Several schools in Huron and Perth are opening their doors virtually to students who will be moving into a new environment for their next grade.
That's usually Grade 6 or 8.
And this is usually the time for open houses but because of COVID-19 that initiative has to be done virtually .
Each school has come up with an outline on how to present the school's layout and how to answer questions about the transition in formats that are easily accessible and user friendly for families.
Petra Goetz is the principal at Mitchell District High School.
She says the virtual tour will show classrooms, facilities and other aspects of the student life.
"Our idea was to really mimic what they would get if they got into the building and let them see what we have to offer," said Goetz. "So we hope we have been able to accomplish that virtually."
Goetz says while it's people that make a building and seeing smiling faces can help with a student's transition, this is a good second considering the situation.
In Goderich, GDCI principal Kendra Brohman says it's important to present the information so families can zoom into specific areas that they have questions about.
"It's going to be interactive where parents can go in, and if they're interested in a certain department or activity the school has going on, they can press on that area and there is a little presentation on that," said Brohman.
And while seeing the classrooms and hallways is one aspect of a virtual tour, the principal at F.E. Madill says future students headed to the Wingham school will be able to listen to stories from some current students.
"It talks a little bit about what their concerns were heading in and how it turned out," said Deanne Deelstra. "So it's just a chance for them to hear from their peers about what the transition looks like."
Families are encouraged to check their school's website for links to the virtual open houses which are scheduled at various times this week.
Virtual Tour Schedule: Goderich District Collegiate Institute - Monday, December 14 and Thursday, December 17 Central Huron Secondary School in Clinton - Tuesday, December 15 F.E. Madill Secondary School in Wingham - Tuesday, December 15 St. Marys DCVI - Tuesday, December 15 Mitchell District High School - Wednesday, December 16 Listowel District Secondary School - Thursday, December 17 Stratford District Secondary School - Thursday, December 17
Note that South Huron District High School in Exeter posted its virtual open house on Thursday, December 10.