Francis Parker: A Progressive Education We are truly "the School of Thought" a diverse community that emphasizes meeting students where they are in an atmosphere of individual acceptance, kindness and belonging; a Preschool 12th grade school that is focused on the process of learning through a progressive education and a joyful student experience.
We respect children and young adults as curious scientists and mathematicians, as creative writers and artists, and as changemakers for a more just and equitable world.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked KY School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-12
- Enrollment: 479 students
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Francis Parker School of Louisville ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Kentucky for:
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1965
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in n/a
Student Body
Total Students
479 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
67 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
70%
Average Class Size
12 students
Number of AP Courses
14 courses
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
None
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies by grade level
% on Financial Aid
50%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$12,900
Admissions Director
Trisha Amirault
Admissions Associate
Maggie Blakeslee
Sports
Total Sports Offered
9 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
16 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Black Students Association, Climate Club, Gender Rights & Equality Initiative, Governor's Cup, Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Math League/Counts, NaNoWriMo, Quick Recall, Science Olympiad, Student Council
Arts and Music Programs:
All-State, Choir, Playwriting, Theatre & Drama, Yearbook
Black Students Association, Climate Club, Gender Rights & Equality Initiative, Governor's Cup, Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Math League/Counts, NaNoWriMo, Quick Recall, Science Olympiad, Student Council
Arts and Music Programs:
All-State, Choir, Playwriting, Theatre & Drama, Yearbook
School Notes
- The philosophy of Francis Parker is rooted in theProgressiveeducation tradition.Fundamentally, we believe that each student is imbued with strengths and challenges and that each learner must be treated as an individual. Emphasizing active, experiential learning, problem solving, self-expression, critical thinking, collaboration, and healthy discussion and debate in every classroom, Francis Parker strives to prepare young people effectively for the challenges of higher education, civic involvement, and a successful life as an adult. As a community composed of people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and life experiences, we ask of all our members that the tolerance, respect, and imagination required for responsible citizenship and global understanding be elements of daily practice. Throughout our program, students learn the ethical dimensions of issues, which helps them to use their talent and knowledge with wisdom, compassion, creativity, and integrity.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Francis Parker School of Louisville offer a summer program?
Yes, Francis Parker School of Louisville offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Francis Parker School of Louisville offer?
Francis Parker School of Louisville offers 9 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Francis Parker School of Louisville's ranking?
Francis Parker School of Louisville ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Kentucky for: Largest student body and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for Francis Parker School of Louisville?
The application deadline for Francis Parker School of Louisville is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Francis Parker School of Louisville located?
Francis Parker School of Louisville is located in the Downtown neighborhood of Louisville, KY.
School Reviews
Endorse Francis Parker School of Louisville. 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

Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden Symphony
A musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.

A Roadmap For Starting A Private School
Use this roadmap as a set of talking points with your trusted mentors and professionals to start the private school of your dreams. You're not alone. Over the years, hundreds of folks like you have had the same dream. From Quintilian to Maria Montessori to Lucy Madeira Wing, visionary educators have established schools to teach according to their beliefs and methodologies.

December 31, 2024
The Spectrum of Islamic Education: From Secular to OrthodoxThis article explores the importance of Islamic K-12 education in today's secular society, providing a roadmap for parents to nurture their children's faith and academic success. Through a question-and-answer format between a parent and an imam, it addresses key aspects such as the types of Islamic education available, when to start, and how to balance religious and secular learning. The essay emphasizes the spiritual and moral benefits of instilling Islamic values in young people, offering practical advice and inspiration for families seeking to raise well-rounded and faithful individuals.