Annual Giving

While tuition and fees are Parker’s largest sources of revenue, each year the school requires additional funds to support an exceptional education for every student. Parker intentionally holds tuition as low as possible to remain competitive and committed to its goal of increased access to Parker and greater affordability for its families.

The primary source of support to bridge this gap is provided through annual tax-deductible gifts to the Parker Fund (our new comprehensive annual giving program comprising both Parent Annual Giving and the Annual Fund). These gifts directly support the annual operation of our school and provide us with the resources to continue to attract and develop world-class teachers; provide exceptional educational programming, facilities and technology; and ensure that Parker remains a community of many backgrounds and perspectives.

Area of Greatest Need

On a bustling six-acre campus with more than 900 students, Parker’s operational needs are ongoing. Supporting the area of greatest need ensures that our school operates seamlessly for faculty, staff, students and their families.

Access & Affordability

Increase the access to and affordability of a Parker education for students, so that children from all socioeconomic backgrounds can be a part of our community and learn from one another through differences in experiences, opinions, ideas, interests and identities that shape our world. Each year, Parker provides more than 150 students—17 percent of Parker’s student population—with financial support to make a Parker education more affordable for their family

Educational Programming

Provide world-class educational programming, technology and facilities to fulfill our mission of educating the whole child and preparing each student for the demands of the 21st century. The Parker Fund delivers innovative, engaging curricula to students, sustains a no-cut athletics policy providing all children a chance to participate in sports and ensures that students can express themselves through extracurricular activities and the arts.

Faculty Recruitment & Retention

Recruit and retain top faculty by ensuring the resources necessary for comprehensive pay, benefits and thoughtful professional development, allowing teachers to grow in their profession and bring that enrichment back to the classroom.






Giving FAQs

List of 4 frequently asked questions.

  • What does the Parker Fund Support?

    One hundred percent of the money raised through the Parker Fund directly supports yearly operations of the school. Gifts to the Parker Fund help us:
    • Increase the accessibility and affordability of a Parker education
    • Provide students with world-class educational programming, technology and facilities
    • Recruit and retain top faculty
  • How can I make a gift?

    To make a gift to the Parker Fund, please send a check or pledge form to Parker’s Development and Alumni Office (330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, IL 60614) or give online at fwparker.org/makeagift.
  • How much should I give?

    Last year, Parker raised more than $1.2 million for the Annual Giving Program with gifts that ranged in size from $10 to more than $10,000. Every gift makes a difference. Every gift of every size makes a difference at Parker.
  • Why should I give before December 31?

    Receiving pledges by December 31 allows the school to accurately forecast the needs of the current school year. Payment does not have to be received until our fiscal year ends on June 30, 2023.

Contact Us

Connie Molzberger
Director of Annual Giving and Engagement
cmolzberger@fwparker.org
Francis W. Parker School educates students to think and act with empathy, courage and clarity as responsible citizens and leaders in a diverse democratic society and global community.