Academics

Sparking Innovation Early: Robotics and Engineering in the Primary School at BASIS Independent Manhattan

April 25, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

In today’s tech-driven world, preparing students for the future is essential. At BASIS Independent Manhattan, a leading private school in NYC, we are excited to have an enhanced engineering program that includes a Robotics curriculum for primary school students (Pre-K through grade 4). At the head of the classroom for this interactive, engaging, and hands-on learning is Engineering Subject Expert Teacher at the Lower School, Ms. Delaney. She introduced us to the three unique hardware systems—Ozobots, Finch Robots, and LEGO SPIKE kits— and how she uses them to build skills that grow with students through our spiraling curriculum.

Why Robotics?

Beyond just building robots, our program develops critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills vital for future STEM success. Robotics is deeply rooted in computational thinking, the real-world processes behind computer science and engineering. That sounds challenging for early learners, but this hands-on approach seamlessly teaches students how to break down complex problems, identify patterns, develop step-by-step solutions (algorithms), and refine those solutions when needed. It transforms students from passive tech users into active creators!

Ozobots: A Joyful Introduction (PreK–1)

Meet the Robot: A playful, screen-free start to learn the basics of coding! These small, color-sensing robots follow lines and respond to sequences drawn with markers.

Benefits of Ozobots: Students intuitively grasp concepts like sequencing, logic, and cause-and-effect through creative play for beginners. Ozobot’s complexity keeps older students engaged by using more intricate coding knowledge to create multifaceted behaviors and challenges. Learning feels like play, which is exactly our goal.

Skills Gained: Sequencing, prediction, visual coding, debugging, and confidence.

Finch Bots: Creative Coding That Connects (PreK–1)

Meet the Robot: Bluetooth-enabled bots that add movement, lights, and sensors with block-based coding languages like Blockly and Scratch.

Benefits of the Finch: The versatile robot! Highly adaptable and scalable for all ages, Finch robots make abstract coding concepts tangible and provide interdisciplinary connections, reinforcing concepts from music, art, and math. They can be programmed to make music or hold markers, and be used as a drawing tool to sketch shapes, trace patterns, or illustrate coded paths, like a custom maze.

Skills Gained: Sequencing, cause and effect, conditional statements, spatial awareness, and perseverance.

LEGO SPIKE Kits: Engineering in Motion (Gr. 2–4)

Meet the Robot: A kit of over 400 construction pieces with a programmable Hub that uses a Scratch-style interface to move the motors, sensors, and gears.

Benefits of LEGO SPIKE: Hands-on engineering challenges allow students to design, build, and bring their robots to life. They start with basic machines and move to more advanced projects like in biomedical engineering.

A Favorite Project: Grade 4 designing prosthetic hands, which mirror real-world devices, prompting them to think critically about how engineering can improve lives.

Skills Gained: Preparing students for advanced engineering electives, developing collaborative iteration skills, and strengthening their understanding of integrated systems and mechanical design.

Coding the programmable hub to a mechanical claw.

We’re thrilled to announce that our engineering program will extend into grade 5 starting in 2025-2026. This expansion will allow students to build on their understanding of engineering and robotics through exciting cross-curricular connections with science.

Ready to see innovation in action?

Our robotics program is just one example of how BASIS Independent Manhattan provides an enriching curriculum led by expert educators. We balance rigorous academics with fun, hands-on, and experiential learning that prepares our students to be inquisitive, solution-oriented, and collaborative problem solvers.

Discover the difference of a BASIS Independent Manhattan education, where students are empowered to think critically, create fearlessly, and build the future.

We invite you to learn more about our Wildcat community at one of our upcoming admissions events. Interested in joining us for the 2025-2026 school year? Our rolling application cycle is now open — apply here!

APRIL OPEN HOUSES

Upper School
(Grades 6–12)

Saturday, April 26

10:00 AM

Lower School
(PreK–5)

Sunday, April 27

10:00 AM

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

April 1, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

External recognition reinforces the accomplishments BASIS Independent School educators see each day inside their classrooms. Today, we are incredibly proud to share the news that nine seniors across our network of schools have been recognized as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. The Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.

Each year, approximately 4,000 candidates across the country are selected based on their outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT assessments. This distinction not only showcases students’ exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that helped foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery.

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P.

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

All candidates will now be reviewed based on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership, and service activities. Candidate essays are also reviewed and factor into the selection. Approximately 650 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission for further review. In April, up to 161 U.S Presidential Scholars are selected and honored for their accomplishments.

In the more than 60 years since the United States Presidential Scholars Program was established, approximately 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars have been named based on demonstrated leadership, scholarship, and contribution to school and community.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

At BASIS Independent Schools, we empower students to push boundaries and achieve their highest potential. Our challenging curriculum, expert educators, and dynamic learning culture ensure that students cultivate their interests and are set up for success in college and beyond.

Congratulations to all of our 2025 Presidential Scholar Candidates! You are an inspiration to us. We look forward to celebrating your continued success as you move ahead to the next stage of your academic journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

April 1, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P.

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

March 31, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P.

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Nine BASIS Independent Seniors Named U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidates

March 28, 2025 by jessicagrear Leave a Comment

Each year approximately 4,000 candidates across the country are selected based on outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT assessments. This distinction not only showcases students’ exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that helped foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery.

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P.

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Finding an Elementary School in NYC: The Checklist for Parents

March 6, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

Finding the right NYC private school is challenging, especially on the Upper West Side. With a myriad of options, it is no wonder parents seek guidance. To help you find the perfect Manhattan elementary school for your child, we have created a comprehensive checklist.

As a top independent school in Manhattan, we offer a challenging and enriching curriculum led by expert educators.
Our approach to lower school education equally emphasizes social-emotional learning, including critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Our convenient UWS location provides a unique and supportive learning environment for families.

Review this checklist to see how BASIS Independent Manhattan checks all the boxes!

Teachers: Passion and Expertise

We believe in the power of expert-led instruction. Our students in grades 1-4 benefit from 50-minute classes in core subjects like math, science, English, and Social Studies/History, taught by passionate Subject Expert Teachers (SETs). These experts bring their deep knowledge to the classroom, igniting a love of learning. Complementing the SETs is our Learning Expert Teacher (LET), a dedicated educator who is the guiding force for students, providing personalized support and ensuring each child thrives. This unique model allows for both expert instruction and individualized attention, a hallmark of our world-acclaimed primary program.

An Advanced Curriculum with Essential Enrichment

Beyond the core subjects, our curriculum includes essential classes: engineering, Mandarin, visual arts, drama, and music, fostering well-rounded development. Our commitment to comprehensive liberal arts-focused education with STEM offerings ensures that students are challenged and engaged.

Social-Emotional Learning: Nurturing the Whole Child

We believe academic excellence goes hand-in-hand with social-emotional growth. Our PurposeFull People curriculum, powered by Character Strong, develops essential soft skills, executive functioning, and emotional regulation for students in PreK-Grade 5. Our dedicated Student Affairs team delivers these lessons, supports students, and guides parents throughout their child’s academic journey.

Active Learning and Play

We cater to the age and stage of children while providing them with what they need — physical activity and outdoor play. They have periods of study and focus, which are broken up by three 20-minute recesses during the school day. Our daily schedule also includes P.E., ensuring students have ample opportunities for play and movement. After-school clubs, ranging from soccer and tennis to arts and STEM, further promote active engagement.

Transparency and Community: A Different Approach

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, transparency and community are at our core. Unlike many NYC private schools, we do not engage in traditional fundraising. We believe in providing an exceptional education without the added pressure of constant requests. This empowers families to invest in our vibrant community in ways that are meaningful and aligned with their commitments, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

Get Parent Reviews

Nowadays, more and more families scour the internet for school recommendations to find the perfect fit. Sites like Niche.com use anonymous reviews and rankings to provide “the good, the bad, and the honest.”

Here are a few excerpts from recent BASIS Independent Manhattan reviews written by our current families:

“A great school which balances out an academic focus with play and creative time for the kids.”
“A hidden gem in NYC, that’s for sure.”
“A great choice for families seeking a rigorous academic program with amazing support.”
“Academics are second-to-none, teachers are caring and helpful, kids are challenged and happy.”
“I would recommend attending an info session. If it doesn’t seem right for your kid, you will know it. If it does, apply, you won’t regret it!”

Visit Our School

Experience BASIS Independent Manhattan firsthand. Meet our passionate teachers, interact with current students and parents, and learn more about our unique approach. Discover why we are among the best schools in Manhattan for grades PreK-5 and a leading choice for UWS families seeking exceptional education.

BASIS Independent Manhattan, a private school offering PreK through Grade 12, is based in Manhattan, New York. Students thrive alongside Subject Expert Teachers as they engage in a liberal arts program with STEM offerings.

Virtual Campus Tour

February 12, 2025 by mallorykilbreath Leave a Comment

Since our campus is currently an active construction site, we are unable to offer campus tours until late Spring 2025. In the meantime, let’s take a virtual tour of the brand-new campus opening in Fall 2025!

The Campus

BASIS Independent Bothell is nestled in the Canyon Park neighborhood in Bothell, WA. It is 123,000 sq. ft. on 6.2 acres to fit all of our Kindergarten – Grade 12 families. This acreage includes a full-sized competition regulation playfield, outdoor sport court, and a brand-new playground!

The Gym

The gymnasium will be fully equipped and will hold up to 600 guests! We expect to host many sporting and large school events in this space.

The Theater

The brand-new theater is a great space for students to express their creativity and put on many different types of performances for an audience.

The Classrooms

Our campus will be equipped with dedicated state-of-the-art laboratories for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, designed for grades 6—12 students. Other classroom types not pictured here will also be brand new and intentionally designed for student and faculty collaboration.

The Common Areas

While our athletic and outdoor play facilities allow students to move their bodies and burn energy, our common areas provide a safe environment for students to read a book, work on their studies, and collaborate with their peers.

The Fields

This amazing space will allow for multiple sports to be taking place at the same time, further driving that ability to host and hold many different sporting events. Additionally, it makes for a great space for students to burn off some energy!

The Playground

The play area will be a great way for our younger grades to enjoy getting outdoors. It’s a very large area that contains three main zones with active spaces in between as well as a track that can be utilized for Movement and PE classes and recess fun.

Thank you for taking this tour with us! To submit an application for Fall 2025, click here.

A Day in the Life of a BASIS Independent Manhattan Kindergartener: Where Learning is Playful and Purposeful

January 30, 2025 by editor Leave a Comment

Picture a day filled with laughter, learning, and boundless curiosity. That is a typical day in the life of a kindergartener at BASIS Independent Manhattan. With our small class sizes, outstanding teacher-student ratio, and world-inspired curriculum, we believe in nurturing the whole child through joyful teaching, social-emotional learning, and support for students to achieve their highest potential.

Let us peek into a typical day and find out more about what it is like to be a BASIS Independent Manhattan kindergartner.

A Schedule Built for Success

Our thoughtfully designed daily schedule ensures a balanced blend of academics, social-emotional learning, and physical activity.

8:00 a.m. Morning Meeting

The day begins with community time in Morning Meeting, where routines like discussing the date, weather, and daily schedule set the tone for learning. Then, kindergarteners dive into a focused math block. On any given day they could cover lessons like adding two numbers, subtracting zero, and subtracting a number from itself. They also use tactile activities to learn how to tell time, skip count, measure, or understand the value of coins.

What are Dojo points?

Our Early Learning Expert Teachers (LET) implement differentiation by splitting the class into two groups based on level to provide support and advancement. For example, those eager learners ready for a higher-level concept take on the “Top Ten” grade 1 level problems that prepare them for the next academic year. These activities not only reinforce learning but also motivate students with opportunities to earn Dojo points.

Recess (15 mins)

Now it is time to get outside and get moving! Students head to our spacious outdoor terrace where they have active playtime (developing essential gross motor skills), while also navigating social dynamics (learning the importance of cooperation, sharing, and conflict resolution). After expending the necessary energy, they are ready to return to academics.

9:25 AM – Mandarin and Essentials

Mandarin lessons come alive through singing, storytelling, and hands-on crafts, that immerse students in the vibrant Chinese culture. They actively engage both sides of their brains through visual and creative activities, helping them think critically and connect ideas across different subjects.

The arts are just as important as academics, and students benefit from a daily rotation of our Essentials classes, which include drama, music, visual arts, and engineering. Our unique two-teacher model allows students to dive deep into these subjects with our Subject Expert Teachers (SETs), who have specialized degrees in their respective fields.

10:25 AM – Literacy

Kindergarteners explore storytelling and start writing! A special “Writing Boot Camp” has our budding authors tackling missions to earn star badges. They brainstorm imaginative story ideas, plan narratives, create sentences, and identify nouns and verbs.

Students take on exciting writing adventures, crawl through obstacle courses, go on sentence-fixing hunts, and don ‘writer’s helmets’ for inspiration. By the end of an exhilarating week of boot camp, students have reviewed sentence writing fundamentals and can proudly craft a personal narrative’s beginnings.

11:30 AM – Lunch and Recess

Lunch is a time for social connections, whether students bring meals from home or enjoy healthy options from our partner, Butter Beans. Then, more outdoor play!

12:25 PM – Phonics & Centers

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we use the Logic of English and Heggerty programs to help students master phonics, surpass reading benchmarks, and build confidence in reading, writing, and spelling. Each day, a “Heggerty Hero” leads a fun warm-up to practice phonemic awareness, with one standout student earning the coveted Hedgie the hedgehog as a reward.

1:30 PM – Physical Education

Having daily P.E. classes means more than just exercise. Here, coaches instill valuable life skills like teamwork, sportsmanship, and following instructions while fostering a love of movement and healthy habits.

Recess (15 mins)

Another chance to recharge with fresh air and free play!

2:30 PM – Civics, History & Science Foundation

These blocks cover everything from space, oceans, and continents, to world discovery and history. Lessons often follow student interests, keeping curiosity at the heart of learning.

One final period allows for activities or crafts. Each Friday, a parent/guardian surprises the class with a read-aloud session in a Mystery Reader series, fostering family involvement in the classroom and a love for reading!

Cross-Curricular Learning in Action

In one interdisciplinary project, kindergarten became ‘Detectives in Training’ seamlessly combining math and literacy to solve a mystery. Using the 5 Ws (Who, What, When, Where, Why), they analyzed clues, solved math challenges, and honed literacy skills like making inferences. This activity exemplifies how our curriculum fosters critical thinking and demonstrates the interconnectedness of different subjects.

Learning Through Play: A Holistic Approach

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, learning is joyful and engaging. Our curriculum is designed to foster a love of learning while nurturing the whole child. By blending advanced academics, social-emotional learning, and creative exploration, our kindergartners develop a strong foundation for future success.

What Our Parents Are Saying

Since joining the Early Learning Program, I’ve noticed significant growth in my child’s academic and social skills.
Tiffany J.
When our daughter came to BASIS Independent Manhattan, she did not know English. She is now in her second year here and she has learned to speak English very well. We have been so impressed to see her master the alphabet and begin reading.
Ekaterina M.
We feel that the STEM approach BASIS Independent Schools takes at such an early stage has given our little one a slight edge/a head start as he begins elementary school!
Ameya B.

These are just a few examples of the positive impact our Early Learning Program has on our young learners. We are proud to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child can thrive.

Academics

Why Robotics?

Ozobots: A Joyful Introduction (PreK–1)

Finch Bots: Creative Coding That Connects (PreK–1)

LEGO SPIKE Kits: Engineering in Motion (Gr. 2–4)

Ready to see innovation in action?

APRIL OPEN HOUSES

Upper School (Grades 6–12)

Lower School (PreK–5)

BASIS Independent Manhattan, a private school offering PreK through Grade 12, is based in Manhattan, New York. Students thrive alongside Subject Expert Teachers as they engage in a liberal arts program with STEM offerings.

Since our campus is currently an active construction site, we are unable to offer campus tours until late Spring 2025. In the meantime, let’s take a virtual tour of the brand-new campus opening in Fall 2025!

A Schedule Built for Success

8:00 a.m. Morning Meeting

Recess (15 mins)

9:25 AM – Mandarin and Essentials

10:25 AM – Literacy

11:30 AM – Lunch and Recess

12:25 PM – Phonics & Centers

1:30 PM – Physical Education

Recess (15 mins)

2:30 PM – Civics, History & Science Foundation

Cross-Curricular Learning in Action

Learning Through Play: A Holistic Approach

What Our Parents Are Saying

Upper School
(Grades 6–12)

Lower School
(PreK–5)