Prepare for the Fair

We are excited you are planning to join us at the High School Fair!

Let us help you prepare for the fair!

Start by reviewing all of the schools that will likely be in attendance. Our Website is a great place to get started. As you look through the list of schools, start making a checklist of things about each of the schools that interest you.

These days high school is about so much more than just your standard classes. Think about electives that match your interests, athletic programs, and extracurricular clubs. What would make your high school experience everything you want it to be?


Ask yourself:

  1. What kind of school environment do I want? Large or small?
  2. Do I think a co-ed or single-sex environment would be better for me?
  3. Are athletics important to me? What kind of athletic programs does each school offer?
  4. Are you passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math? Then look for STEM-related opportunities offered by high schools.
  5. What about entrepreneurship? Do you aspire to start your own business?

Once you have an idea of what sorts of attributes you are looking for in a school, think about what you want to ask each of the schools in attendance.


Ask schools:

  1. How big is your student body? What is the student-teacher ratio in a typical class?
  2. What are the big athletics options your school offers? Is there a lot of school spirit?
  3. Does your school offer a robotics program? Speech and debate? Think about what matters to you and ask schools if they offer something that aligns.
  4. Does your school offer internship opportunities or clubs that support students in learning more about business opportunities?

Once you have your own questions answered, think about some additional questions that will help you to learn the story of the school.


More questions for schools:

  1. What is your favorite thing about your school?
  2. What are three words you would use to describe your school community?
  3. In your opinion, what are some of the best resources at your school?

Last but not least, do not forget about the practical questions that might really matter to your application process.


Think about the practical questions:

  1. What are the important deadlines I need to meet for financial aid and scholarships?
  2. Can you explain the college counseling process at your school? What could I expect?
  3. If I want to learn more or get a little extra help from a teacher, how easy is that to do?
  4. What part of the transition to your school will require the most work on my part?

Remember that these questions are just a guide to help get you thinking as you prepare to attend Beyond Breakthrough’s High School Fair. We are here to help so don’t be afraid to reach out to our team with any questions or for some additional guidance!

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Your Breakthrough Public Schools High School Placement Team

Reginald Shumpert
Director, High School Placement
RShumpert@breakthroughschools.org


Lori Lawson
Director, High School Placement
LLawson@theprepschools.org

Your Beyond Breakthrough Alumni Success Team

Jasmine Hawkins
High School Programs Manager
JHawkins@breakthroughschools.org


Brianna Stephens
High School Programs Manager
BMStephens@breakthroughschools.org


Jillian Keller
Senior Director of Postsecondary Success
JKeller@breakthroughschools.org


Beyond Breakthrough is here to provide helpful resources and support after graduating Eighth Grade. Once you are in high school, college, technical school, or elsewhere, this team is here for your success and any challenges that may arise along the way.

Learn more at breakthroughschools.org/alumni/.