Choosing a school is one of the most significant decisions you or your child will make. It’s not just about the academic programs or the school’s reputation; it’s about finding a place that feels right, offers the right environment, and aligns with your values and expectations. One of the best ways to gauge whether a school is the right fit is by attending an open house or arranging a school visit. Here’s why it’s so important.
1. Experience the School’s Atmosphere Firsthand
An open house allows you to step inside the school and experience its atmosphere in a way that brochures, websites, and testimonials simply cannot convey. The vibe of a school—how welcoming, engaging, and dynamic it feels—can only be truly felt in person. During an open house, you can walk through the halls, visit classrooms, and get a sense of how students and staff interact. This can help you determine if the school environment feels comfortable and inspiring.
2. Meet the Faculty and Staff
A school is only as strong as its faculty and staff. During an open house, you’ll have the opportunity to meet teachers, administrators, and support staff. You can ask questions, learn about their teaching philosophies, and get a sense of their passion and commitment to education. These interactions can provide valuable insight into how the school operates and how your child will be supported academically and emotionally.
“ I like seeing families be able to get into conversations with students and teachers in a more informal way, it brings up questions they didn’t even know they had, or that maybe they had hesitated to ask. It’s real people connecting with real people, all in the interest, in the end, of supporting children in their educational journey.”
Director of Development at Urban Academy Sonja Kennedy
3. Understand the Curriculum and Programs
Open houses are a great time to dive into the details of the school’s curriculum and extracurricular programs. Schools often showcase their academic offerings, special programs, and extracurricular activities during these events. This is your chance to learn about the school’s approach to education, how it aligns with your child’s learning style, and what opportunities are available to help them grow outside the classroom. Whether it’s advanced placement courses, arts programs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities, understanding what the school offers is crucial in making an informed decision.
4. Get a Feel for the School Community
The school community plays a significant role in a student’s overall experience. At an open house, you can observe how students interact with each other and with teachers, as well as how the school fosters a sense of community and belonging. You may also have the chance to meet other parents, which can provide insights into how engaged and supportive the parent community is. A strong, collaborative school community can greatly enhance your child’s educational experience.
5. Clarify Expectations and Ask Questions
Attending an open house gives you the opportunity to ask specific questions and clarify any uncertainties you might have about the school. This could range from inquiries about school policies, safety measures, student support services, to understanding how the school handles discipline and conflict resolution. These are important aspects that will affect your child’s day-to-day experience at school, and getting clear answers will help you make a more informed decision.
6. Visualize the Daily Routine
Seeing the school in action during an open house helps you visualize what a typical day might be like for your child. You can observe the flow of the day, the structure of classes, and how students transition between activities. This practical insight can be invaluable in determining whether the school’s routines and expectations will be a good fit for your child’s needs.
7. Evaluate Facilities and Resources
Facilities and resources are a critical part of the educational experience. During an open house, you’ll have the chance to tour the campus and assess the condition of classrooms, libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, and other essential areas. You can also gauge whether the school’s resources, such as technology and learning materials, are up-to-date and adequate to support a modern education.
8. Gain Confidence in Your Decision
Finally, attending an open house can give you the confidence that you are making the right decision. It’s an opportunity to see if the school aligns with your expectations and whether it’s a place where your child can thrive. Making such an important decision can be daunting, but the more information and experiences you gather, the more assured you’ll feel in your choice.
Attending an open house is more than just a formality; it’s a crucial step in finding the right school. It allows you to see beyond the surface and delve into the true nature of the school environment, its people, and its offerings. By taking the time to visit and explore, you equip yourself with the knowledge and insight needed to make a well-informed, confident decision that will have a lasting impact on your or your child’s educational journey.
#201- 1085 Homer Street, Vancouver October 27th – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Claren Academy is an independent, Kindergarten to Grade 7 school with a vision to send our students into the world with the skills and motivation to thrive, help, and be happy in their changing future. Join us for a tour of our campus and speak with Claren teachers, staff, and parents.
Learn about Urban Academy’s JK-12 program through a hands-on, real-world experience—the same way the students learn! Come and see what Urban Academy is about firsthand by attending an Admissions Information Webinar and an Open House.
Admissions Information Webinars
Tuesday, November 5 (11am) Friday, December 6 (9am) Friday, January 24 (10am)
Drop-In Open Houses
Tuesday, November 12 (3:45pm-5:45pm) Monday, December 16 (3:45pm-5:45pm) Tuesday, January 28 (3:45pm-5:45pm)
2025/26 School Year Application Deadlines:
Kindergarten (children born ’20): November 15, 2024 Grades 1-12: January 30, 2025 Junior Kindergarten (children born ’21): February 21, 2025
Discover how WMA’s unique Montessori approach fosters independence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning. Connect with our experienced, passionate teachers who are dedicated to your child’s success. Hear from our parents and become part of our supportive, inclusive community where every child thrives.
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