On Sunday, November 9, Bloomfield Hills High School hosted its second Annual Open House. When entering high school, future students and families were presented with a significant amount of clubs, sports, classes, and the full campus to explore. Recognizing how overwhelming the jump into high school can be, the school board decided that an Open House would allow families interested in Bloomfield Hills schools to gain familiarity.

The event was coordinated by the family ambassador team and designed to expand upon the standard tours that prospective families can take throughout the year.

“Prospective families can tour BHHS with a Family Ambassador throughout the year, but the Open House uniquely offers families the opportunity to speak with counselors, administrators, teachers, and most importantly, students,” said Natalie Finerty, BHSD Family Ambassador and one of the organizers of the event. “Families have the chance to explore the school, either on their own or on a guided tour, learn about BHHS offerings from the student and teacher perspectives, and have all of their questions answered in one place, at one time.”

Unlike the school day, staff and students were able to participate in the Open House, allowing for any questions to be asked and answered. Staff representing each department and a variety of co-curricular activities were available to answer questions and highlight their programs. These one-on-one interactions with future classmates and teachers provide students with the comfort and reassurance they may need.

Families were offered the chance to tour the building when classes were not in session and hallways were not crowded.

“This year, Family Ambassadors led building tours with the assistance of Student Ambassadors. Both the Family and Student Ambassadors explained what a student’s typical day might look like, talked about safety and security, discussed our varied course offerings, and answered specific questions,” Mrs. Finerty said. “In addition, Student Ambassadors were stationed throughout the building, prepared to guide families and address questions.”
Overall, the Open House helped both current and future students feel more connected to BHHS. Potential students get a lens into their future schedules, activities, and opportunities, while current students gain volunteering and leadership experiences that allow them to represent their school and grow its community.