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The Fall 2026 Rolling Admissions Cycle – Your Questions Answered!

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We’re excited to share that the Rolling Application Cycle for BASIS Independent Bellevue has officially launched for the 2026–2027 school year!

Applications for 2026–2027 will continue to be accepted by our team until all remaining seats are filled, and a wait pool of applicants has been established. Families are welcome to apply for Kindergarten–grade 9.

What does Rolling Admissions mean for my family?

Students who applied for Regular Admissions were asked to submit their applications by January 23, 2026. Any applicant who submits an application past this deadline is considered a Rolling Applicant. Rolling applicants must complete all the same application steps from the Regular Admissions Cycle.

Regular Admissions applicants will be receiving their decisions on March 20, 2026, and are asked to finalize their commitments by March 27, 2026.

After this date, Rolling Admissions applicants will receive their decision on a rolling basis, once all application materials have been received.

If I submit all of the materials before March 20, will I receive my decision with Regular applicants?

No. Rolling Admissions applicants will be reviewed by our Admissions Committee once the Regular Admissions Cycle has concluded.

After March 27, Rolling Admissions applicants will receive their decision within 10 business days of the application being completed.

If I apply for Rolling Admissions is it still possible for my child to be offered a seat?

Yes, it is possible that we will still have seats available after the Regular Admissions Cycle has concluded. However, should our seats fill during Regular Admissions, your Rolling Application will become eligible for our wait pool.

When should I apply for Rolling Admissions?

Sooner rather than later! We will begin reviewing rolling applications as soon as the Regular Admissions Cycle has ended on a first come, first served basis. The sooner your apply, the sooner we can evaluate your child’s application.

If we apply and make it on the wait pool, will my child be last on the list?

No! Students in our wait pool are not ranked. This is why we do not consider it a wait list but a wait pool. Whenever a seat becomes available, we evaluate all students in the pool and offer the seat to the applicant that seems to be the best fit, considering all aspects of their application. Applying for the wait pool as a rolling applicant does not hinder your chances of being offered a seat, should one become available.

Can I still come visit the school?

Yes! We will continue to offer one-on-one tours for the duration of the spring. If you would like to attend a Campus Tour, submit this form on our website and our Admissions Team will contact you.

If my child makes it on to the wait pool but is not offered a seat this year, will they be guaranteed a seat next year?

No, applicants are not held for the next admissions cycle. If you wish for your child to be considered for the following year, you will need to reapply.

How should I apply?

We accept applications through Ravenna. Click this link to begin your application!

If you require any additional support during this process, please feel free to reach out to the admissions team at blv.admissions@basisindependent.com

Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026: Everything Families Need to Know

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Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026 Opens January 24, 2026

Our Rolling Admissions cycle for Fall 2026 opens on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Families interested in joining our vibrant, academically focused community can begin submitting applications on that date. Below, you’ll find everything you need to navigate our admissions process successfully.

Rolling Admissions Timeline

Application Opens — January 24, 2026

  • Applications for all grade levels open on this date.

Application Deadline

  • Applications remain open until a grade reaches capacity. Once a grade closes, qualified applicants will be placed into a wait pool and reviewed as space becomes available.

Decision Notification

  • Families receive an admissions decision within 10 business days of completing their application. This provides a fast, transparent experience for families seeking timely enrollment options.

Commitment Deadline & Enrollment Details

Applying during Rolling Admissions is not immediately binding. To officially secure a seat, families must:

  • Submit a signed Enrollment Agreement
  • Pay a non‑refundable $1,750 deposit by the Commitment Deadline listed in their offer

How to Apply for Rolling Admissions

Starting your application is simple. Families can begin their Rolling Admissions process here. Our Admissions Team is available to support you at every step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Rolling Admissions?

Rolling Admissions is an ongoing application process in which applications are reviewed as they are completed. Decisions are released on a rolling basis, typically within 10 business days.

Are all grade levels open during Rolling Admissions?

Yes. All grade levels remain open until they reach capacity. After that point, applicants are moved into a wait pool.

What counts as a “completed application”?

A completed application includes the online application form, and all required supplemental materials. Your admissions portal will display outstanding items.

How soon will we receive an admissions decision?

You will receive a decision within 10 business days after the application is complete.

Is applying during Rolling Admissions binding?

No. Applying is not binding. Only those who sign the Enrollment Agreement and pay the $1,750 deposit secure a seat.

What if a grade is already full when we apply?

Your student will be placed into a wait pool and considered if space becomes available.

Can current families apply for siblings?

Yes. Sibling applications are welcome and follow the same Rolling Admissions process. Space is not guaranteed, so early submission is recommended.

How long do families have to accept an offer?

Families must review their offer letter for the Commitment Deadline, then sign the Enrollment Agreement and submit the deposit by that date.

APPLY NOW

BASIS Independent Bothell 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 BASIS Independent Bothell community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Half-Day Pre-Kindergarten FAQ

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We are delighted to share that for the 2026 – 2027 school year, BASIS Independent Bothell will be expanding its program offerings to include a half-day Pre-Kindergarten program! 

BASIS Independent Bothell will offer a thematic, hands-on, comprehensive, and content-rich curriculum that builds skills in an environment designed for students who are not yet ready for our kindergarten class. This half-day model allows students to build confidence, curiosity, and foundational skills while easing into the rhythm of a school day. 

The addition of PreK reflects our ongoing commitment to meeting families where they are and thoughtfully growing our community. We are excited to welcome new families and support students as they take their very first steps in their educational journey. 

More details about the curriculum, schedule, and enrollment process can be found below. We look forward to this exciting new chapter and all the learning it will bring! 

What PreK program will you offer?
At other BASIS Independent Schools, we offer a PreK–1 program for three-year-olds. At this time, BASIS Independent Bothell offers a PreK–2 program specifically designed for four-year-olds.

What is the age cut-off?  
PreK-2 students must turn 4 by August 31. 

What is the tuition? 
Tuition for the 2026-2027 school year is $15,825. Families may submit tuition in three different ways: (1) One payment, (2) Two half-payments, or (3) 10 monthly payments.

Where will the PreK class be held? 
The BASIS Independent Bothell campus was thoughtfully designed with four Early Learning Program classrooms, each featuring a private, in-class restroom. These classrooms are located together in a dedicated wing on the first floor of the campus. The PreK-2 class will be housed in the fourth classroom within this wing, alongside our three existing Kindergarten classrooms, fostering a cohesive early learning environment. 

What curriculum will be used? 
Consistent with our other campuses that have established PreK-2 programs, BASIS Independent Bothell will implement the BASIS Curriculum. Our curriculum offers an impressive array of foundational courses that foster early numeracy, literacy, and awareness of the many ideas and topics to explore. Students learn through developmentally appropriate play, music, and hands-on activities to help make high-level material more accessible. 

What is the daily schedule?
The full program time will be from 8:35 AM – 12:35 PM. Class will be held from 8:50 AM – 12:30 PM. Students may arrive as early as 8:35 AM, with dismissal being held until 12:35 PM. You can view a sample schedule here.

Will you offer Early Bird (before school) or Late Bird (after school) care? 
No, due to licensing restrictions in the state of Washington, we are unable to offer a PreK-2 program for more than four hours a day.  

Will you offer after-school clubs? 
No, after-school clubs will not be available for PreK-2 students.  

What is the student-to-teacher ratio? 
1:10 with a maximum group size of 20 students. 

When is the application due? 
PreK-2 applicants will follow our Rolling Admissions process. Applications open on January 24, 2026, and will be accepted on an ongoing basis until all remaining spaces are filled. 

What are the application requirements? 

  • Provide the Early Learning Program Teacher Recommendation form to your Child’s Current Teacher (if applicable) 
  • Register for a Play Date 
  • Register for a Family Meeting 

Is there a sibling priority? 
While we value the importance of keeping families together and recognize the many benefits of sibling enrollment, BASIS Independent Schools does not offer sibling priority for new applicants.  

All applicants, including siblings of current students, are thoughtfully and holistically considered as part of the admissions process. This approach ensures that each enrolled student is individually evaluated and is a strong match for the academic program and school community, allowing us to maintain the integrity of our educational mission while building a well-balanced and successful learning environment for all students. 

BASIS Independent Bothell 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 BASIS Independent Bothell community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Grade 6 at BASIS Independent Bothell: Student Ambassador Linyue’s Experience

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Discover how Linyue thrives in academics, builds friendships, and makes the most of middle school life at BASIS Independent Bothell.

Meet Linyue,
Grade 6 Student Ambassador

Starting middle school is an exciting milestone, and at BASIS Independent Bothell, we make sure every student feels supported as they take on new challenges.

To give you an inside look at life in Grade 6, we spoke with one of our Student Ambassadors, Linyue, who shared her favorite parts of school, how she adjusted to academics, and her advice for new students.

Q: What do you love most about Grade 6 at BASIS Independent Bothell?

A: Definitely the community! It feels like being part of a big family where everyone is supportive and kind. Teachers and classmates are always ready to help, and that makes learning so much more enjoyable.

Q: How did you adjust to middle school academics?

A: At first, it was a big change, but I found a routine that works for me: study for about an hour and review every day. It keeps me on track and makes learning feel less overwhelming. It’s amazing how much easier things feel when you stay consistent. Plus, our teachers make learning fun and interactive, so it never feels boring!

Q: What’s your favorite subject and why?

A: I love Chemistry and Physics because they challenge me to think in new ways. English is also a favorite because it pushes me to think creatively and express myself better.

Q: What extracurricular activities do you enjoy?

A: Basketball! I love the energy of the game and how it brings everyone together after school. It’s the perfect way to connect with friends outside the classroom.

Q: Any advice for new students joining Grade 6?

A: Stay focused and listen to your teachers. They’re here to help you succeed. And don’t forget to enjoy the experience and explore! Join clubs, try new activities, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Middle school is full of opportunities to learn and grow, so make the most of it!

“Basketball isn’t just a game. It’s where teamwork, energy, and fun come together. Every time I step on the court, I feel connected and ready to give my best!”

Why Student Ambassadors Matter

Student Ambassadors like Linyue help create a welcoming environment for new families and peers. Their experiences highlight what makes BASIS Independent Bothell unique: a strong academic foundation, a vibrant community, and opportunities to grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Are you considering joining BASIS Independent Bothell’s vibrant school community? Schedule a tour or attend an upcoming admissions event to learn more about our program.

Rolling Admissions: Secure Your Seat for Fall 2026 Today! 

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We are excited to announce that our Rolling Admissions Application Cycle for BASIS Independent Brooklyn is officially open! 

This means that applications for the 2026 – 2027 school year are now being accepted on an ongoing basis until all remaining spaces are filled. We continue to accept applications for PreK – Grade 10.  

What does this mean for you? 

  • Winter and Spring Admissions Decisions: As soon as your application is complete and after Regular Admissions applicants receive their admissions decision, our Admissions Team will begin notifying you of our admissions decision within 10 business days. Rolling Admissions applicants will be considered for any openings after March 16.
  • Secure Your Spot: Early Rolling Admissions applicants have a greater chance of securing a place in our program, as spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying earlier makes a difference! 

Next Steps 

We are excited to begin this process with you and look forward to introducing you to the Bear Community!  

If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to our Admissions team at brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com

Rolling Admissions for 2026–2027 Is Now Open at BASIS Independent Manhattan!

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We are excited to share that the Rolling Admissions Application Cycle for BASIS Independent Manhattan, a PreK-12 private school in NYC, is officially open for the 2026-2027 school year.

As the Home of the Wildcats, our community is eager to welcome new families who are ready to join a school environment where intellectual curiosity builds subject mastery.

Applications for the 2026–2027 school year are now being accepted on an ongoing basis until all remaining seats are filled. Families may continue to apply for PreK through Grade 10.

What Rolling Admissions Means for Your Family

Admissions Decisions this Winter and Spring
After Regular Admissions Notifications are released in February, completed Rolling Admissions applications will receive an admissions decision within five business days. This allows families to plan ahead with clarity and confidence for the upcoming school year.

A Greater Chance to Secure a Seat
Rolling Admissions operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which means early applicants have the best opportunity to secure a spot in our program. If you are considering joining the Wildcat community, applying early truly matters!

How to Get Started

1. Submit Your Application
Submit your application on Ravenna to begin the admissions process.

2. Review the Rolling Admissions Application Checklist
Review our Rolling Admissions application process here to prepare you and your family for the application steps and requirements.

3. Join Us for an Admissions Event
We continue to offer Campus Tours and a variety of in-person and virtual admissions events. These experiences give families the opportunity to meet members of our school leadership, explore our campus, and see our world-class program in action. We invite you to register for an upcoming event!

We are excited to begin this process with you and look forward to meeting you and your family, and introducing you to the Wildcat Community!  

If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to our Admissions team at manhattan-admissions@basisindependent.com

Join Us for Our January Open Houses at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley

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A great way for prospective families to experience BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is by attending one of our upcoming Open House events. With opportunities to visit both our Lower School and Upper School campuses, families can explore our learning environments, meet members of our community, and gain a deeper understanding of our academic program.

Open Houses are designed to offer a full, immersive overview of the BASIS Independent experience. Participants will have the opportunity to tour our campus, meet school leadership, students, parents, and connect with our Learning and Subject Expert Teachers across varying grades and disciplines as they share their vision of the student learning experience. Prospective students are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Lower School Open House

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Sunnyvale Campus

Our Lower School Open House is designed for families interested in Transitional Kindergarten through Grade 5 and offers a structured opportunity to learn more about our academic approach and campus community.

Event Date and Times
Saturday, January 10
Session 1: 9:30 AM–11:00 AM
Session 2: 11:30 AM–1:00 PM

Please note that the campus will be closed from 11:00–11:30 AM for lunch, and families should plan to attend one of the two session times listed above.

Event Location
1500 Partridge Ave
Sunnyvale, CA 94087

During the Open House, families will tour the campus, meet administrators and teachers, and learn how our two-teacher model supports students’ academic growth across disciplines. You’ll also hear how we foster curiosity, independence, and a love of learning in our youngest learners. Upon arrival, families should check in at the campus entrance to sign in and receive event materials. We recommend reviewing the campus map in advance to help guide your visit. Students are encouraged to attend with their families, and parents are asked to remain responsible for their children at all times while on campus.

For questions, please contact our Lower School Admissions Team at svl.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Upper School Open House

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – San Jose Campus

Families interested in Grades 6–9 are invited to join us for our Upper School Open House at our San Jose campus. This open-format event allows families to explore our campus at their own pace.

Event Date and Time
Saturday, January 10
10:00 AM–1:00 PM

The campus will be open for the full three-hour window, and families are welcome to arrive at any time. Most visitors spend approximately 30 minutes to an hour on campus during their visit.

Event Location
1290 Parkmoor Ave
San Jose, CA 95126

During the Open House, families will explore classrooms and learning spaces, meet members of our community, and gain insight into our rigorous, internationally benchmarked curriculum. Upon arrival, families should check in at the campus entrance to sign in and receive event materials. We recommend reviewing the campus map in advance to help guide your visit. Students are encouraged to attend with their families, and parents are asked to remain responsible for their children at all times while on campus.

For questions, please contact our Upper School Admissions Team at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Whether you are exploring our Lower School or Upper School campus, Open House is the best way to learn more about our academic program, meet members of our community, and see our learning environments in action. Click here to register for our Open Houses and take the next step in discovering what makes BASIS Independent Silicon Valley a dynamic place to learn and grow.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley serves students TK–Grade 12 across our Sunnyvale and San Jose campuses, offering a rigorous liberal arts and sciences curriculum with advanced STEM opportunities. Considering joining our community? We invite you to attend an Open House and learn more.

Top Five Blogs of 2025!

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As we celebrate the new year, we’re excited to reflect on the stories, insights, and moments that resonated most with our community in 2025. From timely updates to thoughtful perspectives, these blogs sparked conversations and captured what mattered most to our readers.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and engaging with us throughout the year! 

#1 Campus Floor Plans Revealed!

Excitement is building as we take the next step toward opening our brand-new campus! With construction well underway, we are thrilled to share the floor plans that will shape the daily experiences of our students, teachers, and families. Every detail, from the flow of classrooms and collaboration spaces to the design of common areas and outdoor learning environments, has been carefully considered to foster curiosity, community, and a culture of joyful learning.  

Click Here to View Floor Plans!

#2 Class of 2025 College Acceptances Announced

BASIS Independent Schools continues to set the standard nationally for academic excellence. The Class of 2025 represents 206 graduates across five high schools—BASIS Independent Brooklyn, Fremont, Manhattan, McLean, and Silicon Valley. From coast to coast, our graduates have earned admission to the world’s top colleges and universities, demonstrating that they are ready to lead, excel, and contribute.

View the College Acceptances Here

#3 BASIS Curriculum Schools Exchange Program

This fall, BASIS Independent Fremont embarked on an extraordinary journey—one that brought five students from BASIS International School Bangkok to the Fremont campus and community for nearly three weeks. From October 12 to 30, Prann, Tiantian, Jiban, Panpan, and Titi became part of the BASIS Independent Fremont community, bringing with them the vibrant spirit of Thailand and a shared commitment to academic excellence that defines the BASIS Curriculum worldwide. 

Click Here to Read More!

#4 Meet the Winner of the 2025 Fellows Scholarship

To kick off a new year of Senior Projects, we are sharing a conversation with the inspiring winner of the 2025 Fellows Scholarship, a $10,000 prize awarded annually to one project. Maxim Smelyansky, a Class of 2025 graduate of BASIS Independent Brooklyn, their 2025 Valedictorian, and current Stanford University student, impressed our committee with his project titled The Future of American High-Speed Rail: Analyzing and Discovering the Most Effective High-Speed Rail Development Methods on Promising Rail Corridors in the United States.

Click Here to Read Maxim’s Interview!

#5 Introducing the BASIS Independent Dublin Mascot

A school mascot is much more than a symbol. It represents the heart and spirit of the entire community. It unites students, teachers, and families under a shared identity, creating a sense of belonging and pride that extends far beyond the classroom. The mascot helps build tradition and school spirit, inspiring students to support one another, celebrate achievements, and face challenges together. Whether it’s cheered for at games, displayed in hallways, or worn on school swag, the mascot reminds everyone that they are part of something bigger – a community that values teamwork, perseverance, and pride in who they are.

Meet Our Mascot

Our Winter Open House Has SNOW Much to Experience!

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On Saturday, January 24, BASIS Independent McLean (BIM) will open our doors and warmly welcome you to our Winter Open House! 

Open House is the best way to learn about our advanced curriculum, discover our talented subject expert teachers, and meet our dynamic students and parents. 

Please join our Open House on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Click here to register! 

Open House Structure: 

Doors open at 8:40, and our program will begin promptly at 9:00 AM. Please review the section below for your child’s grade of interest. Students are encouraged to join us as well. 
 
Toddler–Kindergarten (The Early Learning Program) 
Program Time: 9:00 AM–10:45 AM 

Visit our Early Learning Program (ELP), where our youngest students learn and grow. Hear from Early Learning Expert Teachers, administrators, and parents as you learn how BIM fosters curiosity, exploration, and creativity. ELP families are encouraged to stay for a campus tour at the conclusion of the program. 
 
Grades 1–4 (The Primary Program) 
Program Time: 9:00 AM–10:45 AM 

Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers, where you will learn about our unique two-teacher model. From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, the arts, engineering, and more, hear about our focus on teaching students how to learn and how we spark a lifelong love of learning. 
 
Following the program, Primary families are encouraged to stay for a campus tour. 

Grades 5–8 (The Middle School Program) 
Program Time: 9:00 AM–11:00 AM 

In the Middle School Program, we focus on developing the academic, executive functioning, and self-advocacy skills needed for success in the high school years. Hear from our Subject Expert Teachers about how they inspire excellence, and from our students who address questions about a day in the life of a Red-Tailed Hawk. Plus, learn about the many athletic and academic competition teams, student clubs, and international trips. Student Ambassadors will also be leading campus tours, giving visitors the opportunity to get a feel for our dynamic learning environment. 
 
Grades 9 and Above (The High School Program) 
Program Time: 9:00 AM–11:00 AM 

Educating tomorrow’s great innovators, pioneers, and thought leaders requires a well-rounded curriculum—one with breadth and depth across academic disciplines. The High School Program is designed to allow you the opportunity to meet students, faculty, and administrators as you and your child learn about high school at BIM, including our unique Senior Year. The High School Program will conclude with a Networking Mixer with our Student Ambassadors, teachers, and school leadership.  Visitors will also have the opportunity to tour our campus, led by our Student Ambassadors, for a first-hand look at our labs and learning spaces. 

Don’t miss this interactive experience! Click here to register for our Winter Open House. We hope you will enjoy this special opportunity to get to know our Red-Tailed Hawk community. We look forward to meeting you soon! 

BASIS Independent McLean is an Age 2–Grade 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the Red-Tailed Hawks community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Step Inside Grade 8 at BASIS Independent Bellevue with Megna P.!

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Meet Megna P., a beloved grade 8 student at BASIS Independent Bellevue! Megna is a brand new student to our campus, having just joined BLV in fall 2025 and we couldn’t be more excited to have her as a part of our Mountaineer Community!

Although it is just her first year at BASIS Independent Bellevue, Megna was eager to get involved on campus and is already a part of National Junior Honor Society and our Student Ambassador program. Outside of school Megna loves music. She enjoys playing the flute, violin, and singing! Megna was kind enough to let us follow her around for a day, so we could highlight all of the wonderful aspects of being a grade 8 student at BASIS Independent Bellevue.

Period 1: Algebra and Geometry II

Megna begins each day in Algebra and Geometry II with Ms. Illiescu. When students join BASIS Independent Bellevue in grade 5–9 they are all invited to take an optional math placement exam, which allows us to asses their skills and appropriately determine their math level. Algebra and Geometry II build upon the concepts introduced in Algebra and Geometry I, such as solving equations and inequalities with absolute value quadratic and logarithmic equations, and working with complex numbers and trigonometric functions of right triangles. Students will also be introduced to proofs in geometry with similar and congruent figures, circles and their parts, lines, and planes. With this knowledge, next year Megna will be ready to take on a Pre-Calc course in grade 9!

Period 2: Biology

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, students take Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as separate classes for all three years of middle school. This prepares the students to be ready to take honors and AP level science classes when they enter high school!

On this day, Megna is headed to Biology for period 2. Biology is her favorite subject. She loves how Dr. Dornhoffer encouragers her to ask questions and creates engaging labs that amplifying her knowledge and interest in the subject even further. In this course students study and apply the scientific method, describe the chemistry of life, analyze cell structure and function, and explain the drivers of cellular transport. Students also describe the processes of living organisms like photosynthesis and cellular respiration. To demonstrate her learning of the cell cycle, Megna got to design and create a board game based on the cell cycle.

Period 3: Chemistry

After Biology Megna is headed off to Chemistry with Ms. Abele. This course includes more advanced principles of atomic structure, elements, compounds, molar quantities, and the periodic table. Students are also introduced to high level concepts such as gas laws, stoichiometry, and types of reactions. Megna’s favorite lab so far this year has been the density lab. In the density lab, Megna measured the mass and volume of an aluminum foil shape and calculated the density based on the ratio of mass to volume. The class then compiled their data to test if they were accurate and precise with their measurements and calculations.

Period 4: U.S. History

Megna is then headed to U.S. History with Mr. Tyler! Megna enjoys having Mr. Tyler as a teacher for his keen ability to bring history to life through stories and his well timed jokes. This course is specifically focused on the history of the United States from the Pre-Columbian Era through the turn of the 20th century. In grade 6-8 our history department prepares students to be ready to take AP level history courses beginning in grade 9. Megna shared that this year she enjoyed creating a trifold for their Founding Father’s Project. Megna chose to research and create the trifold about Robert R. Livingston.

After a busy morning Megna is off to a well-deserved lunch and recess break. All students at BLV get a recess break after their lunch. This is a chance for students to connect with their friends outside of class and enjoy a break from their studies.

Period 5: Physics

Megna’s next period of the day is Physics with Ms. Englert-Erickson. In this course students will learn topics such as kinematics, forces, energy, gravitation, momentum, electrostatics, electricity, and light waves throughout the course of the year. Using the concepts learned, students will develop the ability to pose a scientific argument and present scientific evidence to support a claim.

Period 6: AE (Academic Enrichment)

Following Physics, Megna has her Academic Enrichment or AE course with Mr. Ballantyne. AE is a daily twenty-minute period that students have for studying and homework completion. Additionally, every Monday during AE time is Mountaineer Monday, a dedicated time for students to engage in social-emotional learning with their AE teacher, using our wellness curriculum CharacterStrong.

Period 7: English

Megna then heads to Period 7, English, with Ms. Forrest. In this course, students broaden their exposure to a variety of literary genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama, while learning to produce thoughtful, well-argued analyses. This year, students read the novel Frankenstein, and Megna especially enjoyed creating a castle-shaped trifold project that highlighted the novel’s gothic themes.

Period 8: Creative Writing

Megna then ends each day in her Creative Writing course with Ms. Fischer. In grade 8, students get to choose one elective course that they would like to take for the year. This year our grade 8 students could choose Creative Writing, Art Studio 2D, or Band. Megna chose Creative Writing as her elective because she has always had a passion for writing her own stories. This year she is most proud of her creation myth about how the sun and moon came to be.

Mandarin

Another important part of Megna’s school day is her Mandarin class that she has three times a week. Starting in grade 7 students get to choose a world language they would like to study. Currently at BLV we offer Mandarin, Latin, Spanish or French for student to choose from. Megna has been taking Mandarin with a teacher outside of school for a few years before she chose it as her world language this year.

When asked why she chose to study Mandarin as her world language, Megna shared, “I felt that as a non-native Mandarin speaker, taking Mandarin would allow me to explore a new language. Mandarin has two components to it, characters and Pinyin, which makes it challenging, especially for non-native speakers. It has been rewarding to see my progress.” Reflecting on her first year of Mandarin at BLV, Megna added, “Ms. Zhang, my Mandarin teacher, has also been very supportive and encouraging since my first day here, and the small class size provides each student with a lot of individual attention. A special memory that comes to mind is that all my classmates in my Mandarin class came up with a Chinese name for me, which made me connect with my peers.”

As students join BLV in different grade levels our World Language teachers are experts in differentiation and supporting students at their various levels in the language they are learning.

After school Megna is headed home to practice her flute or violin. Megna is a fabulous representative of what it means to be a BASIS Independent Bellevue Mountaineer. Megna exemplifies our community values of PACE which stand for, perseverance, active, community and empathy. Megna has shown her perseverance in all of her classes by working hard to excel in the rigorous curriculum at BLV. You can always count on Megna for a warm smile and hello when you see her around campus. We are so grateful to Megna and her family for allowing her to partner with us on creating this blog!