Somehow, it’s October already. With all the back-to-school activities, September went by so quickly, and now it feels like the holiday season and a brand new year are just around the corner. And that means new opportunities and, of course, new challenges when it comes to attracting families to your school.
My advice? Don’t wait. The earlier you kickstart your enrollment efforts, the more time you have to connect with families and build those fantastic partnerships. Whether you’re teaming up with external partners or managing things in-house, early planning can make all the difference.
This week, I spoke on YouTube Live about what school leaders can be thinking about right now in terms of enrollment. You can watch that chat below and read on for your tips for October.
Local Engagement and Open Houses
First things first—think local! Engaging with your community is a powerful way to connect with prospective families. Consider hosting open houses, whether in-person or virtual, that give folks a sneak peek into your school’s world. Let them experience your unique educational approach and soak in your school’s warm and welcoming vibe. Your local newspapers can also spread the word about your open houses, and having informative materials ready to go can make sure folks really get what your school is all about.
Community Partnerships
Collaborating with community organizations can be a game-changer. Good options are the Boys and Girls Clubs or YMCA—these organizations have some great networks that can help you reach families you might have missed otherwise. Check out local community-based organizations, too. They’re often hidden gems when it comes to expanding your reach.
Use Video
Videos are your secret sauce, allowing you to authentically showcase your school. You don’t need to be a professional videographer to make videos—simple, genuine, and heartfelt clips can resonate deeply with potential families.
Capture those special moments in your school’s calendar—especially the first day of school—and create video montages that tell your school’s story.
Word of Mouth
Remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way. You can learn more about enrollment marketing partnerships here.
Last but not least, think about word of mouth. Positive recommendations from your current school community can carry a lot of weight. Encourage people to share their stories, and consider hosting events where families can invite friends and family to get to know your school better.
Remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way. You can learn more about enrollment marketing partnerships here.
Tony Solorzano is passionate about helping charter schools thrive in their communities and achieve their enrollment goals. Learn more about Tony here.
Want to share?
