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Case Studies > The Seabury Academy used Olark to stay connected through COVID-19

The Seabury Academy used Olark to stay connected through COVID-19

Technology Category
  • Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems
  • Functional Applications - Enterprise Resource Planning Systems (ERP)
Applicable Industries
  • Education
Applicable Functions
  • Business Operation
  • Sales & Marketing
Use Cases
  • Remote Collaboration
Services
  • Software Design & Engineering Services
  • System Integration
The Challenge
When the pandemic hit, the school was shut down for the remainder of the academic year, leaving them to quickly adapt and learn how to continue communication with their current students and parents, as well as answer questions about future enrollment. Inquiries and calls immediately ended as they were no longer in the office. It became imperative for the school to explore alternative avenues to talk to families who had questions.
About The Customer
The Seabury Academy is the only independent college preparatory school in Lawrence, Kansas, with about 200 students actively enrolled. Their school is tuition-based with a diverse population. About 33% of students receive financial aid and 25-30% identify as students of color. As an independent entity, Seabury didn’t have the same type of guidance or support when the pandemic developed as a public or Catholic school.
The Solution
Leslie attended a webinar with the National Association of Independent Schools and another member school mentioned they were using Olark live chat, which had solved problems experienced as a result of COVID-19. Leslie did some research on Olark and thought the live chat tool would solve their problem. Within a day, Olark was live across their entire website. Olark currently sits with the Admissions team, with Leslie being the only agent for the school. Not only does Seabury use Olark to answer questions for prospective students, but Leslie also fields questions and emails for other faculty or administrators who are unavailable while working from home. People were having trouble getting in touch with staff, and Olark helped them connect visitors with their team. Another approach their team implemented was on their direct line voicemail, which advised callers to head over to their website and start a chat for immediate assistance.
Operational Impact
  • Olark has been successful in helping Seabury Academy stay connected with their school community during the shutdown from COVID-19.
  • Seabury has used Olark to engage with prospective students to boost enrollment.
  • Olark has helped direct website visitors to the proper faculty or staff members.
Quantitative Benefit
  • About 33% of students receive financial aid.
  • 25-30% of students identify as students of color.

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