The school is located in Cottleville, Missouri, but a large part of its student population comes from its larger neighbor St. Peters.

[3] This led to Francis Howell district parents voicing concerns against the transfer of students even though they would pay out-of-district tuition.

[4] One parent at Francis Howell Central High School said, "I deserve to not have to worry about my children getting stabbed, or taking a drug, or getting robbed" which was supported by many cheers.

[5][6] Other parents drew similarities between their current controversy and that of desegregation busing during the Civil Rights Movement.

[5][4] In 2014, the Francis Howell School District decided it would no longer accept out-of-district students.