At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, Learning Expert Teachers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.
What is the Virtual Play Date?
The play-based assessment provides our teachers, administrators, and admissions staff the opportunity to get to know your child and observe your child’s social-emotional and academic development in a one-on-one setting.
The virtual assessment will take place in the comfort of your own home and we request that you have a few materials available for your child to use during the duration of the Play Date.
Play Dates generally last 30 minutes and feature time for our teacher or administrator to get to know your child, followed by an age-appropriate lesson or activity.
What materials should be brought to the Play Date?
Your child should be comfortable and sitting in a chair at a table. Please have these materials ready for your child:
- A recently created piece of artwork
- Several sheets of paper
- Writing or drawing utensils (crayons / color pencils / markers / pencil)
- A favorite book
- A favorite toy
When are the Play Dates held?
Play Dates are held virtually Monday – Friday, as early as 8:30 AM and as late as 2:00 PM, for 30-minute periods.
Who is required to attend the Play Date?
One adult (a parent, guardian, caregiver, or family member) is required to be present, but this person is expected to only provide technical support as needed. We hope to interact with your child independently of the adult.
We ask that the adult in the room sit behind and to the side of the child so that our teacher or administrator may be able to effectively conduct this assessment without adult interference.
When does the Play Date have to take place?
Those applying in Early Admissions must complete their Play Date by their Completion Deadline, Friday, November 8, 2024. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Play Date by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 14, 2025.
How do we register for a Play Date?
Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Play Date.
If you’re not ready to choose a date and time, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient. Please note: As we get closer to the Completion Deadline, there are fewer meeting times available. We would suggest scheduling one as soon as you are able. If you wait and are unable to schedule a Play Date for one of our offered times, your application will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for admission.
How long is the Play Date?
Play Dates are generally 30 minutes long. Oftentimes, those hosting the Play Date will have back-to-back appointments and will be unable to go over the 30-minute mark.
Whom will we be meeting with?
Our Play Dates are hosted by members of the Admissions Team, members of our Administration, and even some of our Subject Expert Teachers! You never know who will be hosting, but your child will always get to meet with a member of our community.
What if my child doesn’t know all the answers?
That’s ok! We are meeting with them to gauge where they are socially, emotionally, and academically. We know and understand not all students are in the same place.
What if my child doesn’t speak English?
While we understand not all students will be proficient in English, we are looking for more than a beginner level of English fluency. Students should be able to answer questions from the host about themselves, numbers, colors, a book or toy, etc. in English. The host should not have to speak slowly or repeat themselves for the child to understand. The adult attending the Play Date should also not offer any assistance or translation for the child.
How will the Play Date be held?
You will receive a reminder email 24 hours before your meeting time with a Zoom link to your Virtual Play Date. When your meeting time arrives, please log in to your meeting via Zoom.
What if my child doesn’t do well due to unforeseen circumstances?
We know children don’t always have good days, a good night’s sleep, their tummy hurts, they are overly shy – we understand all these things.
It is the right of the Admissions Office to reschedule if we feel it is necessary, however, we will not offer to reschedule if the adult feels the child did not do well or their best. As this is an assessment, only one opportunity for the assessment is allowed.
Will we know the results of the Play Date?
No, we do not share assessment results with applicants or parents.
We look forward to meeting your student(s) at their Virtual Play Date!
If you have any questions, email us at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.