Welcome Ms. Tara Riddle to FHS!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Tara Riddle to Franklin High School and our EC Department! Ms. Riddle will be working alongside Ms. Sherrie Houston, stepping into the role previously held by Mr. Rodney Vanhook (We miss you Rodney!). We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the care and experience she brings to our students and staff. Some out there in Panther Nation may recognize Ms. Riddle as the mother of former Panther Basketball player Joe Riddle.
With a diverse background in education and a deep appreciation for the Franklin community, Ms. Riddle is a fantastic addition to FHS.
A Message from Ms. Riddle:
"Hi. My name is Tara Riddle. I am so excited for my new adventure as an EC Assistant at FHS! My husband and I have recently returned to these beautiful mountains after living out west for many years. I earned a degree in Therapeutic Recreation from WCU in 1989 and my elementary teaching degree at University of Montana Western in 1994. I have worked in schools for almost 20 years as a classroom teacher, teacher’s aide, one-on-one paraprofessional, and substitute teacher. My son graduated from FHS in 2022, and now I am proud to say I am also a Franklin Panther."
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Tara Riddle to Franklin High School and our EC Department! Ms. Riddle will be working alongside Ms. Sherrie Houston, stepping into the role previously held by Mr. Rodney Vanhook (We miss you Rodney!). We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the care and experience she brings to our students and staff. Some out there in Panther Nation may recognize Ms. Riddle as the mother of former Panther Basketball player Joe Riddle.
With a diverse background in education and a deep appreciation for the Franklin community, Ms. Riddle is a fantastic addition to FHS.
A Message from Ms. Riddle:
"Hi. My name is Tara Riddle. I am so excited for my new adventure as an EC Assistant at FHS! My husband and I have recently returned to these beautiful mountains after living out west for many years. I earned a degree in Therapeutic Recreation from WCU in 1989 and my elementary teaching degree at University of Montana Western in 1994. I have worked in schools for almost 20 years as a classroom teacher, teacher’s aide, one-on-one paraprofessional, and substitute teacher. My son graduated from FHS in 2022, and now I am proud to say I am also a Franklin Panther."
Please Help Us Welcome Back Mr. Nathaniel Smith
Mr. Smith joined FHS mid-year last year, stepping into the role previously held by longtime history teacher Mr. John DeVille, who retired after a distinguished career. From day one, Mr. Smith hit the ground running—bringing energy, creativity, and a passion for making history both engaging and fun. His students responded, and he quickly became a valued and respected member of the FHS staff.
A Message from Mr. Smith
“I have called Franklin, North Carolina, home for the past 21 years, having spent my early childhood in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I was homeschooled from kindergarten through 12th grade, earned my Associate of Arts from Southwestern Community College, and later graduated from Western Carolina University (Go Cats!) with majors in Secondary Social Studies Education and History.
While this is my first year as a full-time teacher at FHS, I have spent nearly four years as a substitute teacher in Macon County Schools. During that time, I also served as Director of Youth Ministries at a local church, where I gained valuable experience teaching, mentoring, and helping students grow into their best selves.
In October 2023, I married my amazing wife, Sarah-Jane (formerly Ms. Bowman at MVI). Together, we enjoy outdoor adventures—whether it’s hiking in our beautiful mountains, paddleboarding, or camping along our area’s scenic lakes.
I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to continue my journey here at FHS. Let’s go, Panthers!”
Mr. Smith joined FHS mid-year last year, stepping into the role previously held by longtime history teacher Mr. John DeVille, who retired after a distinguished career. From day one, Mr. Smith hit the ground running—bringing energy, creativity, and a passion for making history both engaging and fun. His students responded, and he quickly became a valued and respected member of the FHS staff.
A Message from Mr. Smith
“I have called Franklin, North Carolina, home for the past 21 years, having spent my early childhood in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I was homeschooled from kindergarten through 12th grade, earned my Associate of Arts from Southwestern Community College, and later graduated from Western Carolina University (Go Cats!) with majors in Secondary Social Studies Education and History.
While this is my first year as a full-time teacher at FHS, I have spent nearly four years as a substitute teacher in Macon County Schools. During that time, I also served as Director of Youth Ministries at a local church, where I gained valuable experience teaching, mentoring, and helping students grow into their best selves.
In October 2023, I married my amazing wife, Sarah-Jane (formerly Ms. Bowman at MVI). Together, we enjoy outdoor adventures—whether it’s hiking in our beautiful mountains, paddleboarding, or camping along our area’s scenic lakes.
I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to continue my journey here at FHS. Let’s go, Panthers!”
Help Us Welcome Ms. Jaycee Rogers to Franklin High!
Ms. Jaycee Rogers joins us from Highlands School with an impressive background in English and Communication, along with several years of teaching experience. We’re excited and grateful to welcome her to the FHS family!
From Ms. Rogers:
“Hi! My name is Jaycee Rogers, and I am very excited to join the Franklin High School English Department! I’m a graduate of Robbinsville High School and UNC Chapel Hill, where I earned a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies. I recently completed my Master of Arts in Teaching at Western Carolina University.
This will be my fifth year teaching English. I began my career at Robbinsville Middle School and spent the past two years serving high school students at Highlands School. I’ve lived in Franklin for two years now and started my family here! We have one beautiful daughter and two very spoiled dogs who all love being outdoors. We enjoy spending time on the lake, trails, and rivers together. I can’t wait to start this next chapter at Franklin High School!”
Ms. Jaycee Rogers joins us from Highlands School with an impressive background in English and Communication, along with several years of teaching experience. We’re excited and grateful to welcome her to the FHS family!
From Ms. Rogers:
“Hi! My name is Jaycee Rogers, and I am very excited to join the Franklin High School English Department! I’m a graduate of Robbinsville High School and UNC Chapel Hill, where I earned a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies. I recently completed my Master of Arts in Teaching at Western Carolina University.
This will be my fifth year teaching English. I began my career at Robbinsville Middle School and spent the past two years serving high school students at Highlands School. I’ve lived in Franklin for two years now and started my family here! We have one beautiful daughter and two very spoiled dogs who all love being outdoors. We enjoy spending time on the lake, trails, and rivers together. I can’t wait to start this next chapter at Franklin High School!”
🍎 Nutrition Alert – Important Lunch Information for 2025–2026
Lunches for FHS students will not be free this school year unless the student qualifies for Free or Reduced Meals.
✅ Students who qualify for Reduced Meals will receive lunch at no cost.
📄 Even if you believe you may not qualify, we strongly encourage all families to complete the Free/Reduced Meal Application.
Completing the application can help your family and our school in more ways than you might realize.
Welcome Mr. Bryan Wilkinson – Head Men's Soccer Coach
FHS is thrilled to introduce our new Head Men's Soccer Coach, Bryan Wilkinson, who joins our Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department as a valued member of our teaching staff.
Mr. Wilkinson brings an impressive blend of expertise and experience that will greatly benefit our CTE program. His deep commitment to students and passion for their success is widely recognized, making him a wonderful addition to the FHS family.
From Mr. Wilkinson:
"I am a passionate educator and coach with 29 years of experience in both middle and high school settings. Throughout my career, I’ve taught a wide range of subjects with a strong emphasis on science and STEM education, striving to create engaging, student-centered learning environments. As a coach, I’ve led soccer programs at various levels, focusing not only on skill development and competitive excellence but also on character, leadership, and teamwork. My goal in education is to support students' growth—academically, athletically, and personally—preparing them for success both in and out of the classroom."
We are excited to have Mr. Wilkinson on board and look forward to the positive impact he will make at FHS!
FHS is thrilled to introduce our new Head Men's Soccer Coach, Bryan Wilkinson, who joins our Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department as a valued member of our teaching staff.
Mr. Wilkinson brings an impressive blend of expertise and experience that will greatly benefit our CTE program. His deep commitment to students and passion for their success is widely recognized, making him a wonderful addition to the FHS family.
From Mr. Wilkinson:
"I am a passionate educator and coach with 29 years of experience in both middle and high school settings. Throughout my career, I’ve taught a wide range of subjects with a strong emphasis on science and STEM education, striving to create engaging, student-centered learning environments. As a coach, I’ve led soccer programs at various levels, focusing not only on skill development and competitive excellence but also on character, leadership, and teamwork. My goal in education is to support students' growth—academically, athletically, and personally—preparing them for success both in and out of the classroom."
We are excited to have Mr. Wilkinson on board and look forward to the positive impact he will make at FHS!
Welcome Ms. Kim Stanley to Franklin High!
Please help us give a warm Panther welcome to Ms. Kim Stanley, who is joining our EC Department this year! Ms. Stanley will be working alongside Ms. Sherrie Houston, stepping into the role previously held by Ms. Patti, who we hope is enjoying a well-deserved retirement.
We’re excited for the love, care, and experience Ms. Stanley brings to the classroom. Her nurturing presence and strong background in education will be a wonderful addition to our FHS family.
A Message from Ms. Stanley:
Hello! I’m Kimberley Stanley. I’ve been married to my husband Scottie for 28 years, and we have four children—Noah, Sarah, Jonah, and Hannah—and two beautiful grandchildren, Scarlett and Rustyn. They are truly the loves of my life.
I’m transferring from South Macon Elementary, where I spent 10 years in first grade and have served in the school system for 14 years. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, reading, camping, spending time with family, and going to church.
I’m thrilled to be joining Franklin High School’s EC Department as an assistant in Ms. Sherrie Houston’s class and look forward to an amazing school year ahead!
Please help us give a warm Panther welcome to Ms. Kim Stanley, who is joining our EC Department this year! Ms. Stanley will be working alongside Ms. Sherrie Houston, stepping into the role previously held by Ms. Patti, who we hope is enjoying a well-deserved retirement.
We’re excited for the love, care, and experience Ms. Stanley brings to the classroom. Her nurturing presence and strong background in education will be a wonderful addition to our FHS family.
A Message from Ms. Stanley:
Hello! I’m Kimberley Stanley. I’ve been married to my husband Scottie for 28 years, and we have four children—Noah, Sarah, Jonah, and Hannah—and two beautiful grandchildren, Scarlett and Rustyn. They are truly the loves of my life.
I’m transferring from South Macon Elementary, where I spent 10 years in first grade and have served in the school system for 14 years. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, reading, camping, spending time with family, and going to church.
I’m thrilled to be joining Franklin High School’s EC Department as an assistant in Ms. Sherrie Houston’s class and look forward to an amazing school year ahead!
Please help us welcome Mrs. Jessica Cantrell home to FHS!
A proud FHS alumna, Mrs. Cantrell returns to her alma mater with two decades of experience in education. She has served as both an elementary classroom teacher and a media/technology specialist, and now brings her expertise to our Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Cantrell leading our Early Childhood Education program, where she will help prepare high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in education and child development.
A message from Mrs. Cantrell:
“With twenty years of experience as an educator, I have had the privilege of serving as both an elementary classroom teacher and a media/technology specialist. I am excited to join the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department as a teacher of Early Childhood Education and Child Development. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with students while preparing the next generation of educators and child development professionals.”
Welcome back, Mrs. Cantrell!
A Familiar Face, A New Role, and a Proud FHS Alumna
Please help us welcome back Ms. Cindy Harrell! While many of you know her from teaching Career Management last year, this year she’ll be transitioning into our Project Management course. Ms. Harrell is one of the most passionate Panthers you'll ever meet—she truly bleeds red and white.
In addition to her new teaching role, Ms. Harrell will also be leading our Student Leadership Club. These two groups—Student Leadership and Project Management—work together on several key events throughout the year, including one of our most beloved traditions: FHS March Madness UNIFY. Her energy, commitment, and heart for our students make her a perfect fit to guide both programs.
And for those asking about Mr. Clinton Taylor—stay tuned! We’ll be introducing his new role very soon.
A Message from Ms. Harrell:
"My name is Cindy Harrell, and most people know me as Coach Cindy or Coach 'C.' I'm an FHS alumna who grew up dreaming of being a Panther, and I truly believe in the saying, 'Once a Panther, ALWAYS a Panther!' I'm entering my second year teaching at FHS and my 11th year in education overall. I’ve served as Head JV Girls Volleyball Coach for eight years and am also part of the Basketball, Baseball, and Men’s Volleyball coaching staffs.
This year, I’m excited to teach Project Management and Adobe Software, and I’m especially honored to lead our Student Leadership organization. These two groups collaborate throughout the year and are the driving force behind events like the incredible FHS March Madness UNIFY Game, among many other projects that support our faculty, schools, and community. Please come out and support FHS whenever you can—and be sure to introduce yourself. I love building our Panther Family!"
Please help us welcome back Ms. Cindy Harrell! While many of you know her from teaching Career Management last year, this year she’ll be transitioning into our Project Management course. Ms. Harrell is one of the most passionate Panthers you'll ever meet—she truly bleeds red and white.
In addition to her new teaching role, Ms. Harrell will also be leading our Student Leadership Club. These two groups—Student Leadership and Project Management—work together on several key events throughout the year, including one of our most beloved traditions: FHS March Madness UNIFY. Her energy, commitment, and heart for our students make her a perfect fit to guide both programs.
And for those asking about Mr. Clinton Taylor—stay tuned! We’ll be introducing his new role very soon.
A Message from Ms. Harrell:
"My name is Cindy Harrell, and most people know me as Coach Cindy or Coach 'C.' I'm an FHS alumna who grew up dreaming of being a Panther, and I truly believe in the saying, 'Once a Panther, ALWAYS a Panther!' I'm entering my second year teaching at FHS and my 11th year in education overall. I’ve served as Head JV Girls Volleyball Coach for eight years and am also part of the Basketball, Baseball, and Men’s Volleyball coaching staffs.
This year, I’m excited to teach Project Management and Adobe Software, and I’m especially honored to lead our Student Leadership organization. These two groups collaborate throughout the year and are the driving force behind events like the incredible FHS March Madness UNIFY Game, among many other projects that support our faculty, schools, and community. Please come out and support FHS whenever you can—and be sure to introduce yourself. I love building our Panther Family!"
Have you seen the new logos randomly used in different posts recently?
Over the past few months, we’ve worked with Varsity and BSN to create an official “branding locker” for Franklin High School. It includes our official color codes and official logos—each one unique to FHS. (Have you spotted the Easter egg hidden in the new Panther head?)
🛍️ Check out the links below for new Panther gear featuring the updated branding! Each sport has its own custom designs—so we recommend browsing them all.
💰 Bonus: When you order from a team’s specific link, a portion of the sale goes directly to support that sport!
Shop Now:
• Cross Country – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/LSd3JoZF3X
• Girls Tennis – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/E55w5ZVRt5
• Football – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/ywgAHFVUJ2
• Boys Soccer – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/muUpruPr2o
• Volleyball – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/CKQMAVQTUc
Go Panthers! 🐾
Over the past few months, we’ve worked with Varsity and BSN to create an official “branding locker” for Franklin High School. It includes our official color codes and official logos—each one unique to FHS. (Have you spotted the Easter egg hidden in the new Panther head?)
🛍️ Check out the links below for new Panther gear featuring the updated branding! Each sport has its own custom designs—so we recommend browsing them all.
💰 Bonus: When you order from a team’s specific link, a portion of the sale goes directly to support that sport!
Shop Now:
• Cross Country – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/LSd3JoZF3X
• Girls Tennis – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/E55w5ZVRt5
• Football – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/ywgAHFVUJ2
• Boys Soccer – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/muUpruPr2o
• Volleyball – https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/CKQMAVQTUc
Go Panthers! 🐾
See see the photos for a letter from Principal King regarding required Safety Videos for Students.
Please Help Us Welcome Mr. Dennis James to the FHS Math Department!
We’re excited to welcome Mr. Dennis James to Franklin High School and our Math Department! Mr. James brings with him an impressive 28 years of experience in education, along with a rich background in both military and nonprofit service. He comes to us from Madison City Schools near Huntsville, Alabama, and we are thrilled to have him join the FHS team.
His passion for education, coupled with real-world experience and a heart for service, make him a great addition to our Panther Family.
A Message from Mr. James:
"Hi, I’m Dennis James, and I’m excited to join the outstanding team at Franklin High School this year! While this is my first year teaching math at FHS, I bring 28 years of experience from Madison City Schools near Huntsville, AL. I earned my Ed.S. from the University of Alabama and previously served six years in the U.S. Air Force, as well as two years with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.
My wife, Mary Pat, and I moved to Franklin four years ago and opened a small hostel for hikers along the Appalachian Trail. In our free time, we love hiking and trekking—and last year, we completed the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage across Spain!
I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the families of this wonderful community."
We’re excited to welcome Mr. Dennis James to Franklin High School and our Math Department! Mr. James brings with him an impressive 28 years of experience in education, along with a rich background in both military and nonprofit service. He comes to us from Madison City Schools near Huntsville, Alabama, and we are thrilled to have him join the FHS team.
His passion for education, coupled with real-world experience and a heart for service, make him a great addition to our Panther Family.
A Message from Mr. James:
"Hi, I’m Dennis James, and I’m excited to join the outstanding team at Franklin High School this year! While this is my first year teaching math at FHS, I bring 28 years of experience from Madison City Schools near Huntsville, AL. I earned my Ed.S. from the University of Alabama and previously served six years in the U.S. Air Force, as well as two years with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.
My wife, Mary Pat, and I moved to Franklin four years ago and opened a small hostel for hikers along the Appalachian Trail. In our free time, we love hiking and trekking—and last year, we completed the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage across Spain!
I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the families of this wonderful community."
Help Us Welcome Ms. Kennedy Moritz Back to Franklin High!
We’re proud to welcome another FHS alumna back home! Ms. Kennedy Moritz is joining our math department, bringing with her a strong foundation in education and valuable real-world experience to help students connect with math in meaningful ways.
A Message from Ms. Moritz:
"My name is Kennedy Moritz, and I am excited to teach math at Franklin High School (FHS). I graduated from Kennesaw State University and taught for two years in the metro Atlanta public school system. As someone who grew up in Macon County and graduated from FHS, I’m thrilled to be back and look forward to teaching the future of our community. Outside the classroom, I enjoy cats, hiking, lighthearted Korean dramas, and music. Here’s to a great school year!"
We’re proud to welcome another FHS alumna back home! Ms. Kennedy Moritz is joining our math department, bringing with her a strong foundation in education and valuable real-world experience to help students connect with math in meaningful ways.
A Message from Ms. Moritz:
"My name is Kennedy Moritz, and I am excited to teach math at Franklin High School (FHS). I graduated from Kennesaw State University and taught for two years in the metro Atlanta public school system. As someone who grew up in Macon County and graduated from FHS, I’m thrilled to be back and look forward to teaching the future of our community. Outside the classroom, I enjoy cats, hiking, lighthearted Korean dramas, and music. Here’s to a great school year!"
Help Us Welcome Mrs. Denise Shields to FHS!
Please join us in welcoming someone many of you already know, but who is new to the Franklin High staff—Mrs. Denise Shields! Mrs. Shields is joining our Math Department, and we are thrilled to have her as part of the FHS team.
Rumor has it… she makes a mean cup of lemonade. 🍋
Please join us in welcoming someone many of you already know, but who is new to the Franklin High staff—Mrs. Denise Shields! Mrs. Shields is joining our Math Department, and we are thrilled to have her as part of the FHS team.
Rumor has it… she makes a mean cup of lemonade. 🍋
Help Us Officially Welcome Ms. Pevia Back to FHS!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Lorraine Pevia—another proud FHS alum—back to Franklin High School as part of our Counseling Department! Ms. Pevia joined us last spring in an interim role and will now serve full-time, focusing primarily on our Freshmen and Juniors.
A Message from Ms. Pevia:
"Hi!
My name is Lorraine Pevia, and I’m excited to officially join the team as a school counselor at Franklin High School. I graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in Psychology and Coaching, and I’m currently working on a dual Master’s in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling.
Our family of six keeps busy on our small farm where we grow fresh food and enjoy the outdoors together. I also volunteer with community sports and children’s church—both passions that keep me grounded in supporting and mentoring youth.
I’m especially committed to making sure students feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether it’s providing a safe space, listening ear, or strategies to succeed, I’m here to walk with them every step of the way.
Looking forward to a great year together!"
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Lorraine Pevia—another proud FHS alum—back to Franklin High School as part of our Counseling Department! Ms. Pevia joined us last spring in an interim role and will now serve full-time, focusing primarily on our Freshmen and Juniors.
A Message from Ms. Pevia:
"Hi!
My name is Lorraine Pevia, and I’m excited to officially join the team as a school counselor at Franklin High School. I graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in Psychology and Coaching, and I’m currently working on a dual Master’s in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling.
Our family of six keeps busy on our small farm where we grow fresh food and enjoy the outdoors together. I also volunteer with community sports and children’s church—both passions that keep me grounded in supporting and mentoring youth.
I’m especially committed to making sure students feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether it’s providing a safe space, listening ear, or strategies to succeed, I’m here to walk with them every step of the way.
Looking forward to a great year together!"
Student Parking Update
The student parking lot is on schedule to be completed in time for the start of the school year. Parking permits will go on sale soon.
Key Information:
Parking Permits will cost $50 for the 2025–2026 school year.
Students must complete a parking application to be eligible.
All spots will be numbered and assigned.
Permits will be made available in this order: Seniors, then Juniors, then Sophomores.
Freshmen are not permitted to park on campus, regardless of age.
Students must have a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
Painting parking spots is no longer permitted due to the new lot surface.
Students must park in their assigned, numbered spot only.
Stay tuned for more information about the application and sale process.
The student parking lot is on schedule to be completed in time for the start of the school year. Parking permits will go on sale soon.
Key Information:
Parking Permits will cost $50 for the 2025–2026 school year.
Students must complete a parking application to be eligible.
All spots will be numbered and assigned.
Permits will be made available in this order: Seniors, then Juniors, then Sophomores.
Freshmen are not permitted to park on campus, regardless of age.
Students must have a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
Painting parking spots is no longer permitted due to the new lot surface.
Students must park in their assigned, numbered spot only.
Stay tuned for more information about the application and sale process.
Help Us Welcome Mr. John Bowles to FHS!
We’re excited to officially welcome Mr. John Bowles to Franklin High School as our new Foods & Nutrition teacher! Mr. Bowles previously served as an interim teacher during the spring semester, and we’re thrilled to have him join us full-time this year. A proud FHS graduate, Mr. Bowles brings with him a wealth of real-world experience and a strong background in culinary arts.
Mr. Bowles earned his degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University and has spent the last 20 years working as a Chef in the food and beverage industry. His passion for culinary education and hands-on expertise will be a tremendous asset to our students.
From Mr. Bowles:
"Hi, my name is John Bowles and I will be joining Franklin High School to teach Foods & Nutrition. This will be my first year teaching. I graduated from FHS and attended Johnson & Wales University, earning a degree in culinary arts. I have spent the last 20 years working in the food and beverage industry as a Chef. I am excited for the opportunity to pass along a world of culinary knowledge to our students.
I enjoy spending time with my family in new and exciting adventures, as well as operating a farmstead goat dairy, raising Alpine goats and making artisan cheese."
Welcome back to FHS, Mr. Bowles — we’re lucky to have you on the team!
We’re excited to officially welcome Mr. John Bowles to Franklin High School as our new Foods & Nutrition teacher! Mr. Bowles previously served as an interim teacher during the spring semester, and we’re thrilled to have him join us full-time this year. A proud FHS graduate, Mr. Bowles brings with him a wealth of real-world experience and a strong background in culinary arts.
Mr. Bowles earned his degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University and has spent the last 20 years working as a Chef in the food and beverage industry. His passion for culinary education and hands-on expertise will be a tremendous asset to our students.
From Mr. Bowles:
"Hi, my name is John Bowles and I will be joining Franklin High School to teach Foods & Nutrition. This will be my first year teaching. I graduated from FHS and attended Johnson & Wales University, earning a degree in culinary arts. I have spent the last 20 years working in the food and beverage industry as a Chef. I am excited for the opportunity to pass along a world of culinary knowledge to our students.
I enjoy spending time with my family in new and exciting adventures, as well as operating a farmstead goat dairy, raising Alpine goats and making artisan cheese."
Welcome back to FHS, Mr. Bowles — we’re lucky to have you on the team!
Meet Mr. Kolodzik — A Familiar Face, New Role
Mr. Kolodzik, known to many as Coach K, joined the FHS Science Department last spring as we said farewell to long-time veteran Ms. Rita Hubbs (Enjoy Retirement Ms. Hubbs and we miss you). After a few years serving as one of our dedicated Exceptional Children teachers, Mr. Kolodzik expressed a passion for teaching science—and little-known fact: he’s also licensed to teach Aviation!
This year, he’ll continue teaching in the Science Department while joining our on-campus pilot, Mr. Hanna, to help grow an exciting and unique career pathway for our students—Aviation Science.
From Mr. Kolodzik:
"My name is Matt Kolodzik. It’s hard to believe I’m starting my 10th year teaching with Macon County Schools! I was honored to join the Franklin High School family in 2023. I’m a proud Montreat College alumnus, where I majored in Environmental Science and minored in Outdoor Education and Business Administration.
With seven years of experience teaching science, I’m thrilled to expand into Aviation Science through our incredible CTE program this fall. What an awesome opportunity for FHS students to learn how to fly!
I love my wife, family, friends, church, and this amazing community. I enjoy serving in ministry, traveling, sports, and just about any outdoor activity. I also sponsor the Franklin High School Outdoor Club.
Thank you for the opportunity to help our students grow and work to achieve their goals and dreams. I’m proud to be a Panther!"
Mr. Kolodzik, known to many as Coach K, joined the FHS Science Department last spring as we said farewell to long-time veteran Ms. Rita Hubbs (Enjoy Retirement Ms. Hubbs and we miss you). After a few years serving as one of our dedicated Exceptional Children teachers, Mr. Kolodzik expressed a passion for teaching science—and little-known fact: he’s also licensed to teach Aviation!
This year, he’ll continue teaching in the Science Department while joining our on-campus pilot, Mr. Hanna, to help grow an exciting and unique career pathway for our students—Aviation Science.
From Mr. Kolodzik:
"My name is Matt Kolodzik. It’s hard to believe I’m starting my 10th year teaching with Macon County Schools! I was honored to join the Franklin High School family in 2023. I’m a proud Montreat College alumnus, where I majored in Environmental Science and minored in Outdoor Education and Business Administration.
With seven years of experience teaching science, I’m thrilled to expand into Aviation Science through our incredible CTE program this fall. What an awesome opportunity for FHS students to learn how to fly!
I love my wife, family, friends, church, and this amazing community. I enjoy serving in ministry, traveling, sports, and just about any outdoor activity. I also sponsor the Franklin High School Outdoor Club.
Thank you for the opportunity to help our students grow and work to achieve their goals and dreams. I’m proud to be a Panther!"
Help Us Officially Welcome Ms. Olivia Stahl to FHS!
We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Olivia Stahl back home to Franklin High School! Not only is Ms. Stahl a proud FHS alumna, but she also completed her student teaching right here last year alongside Ms. Davis and Ms. Gibson. Now, she officially joins our Social Studies Department as a first-year teacher.
A message from Ms. Stahl:
"Hi! My name is Olivia Stahl, and I am so excited to be joining the history department at Franklin High School! A little bit about me—I love spending time with my family and friends, though I’m definitely a homebody. My favorite place to be is at home with my dog, Oreo. I graduated from FHS in 2021 and just earned my degree from Western Carolina University this past May. This will be my first year teaching, and I feel incredibly lucky to begin my career at my alma mater!"
Marching Band Camp is here!
All new Franklin High School marchers and percussion report Thursday July 24th at 9:00am!
All returning members report Monday July 28th at 8:30am at Cullasaja park off Highlands Rd.
Excited to see everyone!
Mr. B
📢 We're Hiring! 📢
Franklin High School is hiring two Secondary Math Teachers for the upcoming school year. 🧮
📄 Apply here: https://5il.co/1ial0
📞 For more information, contact Principal Blair King at 828-524-6467
Franklin High School is hiring two Secondary Math Teachers for the upcoming school year. 🧮
📄 Apply here: https://5il.co/1ial0
📞 For more information, contact Principal Blair King at 828-524-6467