Happy Labor Day!
Dear Franklin families,
The Labor Day Weekend always comes just at the right moment, offering a short but much-needed break after the excitement and hard work of kicking off a new school year. I hope everyone, especially our teachers and staff, are enjoying some well-deserved rest and renewal this weekend! I’ve seen so much hard work behind the scenes – teachers arriving early and staying late into the evening planning lessons, creating beautiful and welcoming spaces within their classrooms, thinking deeply about what went well and what needs tweaking for the next day. Our counseling team has been getting to know all students and showing up for students in so many ways. Bus drivers are pulling extra long hours, driving double routes and working through the traffic challenges that are part of the return to school. Our office staff practically sleeps at school to get all the start-up tasks done. And the facility team has been on the run all summer as we completed construction and moved almost every teacher to a new classroom. Rest up team – your hard work is seen and appreciated!
As everyone gets settled back into the routine of the school year, athletics and afterschool clubs are getting underway as well. We’ll provide information in the weekly newsletter as activities start up, and within the next few weeks we’ll pull together a list of all the school activities with a description and the contact person. Our hope is that every student finds a club or sport to join over time.
September is Suicide Awareness Month. We’re working on some parent and student resources to help everyone take action to keep our students safe. Today we’re passing along information about a key new resource – the 988 Lifeline. Anyone can call or text 988 for themselves or if they are worried about a friend or loved one who may need crisis support. 988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress. That could be:
- Thoughts of suicide
- Mental health or substance use crisis, or
- Any other kind of emotional distress
988 is available no matter where you live in the United States – text or call to reach a trained crisis counselor who can help. Read more about 988 here: English and Spanish.
Did you know…
We’re posting 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!
Enjoy this long weekend and we will see you Tuesday for the 3rd week of the school year.
Upcoming Events
Mon, Sept 5: Labor Day Holiday – No School
Tues, Sept 7
- 3:15 – 5 pm: MS Drama Club
- 5 pm: MS Drama Club Parent Meeting, MS Theatre Room (see more in Club section below)
Thurs, Sept 8
- 10th Grade Camp Pinnacle Field Day
- Student Picture Day (10th grade will take their pictures on the makeup date, Oct 4)
- MS Robotics Club, 3:15 – 4:00 pm, MS Tech Room (Edison 19)
- MS Flag Football, 3:30 – 4:45: Front field, all genders, grades 5 – 8. Must have sports physical and concussion form before practice
Fri, Sept 9, 3:30 – 4:15: Science Olympiad Interest Meeting, Big Ben 141,middle & high school -see more info in Clubs section below
Sat, Sept 10, 9 am: HS Cross Country meet @ AC Reynolds
Tues, Sept 13
- 5 pm: HS Cross Country @ Marion HS
- 6 pm: Board of Directors Meeting, Big Ben, Music Room
Wed, Sept 14, 2 – 5 pm: Mountain Bike Club Ride @ KOLO Bike Park. See more info in Clubs section below
Thurs, Sept 15, 5:30 – 7 pm: MS Back to School Night
Fri, Sept 16, 4 pm: HS Cross Country @ Fire Tower Race (Boone)
Keep up with all our events on our Community Calendar!
COVID Testing at Franklin
On Monday, September 12, we will begin weekly onsite PCR COVID testing. This optional testing is instead of the pooled testing we provided onsite last year and in addition to the rapid tests we can provide any day for symptomatic students. Individual PCR tests will be conducted on site and sent out to a lab for processing. Last year, we usually had results within 24 – 48 hours. These tests are free to all FSI students and staff members.
Students will not be tested without consent. Students under age 18 must have parental consent. Students aged 18 and up can provide consent for themselves. If you provided consent for testing last year – you do not need to provide consent again.
No student will be required to participate. If you provided consent last year but do not want your student tested each week – that’s ok! We will not ask your student to participate. We encourage families to participate. This information helps us understand the spread of COVID in our community.
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
A Safety Request – No Delivered Lunches!
We’ve had a little rush of lunch deliveries to school. For safety reasons – including traffic through the campus during lunch and too many strangers accessing campus – students may not order or receive lunch deliveries. As soon as our new kitchen is complete, we will be working on some options for a purchased lunch at school. Hang in there and bring those packed lunches for now. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to keep students safe on our campus.
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.
Free Webinar – 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 & Beyond the Bell Counselor: This position will serve as a permanent substitute and a counselor in our after school BtB program.
- Marketing and Development Coordinator: This position will work closely with the Executive Director to create strong community partnerships, recruit and support new families, and assist with fundraising and donor management. Prior fundraising and community development experience 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
Flag Football
If you are interested in playing flag football, our first practice will take place on Thursday, September 8th after school on the front field from 3:30-4:45pm. Flag football is for all genders and for grades 5-8. Sports physicals and concussion forms MUST be completed prior to practice. Practice will also be held Monday, September 12th. Same time and place. Practices will then usually be held on Mondays and games are played on Tuesdays, with a possible Thursday game during the season.
No MS Volleyball Practice Monday! We will resume practice at Foster Church Wednesday Sept. 7th from 3:30-4:30.. Contact Jessica Bragdon, jbragdon@thefsi.us, for more information.
Club News
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 so join Mrs. Bragdon this Friday Sept. 9th from 3:30-4:15 to find out more! If you cannot make this meeting time but are still interested in joining the science olympiad club please email jbragdon@thefsi.us. 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. Both levels will meet Friday Sept. 9th for details.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!
Cast List- Click Here! – Remember to email me “Yes” to accept your role by Monday at 6pm. Fill out this google form to list allergies and conflicts with rehearsals- Click Here! Otherwise attendance at all rehearsals is expected to rehearse each scene.
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! While we are sharing contact information now, please understand that teachers are enjoying their summers, and will not be responding to emails until the school year begins. You will have the opportunity to meet teachers at our Back to School Nights in early September!
| 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 |
