Thread by @FranklinMatters

Last of the 3 budget hearings begins, #fincom0512

Franklin Schools up for review/discussion Supt Ahern, Miriam Goodman, Dave McNeill (budget Subcmte chair) at table to present, other in Chambers in support as needed #fincom0512

Key reason for being here in a good position is with health costs being in check with HSA accounts saving Town and employees on premiums; #fincom0512 health fair for employees held today, good results with turn out and acceptance of the HSA accounts

School budget doc from the package can be found here franklinps.net/sites/g/files/… #fincom0512

While school enrollment is down, the educational needs remaining tend to be increasing; academic, social, language, etc. #fincom0512 (8 members present; 7 in person, 1 remote) enrollment flat at elementary level, decrease 'bubble' rolling through middle to high school.

Decrease in staffing usually accomplished with resignation and retirements and strategic replacement of those who need to be and where, #fincom0512 Q on enrollment down 25% budget increase 30%, since 2012; no easy answer, school Ed requirements changing over this period

Buses account for 2600 or the 4600 students, the late buses run with smaller #of students to accommodate post day clubs, sports, etc. #fincom0512 actually down since pandemic as more switched to walk/drop off. DESE rankings mentioned, overview of budget development process

Bottom up development from schools and their school councils, with Central office assistance before getting to SchCom for review and discussion #fincom0512 more newcomer and beginner learners appearing as English learners; food services approx $1.5M total cost ...

Federal funds cover some of the food service, student fees provide the balance so it is self funding, pandemic period was free per Federal funding. #fincom0512 summer program for food was funded Federally last 2 years, no plans for this year.

Tri-county Superintendent K McGuire here to present for the first time to the #fincom0512 Dan Hanes, also sch Cmte rep Dr Peter Wernicke in support of the presentation

About 900 students next year anticipating approx 1000, which is good. #fincom0512 feasibility study underway for building analysis to determine future needs (new or renovation) ADA compliance needed; Jun 9 community forum scheduled 6 PM open house, etc.

Tri-county is about 32% special Ed students; attempting to maximize use of the building for education purposes for students and adults, approx 157 students from Franklin, about 100 students on waiting list for specific ed programs not offered in 11 home districts #fincom0512

MSBA targets for a Jun/Jul 2023 proposal for design, so sometime after that the communities would know #fincom0512 a majority vote of the 11 communities is required to approve the project, finances would come after the go/no-go. Info about adult Ed class fees,

Moving to final vote, motion to approve, second, passes 7-0 via roll call (1 member left during meeting) #fincom0512
Motion to adjourn, second, passes 7-0 via roll call
That's all for tonight catch you next time!

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