Franklin Towne Charter HS

For the final episode of "Towne Talks" this school year, our students brought together everything that makes this program special: creativity, humor, school spirit, and a genuine love for the experience they built together.

This episode gives our seniors a chance to reflect on their final days at Franklin Towne, while also celebrating the growth, confidence, friendships, and memories they found through video production. From students who once never wanted to be on camera to hosts signing off for the last time, their reflections show the power of finding your place and using your voice.

Thank you to our Franklin Towne Productions Towne Talks cast, crew, and Mr. Cella for continuing to create something our school community looks forward to and takes pride in.

Towne Talks 5-29-26 Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Good Afternoon Class of 2026!

Class of 2026 Last Recess is a celebration of all your accomplishments, and honestly, as one more excuse to celebrate you before graduation!

Join us for free event at Building 215 for all eligible seniors to include friendly competitive games, pretzels, water ice, and a yearbook singing station as we make one last set of memories together. Senior Recess will take place directly after graduation practice on Monday (see below for the schedule)

Monday, June 1, 2026
Exam Schedule:
June 1 scan into building 109 prior to 7:55 am
Block 2 Exam | 8:00 AM – 9:20 AM
Block 3 Exam | 9:27 AM – 10:47 AM
Block 4 Exam | 10:54 AM – 12:14 PM

Senior Schedule (After Exams):
Lunch: 12:15 PM – 12:35 PM
Clean out lockers
Graduation Practice 12:45 PM - 1:20 PM
Class of 2026 Last Recess 1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
The finish line is here!!!!! Make these last few days count!

Shoutout to our Merit Leaders of the Week for their commitment, focus, and positive impact each day. We appreciate all of your efforts as we close out this school year, keep up the great work!

Congratulations to the Softball team on their 1-0 victory over PACHS in the Philadelphia Public League Championship.

Sophomore Shya Cruz dominated on the mound, going the distance in a complete game shutout, earning her the MVP trophy. Junior Ann Bernard collected the clutch hit that scored Senior Abby Pelczar for the game’s only run.

This is the first time since 2017 that the PPL Trophy has returned to Towne🥎🏆

We are proud to announce that Franklin Towne Charter High School has once again been voted Philadelphia’s Favorite High School, marking our second consecutive year receiving this citywide recognition. This honor reflects not only what we have achieved, but the standard we hold ourselves to every day.

Recognition like this is never assumed. It is earned through consistent effort, accountability, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Our students, staff, and community demonstrate that commitment every day, and it is what continues to define who we are.

We are grateful to our families, partners, and supporters who stand with us and contribute to this shared success. This recognition belongs to all of us, and it reinforces our responsibility to keep raising the standard for what a public high school in Philadelphia can be.

Merit Leaders of the Week. Recognizing these students for their effort, focus, and positive contributions at Towne. Thank you for your hard work and continuing to show up each day ready to learn.

Administrative Recognition - Student Support Award
Title: Student Champion
Winners:
Ms. Franks- Jen Franks is present in every part of the day that matters most to students. From arrival to dismissal, she shows up with a willingness to help, adjust, and support wherever needed. Her work reflects a quiet understanding that consistency and care shape a student’s experience just as much as anything else.
Ms. Robinson - Eileen Robinson has been a constant at Franklin Towne for over two decades. In a space where students often arrive not feeling their best, she provides both care and calm. She understands when to act quickly, when to reassure, and when to simply be there—and that balance is what makes her so trusted by our students.
Mr. Henner (security)- Chris Henner ensures that the school continues to run smoothly beyond the traditional school day. His presence after hours provides structure and safety for students who rely on extended programming. He approaches his role with a mindset of support, stepping in wherever needed to keep things moving without disruption.

Administrative Recognition - Collaboration & Communication Award

Title: Team Builder

Mr. Carrion (facilities)- Joseph Carrion has played an important role through his work behind the scenes with events, activities, and daily operations. He consistently works alongside the operations team and administration to help execute many of the experiences that bring energy and excitement to the school day for students and staff. From event setup and breakdown to assisting with the extra details that help programs run smoothly, Joe approaches each responsibility with teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to help wherever needed. His collaborative approach and support across departments make him an important part of the FTCHS community.

Ms. Thiam – Diaka Thiam, M.S. Thiam serves as a team builder through her work with students, faculty, administration, and student services throughout the school year. Her support of post-secondary planning and junior programming sessions during first block helped provide students with guidance and structure during an important time in high school. Staff members across departments value her communication skills, problem-solving ability, and calm approach when working with students.

Mrs. Ruggieri – Paige Ruggieri exemplifies the role of a Team Builder through her consistent support of students, staff, and specialized programming throughout the school year. She has played an important role in supporting Social and Emotional programming while working closely with students in the SEB program. Paige is a welcoming and dependable presence during student arrival each morning and is known for building positive relationships with students across a variety of settings. Her collaborative approach with teachers, counselors, support staff, and administration makes her an important part of the Towne community.

Administrative Recognition - Excellence in Service Award

Title: Operations Expert

Winners:

Ms. Omelchuk - Hayley Omelchuk brings a level of consistency and follow-through that makes a difference in both big and small moments. Whether she is supporting students in the classroom or helping execute school-wide operations, she approaches each responsibility with focus and a clear commitment to getting it right.

Ms. Groves - Doreen Groves brings reliability, care, and steady attention to every aspect of her work. Whether she is assisting students directly or supporting the day-to-day flow of school operations, she handles each responsibility with professionalism, thoughtfulness, and a genuine commitment to helping things run smoothly.

Ms. Scott - Haley Scott serves as one of the first points of contact for parents, guardians, families, students, and guests entering the building. She handles each interaction with patience and a willingness to help while balancing the fast pace of a busy school environment. From managing attendance responsibilities, supporting senior arrival procedures, coordinating MSB ticket sales, and assisting with cafeteria activities and school events, she helps keep the school day organized and running smoothly. Her ability to support both operational needs and customer service responsibilities makes her a valued part of FTCHS.