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One Parker

deep roots,

Limitless Outcomes

A 12th grade girl flies a kite, flanked by a kindergartener

Francis Parker School has been fostering independent thinkers, fearless leaders, and engaged citizens since 1912. More than a century later, Parker's mission and values remain the same.

Our Mission

To create and inspire a diverse community of independent thinkers whose academic excellence, global perspective and strength of character prepare them to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Our Vision

To create engaging learning environments that nurture curiosity and prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to embrace purposeful opportunities and live joyful lives.

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Qualities of a Parker Graduate

We are committed to developing students who:

  • STRIVE for academic excellence while maintaining social and emotional well-being and balance;
  • PARTICIPATE in the fundamental human conversation on what is right, fair, and good by developing the necessary skills, aptitude, and imagination;
  • THINK critically, write persuasively, and communicate confidently;
  • GROW familiar with the cultural, political, historical, scientific, ethical, and economic forces shaping their world;
  • POSSESS the tools necessary to realize their individual talents and potential in their academic and professional lives; and
  • EMBRACE the larger world through meaningful, age-appropriate opportunities for experiential education.

Our goal is to help students connect their learning to the world around them such that they will come to understand their role and their responsibility in this ever-changing world.”Head of School, Kevin Yaley, Ph.D.

INQUIRE

Boys look up from sorting tomatoes to smile at the camera

1322

Total Enrollment

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12

70+

ZIP Codes

represented in the student body

112

Years of Educating

...making us the oldest co-ed private school in San Diego

9:1

Student-to-Teacher Ratio

and an average class size of 16 students

60+

Student Clubs and Organizations

for Middle and Upper School students

4

Licensed Counselors on Staff

to support students in all divisions

A Tradition of Excellence

Founders Clara Sturges Johnson and William Templeton Johnson opened the School in a small cottage in Mission Hills. 

Francis Parker School is San Diego’s oldest and largest independent co-ed school. Our founders—Clara Sturges Johnson and William Templeton Johnson—looked to Colonel Francis W. Parker, the “father of progressive education.” Colonel Parker believed in educating the whole child, including teaching good citizenship alongside robust academics.

Francis Parker School not only cultivates students' interest and passion for learning but also sends them into the real world and lets them build themselves up to become better citizens and people. Parker is truly guiding generations of thinkers, builders, and doers who fulfill their aspirations and become the best people they can be.Jack D., Class of 2023

4 Divisions, 2 Campuses, 1 Parker

 

Lower School

Our Lower School allows students to establish a love of learning, develop essential skills, discover passions, and practice good citizenship. 

Explore the Lower School

 

Middle School

Our Middle School emphasizes social and emotional learning, positive relationships, and opportunities that prepare students for the challenges and growth of Upper School. 

Explore the Middle School

A group photo in Cambodian ruins

 

Upper School

Endless opportunities, a tight-knit community, and campus resources support each student as they develop the skills they need to adapt and succeed in an ever-changing world. 

Explore the Upper School

Summer at Parker campers work on wooden birdhouses

 

Integrative Programs

Parker’s 4th division is Integrative Programs, which extends our commitment to excellence outside of the school day: from summer camps to Extended Day and everywhere in between.

Explore Integrative Programs

There's More to Discover

Want to get to know Parker better? We offer a variety of on-campus events, information sessions, campus tours, and more. Plus, you can ask our admissions team any questions you might have.