Home - Friends of High School Park

Welcome

Friends of High School Park

A non-profit volunteer organization whose mission is to create, manage, and preserve a viable 11+ acre native ecosystem within Cheltenham Township’s High School Park for the enjoyment and education of the community.

Plan a Visit

Wander through the winding upper meadow paths, and discover the demonstration gardens, a working rain garden, and a raised walkway and bird observation deck. Then, meander through the middle woodland area and down onto the stream banks of the Tookany Creek.

Our Gardens

Native Plants & Pollinators

Our Gardens

Native Plants & Pollinators

More Info

We concentrate on plants that have evolved here, they are well-adapted to our climate and are generally easy to care for once they are established. Many native perennials like less fertile soil and require the addition of little or no fertilizer.

Info & Events

Current & Upcoming

2023 Annual Appeal

The Year's End Annual Appeal 2023 Whether we are on individual rambles, with families & pets in tow, or when we are together as a community for a summer concert, bird watching, stargazing, or enjoying our annual Arts in the Park festival, we all enjoy the precious...

Bird Walks with Judith Gratz

Join Judith as she takes you through High School Park, for an early morning walk listening for and identifying birds who live here year round and those who are just passing through! All walks are on the third Saturday of each month through June 2024. Sponsored by...

FHSP Book Club

Join us for our new books & discussions in 2024! Finding the Mother Tree, Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard Discussion on January 24, 2024, 7pm at Robin Nagele's home, 410 Lodges Lane, Elkins Park. H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald ...

More News

Our History

Founded in 1995 on the grounds of the Cheltenham High School plex.

Rebuilding & Development

Maintaining the Park

In 2007, at FHSP’s request, Cheltenham Township received a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This enabled us to commission a detailed restoration plan for High School Park. High School Park is also built and maintained with input from FHSP volunteers, township personnel, business owners and other residents.

We’re a work in progress and you can help!

Become a Member

Volunteer

Become a Member

Volunteer

Planning that became a reality…

Riparian Zone

Restoring the stream bank by reshaping the slope to redirect the water towards the center of the stream, and by replanting the shoreline with native shrubs, perennials and seed mixtures suited to this moist environment.

Entrances

Redesigning the entryway to the park to make it more inviting, informative, and associated with the business corridor and nearby SEPTA train station

Signage & Lighting

Providing permanent and attractive educational signage throughout the park and Installing night sky-sensitive lighting that enhances safety and security.