The open house can be one of the most lively and interesting means of acquainting a community with its schools. Its unique character makes possible person-to-person contact with many individuals. Handled properly, the open house can encourage and strengthen school-community cooperation all through the year. It can increase public understanding and appreciation of education; explain the school program; increase pupil appreciation of their schools; and reveal needs, achievements, and problems. The successful open house involves careful planning, program development, publicity, and followup activities. (Author/MLF)