Booth Memorial was constructed in
1921 by the Salvation Army for the purpose of housing unwed mothers
who were still of high school age and wished to continue their
education. Through the 1950's, the students at Booth finished
their education by correspondence.
In the 1960's, home economics was the only subject taught by
a visiting teacher. Throughout the decade, teachers for other
subjects were added, and by 1970, Booth students were able to
obtain a diploma without leaving campus or taking correspondence
course work. Marian Pritchett/Booth has a record of high graduation
rates for its students; graduation ceremonies are emotional
events for these students.
Instruction is also given at Marian Pritchett/Booth in infant
care, and counseling is provided. Pritchett/Booth is one of
many alternative programs offered for students in the District;
each is designed to meet the needs of students who might otherwise
not graduate from high school.
Most of the Booths throughout the United States have been
closed. Adoption records from the past were generally sealed
and require
some legal effort to open. When searching for information concerning
a particular Booth Memorial and/or adoption records, the Salvation
Army center in that area should be contacted. Specific inquires
about Idaho Booth adoptions may be directed to 208-343-3571.
In September, 2002 members of the Boise School District's Board
unanimously approved naming the school in honor of Marian Pritchett
who served as head teacher at the school until her untimely death
in January, 2002. Marian began teaching at Booth Memorial School
in 1974. Over the course of her career there she taught about
3,000 girls from across Idaho. The Board approved changing the
name of Booth Family Services to "The Marian Pritchett School
at the Salvation Army Booth Memorial Center." |