Funds needed to help Parker students achieve this dream
Houston, January 22, 2025 – The Parker Elementary Advanced Chorus, under the direction of Marianna Parnas-Simpson, has been selected as one of the performing ensembles at the prestigious American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Conference in Dallas March 18-22—a distinction granted to only the most exceptional choral groups in the nation. This magnet school in Houston Independent School District (HISD) is the only elementary school in the United States to be chosen to perform in the conference’s history.
The selection process for the ACDA Conference is highly competitive, involving rigorous evaluations by panels of distinguished choral experts. This recognition places Parker Elementary among the nation’s elite music programs and highlights the excellence in arts education provided within HISD.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication, talent, and hard work of our students and the incredible music program we have cultivated,” says Parnas-Simpson. “However, as a Title 1 school, we have a fundraising goal to meet to make this dream happen for our wonderful students. In order to perform for the ACDA, Parker Chorus needs to raise an additional $13,000 in the next several weeks.”
“Performing at this conference will offer our students a transformative experience, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage and exemplify HISD’s commitment to fostering exceptional arts programs and creating opportunities for students to shine beyond the classroom,” Parnas-Simpson continues.
Performances for the Parker Elementary Chorus are scheduled on Friday, March 21 at 12:30 p.m. at Winspear Opera Houston and then at 2:30 p.m. at Meyerson Symphony Hall, both in Dallas. During the conference, the students will be able to experience the most outstanding choral performances of professional, university, high school and middle choirs in the country.
Parnas-Simpson hopes that Houston-area community members will help the kids realize this dream by making a contribution online at www.parkerfriends.org/donate/. In the memo/comments box, please enter “For Parker Advanced Chorus performance at ACDA in Dallas, TX.” Any donation amount is appreciated.
Link to photos here
Courtesy of Parker Elementary School
About Parker Elementary School
Cynthia Ann Parker Elementary School in Houston Independent School District is committed to building the academic foundation and personal growth needed by all students for future success. But Parker’s contribution to your child’s future doesn’t stop with textbooks. As Houston’s original music magnet school, Parker has the honor of being named a Grammy Signature Elementary School.
- Our missionis to foster a safe space for ALL students to learn and grow while meeting their social, emotional, academic, and artistic needs.
- Our visionis to serve as Houston’s premier school of choice for music and academics.
- Our Core Values: High Expectations, Individuality, Progress and Achievement, Equity and Equality, Development of the Whole Child
Parker Elementary is proud to receive the distinction as a Nationally Certified Magnet School. Parker has demonstrated through evidence, reflection, and strategic action, that we have established the Standards of Excellence in our school and fulfilled a commitment to its community stakeholders. This certification status is valid through August 2027. Congratulations to the staff and Music Team for making this possible.
About ACDA
Mission
The mission of the nonprofit American Choral Directors Association is to inspire excellence and nurture lifelong involvement in choral music for everyone through education, performance, composition and advocacy.
Vision
To create powerful artistic experiences and be advocates for cultural and educational change that we might transform people’s lives.
