Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School is a public school open by lottery admissions to all residents of Massachusetts in grades seven through twelve. Parker is a progressive school which emphasizes learning to use one's mind well and putting the student at the center of the educational process. Students are known well at Parker. School climate is built on trust, decency, and democracy. One of Massachusetts' first charter schools, Parker was started in 1995 by area parents and teachers committed to the principles of the Coalition of Essential Schools. Nationally recognized progressive educators Ted and Nancy Sizer were among Parker's founders and the school is part of their legacy; Ted and Nancy served as co-principals at Parker in 1998-1999. The school was named after Francis W. Parker, the 19th-century New England educator who is known as the father of American progressive education.