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 27---3.5 Hours Early Release

As the days grow shorter, and the weather gets colder, many of us will notice a dip in our mood and energy levels. Sunlight has a large impact on our brain and the production of serotonin and melatonin. These two chemicals help with happiness and overall wellness. When it is gloomy we can sometimes feel depressed, sleepy, and just low energy. There are some things we can do to combat the winter blues. Here are a few tips and tricks:

• Spend at least 20 minutes a day outside. Even if it is raining
• Get some movement and break a sweat multiple times a week
• Spend quality time with friends and loved ones
• Drink more water and eat less junk; When your body gets what it needs everything just works better
• Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day

If you need additional support or want to talk to someone, here are some confidential helplines:

• SAMHSA's free helpline: Call 800-662-HELP (4357) for provider referrals in the area. Or text your zip code to 435748 (HELP4U).
• The Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ community: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.
• Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741.
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

We are excited to announce that we are partnering with ParentSquare, our new communication tool, which will replace Remind and School Messenger in 2025. Beginning in January, all emergency alerts, school updates, and district communications will be sent through ParentSquare via the app, email, and text.

No need to do anything now, once ParentSquare is live your information will automatically be transferred over. We will continue to share news about this transition in the coming months!

In the event of emergencies, a team of Franklin Pierce Schools staff work to balance safety and our commitment to support student learning. The choice to delay or cancel the start of a school day includes assessing road conditions and consulting with other local services. Franklin Pierce Schools will attempt to offer updates about delays and closures by 5am.

Staff and families can expect to receive information about school closures and delays in the following ways:

• Recorded Telephone Message contact the main office at your child's school to ensure your contact information is up to date
• SMS Message for families/staff who have opted-in, click here if you would like to opt-in
• Email from info@fpschools.org
• Website www.fpschools.org
• Flash Alert Notification sign up to receive email notifications and download the Flash Alert App, click here.
• Local Media including KIRO 97.3 FM, KOMO 1000 AM, KIRO TV Channel 7, KOMO TV Channel 4, and KING TV Channel 5
• Social Media Facebook and Instagram

Everyone 18 and younger can ride public transportation for free. Riders aged 13 and older are encouraged to use one of these tools to access free transportation:

Youth ORCA card:

Riders can tap a Youth ORCA card, also known as Free Youth Transit Pass, when boarding the bus. Get your ORCA card for free at your school's main office, or online.

If you received your card at school, to ensure that it provides free rides up until your 19th birthday, update your youth card expiration date by registering it online.

Current student ID

Show the bus driver your student ID when you board.

Youth who do not have one of these can still ride for free. Riders under the age of 13 do not need to show proof of pass.

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! 🌟