Dear Franklin families,
It’s the fourth week of school, which means we are almost half-way through the first quarter of 2022! Academically it’s time for the pace to pick up, as students and teachers are settled into the routine of the year and have begun building relationships and routines that support learning. Helping students develop the skills to be effective learners is a big push for us this year. This will show up in classrooms in many big and small ways – from expecting students to put cell phones away and engage in class without electronic disruptions, to setting stricter deadlines for work completion, to creating and referring to classroom behavior norms. We believe that all students can build the habits that will let them achieve at high levels. It’s hard work and it takes persistence, but it’s the work that needs to be done. As parents and guardians, you can support this work too. This may look like helping your student find a quiet space to do homework and setting up good routines that include down time, homework, and healthy eating and sleeping habits. It might mean downloading the Canvas app so you can check your student’s workload and progress and support them with meeting deadlines. It may mean showing up to school events, like the upcoming Back to School nights, to let your student know that school is important. It could mean having regular conversations with your student about behavior expectations for school, from showing up on time to classes, to engaging in class, to showing compassion and empathy for teachers and other students. It may feel like your teen doesn’t listen to you, but parent participation and value for school has a demonstrated impact on student achievement. When we work together we can accomplish big things. Our school wouldn’t be here if we didn’t believe this!
This week students in grades 5 – 9 will complete NWEA MAP testing in reading and math. These tests are not used to grade students and should not be high stress testing. But we do expect students to try hard and do their best. MAP tests adapt to each student to give better information about what each student knows and can do. If students do their best, they will be mentally tired after testing! We use MAP results in a number of ways, from identifying individual students who may need more support to seeing how we are doing as a school overall and where we need to provide more or different resources to get the results we want. Results for individual students will be shared as part of Student Led Conferences. The fall testing provides baseline data for the year. You don’t need to do anything special – just help students get a good night’s rest, a healthy breakfast, and encourage them to do their best.
Be sure to check out the Club News section below – several new clubs are beginning this week! Keep watching as new clubs get underway. Have an idea for a club? Reach out to your Crew leader or any adult at school. We love to support new ways for students to get involved!
As a reminder, September is Suicide Awareness Month. Last week we shared the 988 helpline information. Here are a few more resources for anyone worried about themselves or someone else.
- 988: Text or call for 24/7 access to crisis counselors
- 888-573-1006: RHA mobile crisis – a local mobile crisis center
- 741741: Text HOME to 741 741 for support
- 828-547-4547: WNC listening line – talk or text
- 1-844-5-SayNow: SSARS Anonymous Tip Line: 24/7 tip to staffed helpline Submit an anonymous tip 24/7 through the website, app or by phone
Did you know…
We post the newsletter on our website each week. Just scroll down the front page to “What’s Happening”. The newsletter can be easily translated into several languages by clicking the “translate” button at the bottom right hand side of the screen. Check it out!
I look forward to welcoming Middle School parents to school this Thursday evening from 5:30 – 7 pm. We’ll see High School parents next week! These are informal drop-in events where parents can meet the teachers supporting their students this year. Park anywhere you find an open spot. If there are no parking spaces available, you can park alongside the driveways. Do not park in the fire lanes and be sure to leave enough space for an open driving lane.
Upcoming Events
Tues, Sept 13
- 4:30 pm: HS Volleyball @ ICI
- 5 pm: HS Cross Country @ Marion HS
- 6 pm: Board of Directors Meeting, Big Ben, Music Room. Agenda is available here
Wed, Sept 14, 2 – 5 pm: Mountain Bike Club Ride @ KOLO Bike Park. See more info in Clubs section below
Thurs, Sept 15
- 9 am – 2:15 pm: Blood Drive. Schedule appt here: https://donate.thebloodconnection.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/195128
- 3:30 pm: HS Soccer vs ICI @ Buncombe County Sports Park
- 5:30 – 7 pm: MS Back to School Night at FSI
Fri, Sept 16, 4 pm: HS Cross Country @ Fire Tower Race (Boone)
Tues, Sept 20, 5:30 – 7 pm: HS Back to School Night
Thurs, Sept 22, 4:30 – 5:45 pm: MS “Bolts Together” Night on the grassy area outside of O’Keeffe near zone 1. We will have concessions, music, games, and fun. Students from grades 5th-8th are welcomed to join us on this night. Admission is free and concessions are a dollar each! Event sponsored by Community Council!
Fri, Sept 23: No School for Students! Teacher Work Day
Keep up with all our events on our Community Calendar!
Volunteer Opportunity!
We have an immediate short-term need for volunteers to help our Tech Director update our Chromebook inventory. We have a large number of older Chromebooks that we need to take out of service and replace with newly purchased Chromebooks. It’s a labor-intensive operation that requires some physical work (getting Chromebooks into storage carts is a bit tricky) and we’re looking for some extra hands to lighten the load. We are looking for individuals with some tech background (maybe you are the tech director for your household?) who can provide several hours a week. Please email Matt Mikulski (mmikulski@thefsi.us) if you are interested.
COVID Testing at Franklin begins Monday
On Monday, September 12, we will begin weekly onsite PCR COVID testing. Individual PCR tests will be conducted on site and sent out to a lab for processing. Testing is OPTIONAL and consent must be provided prior to testing. Parents – students are expected to know if they are participating. We are not calling students out by name.
Testing for high school students will be available from 11:30 – 1 pm in the collaboration space on the first floor of Big Ben. High school students can come on their own during lunch. Testing will then be available in Einstein, Parks, and Johnson for students in grades 5 – 8; nurses will let students know when they are available in each building.If you are new to Franklin or did not provide consent last year, you can sign in to give consent below:
- Parental consent for students under age 18: Click here: https://testcenter.concentricbyginkgo.com/minor-consent
- Student consent – age 18 and up: Click here: https://testcenter.concentricbyginkgo.com/invite-by-code
- Our school access code is FRANKLINSI. You will need this to complete the consent form
- You only need to provide consent once
FSI Blood Drive!
FSI’s Habitat for Humanity Club is partnering with The Blood Connection to sponsor a blood drive on Thursday, September 15 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm. Each blood donation saves up to 3 lives and helps to fund FSI’s portion of a Habitat Home for a local family. Donors need to be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, have ID, and be in general good health. Sixteen year old students need to have a permission slip signed by their parent or guardian. Permission slips will be passed out during Crew to interested students.
Please schedule an appointment by clicking on this link:
https://donate.thebloodconnection.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/195128
Connect with Canvas
As a school, we use Canvas as a system to help students and parents keep connected with assignments and grades. This is a schoolwide program, though of course high school students use Canvas differently and more than our youngest students. Parents and guardians can download the Canvas app and connect with their student’s account. Click here to learn how to do this – it only takes a few minutes but you do need your student’s help! Canvas Family App How To.
Middle School News Videos
8th Grade Theatre students are writing, filming, producing, and directing the news Monday and Friday each week. Click on the folder below to see the news each week!
Morning News Videos- 2022-2023–
Transition to Adulthood
Sat, Sept 17, 11 am – 12:30 pm: This webinar will help North Carolina parents and students with disabilities to navigate the transition to adulthood. Beginning at age 14, students and schools must begin the journey in planning for life after high school. Join us to learn more about transition planning and preparing students for further education, employment, and independent living. The webinar is made available by Mission Health and Family Support Network of WNC. Click here to register
Join our Team!
We have a few openings to support our growing school! Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to jobs@thefsi.us. The first 3 positions are full-time positions with health benefits, 401(k) retirement, and generous paid time off. Help us find great people to join our team!
- Middle Grades Math Specialist: provide in-classroom support and before school tutoring. Prior teaching experience and certification desired by not required.
- Substitute Teachers: Teacher Certification desired by not required; BA preferred; Associates required.
Clubs & Athletics News
Fall Athletics
Our fall athletics are underway, with the last sport beginning this week. The following sports are in season currently. Information on the fall athletics was sent out by Coach Burke – please remember that all athletes must have a completed sports physical and concussion form on file before participating in athletics. Fee for participation is $40 for middle school and $50 for high school. Questions about athletics at FSI? Contact Coach Burke, kburke@thefsi.us.
- Cross Country:
Lexi Johnson- ljohnson@thefsi.us
Kara Lacey- klacy@thefsi.us
- MS Girls Volleyball:
Jessica Bragdon- jbragdon@thefsi.us
Tammy Leahy- tleahy@thefsi.us
- HS Girls Volleyball:
Tess Barnes-Dunn- tbarnesdunn@thefsi.us
Heather Kabat- hkabat@thefsi.us
- HS Boys Soccer:
Teshale Byan- tbyan@thefsi.us
- MS Flag Football:
Tony Freeman- tfreeman@thefsi.us
Kim Burke- kburke@thefsi.us
Club News
MS GSA (Gender & Sexuality Alliance)
Starting 9/16! MS GSA (gender and sexuality alliance): Middle School GSA meets every Friday 3:15-4:30pm. We welcome everyone and work to empower LGBTQ+ lives. Contact afortune@thefsi.us to join.
HS GSA
HS GSA will begin meeting this Thursday during HS lunch. This will be a kickoff/information gathering meeting. Date/time may be changed based on student schedules and input. For more information, contact MK Hyche, mkhyche@thefsi.us, or Justina Powell, jpowell@thefsi.us
High School Studio Art Club
Mondays, Starting September 19, 2022
3:45 – 5:00, Big Ben, first floor Art Room #133
Hosted by Ms. Jen jlipsey-edwards@thefsi.us
HS Studio Art Club is a place to gather with other creative teens who have a genuine interest in the visual arts. Folks will have a place to chill, work on art, listen to music, have tea, and to inspire and be inspired. The Studio is where friendship, collaboration, feedback, sharing, and support come together to make magic! You do not need to commit to showing up every week. However, advance registration is required to attend as you’re able to. Register here: https://forms.gle/czLbV186Ep7K31gb9
Mountain Bike Club
The purpose of the FSI MTB Club is to get students together riding bikes, sharing the joy of bicycles, creating community around shredding on two wheels. There are no club dues or fees, and most rides are free, though some locations require an individual payment. We will have a couple meetups each month from September – December at locations like KOLO, Richmond Hill, Bent Creek, Dupont or Fire Mountain. The focus is on fun, friendships, and always a growth mindset. Every ride will require help from parent volunteers. Some events, like at KOLO, are open to an unlimited number of participants; trail rides will have a limited number of spots to be safe and respectful of other trail users.
- Sept 14 & Sept 21, 2 – 5 pm: KOLO Bike Park Meetups: KOLO has something for everyone – trails, dirt jumps, pump tracks, and skills courses. Riders must pay $10.00 to KOLO and must have a properly fitting helmet, closed toed shoes, and a current waiver. Parents, you don’t need to ride a bike to help supervise. We need at least 5 responsible adults to help out and ensure safety for everyone. Contact Ethan Burns, eburns@thefsi.us, for more information.
Science Olympiad Club
Do you geek out on all things science? Are you a competitive person who needs a medal hanging around your neck to prove your science prowess? If you missed last week’s Interest meeting, email jbragdon@thefsi.us to learn more about joining! This is a science competition against other schools in our area with a potential to move on to state and national levels. FSI has a MS division and a HS division. Check out this website for more details. Location: Big Ben 141
High School Drama Club
With all the construction challenges on our campus, we are hoping to use a theatre space elsewhere for these performances. Asheville High School and Asheville School have already been approached and are not options. If you have any connections to schools or churches or some other organization with a performance space we might consider, please be in touch with me, Julie Wharton, HS FSI Theatre Teacher and Director, jwharton@thefsi.us.
Middle School Drama Club
Upcoming Events- All Meetings and Rehearsals- 3:15- 5:00pm in O’Keeffe 22!
Drama Club and Rehearsal Schedule- Click Here!
Note- Rehearsals will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:15-5:00pm, but everyone is not needed at every rehearsal. Set Crew meets every Tuesday to work on sets and props. They will then be needed for Tech Week to work backstage. Tech Week is October 24th thru November 3rd and Performances are November 4th at 6pm and November 5th at 2pm and 6pm! There will be a cast party in between shows.
Drama Club Needs- All items can be brought to the theatre room- O’Keeffe 22
– Parents needed for the production team. We meet once a month for 30 minutes after rehearsals. First meeting this Tuesday at 5pm in O’Keeffe 22. Email Chris Martin, cmartin@thefsi.us, for info & to attend
Middle School Robotics
Middle School Robotics team will meet Thursdays, 3:15pm to 4:00 pm in the Middle School Tech room (Edison 19). This is open to all students in grades 5 – 8. Email Brittany Davenport, bdavenport@thefsi.us, with any questions.
Who do I go to when….
Whether you are new or returning to Franklin, we know you will have questions, and we want to help you find the best person to answer them, quickly and efficiently. We hope this little guide will help you navigate!
I have a question about my child’s grade, an assignment, or something specific to one class: Start with your child – what do they know? Then, the classroom teacher
I’m worried about my child’s overall progress, or progress in multiple classes: Your child’s Crew advisor can help coordinate a team response or meeting
My child seems anxious, sad, or unhappy: Jennifer Negron is our middle school counselor, and Mary Kinsey Hyche is our high school counselor
I think my child is being bullied, or other behavior/discipline concerns: Tony Freeman, Middle School Principal or Peter Tromba High School Principal
My child will miss school: For short-term absences (illness, doctor’s appointments, etc), send an email to attendance@thefsi.us, or bring a written note to the front office. Notes must be received within 48 hours of student’s return to school. Longer-term or frequent absences (5 days/quarter) require documentation from a medical care provider.
I’ve contacted a teacher, but the problem isn’t resolved: Your child’s Principal
I think my child may need special education services or accommodations: Paula Dowd, Director of Exceptional Services
My child requires medication during the school day, has a special health need, or has tested positive for COVID: Contact our school nurse, Jessica Perraud
I think we need some support for my child’s challenging behaviors: Jessica Potter-Bowers (JP) or Kara Lacey, Behavior Specialists
I have a question about enrollment, student records, or attendance, or I need a copy of my student’s report card or transcript: Erinn Otten, Director of Student Services
My student needs a chromebook, hotspot, or help with technology: Matt Mikulski, Technology Director
My child has an IEP, and I have questions about the services provided: Your child’s Exceptional Children teacher is your first contact:
- Grade 5: Brittany Davenport
- Grade 6: Tammy Leahy
- Grade 7: Meagan Barnhard
- Grade 8: Donnie Stahlke
- MS Resource Room: Meaghann Denkenberger
- Grade 9: Lindsey Wehrli
- Grade 10: Greg Wingard
- Grade 11: Paul Szumski
- Grade 12: Gretchen Kehrberg
- HS Occupational Course of Study: Kelsey Reid
I have questions about sports: Kim Burke, Athletic Director
I want to know more about after or before-school services: Martha Rutherford, Beyond the Bell Coordinator
I want to know more about your music program: Sandi Wilson, Director of Instrumental and Vocal Ensembles
I am interested in your theatre programs! Chris Martin, MS Theatre teacher/director and Julia Wharton, HS Theatre teacher/director
I have questions about your school bus or student parking: Deeana Bennett, Director of Operations
I am interested in carpooling/ride-sharing: Check out our carpool facebook group (you need to request to join):
I want to know more about college planning, including advanced courses like AP and Dual Enrollment, financial aid, or the college application process: JaneAnne Tager, College & Career Counselor
I have high level concerns or questions about the school, such as a problem that hasn’t been resolved through my principal, an immediate school safety concern, or more general questions about the school’s philosophy, approach, or plans for the future: Michelle Vruwink, Executive Director
Our Teaching Teams for 2022-2023!
We are excited to have many returning teachers, as well as some new faces for the coming school year!
| Teaching Teams
5th Grade Brandie Dallara, ELA & Social Studies: bdallara@thefsi.us Jennifer Ryan, Science & Social Studies: jryan@thefsi.us Chris Pauley, Math & Social Studies: cpauley@thefsi.us 6th Grade Ashley O’Dell, ELA: aodell@thefsi.us Charlie Keller, Math: ckeller@thefsi.us Samuel “Latt” Berry Foster:, Science: sfoster@thefsi.us Evan Baptista, Social Studies: ebaptista@thefsi.us 7th Grade Jared Gallow, ELA: jgallow@thefsi.us Zoe Wallce, Math: zwallace@thefsi.us Nick Liu, Science: nliu@thefsi.us Grace Nyanga, Social Studies: gnyanga@thefsi.us 8th Grade Kyle Wilson, ELA: kwilson@thefsi.us AJ Jones, Math lead: ajones@thefsi.us Rhneea Riddle, Math Specialist: rriddle@thefsi.us Keith Knox, Social Studies: kknox@thefsi.us Carlos Edwards, Science: cedwards@thefsi.us
9th Grade Lora Hawkins, English I: lhawkins@thefsi.us Jerry Lubos, World History: jlubos@thefsi.us Taylor Jenkins, Math 1 & 2: tjenkins@thefsi.us Jessica Bragdon, Earth Science/ AP Earth: jbragdon@thefsi.us 10th Grade Matt Reynolds, Civics: mreynolds@thefsi.us Justina Powell, English 2: jpowell@thefsi.us Marcel Duhaime, Math 2: mduhaime@thefsi.us Gabrielle “Gabe” Isaac: Biology: gisaac@thefsi.us 11th Grade Bryan Head, English III/AP Lang: bhead@thefsi.us Tess Barnes Dunn, American History, AP Research: tbarnesdunn@thefsi.us Teshale Byan, Math 3 & AP Calculus: tbyan@thefsi.us Mary Smith, Chemistry, Forensics: msmith@thefsi.us 12th Grade Alex Humphrey, English IV & AP Lit:: ahumphreyr@thefsi.us Lexi Johnson, World History: ljohnson@thefsi.us Teshale Byan, AP Calculus: tbyan@thefsi.us Elizabeth Joslin, NC Wildlife (Science) & EcoWarriors: ejoslin@thefsi.us Jessica Fine: Pre Calc, Math 4: jfine@thefsi.us Elective Teachers: MS PE: Anne Gillis: agillis@thefsi.us HS PE & Athletic Director: Kimberly Burke, kburke@thefsi.us MS Art: Jennifer Lipsey Edwards: jlipsey-edwards@thefsi.us HS Art/8th grade Art: Kati Robbins, krobbins@thefsi.us MS Tech & Computer Science: Adrienne Fortune, afortune@thefsi.us MS Counselor: Jennifer-Raé Negron, jnegron@thefsi.us HS Theatre, Art of Argument: Julia Wharton, jwharton@thefsi.us MS Theatre: Chris Martin, cmartin@thefsi.us MS/HS Music and Orchestra: Sandi Wilson, swilson@thefsi.us, French 1: Mackenzie Arnold: marnold@thefsi.us French2 & 3 and HS, PE: Chad Gerber, cgerber@thefsi.us HS Spanish: Hanna Walden, hwalden@thefsi.us MS & HS Spanish: Heather Kabat, hkabat@thefsi.us Adventure Ed: Jessica Potter-Bowers, jpotter-bowers@thefsi.us |
