Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School (Western Prelacy)
Address: 5300 White Oak Ave, Encino, CA 91316
Website: www.ferrahian.com
Tel: (818) 784‑6228
Founded in 1964, Ferrahian is the first Armenian-American daily school in the U.S., offering a bilingual Armenian–English education. The school operates across two campuses: the Encino site (grades 6–12 & administrative offices) and the North Hills campus (preschool–5).
Fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Ferrahian emphasizes academic excellence, Armenian culture, faith, and leadership. Jay, the preschool is accredited by NAEYC.
Academic & Co‑Curricular Programs
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Bilingual curriculum meeting California standards
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Extracurriculars: student council, yearbook, multiple student-led clubs, and academic competitions
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Athletics: robust sports program, including indoor gym facilities and basketball courts
Campus Expansion & Facilities
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April 2022: Acquired 3-acre adjacent property on White Oak Ave, doubling the Encino campus. Added classrooms, second indoor basketball court, multi-purpose rooms, banquet hall, and parking — enabling computer science, drama, music, graphic arts, engineering, and expanded athletics programs
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June 2024: Purchased 1.7-acre parcel at North Hills campus, enabling expansion with new preschool/elementary classrooms, athletic fields, and parking. Construction and remodeling plans are underway.
Enrollment & Community
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Current combined enrollment is approximately 1,232 students, making it the largest Armenian school outside of Armenia (575 in Encino, 657 in North Hills)
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The school celebrated its 60th anniversary in March 2025, raising $3 million at a gala event attended by over 600 supporters; donations funded new facility naming opportunities (gym, auditorium, classrooms)
Cultural & Faith Integration
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Strong Armenian cultural and spiritual environment: e.g., 8th-grade students participated in a Feast of St. Vartanants ceremony at the Western Prelacy in February 2025
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Regular visits and blessings by Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, including a November 2024 visit where students performed dances, recitations, and songs.
Mission & Values
Ferrahian is devoted to nurturing academically excellent, culturally rooted, spiritually grounded, and socially responsible Armenian youth. Its ongoing growth reflects community support and visionary planning — ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Armenian education in the diaspora.