FAQ's

1. How old must my child be to start kindergarten?

Children entering Parker's kindergarten must turn 5 by October 31 of the year they enter.

2. How many students are there per grade level?

In the lower school, there is a maximum of 16 for kindergarten, and 18 for grades 1-5. In the middle school, there is a maximum of 20 students per grade, and in the upper school the maximum per grade is 34 (two sections of 17).

3. How many students are admitted to each grade?

The primary entry points for Parker School are kindergarten, sixth and ninth grade. Each year a maximum of 16 new kindergartners are admitted to the Lower School, and at least 2 new 6th graders are enrolled. Another section is added at the ninth grade level, allowing for a minimum of 14 new students. Enrollment in other grades is subject to availability.

4. How are students selected for admission, and are some given priority over others?

For kindergarten applicants, we administer an on-site evaluation, and consider teacher reference reports as well. For 1st through 5th grade applicants, we also look at prior grades. For off-island applicants, we conduct a skype interview when the applicant has access. Middle and Upper School students take a math placement test and a writing test. We ask for two teacher references and most recent report cards. Children of Parker employees and siblings of current Parker students are given preference.

5. When will we receive a decision regarding admission?

Decisions are made and communicated beginning in mid to late February of each year.

6. Does Parker maintain a wait list?

Parker maintains a wait list when there are more qualified applicants than space permits. If a space becomes available after the first round of admissions, all applicants on the wait list are considered equally.

7. If my application is put on the wait list and my child does not get in, will I have to reapply for the next school year?

Yes. Each year the application process begins anew and wait lists from the previous year do not carry over.

8. How do we apply for financial aid and/or scholarships, and will our application be affected by applying?

Parker School currently awards tuition aid based on need. Applying for financial aid does not affect the admissions process in any way. Please see our financial aid section for further information.