Article by Phoenix writer Sophia Paulich ’24:
On Saturday, October 14, 2023, the Kellenberg Family welcomed prospective Firebirds with open arms to the annual Fall Open House.
The VIP tours started at 9 AM, inviting all eighth grade students from the Bro. Joseph C. Fox Latin School, St. Martin de Porres Marianist School, and the De La Salle School to immerse themselves in their possible future high school.
At 10 AM, the doors opened to the public, with current Kellenberg students guiding over 3,000 eager families on tours around the school, informing them of the endless opportunities Kellenberg has to offer.
With over 80 apostolic, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities, Kellenberg proudly upholds its reputation of “The School that Never Sleeps.” Current participants of each club proudly presented details about the activity for future students to get an idea of what might be of interest to them. In this way, future students are sure to discover an activity that will enhance their Kellenberg experience.
Junior Cristina Palmieri, who assisted with SMART and Crafts Club, said, “I think that the fact that so many students help out is a testament to how much we love the school and how much we hope to show interested students how great it is here.”
Senior Sydney Reichel, who assisted with Latin Club, shared, “I feel that the Open House was very successful, and we are going to have many great future Firebirds come in next year.”
With a focus on the Marianist mission of “To Jesus through Mary,” the Firebirds made it apparent that Christ is at the center of everything they do. All activities, whether it be in or out of the classroom, are centered around the Catholic teachings.
Reflecting on the success of Open House, Mr. Kennedy, a Kellenberg teacher and graduate of the class of ‘09, shared, “Although the weather failed to cooperate on Saturday, the interested students braved the rain to see the very best of Kellenberg. Due to the rain, they gained the added benefit of seeing the freshman hallway and orchestra room. This adjustment allowed the possible class of 2028 to see where they may be spending their next year.”
Overall, the Kellenberg Open House was an informative next step for many future Firebirds.
