On April 18^th, current parents at BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s Lower School campus sat down with prospective families to share what life at the school is really like. Their message was clear and consistent: strong academics paired with personalized academic support, a genuine love of learning, meaningful school-family partnership, and a rich cultural and artistic environment are what define the experience here.

Read on for a recap of the conversation.

Strong Academics

For the families on the panel, academic strength was the top reason they chose BASIS Independent Brooklyn. Parents described an environment that raises the bar and trusts students to rise to the challenge given the proper support to do so, with one parent saying that the school treats children like “sponges” rather than underestimating what they are capable of doing in the classroom.

Parents cited examples from history and STEM classes, in particular a project where their PreK student learned about the body by constructing a whole “suit” of organs that they wore with things like plastic bags representing lungs and a paper towel roll for the esophagus. Several contrasted their experience here with prior schools that felt less challenging or lacked clear academic standards. One parent noted that BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s commitment to curriculum stood out even during remote learning. She described our school as one of the only schools that maintained a clear academic focus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the board, parents felt confident that their children were receiving meaningful, high-quality instruction.

Academic Growth Supported

Academic growth is supported through a culture of individualized help, anchored by the school’s Student Hours system. Teachers offer after-school sessions where students can review assignments or classwork with teachers in a low-pressure setting. One parent commented that Student Hours are not seen as negative at all, as was the case when she was growing up. It is a great system for getting students caught up or for those who need more review. One parent’s child progressed rapidly in writing through these sessions combined with home practice.

The panel reinforced how the culture around Student Hours is normal and inclusive, with most kids participating at some point. This approach helps students address gaps quickly and builds confidence in their learning.

It is also worth noting that in PreK through Grade 4, BASIS Independent Brooklyn classes have a unique two-teacher model, with two teachers in the classroom with deep knowledge of effective pedagogical techniques and expertise. These two teachers work together to guide students in making vital connections inside and outside the classroom, delivering lessons to elicit student engagement and inspire a joy of learning.

School Community and Partnership

Parents spoke warmly about the strength of the school-family partnership. Weekly Parent Fridays invite families into the classrooms, giving children the chance to show their grown-ups what they have been working on and their classroom. This boosts excitement and connection.

Outside of school, the community extends into social life. Birthday parties, informal gatherings, and school-organized events outside of school foster close relationships among parents.

Parents noted that the school is great about organizing special events outside of school, such as the Community Art event happening after the Open House. These events create a relaxed, less structured way for lasting friendships to form among both children and their parents and guardians.

Cultural and Artistic Programming

Parents were enthusiastic about the school’s hands-on cultural and artistic programming, describing it as both enriching and developmentally appropriate. Regular cultural celebrations encourage students to learn about different heritages through food, movement, music, and art.

One parent gave the example that this year’s music classes included Latin American styles taught by Mr. Peebles, who has a master’s degree in music as well as a degree in Hispanic Studies, adding unique value. Students performed Winter Concerts showcasing their new cultural dance skills, and that was wonderful.

Art classes introduce students to a range of techniques and foundational principles, and drama programs and music education contribute to a well-rounded school experience beyond core academics. Specials including Mandarin, early STEM, art, music, movement, and drama create a comprehensive enrichment environment.

Thank you to all our parent panelists for a wonderful conversation. Your candor and insights made for a truly enriching conversation, and the families in attendance were so glad to hear your perspectives.

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BASIS Independent Brooklyn is a PreK– Grade 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the Bears community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.