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

Cardinal families, we are here — graduation week has arrived.

As we head into the final days before the Class of 2026 walks across the stage, I want to share one important update to the ticket information I included last week:

Additional graduation tickets will still be available at the Gold Gate entrance at the Washington State Fairgrounds beginning one hour before the FPHS graduation ceremony. Tickets are $7 each, and credit card payments will be accepted through GoFan. Please note that GoFan adds a $1.25 surcharge per ticket.

Each graduating senior on the walk list receives six complimentary tickets. Complimentary tickets must be picked up at the FPHS Bookkeeper window, signed for, and cannot be replaced if lost, so please keep them in a safe place.

A few final reminders for our seniors and families:

Graduation rehearsal is Friday, June 5 at 1:00 p.m. at the Gold Gate entrance of the fairgrounds. Rehearsal is mandatory for students participating in the ceremony. Students do not need to wear their cap and gown to rehearsal.

Graduation is Saturday, June 6 at 10:00 a.m. at the Gold Gate entrance of the Washington State Fairgrounds. Seniors must arrive by 9:00 a.m. Seniors should arrive ready in their cap, gown, appropriate clothing, and shoes. Graduates should not bring personal items such as phones, purses, wallets, or keys with them into the ceremony.

For family and friends attending, thank you in advance for helping us make this a joyful and respectful ceremony. Please plan to remain seated during the ceremony so every family has the chance to see their graduate’s moment.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed. Families can find the livestream link and additional graduation information by clicking the 2026 Grad Information button below.

Finally, seniors will receive a diploma cover as they cross the stage. Official diplomas will be available for pickup from the FPHS Main Office beginning Monday, June 8.

Class of 2026, we are so proud of you. Let’s finish strong, take care of the final details, and get ready to celebrate.

Go Cards!

Bell Schedules Here

JUNE

• June 4 – Graduation Parade- 9:45AM
• June 5 – Graduation Rehearsal- 12:45PM
• June 5 – Black Graduation (by invite only)
• June 6 – Graduation Day 🎓10:00AM
• June 12- Juneteenth Freedom Day- FPHS Cafeteria 5:00PM
• June 15- 3.5 Hour Early Release at 11:15AM
• June 16 – Last Day of School 3.5 Hour Early Release at 11:15AM

My Role at FPHS: Culinary Arts Teacher

Favorite Hobbies: Reading, writing, watching anime, going for walks, and baking.

Favorite Book: Speak by Laura Halse Anderson

Favorite Quote: “One must always be careful of books," said Tessa, "and what is inside them, for words have the power to change us.” ― Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Angel

My Role at FPHS: Attendance Coordinator, Asst. Girls Soccer Coach

Favorite Hobbies: Family, sports, traveling

Favorite Movie: Goonies

Favorite Quote: “No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it.”

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! 🌟