Philosophy & Mission

Parker Academy is a private day school located in Concord, New Hampshire designed for families seeking a small individualized program for their son or daughter. We are approved by the State of New Hampshire for grades six through twelve (ages 11-21) including special education placements by school districts.

 

kid arms out in rubber suit

parker academy

We subscribe to a number of principles…

What I appreciate the most about Parker Academy is the low number of students, and individualized approach to each student's needs.  

A Relationship-Based Approach: Learning at Parker begins with safety, trust, and connection. Students are supported by caring adults who help them feel regulated, confident, and ready to engage.

Selective and Inclusive by Design: Parker Academy is a community of students who want to be here and are ready to engage in growth. We serve students with a wide range of learning profiles, emotional needs, and abilities, including students who are gifted, have learning differences, or experience emotional challenges. Because we are a small, relationship-based program, we are not able to support students whose behavioral challenges require intensive intervention, include physical aggression, or involve highly oppositional patterns. This allows us to maintain a safe, supportive environment for all.

Small Classes, Big Support: Classes are intentionally small (typically 3–6 students), allowing teachers to differentiate instruction, build strong relationships, and respond to individual learning needs.

Wellness Is the Foundation: Movement, time outdoors, emotional awareness, counseling, and mindfulness are integrated into daily life at Parker because wellness supports learning, mental health, and growth.

Strength-Based and Individualized: We build programs around student strengths while gently challenging students to grow. Students are supported through discomfort as they build resilience, independence, and confidence.

Experiential and Multimodal Learning: In addition to classroom instruction, students learn through hands-on projects, community-based experiences, outdoor learning, creative work, and real-world applications. This multimodal approach helps students stay engaged, make connections, and access learning in ways that work for them.

Families as Partners: Families and caregivers are active partners in our work. We communicate frequently, celebrate successes, and work collaboratively to support each student’s growth.

Community and Belonging: Parker is a connected community where students and families build relationships through shared experiences, school events, service, and daily life together.

Purposeful Service and Responsibility: Students participate in meaningful service, school projects, and community work that build empathy, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

Nature-Connected and Green: Gardens, greenhouse work, outdoor learning, and sustainability are woven into the Parker experience year-round.

Mission Statement

At Parker Academy, we provide comprehensive educational programming tailored to the individual needs of students and families, including those of non-traditional learners. Our mission is to foster an environment grounded in honesty and respect, where growth, service, creativity, community, and success are paramount. We believe that individuals thrive when they can pursue and reinforce their strengths. To fulfill our mission, we are committed to the following objectives:

  • Delivering academic programming that responds to each student's unique learning style and needs.
  • Promoting service to both school and community.
    Supporting physical fitness as an integral part of overall wellness.
  • Encouraging appreciation for and participation in the arts.
  • Facilitating social and emotional growth.
  • Engaging parents as active partners in their child’s education.
  • Utilizing a supportive and trauma informed approach.

Through these principles, Parker Academy empowers all students, including those who learn differently, to reach their full potential and become compassionate, capable individuals ready to contribute positively to society.

Questions? Contact us today to schedule a tour or meeting with one of our team members.

Thank You!

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