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
🎉 Congratulations to Ms. Michelle Brooks! 🎉
Franklin High School is proud to share that Ms. Brooks has been named the 2025 NCACTE Carl Perkins Community Service Award recipient!
This statewide honor, presented by the North Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education, recognizes individuals who make outstanding contributions to their communities through dedicated service, leadership, and advocacy.
Ms. Brooks’ impact goes far beyond the classroom. Whether supporting students, organizing service projects, or giving back to the community she calls home, she exemplifies the very best of Franklin High.
👏 Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition!
Franklin High School is proud to share that Ms. Brooks has been named the 2025 NCACTE Carl Perkins Community Service Award recipient!
This statewide honor, presented by the North Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education, recognizes individuals who make outstanding contributions to their communities through dedicated service, leadership, and advocacy.
Ms. Brooks’ impact goes far beyond the classroom. Whether supporting students, organizing service projects, or giving back to the community she calls home, she exemplifies the very best of Franklin High.
👏 Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition!
Freshmen Orientation Drop-in
Q & A Sessions are recommended but completely optional. A flyer summarizing the information will be handed out during the drop-in. (9am, 12pm, 3pm)
Q & A Sessions are recommended but completely optional. A flyer summarizing the information will be handed out during the drop-in. (9am, 12pm, 3pm)
Please see the information in the flyer attached regarding Senior Photos.
Big congratulations to Mr. Larry Pickens — named a finalist for the 2026 NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award!
This honor highlights the incredible work he does every day for our students and community. He’ll be recognized at the Summer CTE Conference in July and take part in the final phase of the award process this December.
Well deserved, Mr. Pickens!
Congratulations to Lily Holt, Caramia Ramos and Jessica Hernandez on being selected to the 2025 Mountain 7 Women's Soccer All-Conference Team!
Thank you Class of 2025! You will be missed!
Seniors and Senior Parents!
Tom Pantaleo will be at graduation taking a cap and gown picture as they come off the stage tomorrow. More information will be in their envelope they pick up directly after graduation.
🏆 Franklin High Shines at the 63rd Annual WNC Sports Awards! 🏆
On Sunday, May 25th, FHS was proudly represented at the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville for the 63rd Annual Mountain Amateur Athletic Club (M.A.A.C.) WNC Sports Awards. It was an incredible evening celebrating athletic and academic excellence across Western North Carolina — and Franklin High showed up big time!
👏 M.A.A.C. Scholarship Winners
🎓 Aubrey Haley
🎓 Laura Covarrubias
🎓 Brianna Quiroz
🎓 Matheson Post
🎓 David Rogers
🌟 Finalists & Winners by Category:
🏅 Ann Brandis Division I Female Athlete (Major Sport)
🔹 Kendall Rumans – Finalist
🏅 First Citizens Bank Division I Female Athlete (Olympic Sport)
🔹 Laura Covarrubias – Finalist
🏅 Twisted Laurel Division I Female Team (Olympic Sport)
🥇 Franklin Women’s Outdoor Track & Field – WINNER!
🏅 Massasoit Division I Male Athlete (Olympic Sport)
🔹 Jonah Brant – Finalist
🏅 Rodeway Inn & Suites Division I Male Team (Olympic Sport)
🔹 Franklin Men’s Outdoor Track & Field – Finalist
🏅 Blue Ridge Imaging Division I Female Academic Award
🔹 Aubrey Haley – Finalist
🥇 Laura Covarrubias – WINNER!
🏅 Henry Logan Division I Male Athlete of the Year
🔹 Braylen Dezarn – Finalist
Congratulations to all of our outstanding athletes and teams for their dedication, sportsmanship, and achievements. Franklin High is proud of each of you!
Congratulations to Franklin High Athletic Director Matt Bradley, who has been named the Region 8 recipient of the NCHSAA Homer Thompson “Eight Who Make a Difference” Award!
Coach Bradley will be honored at the NCHSAA Awards Ceremony on June 18th, where he will formally receive this well-deserved recognition.
Well done, Coach!
https://www.nchsaa.org/2024-2025-homer-thompson-eight-who-make-a-difference-awards/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwKfauFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHmhh-LY-IDFuTtXrlqmXEr3Q78ixGKHEYXKS9rlNzAl5TpqmjDpWTTagub3X_aem_yycXsO3lR-d7mvQ0f6mWOA
Join us for a special presentation!
We’re proud to announce the latest addition to a very prestigious group of Franklin Legends: the retirement of Jared Greenwood’s jersey, #9.
This incredible honor will be formally recognized during a special halftime ceremony on October 3, 2025, at the Tuscola vs. Franklin football game, held at Western Carolina University.
Don’t miss this unforgettable moment in Panther history!
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AqSersfJt/?mibextid=wwXIfr
