December 2, 2023

Weekly Information for December 1st

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Dear Parker families, students and staff,


We are often asked to describe a typical day at Parker. That is a hard question, because no two days are ever the same. But the values and principles that define the education and community of Parker are the same every day. Our students solve problems, think creatively, work together and persevere in the face of challenge. We use our minds well, we take risks and we foster a community where students are known and valued. We know all that. What does it look like in our classrooms?


AH students are developing research, writing, listening and media analysis skills through units on Native American nations in Division 1 and institutional racism in Division 2. Students are connecting Jim Crow-era policies to issues that we face today. The Common Principle “student-as-worker, teacher-as-coach” defines many of these lessons as students engage as researchers and writers. They approach their work with intellectual curiosity and rigor.


MST students are adding integers and combining like terms in Division 1, working in small groups facilitated by their co-teachers. In Division 2, students are gathering and analyzing evidence of the evolution of skin color, prompting authentic discussions about the biology and social construct of race. Throughout MST, students engage as serious mathematicians and scientists challenged to engage real problems.

 

In Wellness, movement classes have moved to indoor activities such as badminton and basketball and health classes are focused on nutrition. Students are designing and analyzing the nutritional elements of a three-course meal. Wellness students are challenged to explore health and fitness in meaningful and engaging units for lifelong impact.

 

Spanish classes are fully immersive and proficiency-based as students engage with the language and one another. Classes are fun, collaborative and hands-on as students grapple with their new language in authentic ways.


Parker students work very hard – mostly joyfully – as they engage in their work. Our classes are fun, loud, collaborative and real. Thank you to our students and teachers for making that typical every day.


Brian

This week’s topics:
  • Cross Country in the News
  • Ski and Snowboard Club
  • Fall Show Tickets on Sale
  • Parker Annual Fund
  • 2024 Student Art Calendars for Sale
  • Parker Lit Mag
  • Looking for Substitute Nurses
  • Current Year Lottery Open
  • Toys for Tots – Final Week!
  • Winter Sports Registration
Cross Country in the News

Parker Charter Boys’ Cruise to State D3 Cross Country Title


Ski & Snowboard Club

Only two weeks left to register for Ski and Snowboard Club! Check here for details and to register. Registration Closes on December 15th, and six-week program begins Wednesday, January 3rd. 


Fall Show Tickets on Sale

Tickets for the Fall Show, The Caucasian Chalk Circle, are now on sale! The Caucasian Chalk Circle is a comedically revolutionary tale about justice, motherhood, and the importance of good cheese. All are welcome! Shows are on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of December at 7 PM. Click here to visit the show website for ticket purchases and more information!

Parker Annual Fund

Earlier this week, on GivingTuesday, Parker's Alumni stepped up and showed their dedication to Parker! One alumnus said she gave because “I have so much genuine love for Parker! Thank you for building my strong foundation. I credit all of my success as an adult to Parker…and my mom!”


We are grateful for her and others’ generosity. If you would like to join our alumni in showing support, you can make your 2023-2024 donation by donating here.

2024 Parker Student Art Calendar


Click here by December 7th to order a fabulous 2024 wall calendar featuring student artwork! Calendars will be available for pick up by December 18th. Proceeds support The Parker Fund. Shown is an image that will be in the calendar. Don’t miss out and order your calendar now!

Parker Lit Mag


Do you have writing or art pieces you would like to publish? You should submit your creations to the Parker Art & Literary Magazine: Paper Flowers! We will accept personal essays, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, screenplays, comics, art (drawings, paintings, photography), and more! Students with submitted work receive a copy of the magazine once it is professionally printed. Submissions are due by WEDNESDAY December 6th at midnight - send your work to Sarah Leandro (sleandro@theparkerschool.org), or talk to her in Room 26. We look forward to seeing your work! – Parker Lit Mag & Creative Writing Community Block.


Looking for Substitute Nurses


Are you a registered nurse who might be willing to help out in the Health Office or on a field trip with students? Please reach out to Lisa Zick at lzick@theparkerschool.org if you would like to apply or if you have any questions!


Current Year Lottery Open


Lottery applications are being accepted for current openings in grades 7 and 9 until Friday, December 16th. There are no current openings in grade 8 at this time. If more applications are received than there are available spaces, a lottery will be drawn on December 19 at 4:00 PM. Enrollment offers will be made with an intended start date of January 23, 2024 (second semester). We are also accepting applications for students entering grades 7, 8 and 9 next year until Thursday, February 1st. Please direct interested families to www.parker.school/enroll.


TOYS for TOTS - Final Week!


Help Parker support this great cause by dropping off new, unwrapped toys in the TOYS for TOTS donation bin located in the Front Lobby of our school until December 8th. Please help our effort to bring a ray of holiday joy to a child in need. The toys, books and other gifts collected and distributed by Marines and volunteers to disadvantaged children offer them recognition, confidence and a positive memory for a lifetime. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org.


Winter Sports Registration


Winter sports practices have started, but it’s not too late to join a team! Register now for winter sports: Winter Track, Basketball (Middle School, JV, and Varsity), or Boys High School Hockey Co-op with Littleton and Bromfield using this link: https://forms.office.com/r/szqjERZksc

For more information click here: https://www.theparkerschool.org/students-parents/athletics

Parents of Athletes

Do you know how to find your way to Parker’s playing locations? We have a GREAT feature on our website with interactive Google maps - just enter your address to receive directions to any of our game and meet locations. Find this feature by clicking HERE.

Upcoming Dates of Note:
Tue - Dec 5 Board of Trustees
Fri - Dec 8 Div 1 & 9th Grade Dance
Thu-Sat - Dec 14-16 Fall Show
Fri - Dec 22 Noon Dismissal
Mon-Fri - Dec 25-29 Holiday Break
Mon - Jan 1 New Years Day - No School
Tue - Jan 2 Faculty Planning - No Classes
Wed - Jan 3 Classes Resume
Looking for help with or concerning: Please contact:
a specific class or assignment the teacher of that class (see Parker email list)
technical support email: helpdesk@theparkerschool.org
your family's or student's health email: lzick@theparkerschool.org
mental health/emotional support needs email: skelly@theparkerschool.org
food insecurity/free and reduced school lunch needs email: mmckenna@theparkerschool.org

The Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School is committed to equal employment and educational opportunity for all members of the school community and prohibits discrimination on the basis of the basis of race, color, gender, pregnancy or pregnancy status, religion, gender identity, age, national origin, sexual orientation, homelessness, or disability, in the operation of the educational programs, activities, or employment policies.

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By Cindy Johnson • March 14, 2026
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Weekly Information for March 6, 2026

By Cindy Johnson • March 7, 2026
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By Cindy Johnson • February 28, 2026
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By Cindy Johnson • February 13, 2026
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Weekly Information for February 6, 2026

By Cindy Johnson • February 7, 2026
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