At Francis Parker School, our mission is to provide a superior college preparatory education in a diverse, family-oriented environment that meets the academic, social, creative, emotional, and physical needs of the individual student.
Founded in 1912, and now with 1,200 students, Francis Parker School is San Diego's oldest and largest independent, non-denominational, coeducational day school.
Through a system of instruction in the academics, athletics, and arts that is grounded in excellence, Parker students are prepared to succeed at four-year colleges and universities appropriate to their individual goals.
This level of educational success is based on a foundation of shared values the importance of family; the uniqueness of each individual child; the ethical treatment of others and the world around us; a shared passion for learning between inspired teachers and motivated students.
Our mission is to provide a superior college-preparatory education in a diverse, family-oriented environment that meets the academic, social, creative, emotional and physical needs of the individual student.
Francis Parker School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The School is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 362 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Francis W Parker Lower School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-6
Student Body
Total Students
362 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
22 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
16:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- At Francis Parker School, our mission is to provide a superior college preparatory education in a diverse, family-oriented environment that meets the academic, social, creative, emotional, and physical needs of the individual student. Founded in 1912, and now with 1,200 students, Francis Parker School is San Diego's oldest and largest independent, non-denominational, coeducational day school. Through a system of instruction in the academics, athletics, and arts that is grounded in excellence, Parker students are prepared to succeed at four-year colleges and universities appropriate to their individual goals. This level of educational success is based on a foundation of shared values the importance of family; the uniqueness of each individual child; the ethical treatment of others and the world around us; a shared passion for learning between inspired teachers and motivated students. Our mission is to provide a superior college-preparatory education in a diverse, family-oriented environment that meets the academic, social, creative, emotional and physical needs of the individual student. Francis Parker School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The School is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Francis W Parker Lower School's ranking?
Francis W Parker Lower School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Francis W Parker Lower School?
The application deadline for Francis W Parker Lower School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Francis W Parker Lower School located?
Francis W Parker Lower School is located in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego, CA. There are 1 other private schools located in Mission Hills.
School Reviews
Endorse Francis W Parker Lower School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Filling Your Seats
This article provides valuable insights for marketing staff at small private schools, focusing on strategies to boost enrollment and retention. It addresses common challenges such as budget constraints, resistance to change, and the need for both short-term and long-term planning. With expert advice and real-world examples, this guide is essential for any school looking to thrive in a competitive educational landscape.
July 31, 2024
Early Childhood Education: Which Approach to Choose?Explore the world of early childhood education with our comprehensive guide to Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia approaches. Learn the key principles, benefits, and practical considerations of each method to make an informed decision for your 2-3 year old's educational journey.
July 29, 2024
Your 10-Step Guide to Choosing a Private SchoolSelecting the best private school for your child is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and research. Our "10 Step Guide for Choosing a Private School" provides a detailed roadmap to help parents navigate this complex process. This guide covers everything from assessing your child's unique needs and researching potential schools to evaluating academic programs and exploring financial aid options. Whether you're looking for a school that offers PK-12 or just high school grades, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make the best choice for your child's education.