Franklin County Tech hosted its second successful Career Awareness/8th Grade Open House of this school year on Tuesday, Feb. 25.
Sixty-four 8th graders applied and were interviewed to attend the school in the Fall. School counselors and administrators conducted the interviews.
Vocational shop teachers and student volunteers explained and demonstrated learning in a shop environment and talked about post-graduation educational and employment opportunities. Academic teachers, paraprofessionals and students led the tours of the school and offered information.
Kristin Larouche, of Greenfield, was visiting with her daughter Ella. She said the tour guides and shop teachers were friendly, articulate, and answered all of the parents' questions.
"The school is so much more expansive that I imagined," Larouche said. "You offer so many opportunities here."
Jamie Beauchesne, an 8th grader from Montague, said she liked the Cosmetology program and the overall vibe of the school.
"You could see the passion of the students and teachers here," she said.
Nina Eddy, whose son Colin is a FCTS senior, said it's a great idea to hold the open house and allow parents and potential students to see the shops first-hand, have the programs explained to them, and be able to present questions. She said it gives everyone a good look at what they can expect from the school.
"It's nice to get the kids in the door to see what there is for opportunities and options," she said. "Colin has excelled here."