Brian Harrigan, MEd, MPP

Brian Harrigan is currently the Head of School at Francis Parker Charter School in Devens, MA. Prior to taking this role, Brian was Principal of Natick High School from 2015 - 2022. Brian loves the energy, creativity and vision of high school students and believes that the most challenging issues in the world are better solved by young people, with the structure and support of their trusted adults. He works diligently to promote a positive school culture that is mutually respectful, equitable, inclusive and welcoming to all students and takes pride in running a school where students are challenged, supported and feel a sense of belonging. During his time in Natick, Mr. Harrigan oversaw significant improvements in academic achievement and student engagement by investing in educator growth and collegiality, expanding AP and co-taught classes, adding RTI workshops for struggling learners, ensuring equitable access for all students and dramatically expanding extracurricular offerings.

While at Natick High, Mr. Harrigan led a cultural exchange program with Starfish International, a school for girls in The Gambia, West Africa. Students and staff involved in the exchange are ambassadors of hope, creating a better world through education and sisterhood. It is one of the many ways that Natick High School helps students become authentic global citizens. Prior to Natick, Brian was the Assistant Principal at Westwood High School where he designed and implemented the Senior Independent Project Program (SIPP), an experiential course designed to provide seniors with the opportunity to pursue a topic they are passionate about outside the traditional curriculum - working with a mentor to develop essential questions, perform research, create and implement a project plan, gain meaningful real-world experience related to their topic and share their results with the greater community.

Mr. Harrigan earned a Bachelor's of Arts from Amherst College, a Master’s of Education from Catholic University, a Master’s of Public Policy from Georgetown University, and a Master’s of Educational Leadership from Boston College. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education from Boston College. Mr. Harrigan was the captain and catcher on the Amherst College baseball team. He is an avid runner, completing 15 marathons at an ever slower pace. Mr. Harrigan lives in Hopkinton with his wife and two teenage daughters. He is a better parent and educator as life and work come together every day.