Good morning Franklin families,
A big thank you to our Parent Crew and everyone who helped nourish our staff with a delicious breakfast for Friday’s teacher work day! Ask any teacher – grading is one of the least fun parts of the job. The extra encouragement was appreciated as everyone powered through the tasks of the day.
Four years ago on March 14, 2020, we sent students home for what we all thought was a short break to slow the spread of COVID infections. We quietly congratulated ourselves for having “planned ahead” to distribute chromebooks and make sure that all students knew how to log into Canvas. We thought we were ready for the little break! We had no way to forecast the disruptions coming our way. While I’ve long since passed the point where I think about getting back to “pre-COVID” normal, we have been working hard to bring back parts of our educational model that were hurt the most by remote learning. These include Crew, our advisory program where we work to build relationships among students and teachers. It turns out that social and emotional intelligence, the foundation of getting along with one another, was one of the things most disrupted by remote learning. Learning Expeditions, which involve bringing students out and local experts into our schools, were also set back as we worked to find ways to connect with the community during and following an era of isolation. On a larger scale, we’ve lost ground in our shared understanding of and belief in the EL Education model as these core parts of our educational model suffered.
During our School Improvement Team meeting on Thursday we began digging into the process of becoming credentialed as an EL Education school. This is another area where our school’s growth was disrupted. Four years ago we planned to begin the credentialing process in the following year. Like many things, this plan was set aside while we focused on the immediate crisis at hand. But we believe it’s time to step back into this process.
Why is this important now and what does it even mean to be credentialed as an EL Education school? Getting credentialed isn’t the goal. But I believe the process of working together with our community – parents, students, teachers, school leaders – to truly look at the strengths and the areas for growth in our school will bring us together around a common goal. To earn the EL Education credential we need to demonstrate that our students are making growth in EL’s three areas of student achievement: Character, High Quality Work, and Mastery of Knowledge and Skills. We have work to do to reach this goal for all students in all classrooms. This work will make our school a better place for students and teachers to learn and thrive. You can learn more about the credentialing process here, or just stay tuned for periodic updates as we work toward this goal!
Save the Dates! We are working on a series of community events around race and racism. We have the first two events scheduled:
- Thursday, April 11, 6 – 8 pm, Black Wall Street AVL: Celebrate Black History in Asheville! “Black In Asheville” is a must-see documentary that explores the black history, cultural heritage, and dark times of the Black community that will leave a lasting impact on everyone who watches it. Franklin is sponsoring this free event to showcase the local documentary exploring Black History in our community. Get your free tickets today and share the link with your family and friends: Black in Asheville film screening at Black Wall Street AVL Tickets, Thu, Apr 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite
- Thursday, April 25, 6 – 9 pm: Building Bridges Movie & Talk Back, featuring the documentary “13th”. Titled after the 13th Amendment, this movie explores the prison industrial complex and the intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration. After, stay for the talk back and discuss. This event is open to the public. Parents, students and educators are all encouraged to attend. Pizza will be provided (starting at 6 pm); snacks will be available for purchase with proceeds supporting our BIPOC Student Union.
Save the Dates, part 2!
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- Wed, March 27: Spring Student Led Conferences – remote learning day
- Wed, April 24: 8th & 10th Grade Passage Presentations – remote learning day
Spring Student Led Conferences (SLCs) and 8th, 10th, and 12th grade Passage Presentations are coming soon! These student-led conferences and presentations are an important part of our EL Education model. Students learn and practice the skills of goal-setting, self-reflection, and public presentation while adults learn and practice the important skill of listening to our children. Students do not attend school on these days! Students in grades 5, 6, 7, 9, and 11 attend their scheduled SLC on Wed, March 27. Crew leaders will schedule SLCs. Students in grades 8, 10, and 12 will have a remote learning day on March 27. Then on April 24, students in grades 8 and 10 will attend their scheduled Passage Presentations, while students in all other grades will have a remote learning day. Senior Passage Presentations are held in the evening and seniors will be remote for both days.
We recognize that remote days are difficult for parents. We believe that Student Led Conferences and Passage Presentations are important learning experiences. We choose Wednesdays to reduce the impact for parents. We appreciate your support and participation in these rites of passage for our students!
Parent Leadership Opportunities
This Thursday, March 21, Parent Crew is holding their weekly meeting. Leadership for next year’s Parent Crew is on the agenda! Please use the link below to learn more and express your interest in participating: https://forms.gle/ST7gcEieqexD8jMq9
The Board of Directors is also seeking prospective Board members and Committee members. The Board has some specific needs, including an attorney and people with fundraising experience. The Board is also seeking people who represent our community. Parents are welcome but it is not a requirement! What does a Board member do? Board members should be prepared to contribute time and other resources (such as your expertise) to support the School, attend monthly Board meetings and actively participate on a Board committee. Looking to learn more about what the Board does, but not ready to commit fully? You can join a Board committee without joining the Board. Email Al Glicksberg (aglicksberg@thefsi.us) or Michelle Vruwink (mvruwink@thefsi.us) to connect with a Board member and learn more.
Thank you for choosing Franklin, choosing EL Education, and working with us to empower students to make the world a better place!
Calendar Events
Mon, March 18: No School!
Tues, March 19
- 8:30 – 9:30 am: Parent Crew Monthly Meeting, Room 144 or virtually https://meet.google.com/yzx-wvtz-kfm
Thurs, March 21
- 4:00 pm: “Health Talk: Thriving Minds, Thriving Kids: A Holistic Approach to Enhancing Brain Health for Improved Focus, Mood, and Behavior” by Dr. Ellie Macgregor. At FSI (come to front office and we’ll help you find your way!). Childcare available from dismissal through the workshop. (Learn more below)
Wed, March 27: Spring Student Led Conferences (remote learning day for grades 8, 9, 10, 12): No in-person classes on this day
FSI Yearlong Academic Calendar
Parent Crew Updates
Next meeting: This Thursday, March 21, 8:30 – 9:30 am, room 144 or virtually, https://meet.google.com/yzx-wvtz-kfm
We will be discussing everything from Staff Appreciation Week to next year’s Parent Crew Leadership. If you are interested in a Parent Crew Leadership position, please use the link below to see what the Leadership positions require, and fill out the form to express your desire. https://forms.gle/ST7gcEieqexD8jMq9
Bolts Athletic News
HS Soccer kicked off their season with games versus Veritas and IC Imagine.
The game at Veritas was a tough test but that got the team ready for their match vs IC Imagine. That game was back and forth and ended in a tie, 3-3.
Emily Cruz- Macey scored all 3 goals for the Bolts. Great plays in the field were also made by Aleigha Collins, Mahayla Jones and Rowan Bettencourt and Violet Cypress had some amazing saves in goal.
Summer Driver’s Education @ FSI
We are pleased to be able to host a Summer Driver’s Education class at FSI. The class will be held June 10-14. Students must be 14 ½ to attend. Registration and more information is available here: mtnpro.com/school-classes
Health Talk: Thriving Minds, Thriving Kids: https://fb.me/e/1tucEdTtS
Join Thursday, March 21st at 4pm for a signature talk titled, “Thriving minds, Thriving Kids: A Holistic Approach to Enhancing Brain Health for Improved Focus, Mood, and Behavior” by Dr. Ellie Macgregor, a local osteopathic medical doctor, pediatrician and integrative medicine expert.
“When your child or teen grapples with focus, hyperactivity, or sleep issues, it’s a clear sign of suffering. From tummy troubles to headaches and school struggles, it’s a heavy burden on both of you. You’re determined to help them without resorting to medications with potential side effects. As a holistic pediatrician, I dive deep into the root causes, prioritizing brain health to restore their natural joy and vitality. With advanced testing and a personalized approach, we’ll uncover genetic factors, optimize diet and lifestyle, and embark on a journey towards lasting well-being and resilience. Together, we’ll reclaim their childhood joy and vitality.
You will learn:
- 5 Critical Steps to Optimize Your Child’s Brain Health
- #1 Biggest Mistake Parents Might Be Making That’s Impacting Their Child’s Brain Health (and what to do about it)
- #1 Most Important Way to Positively Impact Your Child’s Brain Health
- How to Identify Symptoms of Brain Inflammation
- Why Most Parents aren’t Getting the Results They Want From Supplements Alone
Dr. Ellie MacGregor’s Credentials:
With 16 years experience as a board certified pediatrician, her expertise is supported by extensive continuing education. She graduated from the respected University of Arizona Andrew Weil’s Center for Integrative Medicine. Her pediatric training was performed at Nicklaus Children’s Medical Center in Miami, Florida and she studied at one of the top tier Osteopathic Medical Schools in the country, Kansas City University. Additional education was received from the Kalish Institute of functional medicine, the Institute of Functional Medicine and the Kresser Institute for Functional and Evolutionary medicine.
Dr. Ellie lives in Asheville, North Carolina where she loves yoga, creating healthy meals and walking her three rescue dogs.
HS Theatre Updates! First Ever HS Musical at FSI!
SAVE THE DATE!! In just under 5 weeks, FSI’s first high school musical production takes the stage in Kittredge Theatre at Warren Wilson College! You will NOT want to miss this fun show! Make it a family night out and support FSI high school theatre and music students.
When: April 19 and 20 at 7:00 PM
Where: Kittredge Theatre, Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa
Tickets will be available for electronic purchase in advance – that link will go live at the end of March, so keep an eye out in future newsletters. Tickets will be $5 for students 18 and under, $10 for adults, and $20 for sponsors. Sponsors will be acknowledged and will have reserved seats.
Job Opportunities
We are beginning to recruit for the coming school year! Positions will be posted on our website: https://www.franklinschoolofinnovation.org/our-story/careers/
Reminders
Free YouTube Workshop on Teens & Vaping
Kriya Lendzion, who has led many workshops for FSI families on teens and substance use and abuse, has released a new video with SmartSocial on the risks of youth vaping nicotine and THC. Watch at your own time and interest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QpCR-mtHrc
MANNA Packs for Kids
MANNA Packs for Kids is a take-home food program that provides a weekly bag of food to students. Bags will contain items such as proteins, fruits, vegetables, snacks and/or breakfast items.The “MANNA Packs for Kids” program’s mission is to serve those families with children who are experiencing economic difficulty and could use assistance in providing food when school meals are not an option. To join the program, please fill out the Manna Packs google form here.
Buy Your Yearbook Today!
Our Yearbook Class is hard at work designing our school yearbook! Order yours now for the Final Sale: $60 from Jan. 27-May 26th
And here is the link:
Club Updates
Middle School BIPOC Student Union (BSU) – First Fridays
We are excited to announce that the middle school BSU is returning beginning this Friday!
- Who: middle school BIPOC students, grades 5-8
- What: To build and celebrate community.
- Why: Our mission is to confront racism through education, celebration, and messaging to foster inclusive environments that allow all BIPOC students to participate. We charge all FSI community to become advocates of systemic change by promoting dialogue in word or deed, in and out of classrooms with their non-bipoc peers. We celebrate BIPOC culture while challenging systematic oppression. We are committed to accountability and creating a future where all individuals are valued and respected.
- When: the first Friday of each month. Next Meeting: March 1
- Where: room 172 (Mrs. Ryan’s room)
*Pizza lunch will be provided. Please reach out to JR Negron (jrjnegron@thefsi.us) or
Jenn Ryan (jryan@thefsi.us) if you are planning to attend (to make sure we have enough pizza) or with any questions.
THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL
The FSI High School Theatre Department in collaboration with the FSI Music Department is in rehearsal for our first high school musical production! Auditions were in December and rehearsals underway. SAVE THE DATE! Performances will be in Kittredge Theatre at Warren Wilson College on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 at 7:00 PM. Cast and crew members can access the rehearsal schedule here. Questions? Contact Julie Wharton at jwharton@thefsi.us or Sandi Wilson at swilson@thefsi.us.
Middle School Student Council Updates
The student council is excited about their new blog! Publicity coordinators Matilda Carter and Alex Pilcher helped create the idea to have a space to share the updates. You can check out the blog with all of our news (https://fsimsstudentcouncil.blogspot.com/). If you prefer to see our updates in person, check out our bulletin board in the 5th/6th grade hall! We will be updating both as new information, events, and news come in!
Find our list of clubs on our website: https://www.franklinschoolofinnovation.org/student-life/clubs/
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! Click here to access the guide: Who do I go to when…
Teaching Teams
Need to contact a teacher? Find them quickly with this link to our Teaching Teams for 2023-2024
