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 45
years ago, Holy Martyrs Armenian High School opened its doors in
Encino, California with a student body of just 12 young
Armenians in the hopes of offering families both a secure
learning environment and a place where the Armenian culture can
remain alive within their children.
Today, Holy Martyrs has grown both in size and
spirits beyond anyone’s expectations.
September 3, 2009 marked the first official day of
the 2009-2010 academic school years at Ferrahian. At both
campuses, students returned from their summer breaks fresh and
ready to start a new school year. Sixth graders marveled at the
dramatic change from their familiar North Hills campus to their
new home in Encino, while seniors took in their last
first-day-of-school.
The first day began at both campuses with opening
ceremonies attended by students, faculty, administrators, and
guests. At the Encino campus, Reverend Razmig Khatchadourian
opened the day with his remarks and a prayer in Holy Martyrs
Church. Following the Reverend’s gracious remarks, Principal
John Kossakian gave his message to the students.
He said that despite tough economic times, the
school opened this year with 680 students enrolled, 35 students
less than last year, but still a significant accomplishment.
In attendance at Encino were representatives of the
Board of Regents and the Ferrahian Board.
The Encino campus also welcomed three new teachers
this year, Mr. Arsen Abelian, Ms. Anita Ahamanoukian, and Mr.
Razmig Simonian. Mr. Abelian will be teaching high school
mathematics. Ms. Ahamanoukian has also joined the Ferrahian
family, being her first year teaching at the school. And Mr.
Simonian, a Ferrahian alumnus, will teach history/government,
and well as coach the girls’ volleyball team.
Vice Principal Vartkes Nalbandian finally had
students on their way to their classrooms following the
ceremony.
At the North Hills campus, Mrs. Adrinee Aroyan gave
a very enthusiastic welcome to all the students. Mr. Kossakian
also introduced two more new additions to the Ferrahian family,
teacher Shooshan Momjian and the new Assistant Principal at the
North Hills Campus Mr. Tro Tchekidjian.
Mr. Tchekidjian welcomed everyone including all those who were
new, like him, followed up by a prayer led by Reverend
Khatchadourian.
The students were finally escorted to their classrooms by their
teachers to begin a brand new year.
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