When it comes to admissions, your school’s best advocates are often already in your community. Parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and coaches are the people who can share authentic stories and create connections with prospective families in ways no marketing campaign ever could.
Why this matters
Research shows that 92% of people trust recommendations from people they know more than any form of advertising. Word of mouth is powerful, and in Catholic school enrollment, it can make the difference between struggling with empty seats and building a thriving, mission-driven community.
First impressions count
Think about how a family first encounters your school. It could be your website, a phone call, a visit, or even a casual conversation with someone in the community. Every touchpoint matters. From the email response they receive to how they are greeted at an open house, these little details shape their perception of your school.
Identify your strongest groups
Who are the people in your community that future families already trust? Start by looking at:
- Parents who are natural connectors
- Alumni with inspiring stories
- Coaches, music directors, and club moderators who work closely with students
- Faculty members who bring your school’s strengths to life
These groups are credible and mission-aligned, and they can speak directly to prospective families with authenticity and conviction.
Equip your advocates
Do not just ask your volunteers to spread the word without support. Give them the tools to succeed:
- Clear talking points
- Digital assets like photos, videos, or social graphics
- Email or text templates
- FAQ sheets and key statistics
When your messengers feel confident and prepared, their impact grows.
Bring their voices to life
Short videos, testimonials, and personal notes are simple but powerful ways to share stories. A 90-second clip of a coach talking about their team or a student sharing “Why I chose this school” can reach people in a way that a brochure never will.
Keep the relationship going
Admissions does not end after the open house. Follow up with thank-you notes, invite families to games or performances, and keep them connected. The goal is to build trust and belonging, not just fill out an application.
Final thought
Strong enrollment depends on strong relationships. When you tap into the authentic voices of your school community, you create a virtuous cycle, more interest, more applications, and ultimately more students who feel at home in your school.
.png)
