CARDINAL CONNECTIONS
October 12, 2026
Franklin Pierce High School Community Newsletter
Email: bmarzano@fpschools.org
Website: https://franklinpiercehighschool.fpschools.org/
Location: 11002 18th Avenue East, Tacoma, WA 98445, USA
Phone: (253)298-3800
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fphscards
Twitter: @FPHScards
FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK
Cardinal families, we’re firing up the time machine—it’s Homecoming week! Our theme, “Time Travel to 2000s,” has me wondering how my playlist became a history lesson. 😂
Let’s bring the school spirit, join the fun, and make some memories together. Cardinals, whether you’re dressing up, cheering us on, or hitting the dance floor, there’s a place for you in this celebration. Let’s make it a great week!
Go Cards!
UP NEXT
Important Dates:
October 14, 21, 28: 90 Min Early Release
November 11: No School-Veterans Day
November 25: 3.5 Hours Early Release @ 11:15AM
November 26-27: No School- Thanksgiving Holiday
November 4, 18: 90 Min Early Release
December 9, 16: 90 Min Early Release
December 21- Jan 1: No School- Winter Break
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
David Conant
My Role at FPHS: Teacher
Favorite Hobbies: Traveling with my Sweetheart
Favorite Book: Killer Angels by Michael Schaara
Favorite Quote: So many......! " Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm” -Lincoln
Shay Cooper
My Role at FPHS: Support center para
Favorite Hobbies: Swim, basketball, Bowling
Favorite Movie: It One Chapter 2
Favorite Song: Replay By Iyaz
IMPORTANT TO KNOW
Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill
On Thursday, October 15, at 10:15 a.m., FPHS students and staff will participate in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill, practicing “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” to prepare for an earthquake.
Families, this is also a great opportunity to talk about your emergency plan at home. Visit ShakeOut.org for preparedness tips and resources.
Seniors: Get Started on Financial Aid! 🎓
Planning to attend college or career training after graduation? The 2027–28 financial aid application window is open! Applying can help you access grants and other funding to make your next steps more affordable.
U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens should complete the FAFSA. Undocumented students and others who are ineligible for the FAFSA may apply through WASFA, Washington’s financial aid application. Both applications allow eligible students to be considered for the Washington College Grant.
Completing the FAFSA? Start here:
Create your account at StudentAid.gov. Allow up to three days for account verification, and keep your login information somewhere secure—you’ll use it each year you apply.
Have your Social Security number and required contributor information ready.
Be prepared to provide consent for the application to access federal tax information from the IRS.
Need help deciding which application to complete or getting started? Visit the Washington Student Achievement Council website. OR Visit Ms. Bruinsma in the Career Center.
Student Parking Lot Safety Update
Beginning Monday, October 12, the student parking lot will be locked during 4th period and lunches to support campus safety.
Student drivers with an early release during these times should report to the Attendance Office for assistance accessing the lot.
Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe!
RESOURCES
Community Resources
Franklin Pierce Schools partners with community organizations to connect students and families with additional support, including food, housing, health, mental health, and other essential resources.
Families can also find specialized support for students experiencing housing instability, homelessness, foster care, or other out-of-home placement.
Explore community resources and available support
Need help finding the right resource? Contact the Family and Community Partnerships Office at 253-298-3000 or aprice@fpschools.org.
🤝 Calling All Volunteers! Join the FPHS Family! 🤝
Franklin Pierce High School is looking for dedicated volunteers to make a difference in our school community. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to get more involved, we’d love to have your support!
Interested? Reach out to Bonita Lee at blee@fpschools.org or call 253-298-3837. Click the button below to learn more about becoming an approved volunteer through the district. Let’s work together to make this school year unforgettable for our students! 🌟