Dear Franklin Families & Friends,
On behalf of the entire PTO Executive Board, I hope everyone enjoyed a happy & safe Thanksgiving holiday weekend. We have so many reasons to be grateful this season, mostly that we recognize how lucky we are to be surrounded by so many generous and giving families in our community. This was on full display in the lobby of Franklin these past few weeks…donations of candy, toys and hats and mittens were everywhere in sight! Truly inspiring as we head full swing into the holidays!
I couldn’t be more proud of what our team of dedicated parents has accomplished so far this year, and look forward to the exciting programs we have in store.
We kicked off the year with Welcome Packets for every Franklin family (with round the clock help from the amazing Marta Napoles!), followed up with the always-popular printed School Directory. And of course, Back to School Pops for everyone!
As we welcomed our wonderful new Principal Tierney to Franklin in those first weeks, it was a joy to see so many families and teachers celebrate the school year at the Annual Back to School BBQ & finally cut the ribbon on the brand new playground, provided to our school by your generosity!
Fall Enrichment was a success, with many kids participating in after-school activities such as Golf, Tennis, Beginner Chess and the Running Club. Morning started early for some who signed up to be part of the Kindness Crew (have your kids discovered a Kindness note in their classroom yet?), while others participated in fun, engaging FLIC lunch clubs. Our very first Chess Team starts this week — let’s cheer them on as they participate in their tournaments.
Our first assembly – BOT! The Secret Life of Robots – was a huge hit with kids and teachers alike. Lots of laughter and learning in a jam-packed hour of robotic entertainment. This coming Tuesday, we welcome the talented group of musicians from Ball in the House for a lively and educational performance of songs of all styles, all without instruments. It should be a special afternoon for all!
Are you ready for Willy Wonka Jr? We’re so excited that so many students have signed up for the Franklin Musical program, which kicks off this month with Workshops, Tryouts and Rehearsals! Please mark your calendars now for the performance dates: February 8-10, 2019. Whether your child is in the play or not, it’s a magical experience for all ages.
The holiday season ushers in the beloved Holiday Shop, where kids shop for gifts for family or friends with their “own” money. It is amazing to watch them choose these little presents and pay for them by themselves. It’s a learning experience filled with lots of smiles! This year, in an effort to promote the spirit of giving, the Holiday Shop Chairs have made it possible for families to “donate” an item to Toys For Tots as you check out (only for the 3pm shopping time frame – not during the school day).
Looking ahead, we’re excited for 4th and 5th Grade concerts, 3rd Grade Heritage Day, the Book Fair, the Musical performances, a visit from Author Victoria Jameison, Spring After School Enrichment, an Artist in Residence, a Mindfulness Assembly, field trips and of course….the Franklin Fair!
Keep reading our Sunday blasts for information about all of the above, and if you are on social media, you can follow us on FB and Instagram @franklinelementaryschoolpto.
Warm regards,
Melissa Madden
PTO President
