As autumn colors painted the Franklin Academy campus in warm hues, families arrived for this year’s Fall Family Weekend—a cherished tradition that brings together students, parents, alumni, and faculty for a weekend filled with connection, celebration, and community.
This year’s gathering was truly special. It was wonderful to see so many families on campus—meeting one another, sharing experiences, and building meaningful connections. The weekend was rich with opportunities and resources for families, including classroom visits, conferences with teachers, the Family Association Board meeting, and conversations with representatives from colleges and post-secondary programs. Each moment offered insight into the Franklin journey and the exciting pathways that lie ahead for our students.
One of the most memorable highlights was seeing the Franklin community come alive during social gatherings. Laughter and conversation filled the family mixer, where new families were warmly welcomed and returning families reconnected. These shared moments remind us why this community is so special—a place where families can find understanding, encouragement, and a true sense of belonging.
Another exciting moment of the weekend was the unveiling of the Level Up E-Sports Lounge, a brand-new space generously funded by the Kramer Family Foundation. This vibrant, newly designed lounge features eight state-of-the-art gaming stations and serves as both a competitive arena and a welcoming space for all students to enjoy. Franklin’s E-Sports team—the winningest team on campus—now has a dedicated home to practice, compete, and celebrate their success. Beyond competitions, the lounge provides a fun and inclusive environment where students can connect, collaborate, and build friendships around shared interests.
Of course, Fall Family Weekend wouldn’t be complete without the Annual Experiences Auction. Both the silent and live auctions were a tremendous success this year, raising vital funds that directly support special projects and signature programs on campus. We’re filled with gratitude for the generosity of our families and community members who donated, bid, and cheered one another on. Because of your support, we are thrilled to begin work on the special initiatives that were funded during the weekend.
Beyond the fun and excitement, the auction is a powerful reflection of our community’s shared commitment to Franklin Academy’s mission. Every contribution—big or small—helps us enhance the student experience, strengthen academic and extracurricular programs, and ensure Franklin remains a place where neurodivergent students can thrive.
As we reflect on this unforgettable weekend, our hearts are full. Thank you to every family who joined us, to those who donated and participated in the auction, and to the faculty and staff who worked behind the scenes to make it all possible. Fall Family Weekend is more than just an event—it’s a reminder of the strength of our Franklin community and the impact we can create when we come together.
Here’s to another year of connection, growth, and shared purpose. We can’t wait to see the difference your generosity will make in the months ahead.
