Education Matters—Sanford School's Private School Blog

Top things to look for at a Private School Open House

From academics to athletics, teaching style to use of technology, and campus facilities to classroom culture, it’s important to get to know a school before you decide if it’s the right fit for your family. One of the best ways to do this is by visiting a school during an Open House.

WHAT is an Open House?

An Open House is an opportunity for multiple families to visit a school at the same time and see the full range of activities that a school offers, both in and outside of the classroom.

WHo should go to an open house?

An Open House is a family affair! Parents/guardians and prospective students are invited to attend an Open House. Typically, schools treat Open House as an “all hands on deck” type of event which means that teachers, coaches, parents, and current students will be available to talk about campus life, so bring anyone who might have questions about the school.

how long will the open house take?

There’s so much to see and do at an Open House, so, if possible, arrive as soon as it begins and block off about two hours of time to visit campus locations and have conversations without feeling rushed.

WHy attend AN OPEN HOUSE?

Being able to talk to everyone and see everything in one swoop can be a great opportunity to get a snapshot of the many pieces that contribute to the whole school. On a traditional tour or student visit day, you will only see a few of the classes, clubs, or special activities that a school offers, but at an Open House you can learn about it all!

preparing for an oPEN HOUSE?

Asking the right questions will ensure that you maximize your Open House experience. Checking out this list of 35 Great Questions to ask at an Open House will help you get ready for the next Open House that you attend!

Find Out what Makes Sanford Special

Discover what Sanford School has to offer for your child by attending one of our open houses. A beautiful college-like campus sets the stage for an exceptional educational experience. Sanford's teachers and programs allow students to discover and hone their individual talents and academics. At the end of each student's Sanford journey, he or she is confident and well prepared for the challenges that follow high school.

Jacqueline DeLaFuente received a bachelor's degree in Spanish and Psychology from Amherst College and completed her M.S.Ed. in Urban Educational Reform and Leadership with an Elementary Teaching Certificate at The University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education. She has served students and families from early education through graduate school, and after several years working in higher education career services and college admission, has joined the Sanford preschool through 12 admission team.

Christine DiUbaldo received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University with a minor in Urban Studies, and her graduate coursework was completed at the University of Delaware. After teaching third grade at Sanford for twenty-one years, she has taken her love of Sanford to the roles of Director of Summer Programs and Assistant Director of Admission.