Franklin Elementary School

⚙️ Workshop Opportunity ! The Parent’s Guide to Our New Curriculum : Unlock your child's reading potential ⚙️ All day A Hands-On Family Literacy Night at Franklin Elementary Please join Principal Johnson, staff, and our special guest, Dr. Sarah Mahoney (Literacy Coach), for an evening dedicated to our new K-5 reading program, HMH Into Reading. 📅 WHEN: Monday, April 6th ⏰ TIME: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 WHERE: Franklin Elementary Gym 😊WHO : K-5 students and parents WHAT WE WILL EXPLORE TOGETHER: 🔍 The "What & Why" of Our Curriculum Get a quick overview of how we teach phonics, comprehension, and writing. Learn how our program aligns with the Science of Reading and connects to Science and Social Studies topics. 🏠 Building Healthy Habits Practical tips on creating effective study routines at home that align with grade-level standards. 📱 Get Hands-On & Get Connected! (The Best Part!) Forget just listening—we are getting to work! We will have Chromebooks ready for you to use. Bring your phone! We will help you download the HMH App right there in the gym. Learn how to log into the "Family Room" to access resources and "play" with the learning tools your kids use. 🍕 DINNER IS ON US! 📚 We know evenings are busy. Bring the family and enjoy FREE PIZZA during the workshop. Plus, every student who attends will get to choose a FREE BOOK to take home to start building their home library! Please RSVP by Friday, APRIL 3 so we can order enough pizza! Here is the link https://forms.gle/DGDHSWhM9qD6Lcsg6

🏗️ STEM Night Alert: Ready, Set, BUILD! ⚙️


Franklin Families! Get ready to unleash your creativity! We are hosting a Parent STEM Night featuring "Playful Engineers."

Come experience the joy of learning by building your very own Chain Reaction Contraption (Rube Goldberg Machine) with your family!

📅 SAVE THE DATE: Monday, March 23, 2026
📍 Location: Franklin Gymnasium ⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
✨ Two Ways to Join the Fun:
Morning: Parents are welcome to visit their child's classroom during the school day!
Evening: Join us in the Gym for the main event!

👀 Sneak Peek: Want to see what you’ll be making?
Watch this video: https://youtu.be/j0k2E8JnSb4?si=1O1_Qqt8ZIOZZClL
(Or search YouTube for: "Playful Engineers Chain Reaction")

Please Let us know if you are joining us during the day or during the evening by Friday, March 20th : FUN GUARANTEED !

HERE IS THE LINK TO RSPV
https://forms.gle/R5i9t8y4EMyQaFyQ7

🦅 Franklin Reads: Family Literacy Night! 📚

Come join the Franklin Elementary literacy team for a fun evening of learning! We will be sharing hands-on activities to help support reading at home.

🍕 Bonus: We will be serving pizza and have special giveaways!

When: Thursday, March 5th

Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Where: Franklin Gym

Please RSVP using the link below so we can get an accurate headcount for food: 👉 https://forms.gle/MnHTnxvqMJB2fTTZ6

We can't wait to see you there!

🎧 NEW EPISODE LIVE: An Exit Interview with Mike Henrick & Lisa Carroll-Fabian 🎙️

It’s time to look back to see how far we’ve come. In today’s episode of From Forest to Shore, we are bidding a fond farewell to two dedicated public servants who have spent years shaping the future of Stratford Public Schools.

Matt and Michelle ask the outgoing Board Chair and Board Member the hard-hitting questions about their tenure. We’ve edited their answers side-by-side so you can hear their unique perspectives on the work that goes on behind the scenes! 🏫

In this episode, we discuss:
📈 The Science of Reading & rising test scores
🤖 Implementing our new AI Policy
📱 The reality of the Cell Phone Policy
💼 Fiscal responsibility & "running it like a business"
❤️ The personal "Why" that drives public service

Whether you are a parent, staff member, or community member, this is a fascinating look at the decisions that impact our classrooms every day.

👉 Listen at the link in our bio.

#StratfordCT #StratfordPublicSchools #NewEpisode #Podcast #EdLeadership #StudentSuccess #CommunityUpdate #StratfordBoardOfEd #EducationMatters #ListenNow

Something special is coming to the feed this week! 🎙️✨

On the next episode of From Forest to Shore, hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler are sitting down for a candid "Exit Interview" edition. We’re joined by outgoing Board of Education Chair Mike Henrick and Board Member Lisa Carroll-Fabian as they reflect on their years of service to Stratford Public Schools.

We tried something a little different this time: Two separate sit-downs. The exact same questions. One side-by-side perspective. 🤝

From the tough decisions (like cell phone policies and budgets) to the moments that made it all worth it (graduation day! 🎓), you won’t want to miss their insights on how far our district has come.

🎧 Drop date: Thursday, Feb 5th. Turn on your post notifications so you don’t miss it! 🔔

#StratfordPublicSchools #FromForestToShore #StratfordCT #PublicEducation #BoardOfEd #PodcastTeaser #Community #StratfordPride #EdTech

Do you know an incoming kindergartener who will be joining Stratford Public Schools for the 2026–2027 school year? Please help us spread the word! Join us for an Incoming Kindergarten Information Night on Tuesday, February 3 at 6:00 PM at the Stratford High School Auditorium.

Dear Franklin Families,

The countdown to Bookjoy is on! The Scholastic Book Fair starts THIS Thursday, January 29th!

Here is everything you need to know:

🗓️ When: Starts Thursday, Jan 29th.

👨‍👩‍👧 Conferences: If you are attending Parent-Teacher Conferences, please stop by the library to shop with your child!

💳 eWallet: Don't want to send cash? Set up a safe eWallet for your child here: Link to Book Fair Page

🤝 Volunteer: We need you! Check the previous ClassDojo post to sign up for a time slot.

See you at the library!

♥️ Mrs. Johnson

Due to weather conditions, Stratford Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday, January 27.

District offices will open on a three-hour delay, but will be open.

Please note that the Board of Education Meeting and Finance Committee Meeting will be held as scheduled on Tuesday evening.

Thank you for your continued partnership and cooperation. Please continue to monitor district communication channels for any updates.

Hello Franklin Families,

As we hunker down for this "monster" snowstorm and the sub-zero temperatures following it, I hope everyone is staying safe and warm! 🥶☕

Question of the day: How much snow do you think we will actually get? Let us know your prediction in the comments! 👇

Since the district has already communicated tomorrow's cancellation, we wanted to share a few updates regarding our schedule for the week:

🔔 Important Reminder: Early Dismissal & Conferences Please remember that Thursday, January 29th is an Early Dismissal at 12:30 PM due to Parent-Teacher Conferences.

Conference invites have already been sent home.

Please follow up with your child's teacher directly if you have any questions regarding your scheduled time.

📊 PowerSchool Update: Report Cards Report Cards have been updated and are now available in the Parent Portal.

If you have any questions regarding access, please contact the Main Office at 📞 203-385-4190 or email our head secretary, Ms. Alves, at 📧 alvess@stratk12.org.

🎟️ Valentine Basket Raffle (Deadline Extended!) A huge thank you to the families and staff helping with this fundraiser! Due to the weather, we are adjusting the timeline:

Basket Drop-off Deadline: Please bring donation baskets to Franklin by Friday, January 30th.

Ticket Sales: February 2nd – February 13th.

Live Drawing: February 13th.

Cost: 1 ticket = $2 OR 3 tickets = $5. (All proceeds support student activities!)

📚 Scholastic Book Fair Starts This Week! Students will visit the fair during their scheduled Library time, since the fair will be hosted right in the school library.

💳 Go Cash-Free with eWallet: If you are interested in a worry-free, cash-free option, please set up an eWallet for your child using the link below (or scan the QR code at school): 🔗 Set up eWallet here: https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/franklinelementaryschool17

🙋‍♀️ Volunteers Needed: We still need help with Setup (Wed 1/28) and Running the Fair (Thu 1/29). 👉 Please click the sign-up LINK attached here on Dojo to click on the time that is best for you! Thanks in advance for your support!

Enjoy the snow day and stay safe!

❄️ Snow Day Alert! ❄️
Due to inclement weather, all schools and the District Office will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026. Stay safe and warm!
#SnowDay #SchoolClosed

"Curiosity instead of control."

💡That is the powerful advice Bunnell High School Junior Anthony Darbilli shares in our latest episode regarding how adults should talk to students about their digital habits.

Episode 9 of From Forest to Shore is LIVE TODAY! 🎧

Join hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they chat with Anthony and digital expert Dr. Rachelle Dene Poth (@rdene915) about:
✨ The pressure of the "highlight reel" culture.
✨ Why we need a "shared language" for tech at home and school.
✨ How to use technology without letting it use you.

This isn't just for students—it's a must-listen for staff and families, too.

Does it feel like your day never fully ends because of your device? 📱💤

This week on From Forest to Shore, we are tackling the massive topic of Digital Wellness.

We’re sitting down with renowned author and AI expert @rdene915, along with Bunnell High School junior Anthony Darbilli, to talk about the pressure to be "always on".

They are helping our district redefine our Acceptable Use Policy—moving from a list of "don'ts" to a guidebook on how to find balance in a digital world.

🎧 New episode drops this Thursday, January 22nd!

#StratfordPublicSchools #DigitalWellness #EdTech #StudentVoice #FromForestToShore #StratfordCT #DigitalCitizenship

Dear Franklin Families, Get Ready! The Scholastic Book Fair is coming our way (YAY!). The bookfair is a special tradition and a unique opportunity for all of our Franklin Falcons to explore new publications and gain more interest in reading. Choosing their own books empowers kids and inspires them to become bolder, prouder, and stronger readers. AND—as always—every book they buy earns rewards for our school. Friday, January 30th until Thursday, February 5th Your classroom teacher will share the days that their students will visit the fair. *** Last year many parents used the e-Wallet. The e-Wallet is a digital Wallet that parents set-up for their kids. If you are interested, take a moment before the Fair starts to set up your eWallet for worry-free, cash-free purchases. Please scan the QR code below to add money to your kid’s eWallet. Families can also shop at our school’s Online Book Fair. All orders ship directly to your home, and shipping is free for book orders over $25. Your online orders will also benefit our school. Visit our Book Fair homepage to learn more: https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/franklinelementaryschool17 🥰 Please consider volunteering at our Fall book fair. Our kids feel so proud when their family joins the fun. Please select a time to volunteer - the invitation was shared on CLASSDOJO, simply select a day that works for your family. We appreciate your time, love and support. Happy Memories and Fun guaranteed ! The countdown to more Bookjoy is on Happy Reading, ♥️Mrs. Johnson

🎉 HAPPY TO SHARE! Our sixth-grade Student Council, with Mrs. Gottlieb, participated in the Connecticut Association of Schools Leadership Conference for Grades 4–6. Students engaged in hands-on activities building leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. We’re proud of how they represented our school with collaboration and leadership! ❤️

Good evening, families! Looking for a fun and meaningful way to spend Martin Luther King Jr. Day with your family? We have a wonderful opportunity you won’t want to miss! WHAT: Fulfilling a Dream — a visual arts workshop WHO: Led by our very own stellar art teacher, Mr. Marc Maignan, in partnership with the Sterling House WHY: To honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through creativity, reflection, and community WHEN: Monday, January 19th, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM (School will be closed) WHERE: Baldwin Center – Visual Arts This is a free event, continental breakfast will be served, and it’s a great family activity for our school community. 👉 Please RSVP using the QR code in the picture or register here: https://www.sterlingcommunitycenter.org/mlk-day

🎉 HAPPY TO SHARE: Franklin's Clubs are BACK! It was so fun to see students from all grades working together, making new friends, and learning new skills as Session 2 got underway! Session 2 Highlights: We’re excited to continue our community partnerships with Legacy Sports Taekwondo and the Stratford Recreation Center (Lacrosse). Other clubs this session include: Bracelet Making, Origami, STEM, Puzzle Club, Dance/Drill Team, Board Games, Coloring & Relaxation, How To Draw, Lacrosse, Franklin Beautification Project, Martial Arts, Painting, STEAM, LEGO, Play-Doh, and Little Coders Lab—there’s something fun for every student! Our brilliant Falcons loved Day 1 of Session 2! Special thanks to our amazing teachers and 6th grade teacher, Ms. T. , for helping with the planning and logistics.

🎉 Celebrating Our Students! 🎉 This past Friday, we held a school-wide assembly to celebrate students’ hard work during the first trimester. Students were recognized by their teachers, specialists, tutors, coaches, and administrators for perfect attendance and growth in reading and mathematics. We also celebrated students who show strong engagement during lessons and are true collaborators, a key trait of our Portrait of a Graduate. We were proud to recognize nearly one-third of our students! A special thank you to our Franklin School Ambassadors Club, led by Ms. Massicotte, for welcoming students into the gym with excitement and reminding everyone how to be an excellent audience—supporting our efforts to elevate student voice and leadership in all that we do. FRANKLIN FALCONS SOAR! 💙🦅

🎉 IT'S HERE! 🎉 The new episode of "From Forest to Shore" has officially dropped! 🎧🌲➡️🌊

Today, we take you inside our secondary schools with the incredible Humanities and STEM Department Heads! Learn how they are working together to shape the future of learning in Stratford.

🔥 In this episode, you’ll discover:

The magic of interdisciplinary connection—bridging Math/Science and English/Social Studies.

How we are intentionally building Portrait of a Graduate skills (like collaboration and problem-solving) into every lesson.

Inspiring ways we are lifting student voice and choice, from book clubs to high-level inquiries.

Ready to hear the stories that connect our community?

Listen Now! https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links

#FromForestToShore #SPSCT #StratfordPublicSchools #NewEpisode #PodcastLaunch #PortraitOfAGraduate #StudentVoice #STEMeducation #Humanities #CTschools #EducationLeaders