Franklin Towne Charter Elementary School’s Matthew J. Kocher has been recognized as a Top 10 Principal in Pennsylvania by Education Insider magazine, a national education publication.
Kocher’s selection caps a banner 2025-26 school year for FTCES that featured rising state test scores and academic achievement, and the award was announced just as the school prepares to welcome the return of students, faculty and staff for the 2026-27 year.
The first day of school at Franklin Towne, at 4259 Richmond St., is Monday, Aug. 31.
“Matthew Kocher is a talented and experienced educator whose leadership drives the success of our school,” said FTCES CEO James M. Rodgers. “Matt is totally committed to our students and to the work of supporting teachers and families who make FTCES such a close-knit and welcoming school community.”
Kocher has been principal at FTCES since 2022, having previously served as Dean of Students/Assistant Principal from 2014-19. His teaching career includes service as a Special Ed teacher at FTCES and William Tennent High School in Warminster.
Under his leadership, FTCES last year ranked as a Top 10 Charter K-8 school in Pennsylvania, posting PSSA scores that compare favorably against all other surrounding schools in Philadelphia, according to Niche.com, which also cited FTCES for its supportive and dedicated teaching staff that is “deeply invested in pushing students to exceed their potential, creating an encouraging learning environment.”
Franklin Towne Elementary’s PSSA test results, measured in April, show that FTCES students scored higher than their surrounding schools in six of eight academic categories across basic subjects and a mix of grade levels.
“I am honored and humbled to be selected as a Top 10 Principal in Pennsylvania,” Kocher said. “I think it is really a team award in recognition of the hard work – from students, teachers and our families – that makes our school community such a special place. I am privileged to be a part of FTCES, and we’re looking forward to an even better year in 2026-2027.” ••
