High school open houses are a crucial step in the journey of selecting the right school for a student’s secondary education. Much like college tours, these open houses offer a glimpse into the daily life, culture, and academic environment of a high school. They provide invaluable insights and a firsthand look at the facilities, faculty, and the student body. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of high school open houses, drawing inspiration from the strategies used for college tours.
1. Planning Your Visit
Do Your Homework
Before attending an open house, it’s vital to research the high school. Visit the school’s website, read about their academic programs, extracurricular activities, and any special services they offer. Familiarizing yourself with the school beforehand allows you to ask more informed questions during the visit.
Schedule Wisely
Many high schools host open houses simultaneously, especially during the fall. Plan your schedule to attend the ones that interest you the most. If possible, visit when the school is in session to observe the natural flow of a typical school day.
2. During the Visit
Take the Tour
Most open houses include a guided tour. Pay close attention to the facilities, classrooms, labs, and sports complexes. The state and availability of these resources can significantly impact a student’s education and extracurricular engagement.
Engage with Faculty and Students
Open houses are a unique opportunity to interact directly with the people who will be part of the student’s life. Ask teachers about their teaching styles, class sizes, and what they enjoy about teaching at the school. Speaking with current students can give you insight into the school culture and student satisfaction.
Attend Information Sessions
Often, schools will offer sessions on specific programs, such as advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. These sessions can provide a deeper understanding of what the school offers and help you assess whether it aligns with the student’s interests and goals.
3. Ask the Right Questions
To get the most out of your visit, prepare a list of questions in advance. Some important questions might include:
What support services are available for students?
How does the school handle academic and social challenges?
Can students participate in multiple extracurricular activities?
What are the school’s strengths and areas for improvement?
4. After the Visit
Reflect on the Experience
After attending the open house, take some time to reflect on what you learned. Consider how the school’s environment, culture, and academic offerings align with the student’s needs and aspirations.
Follow Up
If you have additional questions or need clarification on something you saw during the visit, don’t hesitate to contact the school. Most schools are more than happy to engage with prospective students and parents.
Compare and Decide
If you’re visiting multiple schools, compare your experiences and the information you gathered. Discussing these observations with the student can help make an informed decision about which school is the right fit.
Conclusion
High school open houses are a critical tool in selecting the right school. They offer a tangible feel of the school’s environment, something that brochures and websites can’t fully convey. By preparing in advance, engaging actively during the visit, and reflecting afterward, families can make informed decisions that best support the student’s educational journey. Remember, the goal is to find a school where the student will thrive academically, socially, and personally. Happy school hunting!