About Our Foundation
Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower graduating seniors to achieve their higher educational goals. We provide financial awards with the understanding that future repayments will be made at a point of conscience and ability to carry on the tradition of supporting the students at Franklin High School.
A Message from Principal Marine Davtyan
Dear Franklin Community,
As the new principal of Franklin High School, I am deeply moved by the incredible impact the Franklin High School Educational Foundation has on our students. The Foundation truly embodies the spirit of community service and Panther pride that makes Highland Park so special. I’ve heard numerous stories from students about how their siblings benefited from the Foundation’s generosity, and how they feel reassured knowing they too will have the opportunity to apply for financial awards to help with higher education expenses, thanks to the Foundation’s continued efforts.
Beyond financial support, the Foundation’s contribution to our College Center and college trips is nothing short of transformative. These enhancements provide our
Our History
Back in 1962, Franklin High School Principal Joe Herman started the effort to provide Franklin’s graduating seniors with financial awards by collecting $500 and awarding it to two students. The primary source of these funds came from donations from Franklin faculty and a few Highland Park merchants. Each year over the next five years, Mr. Herman continued to collect funds and award these funds to select Franklin students. Then in 1967, Principal Mort Tenner arrived at Franklin and continued Mr. Herman’s effort. Additionally, Mr. Tenner had a vision for improving the college counseling program and created the College Advisor position whose sole focus would be to send more students to higher education with the necessary financial aid funds that would permit them to successfully pursue their studies. This College Counselor position was filled by drafting teacher Jack Wright, who held the position from 1971 to 1992.
Our Board
We have a Board of Directors of twenty, comprised of current faculty and alumni, all who serve without compensation. Franklin High School administration appoints the majority of the board.