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Make the Most of an Admissions Open House

When researching private schools, attending an admissions open house event is a great opportunity for your family to tour campuses and see where your child could spend their days. 

And while facilities conducive to learning and state-of-the-art resources are important, families should also look beyond the physical environment. A school’s true strength lies in its culture and academic program.
Before the Open House, Decide What is Important to You

To discover more about culture and program, it’s a good idea to talk about what is important to you and your child before heading off to the event. 

For example, if a holistic approach to education is important to you, pay attention to the warmth, openness, and professionalism of the educators, as their approach to teaching and mentoring will have a lasting impact on your child's experience. A welcoming, supportive community that fosters strong relationships often contributes more to student success and well-being than any building or technology.

If you value a student-centered philosophy to education, pay close attention to how teachers engage students in the learning process. Look for evidence of a dynamic approach, where teachers encourage critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration rather than relying solely on lectures or rote memorization. 

If you are looking for a program to help your child gain confidence and develop independence, consider whether the curriculum is challenging yet supportive. Ask how teachers differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, offering individualized attention and fostering an inclusive environment. The best academic programs inspire curiosity, adapt to various learning styles, and prepare students with the skills to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.

Helpful Questions to Ask 

After deciding what your main priorities are, it’s a good idea to jot down some questions to bring to the event. Below are some suggestions, but a family should decide which ones work best for them. 

Academics

  1. What is the student-teacher ratio, and how does that impact the learning experience?
  2. How are students challenged academically, and what support systems are in place for those who need help?
  3. How is technology integrated into the curriculum at each division level?
  4. How do teachers incorporate the outdoors into their curriculum? 
  5. Are there opportunities for experiential learning? Do students have opportunities to connect with professionals in the surrounding community?

Extracurricular Activities

  1. What extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and clubs, are most popular among students?
  2. Do all students have to participate in sports, arts, and clubs? 
  3. Are there opportunities for students to take leadership roles in clubs or activities?
  4. How does the school support students who wish to start their own clubs or initiatives?

School Culture and Values

  1. What are the school’s values and how do they shape the culture and approach to education?
  2. Can you share more about the diversity and inclusion initiatives at the school? How does the school foster a sense of belonging among students from different backgrounds?
  3. How do students engage in service work within the school and community of Wilmington?

Student Life and Support

  1. What kind of support is available for students’ mental and emotional well-being across each division?
  2. How does the school facilitate the transition for new students, especially those entering mid-year or at different grade levels?

College Preparation and Guidance

  1. How early do students begin the college planning process?
  2. What kind of college counseling resources are available for parents?
  3. Are there any unique programs or partnerships that help students with college readiness?

Parent Involvement

  1. How are parents engaged with the school community and in their child’s education?
  2. What are some of the ways the school communicates with parents about their child’s progress and school events?
Deciding on the right school for your child is a big decision, and a school’s open house is one step along the journey. At Wilmington Friends, we also offer private tours and student shadow days, and our Admissions staff is always to help answer any questions.
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Preschool - 12th Grade
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Wilmington Friends School admits students of any race, color, gender, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of these schools. Wilmington Friends School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national and ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.