WEST SEATTLE SCHOOLS: Teacher Craig Parsley retires, but will continue to educate

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(WSB file photo)

Friday was the last day of school for most local students who weren’t already out for summer – and for some educators, it was the last day of their classroom career. Among them: Craig Parsley, a founding teacher at Louisa Boren STEM K-8, who spent the past 10 school years there – from its start – after a long run at Schmitz Park Elementary. He sent us this announcement:

(Friday), I retired from Louisa Boren STEM K-8. It was a good run and I really appreciate our West Seattle Community’s support of STEM education.

Many parents have asked what is next for Mr. Parsley.

I plan on supporting STEM Schools in Seattle and across the state in developing Project-Based Learning Programs that are cost effective and Standards-Based. If my time at Louisa Boren STEM K-8 has taught me one thing, it’s that STEM education is not merely a pedagogical decision, it’s a investment in our country’s future. I want our education decision-makers to know that STEM is not a financial burden…it’s a commitment to inspiring innovation, craft, invention, and optimism.

I’m very proud of all the engineers, architects, astrophysicists, bioengineers, civil and electrical engineers our program has inspired, some entering college and a few soon to graduate from these programs. Perhaps, we really did make a difference.

Last year we reported on an award given to Parsley for what the STEM PTA described as his “life-changing” work.

Curtis June 21, 2022 (9:47 pm)

Mr Parsley’s 6th grade class was a big part of our son making it to Stanford. We will always be grateful to you for sharing your knowledge & wisdom. Thank you.

Amber Kormanik June 21, 2022 (10:36 pm)

All three of my kids had Mr. Parsley at Schmitz Park Elementary. All three remember how he made learning challenging and fun. We all will never forget Chicken Bingo, Spring & Winter break challenges, and the Shakespeare plays. Thank you Mr. Parsley for your years of service to our community.

Bill @ Duwamish Head June 22, 2022 (8:17 am)

Craig’s impact to his students sounds wonderful. Enjoy what sounds like a well earned retirement. Congratulation from your fellow Highlander!

Grant Varney June 22, 2022 (1:25 pm)

“ Oh Captain my Captain “

Stem Parent June 22, 2022 (1:27 pm)

Seeing Mr. Parsley teach was one of the big reasons we chose to send our child to STEM years ago. Unfortunately she’s going to just miss out as she’s headed into sixth grade next year. Thank you for inspiring so many students over your years, enjoy your retirement!

Jack June 22, 2022 (6:37 pm)

Mr. Parsley greatly inspired my son Cedar. The last day of 8th grade he asked if he could go back and volunteer in his classroom. Thanks for all your years of inspiring our kids Craig!

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