Charter schools are a popular option for parents who want a more specialized and personalized education for their children. However, with the current pandemic, traditional school tours may not be feasible or desirable.
That’s where 360 virtual tours come in. By providing a virtual tour, charter schools can enhance their enrollment process and give parents and students a more immersive and informative experience.
Here are some tips for using 360 virtual tours to boost charter school enrollment:
Showcase Your School’s Unique Features
Every charter school has unique features that make it stand out from traditional public schools. Perhaps it’s a focus on STEM education, a bilingual program, or a Montessori approach. Whatever it may be, highlight it in your virtual tour. Use 360-degree photos and videos to showcase classrooms, labs, and other facilities that support your program. This will help parents and students get a better understanding of what your school offers and how it can benefit their child’s education.
Provide an Interactive Experience
Virtual tours should be more than just a slideshow of photos. Instead, aim to provide an interactive experience that engages parents and students. Incorporate virtual reality technology to allow users to move around the school and explore different areas. Add interactive hotspots that provide more information on specific programs, activities, or facilities. The more interactive and engaging the tour is, the more likely parents and students are to be impressed with your school.
Create a Story
Telling a story through your virtual tour can make it more memorable and impactful. Consider creating a narrative that guides parents and students through the tour, highlighting key aspects of your school along the way. Use text, images, and videos to tell your school’s story and convey its unique culture and values. This will help parents and students connect with your school on a deeper level and envision themselves as part of the community.
Make it Accessible
Accessibility is crucial when it comes to virtual tours. Ensure that your tour is available on multiple platforms, including desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones. This will allow parents and students to access the tour at their convenience, regardless of their location or device. Also, provide translations and closed captions for non-English speakers or individuals with hearing impairments. By making your virtual tour accessible to everyone, you can ensure that all potential students and families have an equal opportunity to learn about your school.
Follow Up
After parents and students have taken the virtual tour, it’s essential to follow up with them. Send a personalized email thanking them for their interest and providing additional resources or answers to any questions they may have.
Offer to schedule a virtual meeting or phone call to further discuss the enrollment process and answer any outstanding questions. Following up shows that your school is invested in each student’s education and helps build a strong relationship with potential families.
Conclusion
360 virtual tours are an excellent tool for charter schools looking to enhance their enrollment process. By showcasing your school’s unique features, providing an interactive experience, creating a story, making it accessible, and following up, you can create a memorable and informative experience for parents and students.
As we continue to navigate the pandemic and changes in education, virtual tours offer an innovative way to connect with families and provide them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their child’s education.
