Board approves new high-school electives, including golf simulator course after 8–1 roll-call vote

The Franklin Regional School Board provisionally approved three new elective courses for the 2026–27 high-school program of studies and voted 8–1 on a separated roll-call to approve the golf-simulator elective.

Dr. Delp introduced the proposals—jazz lab, college prep for musicians, and a golf course elective—and said the jazz lab is intended for students with some musical experience and a baseline of music literacy. "The jazz lab is geared towards students with music or instrumental experience, of any kind, including vocalists," Delp said, noting that participation in a music-theory course would prepare students.

Board members asked logistical questions about the golf elective, including where the simulator would be housed and whether the community would have off-hours access. Volunteers and staff said the wrestling room is the leading candidate for space because it offers appropriate height and safety; they noted no formal plan exists for community access. "No discussions have been had" about community usage, a volunteer stated.

During the meeting the board removed item 14 (the golf elective) from the consent agenda for a separate roll-call. Board member Follett expressed support for the program but urged fiscal caution given upcoming obligations. The roll-call recorded eight yes votes and one no: Yes—Azzelina, Gutierrez, Sheridan, Venditti, Wyman, Billeen, Ziebrecht, Krimsky; No—Pollock. The motion carried.

Board members also discussed a power-lifting/strength-and-conditioning class in the context of supporting student athletes’ year-round fitness needs; no separate personnel or facilities action was taken on that topic at the meeting.