Open House is one of my favorite activities at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School because it brings our community together like no other event we host throughout the year.  It starts the week prior at the tri-parishes when St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School families speak at each mass. I was beaming with pride listening to our families talk about their experience at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School. I was honored to see our students and their families play an active role at mass and within their parish community. The students did a wonderful job representing their school. They are truly amazing ambassadors for St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School.

 

Open House is both a celebration of our school community and a welcoming opportunity for prospective families. I estimate that 90% of our families attended Open House. It is a wonderful opportunity for families to visit their child's classrooms, talk to their teachers, see examples of their work, and meet with friends. I love checking out student projects. I am amazed at the quality of work, their creativity, and the integration of technology. I really enjoyed viewing the 4th grade California Landmark projects and the Egyptian artifacts created by 6th grade students. Our visiting families were impressed by the many talents on display in each of the classrooms.

 

The success of our Open House requires the support of the entire school community. Teachers work hard to prepare, guide, and challenge their students to grow and they enjoy displaying student work at Open House. Parents help by contributing snacks and helping in the Glynn Center. Michelle Leo and Theresa Bass spearheaded hospitality and parents spoke at the parish masses and served as tour guides at Open House. Students work hard to produce school work and projects of the highest quality.  The junior high student council serve as ambassadors by touring prospective families.  

 

At the core of our successful Open House is the leadership provided by Tammy Clarida, our Admissions Director.  She is responsible for planning, promoting, and executing promotional weekend at the parishes and Open House. Preparations for Open House begin in October. Ms. Clarida oversees the design of our promotional materials, implements the marketing strategies, and coordinates all phases of the Open House event.  She is assisted by our parish liaisons and, of course, Mr. Rodriguez.  It takes a village to raise a child and a team to organize successful school events.  Fortunately, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School has both!

 

It was a great day to be part of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School community!