Glossary of Terms Annual Giving: Annual gifts advance Parker’s mission, support our culture of diversity and inclusion, ensure the best academic experience for each student, and help the School bridge the gap between tuition and cost of a Parker education. Tuition falls short of the true cost of a Parker education. Every student at Parker is subsidized, even students who do not receive financial assistance. The gap between tuition revenues and full annual cost is approximately $3,250 per student. Our goal is 100 percent parent giving participation. Back to School Night: All parents are invited to their child’s classes to meet the faculty and experience a shortened version of a day-in-the-life of their student. Day of Giving: The Tuesday following Thanksgiving has come to be recognized as a global celebration of generosity. Parker participates in this special day, with the PA's leadership (as part of the Gala) to raise support for teachers. Dress Code: Parker maintains a commitment to standards of dress that are appropriate for the school day. The purpose of the dress code is to create a sense of community and equality among the student body; to ensure students’ comfort during the many activities they may participate in throughout the school day; to promote the equitable treatment of all students regardless of gender, race, religion, or economic standing; and to create a distraction-free academic environment.
10 | Francis Parker School Parent Notebook
Financial Assistance: Parker provides aid to qualified families who submit financial information through School & Student Services (SSS). SSS is a nationally recognized program used by independent schools nationwide to assess a family’s demonstrated financial need. The School awards financial assistance to 24 percent of the student body for a total of $6.7 million annually in 2021-2022. Even though many families at Parker make financial sacrifices to pay tuition, whether they receive financial assistance or not, it is crucial for every member of our community to participate in our annual giving campaign. Gala: The PA’s annual fundraising event, which raises support for student financial assistance and Parker teachers (see “Day of Giving”). The evening includes auctions, dinner, and entertainment. Grandparent Council (GPC): Open to all grandparents of Parker students, the GPC hosts fun activities including Grandparent & Special Friends Days at the Lower School in the fall and at the Middle and Upper Schools in the spring. Visit francisparker.org/grandparents for more information. Head of School New Parent Dinner: A special evening event for new parents from all three divisions in the fall. Homecoming: A fun-filled event for the entire Parker community featuring a home football game on the Linda Vista Campus.
