In an attempt to increase enrollment and get students excited about the classes offered at CHS, the school held a showcase for incoming students and a course fair for current students. The showcase happens every year, but the course fair is relatively new, having been attempted a few years ago, but failing to stick until now.
The Calabasas High Showcase was a major and highly anticipated event for incoming freshmen, held in the evening on January 15th. Designed to welcome prospective students and their families, the showcase provided an in-depth look at life on campus and the many opportunities available at Calabasas High School.
Visitors were able to tour CHS, interact with teachers and current students, and enjoy performances that highlighted the school’s strong arts and extracurricular programs. In addition, parents and students explored potential class schedules for the upcoming school year and learned about the extracurricular activities offered.
The night featured a wide spread of teacher booths, where anyone could go seeking information about a specific class, sport, or activity. Teachers and coaches were available to answer questions, direct families throughout the school, and offer insight into their classes.
“The tour was really engaging, and I found that the staff were all really nice. I am interested in playing girls’ basketball, and I really liked how I could meet with the coach in the PAEC,” says Grace Hamilton, an 8th grader at A.C. Stelle Middle School.
The night highlighted the theatre program, competitive sports, band, and more.
“It was really cool how I could get to know teachers that I will have next year. Mr. Yeung was really helpful and got me excited about possibly having him for math,” says Sherene Shiri, an incoming freshman.
In addition to students’ perspectives on the event, many parents were glad that CHS offered this introduction so they could get to know the campus and faculty better.
“After tonight, I would absolutely send my kids here. I have two sons here already, and I never knew how many extra programs they offer; it’s incredible,” said parent Lati Grabman. “I’m not an expert, but CHS might be one of the best schools in Los Angeles just based on all of the things it provides.”
Still, given that this event has been promoted since early December, many expressed disappointment that not all freshman teachers were in attendance. Additionally, only one room in each building was designated for the core subjects, making it difficult for prospective students to gain a full understanding of the teachers and available course options.
“I wish there were more flyers with all of the information on them for next year. The event was amazing, but I think it would have been helpful to have all of the information for classes offered for the following year,” says Laura Goldman, a parent at A.E. Wright Middle School.
Overall, the showcase provided an exciting opportunity for incoming students to gain a firsthand look at what the next four years at Calabasas High School could entail. With a wide range of opportunities beyond academics, many parents could envision their children becoming future Coyotes.
The students who attend Calabasas High already had their own introduction to the courses offered. At a Course Fair held last Friday during 4th period, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors walked around to explore a variety of classes. Programs such as theatre, art, yearbook, and journalism were featured alongside core subjects.
Students across CHS got to ask future teachers questions, learn about some different electives, and talk with other students.
“I think this has been really fun and social. It’s a great opportunity for us to see what classes we can take next year, which is really interesting,” says Daphi Termechi, a sophomore at CHS.
Students in different grade levels had the opportunity to explore classes they didn’t know were offered, including dual enrollment programs, which were a highlight of the event.
“I think it’s really helpful to prepare us for the future. I’m interested in learning more about journalism and the art classes. I look forward to meeting some of the teachers,” says freshman Noah B.
In addition to students, faculty shared some insights into what they got out of today’s experience.
“I’m really excited about this because it’s a vision we as faculty have had to give kids the opportunity to talk to teachers and students about different class options. It looks like kids are really engaged, and the feedback we’ve been getting has been a step up so far from previous years,” said Karen Musgrove, CHS Vice Principal.
This year was the first year the Course Fair was featured in the gym. This notable change was helpful to students and faculty, with many saying the event was more successful than it had been in the past.
“I love the idea that students can walk around and get clarity about some of the classes, because a lot of times students will ask me about certain classes, and I don’t have all of the answers. This gives students the opportunity to talk directly to the teachers, which is really great,” said David Rivas, a CHS Counselor.
The culmination of events over the past few days has brought school spirit and unity to the future classes at CHS. By having a way to talk directly to teachers and students, many embraced the experience and got to know all that CHS offers.
