Enrolling Now!!
See Headstart enrollment information during Phase I of the Reopening Plan: Headstart Enrollment Flyer
Benjamin Franklin School is currently enrolling students in Head Start → 8th grades for the 2020-2021 school year. Stop in to register your child(ren) between the hours of 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM weekdays. You may also register online through the MPS Homepage.
To register your child for the Head Start program please call 414-252-0350.
Principal’s Message:
August 2020
Dear Benjamin Franklin Parents/Guardians,
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” Charles Dickens opened Great Expectations with this famous line which seems quite appropriate to our current situation. Although there are many reasons to be anxious and upset, the current situation has forced families and communities to come together to support those most in need. There is also hope that the social unrest we are experiencing leads to social justice improvements that are long overdue. As educators, we are called to provide hope and a sense of normalcy, predictability and routine to our students’ lives. There is a lot to learn for all of us, and at times it can feel overwhelming. We are fortunate that Franklin has a strong community of families and staff willing to do what it takes for every student to succeed. Although we are not together in the building, we are together in spirit.
We welcome parents and guardians to be involved in all aspects of their students’ education. Thank you for choosing Benjamin Franklin and for your support of the staff, students and program. I look forward to seeing everyone soon, whether virtually or in-person.
If you have any questions, please call me at (414) 875-4400 or email me at hmielese@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Respectfully yours,
Sara E. Hmielewski
Principal
Virtual Learning
During Phase I of the MPS Reopening Plan, students will be 100% virtual. We are aware that while this ensures we are keeping our Franklin families safest, this can place additional stress on families that depend on in-person schooling for education, as well as childcare, socialization, and meals. Our staff is committed to working with each family to provide the instruction that each student deserves, and we will be as flexible as we can to make the virtual experience work for all.
Partners in Learning:
Franklin teachers are excited about building strong relationships with families of our students. We love your child, and we know you want the absolute best for them. Teachers will be reaching out to families via several methods, and we’ll identify what works best for each family, whether that be phone calls, text messages, email, or video chat. Additionally, keep an eye out for a Franklin Facebook page that we’ll use as an informal way to connect with one another!
Academic Rigor with a Hefty Dose of Patience
We know that we’re embarking on challenges we haven’t seen previously. Some students will find virtual learning works well for them, and they may benefit from being away from the distractions of their peers. Some students will struggle to stay focused or find it difficult to stay organized. Just like in the classroom, teachers will work hard to get to know each student to find out what works best for them and teach the specific skills that are needed for virtual learning. We still expect to hold our students to high academic standards, while also acknowledging that, in many ways, this is uncharted territory. While there will likely be some bumps along the way, together we will find our groove.
School Schedule
Officially the school day will begin at 7:20AM and dismiss at 2:20PM. Your child’s teacher will communicate to you what their daily schedule will look like. We know that for a multitude of reasons, your child may need more flexibility around scheduling, and we will be making school lessons available outside of the official school day.
Online Platforms
Students in K-3 through 2nd Grade will be using Seesaw. Students in 4th through 8th Grade will be using Google Classroom. All students will be using Google Meet for live meetings. The Chromebooks offered by Franklin come pre-loaded with these apps. (Class Dojo & Remind, too)
Open House
Following these dates, we will be hosting a Virtual Open House where you will get to know your child’s teachers and have any questions answered. This will take place on Thursday, August 27th from 3:30 – 5:30 PM. Mr. Turner has been working his creative muscles on organizing this — come and say hello! (Check back for a Virtual Invite!)
Important Dates:
- Tuesday, September 1: First day of school!
- K3-K5 will be staggered start – please refer to letter mailed to your home to determine your child’s first day of school
- No school on Friday, September 4 or Monday, September 7! Happy Labor Day!
Uniforms
During Virtual Learning, students are encouraged to wear the Benjamin Franklin School Uniform, but may wear any school-appropriate clothing.
Benjamin Franklin is a UNIFORM SCHOOL. The uniform consists of a royal blue polo shirt with an orange Benjamin Franklin logo and khaki pants.
Each student at Benjamin Franklin School will be issued one uniform polo top and one pair of khaki pants free of charge. Uniforms will be distributed when the district enters the Phase II part of the Reopening Plan.
Additional Benjamin Franklin School Uniform Polo Shirt: $10 each (2XL and 3XL $12 each). Order at Benjamin Franklin School. Payment must accompany order.
Administrative Policy 8.20: Uniforms and Student Dress Code
Attendance:
PHASE I VIRTUAL LEARNING:
Students will be marked “present” if they participate in any part of the school day (and have direct contact with their teacher). This is designed to accommodate a variety of circumstances for students and their families.
Parents we need YOU… to help your child STRIVE FOR FIVE!
Please ensure your child is in school and on time daily.
Testing Dates can be found here.