[1] His father, John Morrison, married Mary Louise Ham and ran a general merchandise store.

He grew up in an area characterized by the fishing and lumber industries along the East Coast of the United States.

He taught mathematics, Latin, history, and science but became known for his ability to deal with misbehaved students.

The reputation Morrison built led to the offer to be the superintendent of schools for Portsmouth, New Hampshire, from 1899–1904.

He held this position for thirteen years, and during that time he examined and approved all schools throughout the state, served on the state medical board, examined teachers, and supervised attendance and child labor laws.

After two years serving on the state board, the position of superintendent of the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools became available.