianists from classic originals to those that have carried on the sweet tickling of the ivory.

We bring to you legends like Otis Spann, Memphis Slim, Professor Longhair, Pinetop Perkins, James Booker, Ray Charles, Jesse Yaw, Roosevelt Sykes and Lachy Doley.  Keep on Talking the Blues! "

Audio link = https://www.podbean.com/eu/pb-x2tn7-ea2751

Talking the Blues!: Piano Blues

 

Cub Scouts - Join Day - Sep 12 - 12 - 3 PM

If you are interested in having your son or daughter join Cub Scouts this year, we are having a Join Day next Saturday the 12th from 12-3 PM at the Franklin Historical Museum in the center of town.  

Come Learn more about Scouting, our plans for the year, and how to sign up! 

https://joinscoutingday.org/

Follow the Facebook event   https://www.facebook.com/events/621116372176461/

Cub Scout Join Day - Sep 12

In the News: "Census Bureau must temporarily halt winding down operations"

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

The U.S. Census Bureau for now must stop following a plan that would have it winding down operations in order to finish the 2020 census at the end of September, according to a federal judge’s order.

U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh in San Jose, California, issued a temporary restraining order late Saturday against the Census Bureau and the Commerce Department, which oversees the agency. The order stops the Census Bureau from winding down operations until a court hearing is held on Sept. 17.

The once-a-decade head count of every U.S. resident helps determine how $1.5 trillion in federal funding is distributed and how many congressional seats each state gets in a process known as apportionment.

The temporary restraining order was requested by a coalition of cities, counties and civil rights groups that had sued the Census Bureau, demanding it restore its previous plan for finishing the census at the end of October, instead of using a revised plan to end operations at the end of September. The coalition had argued the earlier deadline would cause the Census Bureau to overlook minority communities in the census, leading to an inaccurate count.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20200906/census-bureau-must-temporarily-halt-winding-down-operations/1?rssfeed=true 

For the interactive response rates for Census 2020

https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates/self-response.html

how many households in your community have responded online, by phone, or by mail

"unemployment taxes are 'probably the first of many bills' from the pandemic"

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

"With unemployment soaring, state lawmakers are considering ways to soften the blow from a major impending increase in the taxes employers pay toward the state’s unemployment system, a jump in costs that one business group described as a “pretty staggering.”

With the unemployment insurance trust fund suddenly facing a multibillion-dollar deficit over the next four years, the contributions required from Massachusetts businesses are set to increase nearly 60% when the calendar turns to 2021 and then continue growing at a smaller rate through 2024.

Those higher taxes -- estimated at an average of $319 more per qualifying employee next year -- will be due starting in April, raising concerns that the sharp uptick will put a drag on the economic recovery from the ongoing COVID-prompted recession and make it more difficult for employers to bring back jobs they cut.

Christopher Carlozzi, state director for the National Federation of Independent Business Massachusetts, said his group and the employers with which it works view the projected increases as “a looming crisis.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200906/how-is-massachusetts-going-to-pay-all-of-unemployment-requests-employers-will-face-staggering-hike-in-unemployment-taxes?rssfeed=true

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 8, 2020

Agenda

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

• Call to Order
• Pledge of Allegiance 
• Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments

In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters 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…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH

C. FHS Student Representative Comments
D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. ECDC Reopening Plan -- Ms. Kelty Kelley and Ms. Paula Marano

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy - 2nd Reading/Adoption
I recommend adoption of the following policies as discussed:

• EBC (SUPPLEMENTAL) - Creation Of A General (Interim) Policy On Covid-related Issues
• EBCFA - Masks/Face Coverings (New)
• COVID Policy Addendums

B. School Handbooks and Covid Addendums
I recommend approval of the School Handbooks with the Covid Addendums as discussed.

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. Annual Report Draft
B. Budget Update   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/budget_update_for_school_committee_9_2_2020.pdf

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)

VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the August 25, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo

X. Executive Session

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3), move to go into Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to potential litigation as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the School Committee and the chair so declares, and not to reconvene in an Open Session.

XI. Adjournment 

The agenda doc contains the connection information

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/sc-agenda-9-8-20

The meeting packet folder is on the Town of Franklin page

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/september-8-2020-school-committee-meeting-packet 

sign at Davis Thayer elementary school

FM #343 Town Council - Building Dept Update - 9/02/20 (audio)

FM #343 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 343 in the series. 

This session shares a key segment of the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Sep 2, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Chair Tom Mercer opened the meeting on schedule at 7:00 PM. After 

• A statement on the election results of Sep 2
• Two citizens comments
• Approval of minutes of 7/29/20 meeting
• Public hearing for lot line changes

Gus Brown, Building Commissioner, presents an update on the work his department conducts in coordination with Inspections, Zoning Board of Appeals and others. The segment includes the Council comments and questions following the presentation.

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

This meeting segment runs just about 56 minutes, so let’s listen to the presentation and discussion on the Building Department

Audio file:  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HW4JwKLK

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Town Council agenda
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/08/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-sep-2.html 

Building Dept presentation
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/important-meetings-today-wednesday-sep-2.html

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/town-council-recap-sep-2-2020-building.html 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

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"

 

FM #343 Town Council - Building Dept Update - 9/02/20 (audio)

Arbor Day, Labor Day - Both are worthwhile celebrations

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 09/06/2020

"As a school kid, I recall Arbor Day, and ‘Trees’ by Joyce Kilmer.  The holiday was little more than the starting blocks for another school year. There wasn’t much meaning behind it. No giant festivities, fireworks, parade, big doin’s, junk food – nothin’.  Not even a corn dog.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbor_Day

It was – uhhm, Arbor Day. Then somewhere in those early school years it became Labor Day.  Again – nothing. At least, nothing for us kids to get jazzed about.

Now, both of these holidays are fine occasions that commemorate deserving causes. As an adult in these times of global warming with record high temps and record high unemployment – ? I get it. These are among the burning issues of our time. Firing up the backyard grill is nice, but – Somehow, we need to jack up the holiday gravitas and cobble together some appropriate Arbor Day/Labor Day traditions, including labors that promote the greening of our planet – and our wallets.

This notion of combining Arbor/Labor Days (or at least the causes they celebrate) is what Democrats are espousing in their Green New Deal.

Backstory  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_New_Deal

House Resolution 109  https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/hres109/BILLS-116hres109ih.pdf

The NGO that started it  https://www.sunrisemovement.org/green-new-deal

Now you know.

And – This just in:
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/04/opinion/ed-markey-young-progressive-voters.html
Fittingly, the first job that the Green New Deal saved – was that of its author.

There’s another day that we should celebrate – Election Day. Get out the vote. And – as always 

–  Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm. And, thank you for watching. "

Find the weekly Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio program guide online at

http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

the home page of Franklin.TV features a link to Franklin Matters

Berry Insurance Makes the Cover of National Magazine

Franklin’s own Berry Insurance is in the midst of their “one month of fame” as the September 2020 cover feature of renowned national magazine, Rough Notes.

“We are humbled to have been chosen. It is an honor to be recognized for our focus on building relationships through creating content that both educates and makes understanding insurance easier,” says Berry Insurance President Kaitlyn Pintarich.

The article titled “Everyday People Doing Extraordinary Things for Clients” spotlights the local independent agency, specifically highlighting its family-like appeal, commitment to being a client resource through honesty and education, and dedication to supporting the local community.

In the article, writer Dennis H. Pillsbury quotes Pintarich saying, “We try to work with our clients in areas beyond just insurance … Our goal is to become a resource for them in any way we can. We do a lot in the area of education – offering seminars on a number of topics that we found were of concern to our clients, including ones on using social media and understanding Google Reviews. At the same time, when we need to engage a vendor or contractor for something, we always try to shop locally and with our clients, when possible. And of course, we also support their fundraisers.

Rough Notes is a national monthly publication, well-known in the insurance industry for covering the evolving needs of insurance agents and offering technical and educational resources for insurance professionals and the communities they serve.

“Rough Notes is one of the most well-respected publications in our industry. Being chosen as the agency of the month, out of thousands of agents across the U.S. makes us incredibly proud to have our team recognized for their hard work and dedication to our clients and community,” says Pintarich.

To see the full article, visit roughnotes.com and sign up for a free subscription to the magazine.

Berry Insurance is an independent insurance agency offering customized personal and commercial insurance in Massachusetts and New England. Since 1922, Berry Insurance has been blending personalization, consultation and education, to offer the best possible insurance solutions paired with an honest and attentive customer service experience. To learn more about Berry Insurance, visit www.berryinsurance.com or call 508-528-5200

Berry Insurance Makes the Cover of National Magazine

 

Commonwealth Magazine: Ranked choice voting and the 4th District; rethinking high school in COVID

From CommonWealth Magazine we share two articles of interest for Franklin:  

"WHEN JESSE MERMELL gave her videotaped concession speech in the 4th Congressional District primary race on Friday, she did it in front of a sign that read “Jesse Mermell for RCV,” an acronym for ranked–choice voting. “If the ranked–choice voting campaign needs a new face, give me a call, guys,” Mermell said. “I’ve got some time on my hands.” 

Mermell, a progressive who worked for former Gov. Deval Patrick, lost the Democratic primary by just 2,000 votes, or 1.3 percent, to Newton City Councilor and US Marine Corps veteran Jake Auchincloss. That means primary voters in the liberal congressional district that repeatedly reelected Joe Kennedy, Barney Frank, and Robert Drinan over the past five decades have selected seemingly the most moderate of seven Democratic candidates vying to represent them in Congress.

Auchincloss, who worked for Republican Gov. Charlie Baker’s gubernatorial campaign in 2014, won in a seven-candidate field comprised mostly of liberals. Auchincloss rejects the “centrist” label and calls himself a “pragmatic progressive.”  But his close election reflects a campaign that performed strongly in much of the more moderate southern part of the 4th Congressional District, which extends from Brookline and Newton to Fall River, and featured a crowded field that likely led liberal voters to split their vote.  

The race is calling renewed attention to a November ballot question that would implement ranked–choice voting, which lets voters select candidates in order of preference and could mitigate the effects of vote-splitting."

Continue reading the article online
https://commonwealthmagazine.org/politics/would-ranked-choice-voting-have-changed-the-4th-congressional-district-race/

"FOR 20 YEARS, I’ve taught in an adult ed program in Dorchester. Every year we tweak things, adjust the schedule, hire new faculty, tinker with syllabi. Change happens gradually.

This past spring, with the advent of COVID, we had to scramble. Many of our students do not have laptops or good internet service and our class sputtered out. Around the end of June, my fellow teachers and I thought about what we would do for this coming year. What we did is, we tore up our schedule, our comfortable ideas, our expectations, and started fresh. Change happened suddenly.

Which is why I wanted to write up some ideas for the coming school year, specifically for the suburban high school where my children are enrolled.

I, like every other parent I spoke to, and like the teachers and School Committee members who wrote and spoke publicly — like everyone in town — was disappointed with the agenda for this school year — remote learning. The truth is, it’s disappointing because it’s not like previous years, and it’s not close enough to previous years to placate us."

Continue reading the article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/rethinking-high-school-during-covid/

"the lab is now working with state health officials to correct problems"

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

"A Boston consumer genetics company that has batted away former employees’ accusations of shoddy practices since at least 2019 is now under investigation by the state Department of Public Health for logging hundreds of false positive coronavirus test results.

The company, Orig3n, has halted COVID-19 testing in the state. A company spokesman said the false positives were due to “human error” in processing the tests.

In August, after learning about the Massachusetts investigation, North Carolina issued a stop order for its coronavirus testing contract with Orig3n.

The consumer genetics startup, which claims it can tell customers what kind of foods they should eat and whether they’re predisposed to intelligence based on their DNA, has secured some of the biggest coronavirus testing contracts in the country."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200904/sudden-spike-in-mass-covid-19-cases-was-jarring-now-company-that-did-tests-is-under-investigation?rssfeed=true