How to Visit Collierville High
How to Visit Collierville High Visiting Collierville High School is more than a simple errand—it’s an opportunity to connect with one of Tennessee’s most respected public high schools, understand its academic culture, and experience firsthand the environment that shapes thousands of students each year. Whether you’re a prospective student, a parent exploring educational options, a transfer student
How to Visit Collierville High
Visiting Collierville High School is more than a simple errandits an opportunity to connect with one of Tennessees most respected public high schools, understand its academic culture, and experience firsthand the environment that shapes thousands of students each year. Whether youre a prospective student, a parent exploring educational options, a transfer student, a community member, or an educator conducting research, knowing how to properly plan and execute a visit to Collierville High ensures a meaningful, productive, and hassle-free experience.
Located in the rapidly growing suburb of Collierville, just south of Memphis, Collierville High School is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in the state. With a strong emphasis on college readiness, STEM innovation, fine arts, and athletics, the school draws interest from families across the region. However, navigating the logistics of a visitunderstanding access policies, scheduling protocols, parking, security procedures, and visitor etiquettecan be confusing without clear guidance.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every aspect of visiting Collierville High, from initial planning to post-visit follow-up. Youll learn practical steps, insider best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questionsall designed to help you make the most of your visit with confidence and clarity.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Purpose for Visiting
Before you even begin planning your trip, clarify why youre visiting. Your purpose will dictate the type of access you need, whom to contact, and what areas of the campus you can expect to see. Common reasons include:
- Prospective student tour (individual or group)
- Parent or guardian orientation
- Transfer student enrollment consultation
- Community event attendance (athletics, performances, meetings)
- Volunteer or internship orientation
- Academic or administrative research
Each purpose requires different preparation. For example, a prospective student tour may require advance registration through the schools counseling office, while attending a Friday night football game may only require purchasing a ticket and arriving during designated entry times.
Step 2: Review the Schools Visitor Policy
Collierville High School operates under the Collierville Schools District Visitor Policy, which prioritizes student safety and minimizes disruption to the instructional day. Key elements include:
- All visitors must sign in at the main office upon arrival.
- Government-issued photo ID is required for check-in.
- Visitors are issued a temporary badge that must be worn visibly at all times.
- Visitors are restricted to designated areas unless accompanied by staff.
- Unannounced visits during instructional hours (7:30 a.m.2:30 p.m.) may be limited or require prior approval.
Always review the latest version of the visitor policy on the official Collierville Schools website. Policies may be updated due to security enhancements, district mandates, or public health guidelines.
Step 3: Schedule Your Visit in Advance
While walk-in visits are sometimes permitted, scheduling in advance is strongly recommendedespecially during the academic year. The best way to schedule is by contacting the schools main office or the counseling department directly.
For prospective students and families:
- Visit Collierville Highs official website.
- Click on Counseling or Admissions in the navigation menu.
- Look for the Schedule a Tour button or contact form.
- Complete the form with your name, contact information, preferred date and time, and number of attendees.
For parents seeking enrollment consultations:
- Call the main office at (901) 853-2200 during business hours (7:00 a.m.3:30 p.m., MondayFriday).
- Request an appointment with the registrar or a guidance counselor.
- Be prepared to provide proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or property tax statement).
Group visits (e.g., middle school field trips, homeschool cooperatives, or college recruitment teams) require a minimum of two weeks notice. Submit requests via the districts Visitor Request Form located under the About Us section.
Step 4: Plan Your Route and Transportation
Collierville High School is located at 13650 Collierville Road, Collierville, TN 38017. The campus is easily accessible via major roadways:
- From I-240: Take Exit 21 (Collierville Road), head south for approximately 1.5 miles.
- From I-40: Take Exit 224 (Tennessee 385), turn right onto Collierville Road and proceed 2 miles.
- From Memphis: Use US-64 West to Collierville Road, then head north.
There is ample parking available:
- Visitor parking is clearly marked in the front lot near the main entrance.
- Additional overflow parking is available in the north lot during events.
- Bus drop-off zones are located near the athletic complex for organized groups.
During peak hours (7:008:30 a.m. and 2:003:30 p.m.), traffic can be heavy. Plan to arrive 1520 minutes early to account for congestion and security screening.
Step 5: Prepare Required Documentation
Depending on your purpose, you may need to bring specific documents:
- For enrollment inquiries: Birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency (two forms), and previous school transcripts.
- For transfer students: Official withdrawal form from previous school, course schedule, and grade reports.
- For volunteers or interns: Background check clearance (completed through district portal), signed volunteer agreement, and orientation completion certificate.
- For researchers or journalists: Written request letter, affiliation documentation, and approved media pass (if applicable).
Always bring a printed or digital copy of your appointment confirmation. If youre unsure what to bring, call the main office and ask for a checklist.
Step 6: Arrive and Check In
Upon arrival, follow these steps:
- Enter through the main entrance on the west side of the building (the only public entry point during school hours).
- Proceed directly to the front office. Do not attempt to enter classrooms or other wings unescorted.
- Present your government-issued photo ID to the receptionist.
- Complete the visitor logbook or electronic check-in system.
- Receive your visitor badge and wear it on your outer clothing at all times.
- Wait for your scheduled contact (counselor, administrator, or tour guide) to meet you.
Do not attempt to navigate the building independently. Hallways are monitored, and students are not permitted to escort visitors without prior authorization.
Step 7: Conduct Your Visit
Once youre with your designated contact, follow their lead. Typical visit components include:
- Guided campus tour: Includes academic wings, science labs, library, career and technical education (CTE) center, auditorium, and athletic facilities.
- Classroom observation: Available only during scheduled observation windows (typically 9:30 a.m.10:30 a.m. or 1:00 p.m.2:00 p.m.) and requires prior approval.
- Meeting with staff: Counselors, teachers, or administrators may provide insights into curriculum, extracurriculars, or college counseling services.
- Student interaction: May be arranged during lunch or club meetings, but only with supervision.
Respect the learning environment. Silence cell phones, avoid interrupting lessons, and do not take photographs of students without written consent from parents or guardians.
Step 8: Follow Up After Your Visit
After your visit, take time to reflect and act on what youve learned:
- Send a thank-you note or email to your contact at the school.
- Review any materials provided (brochures, handbooks, enrollment packets).
- If youre applying for enrollment, submit required documents within the stated deadline.
- Attend follow-up events such as open houses, registration days, or orientation sessions.
- Share your experience with othersthis helps build community awareness and supports the schools outreach efforts.
Best Practices
1. Always Schedule Ahead
Unannounced visits are discouraged during the school day. Even if youre just dropping by to ask a question, calling ahead ensures someone will be available to assist you. This also helps the school manage staffing and student safety.
2. Dress Appropriately
While Collierville High does not enforce a strict dress code for visitors, its best to dress respectfully. Avoid overly casual attire such as flip-flops, tank tops, or clothing with offensive slogans. Business casual is idealthis shows you value the educational environment.
3. Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Students and staff have a right to privacy. Do not record audio or video without permission. Do not approach students independently. Do not share personal information about students or staff on social mediaeven if you think its harmless.
4. Arrive Early
Arriving early gives you time to check in, find parking, and mentally prepare for your visit. It also demonstrates professionalism and respect for the schools schedule.
5. Bring Only What You Need
Large bags, backpacks, or luggage may trigger security protocols. Keep your belongings minimal. If youre bringing materials (e.g., transcripts, portfolios), use a slim folder or envelope.
6. Be Mindful of Noise and Distractions
Classrooms are active learning spaces. Avoid loud conversations, ringing phones, or sudden movements. If youre attending an event, follow the audience guidelines posted at entrances.
7. Know the Emergency Procedures
While rare, emergencies can occur. Familiarize yourself with the schools posted evacuation routes and lockdown procedures. If you hear an alarm or are instructed to shelter in place, follow staff directions immediately.
8. Engage, Dont Interrupt
If youre meeting with a teacher or counselor, come prepared with questions. Avoid open-ended or vague inquiries like Whats the school like? Instead, ask: What support is available for students transitioning from a different states curriculum? or How does the school assist with college applications?
9. Support the Schools Mission
Collierville High values academic excellence, character development, and community involvement. Show your alignment with these values by asking about service opportunities, student leadership, or college partnerships.
10. Provide Feedback
After your visit, consider submitting feedback through the districts website. Your input helps improve visitor experiences for future families and educators.
Tools and Resources
Official Website: Collierville High School
The primary hub for all visitor-related information. Includes:
- Academic calendar
- Staff directory
- Course catalog and graduation requirements
- Clubs and athletics schedules
- Visitor policy and forms
- News and announcements
Collierville Schools District Portal: Collierville Schools
Central resource for district-wide policies, enrollment procedures, transportation guidelines, and employment opportunities. Essential for families considering relocation.
Google Maps and Waze
Use these apps for real-time traffic updates, parking availability, and accurate directions. Search Collierville High School to access the schools exact location, satellite view, and user-submitted photos of entrances and parking areas.
Phone Directory
Keep these numbers handy:
- Main Office: (901) 853-2200
- Counseling Department: (901) 853-2200, ext. 2205
- Registrar: (901) 853-2200, ext. 2203
- Athletics Department: (901) 853-2200, ext. 2210
- Community Relations: (901) 853-2200, ext. 2220
Collierville High School Calendar
Available on the school website, this calendar includes:
- Open house dates
- Registration deadlines
- College fairs and scholarship nights
- Performances and athletic events open to the public
- Staff development days (when the school is closed)
Online Enrollment System: Enrollment Portal
For families relocating to the district, this secure portal allows you to begin the enrollment process remotely. Upload documents, complete forms, and track your application status.
Student Handbook
Downloadable PDF available on the school website. Covers:
- Attendance policy
- Dress code
- Technology use
- Disciplinary procedures
- Academic integrity standards
Collierville High School Social Media
Follow the schools official accounts for real-time updates:
- Facebook: @ColliervilleHighSchool
- Instagram: @colliervillehigh
- Twitter/X: @ColliervilleHS
- YouTube: Collierville High School
These platforms showcase student achievements, event highlights, and important announcements that may not appear on the main website.
Local Community Resources
Consider connecting with:
- Collierville Chamber of Commerce: Offers relocation guides and community profiles.
- Collierville Public Library: Hosts college prep workshops and provides free access to academic databases.
- Collierville Youth Services: Supports families with transition programs and counseling.
Real Examples
Example 1: A Family Relocating from Texas
The Rodriguez family moved to Collierville in June and wanted their daughter, Sofia, to enroll in 9th grade. They began by reviewing the districts enrollment requirements online. They printed two utility bills and her most recent report card. They called the registrars office and scheduled an appointment for July 12.
On the day of their visit, they arrived 20 minutes early, checked in at the front office, and met with Mrs. Thompson, the registrar. She walked them through course selection, explained the schools block scheduling system, and provided a copy of the student handbook. They also met with a counselor who reviewed Sofias transcript and recommended honors courses based on her middle school performance.
By the end of the visit, Sofia was registered for all her classes and received her student ID. She was invited to attend the summer orientation for incoming freshmen, where she met other new students and toured the campus with a peer mentor.
Example 2: A High School Counselor from Memphis
Mr. Jenkins, a guidance counselor at a neighboring district, wanted to study Collierville Highs college counseling model. He submitted a formal request via the districts visitor portal, stating his purpose, credentials, and desired dates. He was granted access for a half-day observation on October 10.
He arrived at 8:00 a.m., checked in, and was escorted by the director of counseling. He observed a one-on-one college planning session, toured the college and career center, and reviewed data on graduation rates and scholarship awards. He was given access to anonymized reports on college application trends and received a copy of the schools college counseling curriculum.
Afterward, he sent a thank-you note and later presented findings at a regional counselor conference, citing Collierville High as a model for student-centered college advising.
Example 3: A Local Business Owner Hosting a Scholarship Event
Ms. Patel, owner of a local accounting firm, wanted to host a scholarship night for high school seniors. She contacted the community relations office two months in advance. She provided details about her program, including eligibility criteria and funding sources.
The school approved the event and reserved the auditorium for a Friday evening. Ms. Patel coordinated with the school to send out invitations to eligible students, arranged for parking signage, and provided refreshments. On the night of the event, she was greeted at the front office, given a visitor badge, and escorted to the auditorium.
The event drew over 120 students and parents. The schools principal introduced her, and students presented short videos about their academic goals. The event was covered by the local newspaper and later featured on the schools website.
Example 4: A Prospective Student Touring During Summer
Jamal, a rising 8th grader from a nearby town, was interested in Collierville Highs STEM program. His parents scheduled a summer tour through the schools website. The tour was led by a senior student ambassador who showed Jamal the robotics lab, engineering classroom, and computer science lab.
They also met with the STEM coordinator, who showed Jamal sample projects from the annual science fair. Jamal was given a brochure on the schools engineering club and an invitation to attend the summer STEM camp.
After the tour, Jamal applied to the camp and was accepted. He attended two weeks of hands-on workshops and returned to school in the fall with a clear plan to pursue a STEM pathway at Collierville High.
FAQs
Can I visit Collierville High without an appointment?
While limited walk-in visits may be accommodated during non-instructional hours (before 7:00 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m.), all visits during the school day require prior scheduling. Unannounced visits during class hours are not permitted for safety and operational reasons.
Is there a fee to visit or tour the school?
No. All tours, information sessions, and community events hosted by Collierville High School are free of charge. Be cautious of third-party services claiming to offer exclusive access for a fee.
Can I bring my child to school with me during my visit?
Yes, children are welcome on official visits. However, they must remain with you at all times and cannot be left unattended in hallways or the lobby. For safety, please avoid bringing young children to classroom observations.
How long does a typical tour last?
Most guided tours last between 45 minutes and 90 minutes. Extended visits with counseling or administrative meetings may take up to two hours.
Can I observe a class?
Classroom observations are allowed but require advance approval. They are typically scheduled during designated observation windows and limited to one or two classes per visit. You must remain quiet and seated at the back of the room.
What if I need to visit during a school emergency or lockdown?
If you arrive during a lockdown or emergency, do not enter the building. Follow instructions from school staff or law enforcement. Emergency alerts are posted on the schools website and social media. Do not call the school during an emergencythis can overload phone lines.
Are there tours for international students?
Yes. International students and their families are welcome. Please contact the counseling office in advance to arrange for translation support if needed. The school does not provide housing or visa assistance but can connect you with local resources.
Can I take photos or videos during my visit?
Photography and videography are permitted in public areas such as the front lobby, auditorium, and athletic fieldsonly with written permission. You may not photograph or record students, staff, or classrooms without explicit consent from all individuals involved.
How do I get a copy of the schools curriculum or course catalog?
Download the current course catalog and curriculum guides from the Academics section of the Collierville High School website. Printed copies are available at the main office during business hours.
What should I do if I lose my visitor badge?
Return to the front office immediately. A replacement badge can be issued. Do not attempt to enter restricted areas without a badge.
Can I volunteer at Collierville High?
Yes. The school welcomes volunteers for tutoring, mentoring, event support, and library assistance. All volunteers must complete a background check and attend an orientation. Applications are available on the district website under Volunteer Opportunities.
Conclusion
Visiting Collierville High School is a powerful step in understanding the educational landscape of one of Tennessees most dynamic communities. Whether youre a future student, a concerned parent, a researcher, or a community partner, the school offers a welcoming, structured, and enriching environment for engagement.
This guide has provided you with a clear, actionable roadmapfrom determining your purpose and scheduling your visit, to navigating campus protocols and following up with meaningful next steps. By adhering to best practices and utilizing the recommended tools and resources, you ensure your visit is not only smooth but impactful.
Collierville High doesnt just educateit inspires. The students you meet, the teachers you speak with, and the programs you observe are the result of a community deeply invested in academic excellence, personal growth, and collective responsibility. Your visit is more than a formality; its a connection to a legacy of achievement.
As you prepare for your visit, remember: preparation is the key to access. Respect is the key to connection. And curiosity is the key to discovery.
Plan wisely. Arrive respectfully. Engage meaningfully. And let your visit to Collierville High be the beginning of something extraordinary.