A little while ago, we shared the inspiring educational and early professional life journey of 2015 Janus graduate Parker Chadwick, highlighting his launch into a career as an archaeological field technician. At that time in mid-2023, Parker was exploring the world through his passion for archaeology, applying the skills he developed during his years as a student at our unique private school for neurodiverse students to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities. Little did anyone know, his path would soon take an extraordinary turn back toward his beloved alma mater.
Today, we’re honored to share the exciting next chapter in Parker’s success story: his return to The Janus School as a teacher, where he’s bringing his unique experiences as a former student with learning differences into the classroom to inspire and guide the next generation of neurodiverse learners. We recently checked in with Parker to find out more about this latest adventure and get his insights on what being a new Janus faculty member has been like so far.
An Unexpected Journey Back to Janus
After graduation in 2015, Parker dove right into pursuing archaeology as his eventual profession. He chose relevant areas of study in college with dual majors in Anthropology and Religious Studies and participated in physically intense fieldwork activities while preparing for work on a master’s degree. However, an unexpected and unfortunate knee injury led him to reconsider his path. As Parker began his planned master’s degree program, he found he was struggling to fully engage. Injuring his knee prompted the realization that his vision of archeology work and its reality were likely too different to reconcile.
He shared that his fiancée’s wise advice helped him make the difficult decision to suspend work on the master’s and consider a new way forward. She had told him, “A master’s degree is not something you do on a whim—it’s something you truly have to love pursuing. If it’s not your passion, find what is.”
Taking her words to heart, Parker turned to trusted mentors at Janus for guidance, including his former tutor, Jason, and a favorite reading and writing teacher, Chris K. (now retired). Their encouragement and belief in his potential—and his deep trust in their care for him—were what led him to reconnect with Janus Head of School Heather Strunk to inquire about opportunities to substitute teach while he considered his next professional move. Heather and Parker sat down over coffee, and it was in that conversation Parker surprised himself by declaring, “I want to teach.”
Since that pivotal moment, Parker has embraced a variety of teaching jobs at Janus with enthusiasm. His teaching journey began with assistant roles and participation in the school’s summer STEM program, where he co-taught classes combining his love of archaeology with engaging, hands-on educational themes. Now in his first full year as a teacher at our neurodivergent school, Parker teaches three social studies and history classes, assists in two others, and tutors individual students. His teaching style reflects his own experiences with learning differences during his education, prioritizing a personalized, creative, and engaging approach. Whether it’s acting out vocabulary words to make lessons memorable or fostering one-on-one connections, Parker ensures his neurodiverse students feel supported and empowered. “I try not to use traditional methods because the traditional didn’t work for me,” Parker explained.
Parker’s Unique Perspective on the Janus Difference
As both a Janus alumnus and now a Janus teacher, Parker offers a rare and valuable perspective that resonates with students. He understands their challenges because he’s faced them himself and uses that understanding to build trust and inspire confidence.
Heather described Parker’s return as seamless and impactful. “He has a lot to give these students because he was one of these students. He understands their struggles and knows how to meet them where they are,” she shares. At the same time, Parker sees his role as a way to give back to the uniquely individualized educational community that shaped him. “The difference my teachers made for me inspired me to want to make that same difference for others.”
There is no question that Parker Chadwick’s transition from Janus student to teacher is a full-circle moment that exemplifies the mission of our school for neurodiverse students. His story reminds us of the power of community, mentorship, and self-discovery. As Parker continues to grow as an educator, his impact on The Janus School community he deeply cares for will undoubtedly be profound. We are thrilled that Parker has pursued a teaching position at Janus and can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Words of wisdom for neurodiverse students and his fellow Janus alumni:
Parker reiterated his earlier advice about embracing patience in approaching education and life, adding, “It won’t be a straight path. There will be twists and turns, and you’ll make mistakes. Give yourself the grace to keep going—you’ll find your way.”
He also noted that other alums like him should find ways to get involved with the school—even if it’s just a visit back to campus or an email update to share good news. “Heather and the entire faculty and staff at Janus genuinely want to keep connections with alumni strong, and I would encourage other graduates to take advantage of that.”
Discover how The Janus School changes lives every day
At The Janus School, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. Set on a beautiful 40-acre campus in Mount Joy, PA, The Janus School draws students from 33 districts across seven counties in South Central Pennsylvania, including Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, Berks, Lancaster, Adams, and York counties. Our individualized programs, skilled educators, and close-knit community create an environment where students flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. If you’re exploring K-12 private schools for learning differences like language- or math-based learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), executive function difficulties (EFD), and more, contact us to talk about how Janus can help your child grow into a confident, capable learner ready to succeed in school and life.