A Brief History of
Francis W. Parker School
One hundred and eighty students were enrolled when Francis W. Parker School
opened in 1901. They came to a new school, with fresh ideas. Colonel Francis W.
Parker, influenced by the educational theories of John Dewey, envisioned a
school that held the child at its very center. His fundamental belief was that
learning could be fun and proved his point, not by theories on child psychology,
but with actual classroom demonstrations. Colonel Parker believed that education
included the complete development of an individual — mental, physical, and
moral. Through the educational journey, students would develop in to lifelong
learners and active, democratic citizens.
Colonel Parker believed that these great citizens must use their knowledge to
improve the community– to make things better, more fair and pure. Parker
students would graduate, not only with vast knowledge, but also with heart and
soul.
For 100 years we have stayed true to the core philosophy as set forth
by our original founders. We have been guided by our motto, which puts into
practice the ideal that lies at the heart of a Parker education —
“Everything to help and nothing to hinder.”
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