Franklin Avenue School is a K-4 school located just off Route 20 and nestled near the Westfield River. We are a proud neighborhood school where diversity enhances the social, emotional, and academic learning of our students and staff. We embrace the differences that our students, parents, grandparents, and community members bring to our learning.

We believe a school is more than bricks and mortar; it is a place where dreams are nourished, struggles are encouraged, and respect is woven into our cultural fabric. Our school is a place of learning for every child that attends. From kindergarten to the day they leave us, kindness, persistence, and optimism is evident throughout our classrooms and hallways. Each child is cherished for their unique personalities, skills, and attributes. It is evident through the words and memories of our graduates and families what a special place Franklin holds in our community’s heart.   

Our amazing staff goes above and beyond for all of our students. They provide varied and relevant opportunities for our scholars to become good citizens, great readers, and strong learners. Our teachers are risk-takers who bring new and innovative ideas to the classroom to foster creative and critical thinking. We challenge our students to set goals that allow them to grow as learners, leaders, and members of our larger community. 

Our teachers have created a strong support for all students with our PBIS initiative. PBIS is the acronym for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. The foundation of this program is HEART:  H-honor, E-effort, A-attitude, R-responsibility T-teamwork. Teachers consistently model these attributes, and students are taught these attributes to ensure everyone feels a sense of belonging and embraces a respect for learning. 

I am proud to lead such a vibrant and loving group of staff and scholars who come together as family.  I am awed each and every day as I learn and grow as an educator from our daily interactions. I am honored and humbled to be a part of this neighborhood school where wonder guides the learning and every human being leaves a legacy to cherish. 

Chris Tolpa
Principal

Telephone Number: (413)572-6424
Fax Number: (413) 564-3156 

Staff Directory