Friends of Cambridge Rindge and Latin School

Friends of Cambridge Rindge and Latin School (FOCRLS) is an independent nonprofit that raises private money to support academic and social development programs at CRLS, Cambridge’s public high school. Its goal is to promote achievement for all students and build greater community investment in the city’s young people. The best-known part of its work is a large scholarship program funded by sponsors, with dozens of named awards given to graduating seniors each year.

In 2026 the group awarded 61 scholarships totaling $115,000, chosen by sponsors and reviewers from several hundred applications based on academics, goals, essays, financial need, extracurriculars and perseverance. FOCRLS also funds Faculty Innovation Grants for staff projects that expand learning and student services, recognizes teachers through Faculty Distinction Awards, and collects donations for Falcon’s Market, which provides supermarket gift cards to students facing food insecurity.

What to Know

• Friends of CRLS is a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation.
• Businesses and individuals can become scholarship sponsors and create named awards.
• The organization has hosted summer workers through the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program.
• Scholarship sponsors include local companies and memorial funds honoring community members.