Danvers High To Host Open House As Part Of Student-Retention Efforts

DANVERS, MA — Danvers Public Schools will host an open house next week designed to convince the families of current fifth- and eighth-grade students of the merits of staying in-district next year.

The event is set for Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at Danvers High School.

"We are in so many ways the best option," said DHS Principal Alan Strauss. "We want to share our story and give families the opportunity to understand what we have to offer and make an informed decision."

The open house will feature presentations from students and staff on topics including: AP, honors and dual enrollment courses; extracurricular opportunities, from athletics to the arts; and opportunities for creative exploration and expression.

"We want to make sure people are fully aware of the outstanding student experience we offer at Holten Richmond Middle School and Danvers High School," said Superintendent of Schools Dan Bauer. "We encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity to explore our school, ask questions and be informed."

Student retention has been an enhanced focus in recent years as school officials look to build pride, inclusiveness and community in the schools while confronting budget challenges through a larger student body.

Danvers High also offers school choice for middle and high school, making it available for students in other communities to apply.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)