Podcasts about school committee

Wendy Joering, Executive Director, The Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, joins the show for an in-studio reaction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally recorded on November 3rd, 2025. On January 13th, 2025 a special joint meeting of the Northampton City Council and the Northampton School Committee appointed Anat Weisenfreund to serve as Ward 2 representative for the next 10 months. Anat is now running for a full term on the school committee (election day is November 4th). On this special episode of Panorama, Andrea Egitto, teacher and president of Northampton Association of School Employees (NASE), and Carrie Foley, special education teacher at Bridge Street school, join Anat to discuss the Northampton Public Schools (NPS). What is the state of NPS for teachers, staff, and families? What's going right and what are its struggles? Despite the 32 percent increase in school funding, how is that the schools are cutting positions? And what does Anat mean when she says, "intentional family engagement"? They answer all of those questions and more on this special episode of Panorama.

This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chairperson Dave Callaghan. This is a new episode of our continuing “Chalkboard Chat” series. We had our discussion via Zoom on Thursday, October 30, 2025. We had the opportunity to recap the School Committee meeting of October 28, 2025. We cover Recognition of Erin Gallagher & David McNeill not returningPledge students, a nice touchPolicy first readingsGraduation requirementsCompetency determinationsSuperintendent's Goals, aligned with District's GoalsOctober 1 report, enrollment trends The meeting recap runs about 26 minutes, so let's listen in.--------------Contact info for Dave Callaghan -> callaghand@franklinps.net Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtitdxM_a2A The agenda doc -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10282025-1977 The packet folder also contains other docs released before or after the meetinghttps://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/october-28%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/859754 My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-utM6sD6UggBNAMgWnQsG0g_lfmqo-on/view?usp=drive_link -------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share, and show you what, and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

Today:Brandon Cardet Hernandez, member of the Boston Public School Committee, discusses the literacy bill making its way through Beacon Hill, bell-to-bell phone bans in schools, and getting rid of the MCAS as a graduation requirement.Then economic scholar Chuck Collins discusses his latest book: Burned by Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power are Ruining Our Lives and Planet. 

Last night's Boston School Committee meeting covered declining enrollment, the Superintendent's contract and an update on transformation schools. Enrollment and Graduation Rates:  Member Brandon Cardet-Hernandez raised two key questions about district trends, enrollment and graduation rates, both of which have been ongoing areas of concern. Superintendent Skipper confirmed that enrollment is declining across the district, particularly among “newcomer” students, whose numbers are “roughly half” of what they were last year. She explained that while BPS is working to support families, several upcoming cohorts will be smaller, a trend driven by both post-COVID demographic shifts and broader declines in birth rates. The Superintendent also noted that a more complete enrollment report will be presented in November. As for graduation rates, Skipper said that while internal numbers suggest an increase in June graduations and a “robust summer cohort,” final figures will not be available until the state releases official data later in the school year. Public Comment and the Upcoming Exam School Vote: 33 speakers addressed the Committee during public comment, with many focused on the exam school admissions policy. The upcoming vote on this issue will take place next week, and the evening featured impassioned arguments on both sides of the debate, some defending the current system with others pushing for policy shifts. In addition to the exam school discussion, quite a few speakers advocated for increasing access to dual-language programming. Superintendent's Contract Discussion:  The Committee then voted to approve several grants before turning to a discussion of Superintendent Skipper's new contract. In framing the conversation, Superintendent Skipper spoke passionately about her commitment to Boston and the mission of BPS. Absent in the discussion was a lack of benchmarks or goals tied to Skipper's renewal. Member Cardet-Hernandez echoed this sentiment, and he called for a more calibrated and evidence-based evaluation process. Transformation Schools Accountability Update:  The Committee then heard an update on Transformation Schools, schools identified by the state as requiring targeted intervention. Superintendent Skipper noted that while there are “signs of progress,” persistent challenges remain, including low student achievement and chronic absenteeism. She highlighted that for the third consecutive year, more schools improved their accountability percentile than declined, with 18 schools improving and eight remaining steady. Member Cardet-Hernandez called the presentation both encouraging and sobering, noting that despite incremental gains, roughly one-third of BPS schools remain in transformation status, serving the highest concentrations of Black, Latino, low-income, multilingual, and special education students. State of the Schools Address: Special guest, Greg Maynard, from the Boston Policy Institute discussed the first ever State of the Schools address from Mayor Michelle Wu. While the Mayor touted new bilingual education, an increase of air conditioning units, and improvement on  transportation times, there were a number of more thorny issues that the Mayor avoided. The speech stopped short of confronting the district's most pressing challenges. For instance, while Mayor Wu cited examples of students taking advanced coursework, her discussion of overall academic performance was minimal. Mayor Wu did not address Boston Public Schools' recently released MCAS results, which remain far below pre-pandemic levels. Finally, on transportation, Wu noted that 96% of school buses arrived on time yesterday but did not address the district's long-term failure to meet the standards required under the 2022 Systemic Improvement Plan (SIP), which set a monthly 95% on-time goal. To read the full speech, please click here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode includes a conversation with Erika Reinfeld, candidate for re-election to the School Committee. For more information about her campaign, check outhttps://www.erika02155.com/

Welcome to Monday Night Talk podcast for October 13, 2025! The guests for this segment is Matt Stanton, who is a candidate for Brockton's Ward 3 School Committee seat, visits the show to discuss his campaign for office.  Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass, Old Colony Planning Council and Alcoholics Anonymous. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass, Old Colony Planning Council and Alcoholics Anonymous, the Committee to Elect Jean Bradley Derenoncourt, Committee to Elect Jeff Charnel and Committee to Elect Moises Rodrigues.  Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

10/24/25: MTA Pres Max Page: the shutdown & the future. Rep Mindy Domb: cuts to SNAP & fuel assistance and how to resist. Emily Serafy-Cox, candidate for N'ton School Committee. Michael Lawrence-Riddell & hip-hop artist Akrobatik on Self-Evident Education. Bombyx's Cassandra Holden: events, art & community.

10/24/25: MTA Pres Max Page: the shutdown & the future. Rep Mindy Domb: cuts to SNAP & fuel assistance and how to resist. Emily Serafy-Cox, candidate for N'ton School Committee. Michael Lawrence-Riddell & hip-hop artist Akrobatik on Self-Evident Education. Bombyx's Cassandra Holden: events, art & community.

10/24/25: MTA Pres Max Page: the shutdown & the future. Rep Mindy Domb: cuts to SNAP & fuel assistance and how to resist. Emily Serafy-Cox, candidate for N'ton School Committee. Michael Lawrence-Riddell & hip-hop artist Akrobatik on Self-Evident Education. Bombyx's Cassandra Holden: events, art & community.

10/24/25: MTA Pres Max Page: the shutdown & the future. Rep Mindy Domb: cuts to SNAP & fuel assistance and how to resist. Emily Serafy-Cox, candidate for N'ton School Committee. Michael Lawrence-Riddell & hip-hop artist Akrobatik on Self-Evident Education. Bombyx's Cassandra Holden: events, art & community.

10/24/25: MTA Pres Max Page: the shutdown & the future. Rep Mindy Domb: cuts to SNAP & fuel assistance and how to resist. Emily Serafy-Cox, candidate for N'ton School Committee. Michael Lawrence-Riddell & hip-hop artist Akrobatik on Self-Evident Education. Bombyx's Cassandra Holden: events, art & community.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Boston Dad Daryl Silva joins us to promote fundraiser for homeless veterans, then we talk about the fake book banning scandal in the Methuen Schools and then Methuen School Committee candidate Alejandro Baez joins Tom to talk about the state of Methuen Schools.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/22/25: Robbie Saner Sullivan, N'ton at-large school committee candidate. CDH Surgeon Dr. Michelle Helms on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Brian Adams w/ Grow Food Northampton's Farm & Land Mgr, Piyush Labhsetwar, & Co-Dir, Michael Skillicorn: what we grow & why. Chuck Collins "Burned by Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power Are Ruining Our Lives and Planet.”

This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chairperson Dave Callaghan. This is a new episode of our continuing “Chalkboard Chat” series. We had our discussion via Zoom on Thursday, October 16, 2025. We had the opportunity to recap the School Committee meeting of October 14, 2025. We cover Superintendent's ReportBudget book, zero based budget effortTeacher evaluations underwayUpdate on clubs for FHS & Middle SchoolFHS club fair held, 35 clubs presented, looking to finalize what's active with signups and payments to confirm membership. If not all to operate there are additional proposals being developed that could be implemented in lieu of some that didn't make it. High school has a late bus confirmed, awaiting word from bus company on one for the middle schoolMiddle school working on confirming advisors and also setting survey to determine student club interest. Hopeful of get the matching done during NovemberFranklin Food Pantry presentation by Laura Doherty and Tina Powderly. Much work to create awareness, address stigma, expand the availability of food for those who need it. Lots of coordination, collaboration underway with the School District, more to come. Empty Bowls will continue, looking also to expand and offer bowl workshops outside of the high school to the community. Looking into why middle school students who were part of the back pack program don't continue with it into high schoolGood of the order raised the following itemsConsideration of removing restrictions on citizen comment about something on the agenda, esp. now as it is at the end of the meeting; could be an opportunity to gain immediate feedback on something discussed during the meetingA public education slot to share info on current topics, to help address the misinformation still bantered about in the social media channelsDo something to help the new Town Council get up to speed quickly, perhaps to include a tour of the schools, many don't seem aware of the details of daily operationsEntered into Executive Session not to return to open meetingThe meeting recap runs about 30 minutes, so let's listen in.--------------Contact info for Dave Callaghan -> callaghand@franklinps.net Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEwf-tNffMs The agenda doc -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10142025-1948 The packet folder also contains other docs released before or after the meetinghttps://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/october-14%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/857413 My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dKcjoQ-fFsLF7j1sNbpxy6QuusaqtBZG/view?usp=drive_link -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (

Welcome to Monday Night Talk podcast for October 13, 2025! Guests and topics for this podcast includes a discussion with Taunton Mayor Shaunna O'Connell who opens the show talking about her campaign for re-election. Local realtor Richard Rosen will share his insight on the spring & summer real estate market and what to expected for home sales in the fall. Matt Stanton, candidate for Brockton's Ward 3 School Committee seat, visits the show to discuss his campaign for office. Gloria J. Browne-Marshall, author of, “A Protest History of the United States” will discuss her new book. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass, Old Colony Planning Council and Alcoholics Anonymous. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass, Old Colony Planning Council and Alcoholics Anonymous and the Committee to Elect Jean Bradley Derenoncourt. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

10/13/25: Laurie Loisel, N'ton Ward 3 City Council candidate. Megan Zinn w/ Paula Saunders, author of “Starting from Here.” Megan Wolf, write-in candidate for N'ton Ward 4 School Committee. Amilcar Shabazz w/ Amherst Coll Black Studies & History Prof Stefan Bradley, author of “If We Don't Get It: A Peoples' History of Ferguson.”

10/13/25: Laurie Loisel, N'ton Ward 3 City Council candidate. Megan Zinn w/ Paula Saunders, author of “Starting from Here.” Megan Wolf, write-in candidate for N'ton Ward 4 School Committee. Amilcar Shabazz w/ Amherst Coll Black Studies & History Prof Stefan Bradley, author of “If We Don't Get It: A Peoples' History of Ferguson.”

10/13/25: Laurie Loisel, N'ton Ward 3 City Council candidate. Megan Zinn w/ Paula Saunders, author of “Starting from Here.” Megan Wolf, write-in candidate for N'ton Ward 4 School Committee. Amilcar Shabazz w/ Amherst Coll Black Studies & History Prof Stefan Bradley, author of “If We Don't Get It: A Peoples' History of Ferguson.”

10/13/25: Laurie Loisel, N'ton Ward 3 City Council candidate. Megan Zinn w/ Paula Saunders, author of “Starting from Here.” Megan Wolf, write-in candidate for N'ton Ward 4 School Committee. Amilcar Shabazz w/ Amherst Coll Black Studies & History Prof Stefan Bradley, author of “If We Don't Get It: A Peoples' History of Ferguson.”

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Ruthann O'Sullivan. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Monday, October 6, 2025. The conversation runs about 42 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Ruthann O'Sullivan 508-397-7785mailto:ruthannosullivan@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/UGuIVHpD29c 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Stephen Karunakaran. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The conversation runs about 22 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Stephen Karunakaran617-480-2400mailto:stephensam@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/Ai_K3VzN1Z0 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Nadia Mausolf. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. The conversation runs about 28 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Nadia Mausolf617-733-9179mailto:nadiaet1@yahoo.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/KSiGm-COBdk 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Paul Griffith. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. The conversation runs about 57 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Paul Griffith609-203-8202mailto:paul.griffith.phd@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/InpImgj62LA 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

At last night's Boston School Committee meeting, members dove immediately into another discussion about the Exam School Admissions Policy Recommendation, foregoing the usual Superintendent's Report. In response to committee requests from the last meeting, the district presented new simulations that gave equal weight (as opposed to 70% grades and 30% MPA score) to both GPA and MAP assessment scores. The district found that there was minimal change in the overall makeup of students admitted to exam schools. Secondary Schools Policy Update: The Committee then moved through grant approvals and then heard a report on secondary school policies, including graduation and vocational admissions criteria. The Committee discussed adding weighted lotteries for all vocational programs, spurring questions about the complexities of admissions for families. District leaders outlined new competency determination requirements to align with updated state (DESE) standards for the Class of 2026 and beyond, with adjustments for multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and those with exceptional circumstances. Embedded in the district's presentation was also a recommendation for a watered-down MassCore with a “D-” signaling mastery in certain courses. This raised concerns about expectations and abiding by the previous Committee votes to use MassCore as the graduation standard.  Additionally, the district failed to present data for the Class of 2025, prompting Member Brandon Cardet-Hernandez to question how many students are currently on track to meet graduation standards. He noted that in the presentation disseminated by the district only 41% of the Class of 2026 appears to be on pace to complete MassCore, and therefore graduate. Summer Learning Initiatives: Next, the Superintendent presented on Summer Learning 2025, reporting participation from 14,600 students, up 600 from the previous year. The district highlighted stronger collaboration across departments and improved multilingual family communications. However, outcomes from these summer programs were nonexistent.  Member Cardet-Hernandez questioned whether the district is truly committed to evaluating outcomes. He pressed for evidence that these expensive programs are actually closing achievement gaps. Member Skerritt echoed that same concern, asking for longitudinal tracking of student outcomes, noting that with today's data tools, the district should be able to easily compare participants' attendance, growth, and testing results to prior years. MCAS and Accountability Results: The final report of the night centered on 2025 State Assessment and Accountability Results. Superintendent Skipper cited “encouraging progress” in literacy for grades 3–8 and said Boston outperformed other large districts statewide. But a closer look revealed troubling trends. Member Cardet-Hernandez questioned the effects of “social promotion,” advancing students who haven't met grade-level standards, and how this impacts high school achievement. Member Skerritt then asked what proficiency targets the district is actually aiming for, suggesting BPS set clear districtwide goals through 2030. As the below chart indicates, MCAS scores remain below pre-pandemic levels across all grades: Despite these declines, the district framed the results as “encouraging,” a characterization that is difficult to reconcile with the data. What's Next:  The meeting was emblematic of the district's current crossroads: a push for optimism and narrative control amid academic stagnation. The next meeting will be held on October 29th. We look forward to connecting with you then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidateKP Sompally. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Thursday, October 2, 2025. The conversation runs about 16 minutes. Let's listen in --------------KP Sompally617-515-5149mailto:sompally@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/ZUKrETRrMRw 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Al Charles. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, October 1, 2025. The conversation runs about 26 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Al Charles978-771-0128mailto:alcharles@comcast.net Video link -> https://youtu.be/d77-ZT6e9XE 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Dave Callaghan. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Monday, September 29, 2025. The conversation runs about 27 minutes. Let's listen in --------------David Callaghan508-873-1472mailto:dc.callaghan@gmail.com Video link -> https://youtu.be/JYLTZeS8x2E 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

Today Tom interviewed Lawrence City Councilor Marc Laplante about his Lawrence Square Project to honor local veterans, a little on the Methuen elections and then he interviews Kristen Maxwell of the Methuen School Committee about her campaign and the Methuen School Audit Report.

This session shares my conversation with School Committee Chairperson Dave Callaghan. This is a new episode of our continuing “Chalkboard Chat” series. We had our discussion via Zoom on Friday, October 3, 2025. We had the opportunity to recap the School Committee meeting of September 30, 2025. We cover Supt Report: continue to make adjustments to the traffic, Transportation website has an update for the school arrivals/Dismissals https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/6062062/Start_of_School_Traffic_Information.pdf New page FEF legacy program, online form to accept donations ... Additional info being added as the program gets fleshed out https://www.franklinps.net/page/the-fef-legacy-program Student Clubs & Activities Approval Procedural vote on account cleanup for inactive clubs, more next time for an update on current or new clubs. Amt of about $250 or so... https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/6059572/Discussion_Action_A_-_Student_Clubs-Activities.pdf Will be transferred to use of other clubs. Vote on motion, passes 7-0Adjourning to executive session not to return to open meeting, Moved, passes 7-0The recording runs about 20 minutes, so let's listen in.--------------Contact info for Dave Callaghan -> callaghand@franklinps.net Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39AoKQewDIA The Agenda doc -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/6059542/SCAGENDA_9-30-25.pdf The packet folder also contains other docs released before or after the meetinghttps://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/september-30%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/855018 My notes captured during the meeting -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NAnlr9uiozVLd9MK1ROfdltU9uOqsUwe/view?usp=drive_link -------------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...

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with School Committee candidate Henry Reis Hansen. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Thursday, September 25, 2025. The conversation runs about 30 minutes. Let's listen in --------------Henry Reis Hansen Phone -> 203-536-1243Email -> schools@reishansen.comVideo link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYpm9NkOMIM 2025 Franklin Election Collection ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/election-collection-2025.html Video playlist for all candidates -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL2XKlvMgLAm3YOh0r7csln4dpZ5MN-ul --------------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 neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe 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"

Today's episode includes a conversation with Mike Mastrobuoni, candidate for School Committee. For more information about his campaign, check out: www.mikemastrobuoni.com and on Facebook and Instagram @mikeformedford.Thanks so much for listening to today's episode. You can reach out to us by email at medfordpod@gmail.com, or follow us on Instagram @medfordpod or Facebook at MedfordBytes Podcast. Please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. Thanks so much for listening.

The Boston School Committee held their second meeting of the school year last night, primarily to present a proposal to change the exam school admissions policy. This was the sole report of the meeting and much of the public comment surrounded this proposal. After the Superintendent's report, Member Cardet-Hernández pressed for updates on graduation rates and summer school outcomes. Superintendent Skipper noted those would come at the October 8th meeting, alongside official enrollment numbers. The district formally presented its recommended changes: Remove all school-based points, which Skipper described as confusing, inequitable, and less impactful over time. Reduce housing-based points from 15 to 10 points, aligning with observed differences in composite scores. Add a “citywide round”: the first 20% of seats at each exam school would go to applicants with the highest composite scores citywide, regardless of tier. Maintain the current four-tier structure, based on neighborhood population, not applicant numbers. Superintendent Skipper emphasized that these changes would ensure fairness, prevent inflation of scores above 100, and preserve the original intent of the 2021 policy. However, School Committee members raised important questions about the implications of the policy shifts. For instance, Member Polanco García pressed for plans to better support newcomers and English Language Learners, whom Skipper admitted still lack sufficient resources. Meanwhile, Member Rachel Skerritt sought clarity on whether the proposal preserves equity while creating a pathway for the city's highest achievers. She also noted the district's failure to deliver on earlier promises to strengthen rigor in grades 4–6, which was promised five years ago. Zooming out a bit, Member Cardet Hernández questioned why BPS continues to frame admissions around three schools instead of tackling system-wide quality, noting families' desire for options across all grades. And Member Stephen Alkins asked about the drop in projected Black student enrollment (from ~20% to 15%) and urged more transparency in data and grading practices. To cap it all off, Chair Robinson underscored the Committee's failure to improve early-grade preparation, warning that focusing solely on exam school admissions leaves thousands of other students behind. Clearly, members have many questions, and it is unclear if this policy change will meet the stated goals of clarity, stability, and simplicity. Exam School Admissions Policy Recommendation:What's Up Next?The Committee will take a final vote on the admissions policy on November 5th. The next meeting will be held on October 8th at 6pm. We look forward to connecting with you then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode includes a conversation with Lisa Kingsley candidate for School Committee. For more information about her campaign, check out the following links:website: https://www.electlisakingsley.com/ donation: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/electlisakingsley FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579062952124Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaformedford/Thank you

Last Night at School Committee – September 10, 2025 The Boston School Committee met last night for its first meeting of the school year. The meeting covered a wide range of topics, from the district's back-to-school updates to the ongoing discussion of the exam school admissions policy. Here's a recap of what happened: Mayor Wu Makes a Surprise Appearance:  Mayor Michelle Wu kicked off the meeting with a heartfelt welcome to the Boston school community. The Mayor touched upon some major areas of improvement for the district, including better transportation arrival times. The Mayor and Superintendent complimented each other for their partnership in overcoming enduring challenges across the system.  Superintendent Mary Skipper began her report with a comprehensive overview of how the first days of school have been going. She highlighted some key areas and spoke to some important data points that illuminate both weaknesses and strengths throughout BPS Enrollment Numbers: As of the first week of school, enrollment was just over 48,000 students, with 2,400 new registrations since June. However, the district cautioned that enrollment numbers would fluctuate, especially as the district waits for students to report. Attendance: The first day attendance was 78.8%, a two-point increase from the previous year. By the end of the week, that number rose to 79.8%, showing steady improvement. Yet, this is still alarming as it means that 1/5 children are not showing up to their school. Transportation: The district touted its best-ever on-time performance for school buses. While the numbers are up, 3 out of 10 kids are still arriving late to school, which remains a significant issue, considering the $188 million spent on school transportation. For comparison, other districts like Newark, New Jersey, spend $105 million less for similar levels of service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thanks so much for listening to today's episode. You can reach out to us by email at medfordpod@gmail.com, or follow us on Instagram @medfordpod or Facebook at MedfordBytes Podcast. Please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. Thanks so much for listening.

Welcome to Monday Night Talk podcast for August 25, 2025! Guests and topics for this podcast includes the State House Report with State Representative Dave DeCoste. The conversation with Rep DeCoste will focus on possible 9C cuts the Governor may propose, a House version of the cellphone ban in schools plus the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's implementation of a weighted lottery system for admissions to vocational schools in the state. Jorge Vega, who serves as a Ward 1 School Committee member, will discuss the upcoming Brockton election and his bid for re-election. Richard Ripley, a Brockton mayoral candidate talks about his campaign and the key issues in the race. Duncan Gray, host of WATD's Eldred's Antique Hour stops to share insight on owning an appraisal business, working with Eldred's Auctioneers & Appraisers and the start of the radio show. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass, Old Colony Planning Council, Alcoholics Anonymous and the Committee to Elect Jean Bradley Derenoncourt Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

finance subcommittee 8/20 SC74 - School Committee 8/19/25

SC75 - School Committee 8/20/25

finance subcommittee SC73 - School Committee 8/6/25

7-24-25 Today Tom Talked about Methuen School Committee member Laurie Keagan and her woke stance on boys playing on girl's sports, going into girls bathrooms, puberty blockers for kids etc. Tom also talked about Ozzy, the upcoming elections in Lawrence and Methuen and MORE

Today's interview includes an interview with John Intoppa, candidate for re-election for School Committee. For more information about John's campaign visit:Website: https://www.intoppa4medford.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Intoppa4Medford Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intoppaformedford/Donation page: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/intoppaThanks so much for listening to today's episode. You can reach out to us by email at medfordpod@gmail.com, or follow us on Instagram @medfordpod or Facebook at MedfordBytes Podcast. Please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. Thanks so much for listening.

Last Night at School Committee – July 9, 2025 The only Boston School Committee meeting of the summer opened with a goodbye to a leaving member, included a summary of the Superintendent's progress, and ended with more questions than answers. Here's what happened last night: The meeting began with another goodbye to Committee Member Lima Barbosa who previously announced that she will be leaving the school committee for another professional opportunity. Chair Robinson commended her work on the committee and wished her well in the future. Of note, there is still no word on the process for filling her position. The meeting included votes on various grants in the district as well as an ask from the district to ensure that the leased land permits for the Boys and Girls Martin Richard Foundation Field House Project were legally approved. The votes were approved unanimously.  During the public comment portion of the meeting, there were 10 public speakers that advocated on behalf of different issues. There was a wide range of comments last night, including more testimony about the closing of the Dever, achievement gaps for English Language Learners, support for bus monitors, exam school policy concerns, and significant issues at the Mel King Academy.  There were also several speakers focused on the poor support offered to students and families in need. One parent spoke to the cumbersome process of school placement related to the student's IEP, and another parent testified about the district's failure to adequately assist her medically-disabled son. Much of this testimony was heartwrenching, illustrating some significant gaps in the BPS' support for students with unique needs.  Over the past six months, we have been closely following how the federal government's cuts could impact the district. Last night, Superintendent Skipper offered some insight into resource allocation for next year and beyond. Superintendent Skipper stated that, as of now, no positions will be cut in ‘25-'26 due to funding cuts from the Trump Administration. However, the Superintendent did note that certain title funding may be in jeopardy that could strip away professional development opportunities as well as English Language Learner programming. This will be an issue we continue to monitor.  At the last meeting, the School Committee outlined their evaluation of Superintendent Mary Skipper, and they deemed that Superintendent Skipper was "proficient." During this meeting, committee members unanimously voted to approve their evaluation of the Superintendent, yet certain committee members questioned some aspects of the district's progress in terms of quantifiable data. Member Cardet-Hernandez inquired about how data was used to inform committee members' decisions, specifically in terms of graduation rate, enrollment numbers, and achievement gaps. In response, the Superintendent stated that she would provide members with “memos” when this data becomes available.  Here at the Shah Foundation, we decided to conduct our own analysis of the committee members' evaluations, and we found a few notable pieces of data. First, across 48 written pages and more than 9,000 words of evaluation on the four standards, there were fewer than 50 data points cited. Second, two of the members did not cite a single specific number in their evaluation of the superintendent's performance. Third, just two members used more than 10 specific data points. Clearly, quantifiable data is not a crucial aspect of the members' evaluation process. With respect to media coverage of the evaluation, the Boston Globe ran a headline stating that “BPS Superintendent Skipper receives high marks in latest evaluation.” However, this attention grabbing title fails to adequately dissect and uncover the truth behind the committee's analysis. In the body of the article, the Globe notes that “progress remains uneven across schools” and much of the analysis from members echoes the same. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices