We Did It, Franklin!

We are bursting with pride for our amazing Franklin community. Huge thanks to everyone who participated in the Education Foundation's January Campaign. Franklin met its goal and officially won a visit from the LA Galaxy's Cozmo and Star Squad – hooray! Our students are going to love this special celebration coming to campus at one of our upcoming all school assemblies this spring. I'm also pleased to announce that the highest participation by grade was . . . GRADE 4! But it was nearly tied with Kindergarten, so I have decided to take 5 students from each grade level (names picked out of a hat) to make ice cream sundaes with me!

Your participation also unlocked a $25,000 match from a generous Franklin donor, doubling the impact of gifts made during the campaign. This is a powerful reminder that when our community comes together, we can make a big difference for our students. As of today, 48% of Franklin families have donated, placing us 3rd among all elementary schools. The leading school is currently at 53%, so we are very close. The race continues, and there is still time to participate. Every gift, in any amount, counts toward participation. Thank you for your generosity, enthusiasm, and continued support of your children at Franklin! 

And... thanks to our PTA, our students were able to see an exciting Lunar New Year Lion dance performed by Lion's Pride Kung Fu this week! Two colorful lions leapt and danced to the beat of the drums and cymbals. The kids clapped, cheered loudly, and were smiling throughout the performance. The students loved learning more about the Lunar New Year and its celebration.

Fondly,

Natalie R. Burton

Gwynne Gipstein, a beloved Franklin teacher recently passed away, leaving behind a lasting legacy of kindness, dedication, and inspiration. Gwynne devoted more than 20 years to shaping young lives, primarily in the third-grade classroom, before retiring in the early 2000s. Her warmth, grace, and radiant smile never wavered as she nurtured generations of students, inspiring them through her creative integration of classical music, art, literature, and even their own poetry. A pillar of the Franklin community and Teacher of the Year in 2000–2001, Gwynne was also a treasured mentor to fellow educators. As Mr. Clark shared, she was “a highly regarded educator” whose generosity, wisdom, and infectious smile touched students and colleagues alike. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.