CARDINAL CONNECTIONS

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

November is Native American Heritage Month, and I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means for our school community. For me, this month is a reminder to pause, listen, and honor the stories and histories that came long before us — and to recognize how those stories continue to live through the students and families we serve today.

I’m especially grateful for our Native Indigenous Cultural Club (NICC) and for Ms. Pascal, who creates a space where identity, culture, and belonging are not just talked about but lived. The work they do matters, and it strengthens all of us.

Next Friday, November 21st, NICC is hosting a Spirit Day, and I’d love for our whole school to join in. If you’re able, wear:

• A shirt from a powwow,

• A NICC logo shirt,

• A shirt by a Native artist,

• Or any Native-inspired design that you connect with.

And if you don’t have one, our bookkeeper has powwow shirts from the last two district events and NICC shirts available for $10 this month. It’s a small way to show support, but it carries a lot of meaning for our students.

Thank you, as always, for the way you show up — not just in the big moments, but in the small ones that shape how our students feel seen and valued here.

— Principal Marzano

Cardinal Athletics Spotlight: Congratulations, Football!

Our Franklin Pierce Cardinals are heading to the quarterfinals of the 2025 Washington High School Football Playoffs!

Last Friday, the team earned a decisive 36–21 victory over WF West, securing their spot in the next round. This group has shown incredible grit, focus, and heart all season long, and their work continues to show on the field.

The Cardinals will take on Tumwater this Saturday at 2:00 PM at Tumwater High School. We’d love to see a strong crowd in the stands supporting our team as they continue their playoff run.

Students, this time is for you! Every week, you can sign up for a 10-minute slot to meet with Principal Marzano. Bring your ideas, questions, or anything that’s on your mind. Just scan the QR code to reserve your spot.

Nov 26- 3.5 Early Release

Nov 27-28- No School- Thanksgiving Break

Dec 22- Jan 2- No School- Winter Break

Jan 19-No School- MLK Day

Jan 26- No School- Staff Development Day

Feb 16-20- No School- Midwinter Break

Bell Schedules Here

What feels like a private joke, a quick vent, or a moment of frustration can be captured and shared far beyond what you intended — and in seconds. Even deleted posts and “disappearing” stories live on through screenshots.

Recent events are a clear reminder that online comments don’t stay online. They spread. They escalate situations. And they can cause real harm to real people.

Before you post, comment, or hit “send,” take a moment to think about the impact your words may have once they leave your screen.

Protect your digital reputation, protect others, and choose to use your online presence in a way that reflects who you really are — not a moment you can’t take back.

My Role at FPHS: Photo/Video teacher, head cross country coach, link crew advisor, yearbook advisor

Favorite Hobbies: playing ultimate frisbee, hanging out with my wife and two cats.

Favorite TV Show: The Last of Us

Favorite Song "No Bad Days" by Macklemore.

My Role at FPHS: Administers' Assistant

Favorite Hobbies: Reading, watching my daughter play basketball, visiting my son in Arizona and spending time with family and friends

Favorite Genre: Mystery Books, Mystery Shows and High Potential

Favorite Quote: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.”― Bill Keane

We know times can be challenging, and it’s important that every family has access to the support they need. Franklin Pierce Schools has created a webpage with school-based and community food resources, including local food pantries and meal programs.

🔗 View Food Support Resources

You can also visit the Emergency Food Network website for a full list of more than 75 food pantries across Pierce County. These resources will be updated regularly as new options become available.

Mary Bridge Youth Engagement Services (YES) Franklin Pierce provides intensive support for students and families facing serious behavioral or mental health challenges. A licensed clinician works within the district to offer screenings, brief counseling, case management, and connections to community resources. Using a three-tiered system, YES helps identify students at risk of interrupted learning and connects them with the right supports—from referrals and care coordination to short-term therapeutic services. Learn more and find referral information here.

Your free library card gives you access to so much more — live online tutoring, writing help, test prep, and career tools like LinkedIn Learning and WOIS. You can even join Teen Council or volunteer to build leadership skills.
Explore it all at mypcls.org/learn-explore/teens and set a goal to try one new resource this week.

Need a quiet place to study, get tutoring, or catch up on assignments? The Community Homework Center is now open to all FPHS students!

📍 Where & When

• Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 2:50–4:30 PM — Corrigan Room

• Fridays: 2:50–4:00 PM — Room 701
  🚌 Activity bus available after each session.

Come get the support you need — our counselors and community partners (AMARA, CIS, and APCC) are here to help you stay on track and finish strong this quarter!

Are you thinking about college? The Legacy Scholars Program (TRIO Talent Search) is here to help!

Legacy Scholars offers FREE support with things like preparing for college, exploring careers, and building the skills you need for life after high school. Students may qualify if they meet income guidelines or are the first in their family to go to college.

If this sounds like you, check out the flyer below for details and see if you’re eligible. This is an awesome opportunity you don’t want to miss!

Communities In Schools (CIS) is here to help remove barriers so students can succeed—in school and in life. CIS works directly inside Franklin Pierce High School to provide both school-wide supports and one-on-one case management.

School-wide supports include academic help, SEL support, weekend food, attendance incentives, school supplies, and hygiene items.
Case-managed supports may include goal setting, regular check-ins, small group work, mentoring, and referrals to additional resources.

If you or your student could benefit from CIS services, reach out to:
📞 Jordan Jones, Program Manager – (253) 254-6079 | jordan@lakewoodcis.org
📞 Kerri Pedrick, Executive Director – (253) 254-6640 | kerri@lakewoodcis.org

Learn more: www.lakewoodcis.org

The 2025–2026 Student and Family Information Guide is now available! This guide covers district policies, graduation requirements, attendance, technology use, safety, and more.

We encourage every family to review it and keep it handy as a go-to resource throughout the year.

📄 Access Link Here

Does Your Student Have a Chronic Illness?
If your student has a chronic condition such as asthma, diabetes, seizures, or takes any medications (including over-the-counter), please connect with Nurse Nicole. All students with chronic illnesses need an Individual Health Care Plan (IHP) on file.

📞 Contact Nurse Nicole

• Franklin Pierce High School: (253) 298-3823

📄 Submit your medical form here: https://www.pcmswa.org/school-forms

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! 🌟