CARDINAL CONNECTIONS
February 23, 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
Parent Partnership Meeting
I would like to formally invite you to attend our upcoming Parent Partnership Meeting:
π
Thursday, February 26
π 5:30β7:00 PM
π Franklin Pierce High School
This monthβs meeting will include several presenters, including community partners who support our students and families. One portion of the evening will feature a presentation from our school counselors focused on:
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Registration and course selection
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Credit requirements and graduation pathways
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Academic planning and available student supports
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Post-high school preparation
This is an important time of year as we begin planning for next school year. The counselor presentation is intended to provide clear information about processes, expectations, and available supports. Families will have an opportunity to ask questions following the presentation.
Our goal for these meetings is to ensure families receive accurate information directly from school staff and community partners, and to create a productive space for communication.
I hope you will join us on Thursday evening.
Black History Month
February is Black History Month β a time to recognize and honor the history, achievements, and influence of Black Americans, both past and present.
Black history is not separate from American history. It has shaped our country in powerful and lasting ways β in education, leadership, the arts, science, public life, and within our own communities.
At Franklin Pierce High School, this month is an opportunity to reflect and to continue doing the work of ensuring every student feels known, respected, and valued.
The learning doesnβt stop at the end of February. It continues in our classrooms, our conversations, and in how we show up for one another.
Marzano Hour
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 thatβs on your mind. Just scan the QR code to reserve your spot.
UP NEXT
Weekly Calendar
Important Dates:
March 24-27- 3.5 Hour Early Release-Conferences
April 6-10- No School- Spring Break
May 22-25- No School- Memorial Day Weekend
June 15th- 3.5 Hour Early Release
June 16th- 3.5 Hour Early Release- Last Day of School
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Haylee Rice
My Role at FPHS: Computer Science Teacher
Favorite Hobbies: Snowmobiling, Camping, Boating, Riding Motorcycles, or having a Game Night!
Favorite Movie: Forrest Gump
Favorite TV Show: 30 Rock
Favorite Song (Right Now): Fast Car by Luke Combs
Michael Andrews
My Role at FPHS: Athletic Coordinator
Favorite Hobbies: Hanging out with family
Favorite Quote: "I'm not saying I'm gonna' change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world" Tupac
IMPORTANT TO KNOW
Students interested in law, government, or the judicial system are invited to attend Speak Up for Justice Washington, hosted by the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association.
The event will feature a panel of local judges discussing their experiences and the role of the judiciary in our democracy. This is a great opportunity for students to hear from legal professionals, ask questions, and network.
RESOURCES
π Community Food Resources
We know times can be challenging, and itβs 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.
π 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.
YES Franklin Pierce
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 supportsβfrom referrals and care coordination to short-term therapeutic services. Learn more and find referral information here.
π Teen Services Spotlight: Pierce County Library System β Teen Edition
Your free library card gives you access to so much more β 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.
βοΈ Community Homework Center Now Open!
Need a quiet place to study, get tutoring, or catch up on assignments? The Community Homework Center is now open to all FPHS students!
π Where & When
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Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 2:50β4:30 PM β Corrigan Room
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Fridays: 2:50β4:00 PM β Room 701
π Activity bus available after each session.
Come get the support you need β our counselors and community partners (AMARA, CIS, and APCC) are here to help you stay on track and finish strong this quarter!
Legacy Scholars β TRIO Talent Search
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 youβre eligible. This is an awesome opportunity you donβt want to miss!
Communities In Schools β Supporting FPHS Students
Communities In Schools (CIS) is here to help remove barriers so students can succeedβin 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:
π Jordan Jones, Program Manager β (253) 254-6079 | jordan@lakewoodcis.org
π Kerri Pedrick, Executive Director β (253) 254-6640 | kerri@lakewoodcis.org
Learn more: www.lakewoodcis.org
π 2025β2026 Student & Family Information Guide
The 2025β2026 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.
Individual Health Plans
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.
π Contact Nurse Nicole
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Franklin Pierce High School: (253) 298-3823
π Submit your medical form here: https://www.pcmswa.org/school-forms
π€ Calling All Volunteers! Join the FPHS Family! π€
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, weβd 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. Letβs work together to make this school year unforgettable for our students! π