Preparing for the Next Step: IMS High School Fairs Draw Hundreds

Over 500 fifth through eighth grade IMS families attended the network’s three regional high school fairs, held in September and October at St. Barnabas, St. Raymond of Penafort, and St. Rose of Lima. Across the fairs, representatives from over 40 of the region’s top high schools were on hand to meet with students and families, answer questions and initiate applications. 

“Turnout has continued to grow now that families know these Regional Fairs are an annual event and they can rely on us to invite a wide variety of high schools,” said IMS Director of High School Readiness, Jose “Gonzo” Gonzalez. “We’re not just helping our students get ready for the next educational step in their lives, we’re exposing them to countless opportunities that they may not have been on their radar.”

Emphasis was placed on reaching out to 5th graders for the first time and families responded. 

“The idea is to plant the seed early to maximize options. This year we wanted to include our fifth grade students and families to give them a better sense of when high school admissions begins and what their options might be as they begin to navigate the process over the next two years,” said Gonzalez. “I’m beyond proud to see how engaged our fifth grade families were. We have students and parents that truly prioritize education and are eager to find the best fit for their family.” 

In addition to participating high schools, a number of scholarship and educational resource partners attended the fairs, including Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia, Ellis Trust for Girls, Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia, Elevate215 (ApplyPhillyCharter), Philadelphia Youth Basketball (PYB), and Inn Dwelling.

“IMS Fairs offer an exceptional experience, featuring outstanding attendance, seamless organization, and thoughtfully prepared families,” said Adrienne Niles, Director of Enrollment Management at Malvern Preparatory School. “The academic strength of the applicants is impressive, and the clear, consistent communication from the staff reflects the professionalism and care that define the IMS community. The spirit of engagement and collaboration at these fairs creates an energy that is both inspiring and welcoming—making them standout, ‘can’t miss’ events for us.”

“As it relates to high school, IMS is doing all the right things,” said Gregory Gersun, President of Holy Ghost Preparatory School. “They’re equipping their students and families with actionable information. They’re coaching them on what questions to ask. They’re graduating high achievers that are good, compassionate and intentional citizens. In short, they’re showing them that truly anything is possible.”