Being involved with our PTO is a great way to meet other families, support our students, and learn more about Ben Franklin. Please plan to join us in the library on the following dates at 5:15 pm:

Meetings will be the first Thursday of each month (with three exceptions) @ 5:15 in the library.

Jan -- none -- stay warm

Feb 2nd
March 9th (2nd thursday)

April 6th

May 18th

Classes will dismiss from the same doors they entered.

Students will exit the building on a staggered schedule to prevent overcrowding in the hallway and to maintain some distance between classrooms.

Dismissal Options:

If you choose to utilize the turn lane when picking up your child(ren), stay on the right side to pick up your child and follow the turn lane guidelines pictured below.

1. Drive all the way forward to fill any open space regardless of which door your child exits.

The turn lane is meant for "stop and go" only and not for parking. If you choose to exit your vehicle, you may park on the street and cross at the crosswalks to pick up your child. It is important (and a City Ordinance) to utilize crosswalks.

2. If you choose to park on the street and walk up to the building to meet your child, please remain on the sidewalk as our students utilize the blacktop area.

Older siblings will remain with their own class while the crowd is heavy. When the crowd dissipates, we will have siblings join together.

If you are new to Ben Franklin or unsure of the turn lane rules, please read each of the guidelines posted below. We expect all family members and others who pick up your child(ren) to know and follow the rules for student and staff safety. A staff member will kindly remind you of the guidelines when they are not followed, please be courteous as they are doing their best to keep ALL students safe.

Thanks for your cooperation!

Setting a Pattern of Rules and Consequences

Kids are less likely to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs if their parents have established a
pattern of setting clear rules and consequences for breaking those rules. This applies to no-use
rules about tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs — as well as bedtimes and homework. Have clear
expectations for behavior, monitor your child, and implement appropriate consequences. In
setting these rules, be sure you discuss your rules and expectations in advance and follow
through with the consequences you’ve set.

Don’t forget to acknowledge times when your child follows the rules! Parents who have a warm
relationship with their children while maintaining rules for behavior are teaching their children
self-discipline. Parents who have rules that are too harsh or no rules at all are more likely to
have children who are at greater risk for drug-taking behavior.

Open Communication
Talking openly and honestly with your kids is one of the most effective ways to support their
behavioral health. Whether it’s everyday topics like friends and school, or more serious topics like substance use, anxiety, or depression, it’s never too early to start the conversation. As your kids grow, your conversations may change, but they will always be centered on keeping them happy, healthy, and safe. Keep your conversations relaxed, friendly, non-judgmental, and genuine. And most importantly, be a good listener. What should I say? Visit www.parentslead.org for more information.

Grand Forks Public Schools offers healthy meals every school day to make sure children are well-fed and ready to learn! This year meals are NOT free and so we ask that you complete the Free and Reduced Application as there are other events that take place during the year where the cost could be reduced for families.

An application is available online at https://www.gfschools.org/Page/8333, or download the form below, fill it in, and submit it to the Ben Franklin office. After the application has been reviewed by the Child Nutrition Department, you will be notified by letter of your status. All information is confidential - names are never disclosed. A copy of the application will also be shared at Open House.