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Beyond the Classroom: Exciting New Outdoor Space Rendering Revealed

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In addition to providing students with a rich academic experience, we recognize that academics and school enrichment activities are integrally connected to one another and are mutually beneficial. Enrichment opportunities not only help meet students’ academic, social, emotional, and physical needs but they also offer a balanced learning experience that provides numerous opportunities for students to develop into whole, responsible, and enthusiastic learners.

Our approach to sports promotes healthy competition and empowers students with the discipline, grit, and persistence to become leaders on and off the court. It is mastery of these skills that has led many of our student athletes to victory in a variety of competitions, large and small.

Students will have access to not only the gymnasium, but also a multi-use outdoor space between the academic building and the gym.

Spring Visual Art Exhibit: Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Art, Robotics, and Music

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At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, innovation and exploration are at the heart of student learning, encouraging creativity across disciplines. This year, the Spring Visual Art Exhibit highlights an exciting collaboration between the Visual Arts, Music, and Robotics programs, showcasing how technology and artistic expression can intersect in meaningful ways.

The theme for this year’s exhibit, Carnival of the Animals, is inspired by the compositions of Saint-Saëns. Subject Expert Art Teachers Ms. Nichols and Ms. Shi selected the music first before assigning each grade level two pieces as inspiration for their artwork. This theme provided students with an opportunity to explore both the musical and visual aspects of the animals, blending their creativity with themes of nature and sound.

The new Robotics program, introduced this year by Subject Expert Engineering Teacher Ms. Bhatnagar, played a key role in this interdisciplinary effort. It is the first robotics program at any BASIS Independent campus in the Bay Area to be integrated into the curriculum rather than offered solely as an after-school program. Through this program, students in Grades 1-4 have been introduced to the fundamentals of robotics and computer science. Using the Finch Robot by BirdBrain Technologies, students developed computational thinking skills and applied coding concepts in tangible ways. With features such as a micro:bit, sensors, LEDs, motors, and a pen holder, the Finch Robot became an invaluable tool for incorporating robotics into various subjects, including art.

Once the exhibit theme was established, Grade 4 Engineering students collaborated with the Art department, using robots to create animal-themed artwork for the show. They first learned how the robots functioned, explored new coding environments, and applied mathematical concepts such as angles, shapes, and coordinates to program them. As a final challenge, they coded the robots to create circular patterns—an advanced function that required precise speed adjustments. Through this process, students reinforced their understanding of geometry and coding and discovered how technology can enhance creative expression.

Music was also an integral part of the learning experience. Students listened to the musical movements corresponding to the animals in their artwork. For example, students who worked on lions studied “The Royal March of the Lion” from Carnival of the Animals. They followed a listening map to identify which instruments were featured, answered questions about the composition, and learned about Saint-Saëns. These activities were woven into lesson plans across grade levels, allowing students to make deeper connections between music and visual storytelling. Subject Expert Music Teachers, Ms. Gao, Ms. Zhang, and Mr. Robbins, guided students through these exercises, enriching their artistic interpretations through sound.

Across all grades, students explored a diverse range of mediums and techniques to bring their artwork to life. These included making playdoh molds for plaster, wax resist techniques with watercolor, oil pastel drawings, negative space painting, metal tooling, and paper quilling. By experimenting with different materials, students were able to capture texture, movement, and emotion in their representations of the animals from Carnival of the Animals.

Throughout the exhibit, Carnival of the Animals will play on a continuous loop, enhancing the immersive experience and bringing the artwork to life. It is hoped that the musical backdrop enhances the experience, allowing viewers to engage more deeply with the pieces and develop a greater appreciation for the interdisciplinary connections between sound, art, and technology.

Reflecting on the experience leading up to the show, Ms. Nichols shared, “One of my favorite parts of being an art teacher is watching my students experience awe. Awe in not just great works of art, but also in the potential they see in their own creativity as their knowledge expands. The wonderful thing about the art showcase is that parents get to be part of that experience.”

We look forward to welcoming parents to the Spring Visual Art Exhibit on Friday, April 11, as we celebrate the creativity and dedication of our students. We encourage families to listen to Carnival of the Animals beforehand to extend the learning experience at home and gain a deeper appreciation for the inspiration behind the exhibit.

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

2024 – 2025 Startups at Spring Competition: Wellness in the Workplace

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Thinking of a creative and unique business idea is a challenge for even the globe’s most talented and proven business professionals. Give that same challenge to a group of high school students all attending exceptional schools, and the results are sure to impress. How could students in grades 9 – 12 create a start-up idea, product, or service from inception to implementation? One that would also impress a panel of judges made up of industry professionals? That’s what a group of educators seek to discover at the yearly Startups at Spring Competition.  

The competition is open to high school students attending a Spring Education Group school and focuses on a specific type of business start-up. This year’s theme was “Wellness in the Workplace” and it allowed the students to think outside of the box and present their ideas, first to their local school, and then one team from each school was selected and invited to attend a network-wide competition. Students then made the same presentation but, instead of it being in front of their peers and school administration, it was in front of industry professionals.  

The professionals judge the competition on the feasibility and profitability of each idea presented. Judges listened to see if the teams explained their business idea clearly, was it unique, and implemented the year’s theme. Beyond those basic judging expectations, they also sought to see if the team understood and addressed the financial challenges of starting a business, did they effectively present their market strategy, and could they answer confidently improvisational questions regarding their “pitch”.  

Ms. Jaymie Silva, BASIS Independent Schools Subject Expert Teacher and organizer of the competition said, “I was so impressed with the level of maturity in this year’s presentations. Our theme was wellness, and we had students speaking on subjects related to health, safety, and well-being at levels far beyond their teenage years. It really makes me hopeful that they will be able to bring some of these ideas to fruition in the future.” 

The top three teams are awarded prize money to be donated to a charity of their choice.  

Third Place: Team Wanderphyll
(awarded $2,000)

Team Members: Akhil G. (Grade 9) and Jacob L. (Grade 9) 

School: BASIS Independent Silicon Valley 

Startup: Wanderphyll: Explore the Wanderphyll World of Nature 

Selected Charity: World Wildlife Fund  

Pitch: Stress and laziness from schools and offices have caused people to stop going outside. People would rather spend their free time on their phones or watching TV.  Mental health issues like depression increase alongside with pressure and stress from work and constant screen time and lack of exercise. Going outside to nature restores people’s mental well-being and reduces depression and anxiety in most people. 

Wanderphyll is a mobile app that incentivizes going outdoors by turning it into a passive game. 

Team Take Away 
“The entire Startups at Spring experience has been a wonderful learning opportunity; allowing us to experience the full process of fleshing out an idea into a detailed framework for a startup. It was a fun experience and we enjoyed watching the other presentations and we’re glad that it was also able to make a positive impact in the form of a donation to a charity. Additionally, we’d like to thank the organizers, especially Ms. Silva, and the judges for making the whole competition possible.”

To view their entire presentation, click here.  

Second Place: Team SipSense
(awarded $3,000)

Team Members: Rishik P. (Grade 10) and Aarya V. (Grade 11) 

School: BASIS Independent McLean 

Startup: SipSense: Have a Sense of What You’re Sipping 

Selected Charity: US-India Solidarity Mission 

Pitch: 11 million women in the U.S. have been assaulted or worse as a result of involuntary consumption of drugs through drinks. More than 80% of women have reported an imminent need for safer pubs, bars, and restaurants.

The solution? A drug sensor system that is accurate, reuseable, discrete, and is connected to a multi-functional app.

Team Take Away 
“Developing our startup idea and building a prototype was a truly unique and inspiring journey. It expanded our vision of what’s possible—from further product development and manufacturing to real-world application. Throughout this competition, we discovered our ability to create innovative solutions that address genuine needs in modern society. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Wright and Mr. Biemesderfer for helping refine our pitch deck to its best possible version. Above all, this experience taught us that many of today’s societal challenges remain inadequately addressed, and there is a critical demand for creative, effective solutions.”

To view their entire presentation, click here. 

First Place: Team OurIBD
(awarded $5,000)

Team Members: Zoe A. (Grade 9) 

School: Laurel Springs 

Startup: Our IBD: AI Powered Gut Health Tracking – From Toilet to Data, Instantly 

Selected Charity: Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation 

Pitch: 10 million plus are diagnosed with inflammatory (IBD) globally. 80% struggle with tracking symptoms accurately and current solutions are invasive, expensive, and unreliable. Patients are forced to guess, leading to frequent ER visits and worsening health.  

The solution is an AI-powered, non-invasive stool monitoring device.   

Team Take Away 
“Winning 1st place at the Startups at Spring Competition isn’t just an award—it’s validation that an idea born from my own struggles has the power to help others. I started OurIBD because I knew firsthand how frustrating and exhausting it is to manage IBD with delayed test results, invasive procedures, and unreliable tracking methods. What began as a personal project—a way to automate symptom tracking and detect inflammation through AI—has grown into something real, impactful, and now, recognized.

Pitching my startup, seeing industry leaders believe in what I’m building was a moment I’ll never forget. It reinforced that this isn’t just a personal solution—it’s something that can truly change lives. I’m incredibly honored, not just for the recognition, but for the chance to take this further, refine my prototype, and push toward making this available to real patients. And to give back, I’m honored to be donating my $5,000 prize to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation—an organization that has supported my family and I since diagnosis, and helps millions of others just like myself.”

To view their entire presentation, click here. 

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Expert Judging Panel

Mr. John Forte is the CEO and President of VT-ARC, responsible for guiding strategic growth in applied research and development with the intent of strengthening national security, driving societal impact, and improving the human condition. In this capacity he also oversees 5 Innovation Centers for the Air and Space Force, drawing together government, industry and academia to advance research and accelerate innovation. 

Prior to VT-ARC, Mr. Forte served as one of the US Air and Space Force’s 5 science and technology executives (EPAs), responsible for advising the command, control, communications and networking needs of the warfighter and the Department of Defense. He was charged with creating forward leaning and innovative ecosystems focusing upon the toughest challenges across multiple operating domains. During this time Mr. Forte also served as an advisor on the Defense Science Board for critical infrastructure resilience. 

Mr. Forte served nearly 10 years as a senior leader within the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL). His culminating assignment was as the Executive for the Homeland Protection Mission Area, directing the development and implementation of technologies and solutions to protect the United States against a variety of asymmetric threats. While at JHU, he founded and served as the Interim Director of JHU’s Institute for Assured Autonomy, a center of excellence charged with driving safety, security, and reliability into the future autonomous world. 

Mr. Forte served in numerous senior leadership positions within the public and private sectors, including the Morgan Franklin Corporation, MITRE, and as the Chief Scientist for the White House Communications Agency. He also served as a communications officer in the US Army, assigned to multiple airborne and special operations units and deploying in support of operations in Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq. 

Mr. Forte earned a BSEE from the University of Tulsa and an MSEE from George Washington University with a focus in Communications and Networks. He also completed Executive Programs at the Harvard Kennedy School on Cybersecurity: The Intersection of Policy and Technology; as well as on National and International Security. 

Mr. Amrit Saxena is the Founder & CEO of SaxeCap, an AI transformation and private equity investment firm, that conducts AI-levered buyouts and transforms enterprises with AI & automation technology.  Additionally, he has successfully founded & sold two AI companies (Stella.ai, Fancy That) and is an active angel investor in data, AI, and enterprise software companies in the Silicon Valley, investing in 300+ early stage technology companies (including being an early investor in companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, Figure, Perplexity, SpaceX, Palantir, etc.).  

Prior to SaxeCap, Amrit founded and scaled Stella, a talent sourcing AI company, to over 150 large enterprise clients (including 10% of the Fortune 500), leading technology (data science, product, engineering, etc.) and operations (pre-sales, client integrations, etc.). Stella was sold to Cornell Capital and Trilantic Capital Partners in a $1B+ private equity transaction in 2021. Additionally, Amrit founded, scaled, and sold Fancy That, a retail AI company, to Palantir (NYSE: PLTR) in 2015.  Between his two AI startups, Amrit has experience buying a company, selling two companies, and scaling teams from 0 to 50+ people. Amrit previously worked at Bain & Company, Groupon, AmEx, and e2e Analytics and taught and researched AI at Stanford & MIT.

He received his B.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence and M.S. in Management Science & Engineering with a concentration in Operations Research, both from Stanford University with Distinction. Additionally, he has garnered numerous accolades, including being awarded 7 U.S. patents (relating to AI and optimization), a three time finalist in the United States of America Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO), winner of the American Mathematics Competition (AMC), finalist in the United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO), Congressional Award Gold Medalist, Research Science Institute (RSI) Scholar, American Regions Math League (ARML) winner, and was selected for the President’s Award for Academic Excellence and the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honors Society while at Stanford. 

Mr. Ken Snyder serves as the Executive Director of the Shingo Institute and as a Senior Lecturer in the department of Marketing, Strategy, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship (MSLE) of the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. He has regularly taught the business planning course in the Entrepreneurship program. 

Mr. Snyder earned an MBA from the Harvard Graduate School of Business in 1980 with an emphasis in international business. Immediately after graduation, Mr. Snyder joined a Japanese electronics manufacturing company and led the startup of its U.S. affiliate company as plant manager, CFO, and later president of that company. 

Mr. Snyder then raised money to launch a venture startup company which ultimately was unsuccessful. Mr. Snyder then led a corporate-backed startup company, Progressive Impressions International (PII) in Bloomington, Illinois. Following this successful startup, Mr. Snyder then led a corporate venture capital fund within Taylor Corporation. 

Before joining the Huntsman School, Mr. Snyder was president of Marketing Communication Inc., an operating division of Taylor Corporation, where he directed a group of six companies while growing revenues from $25 million to over $80 million. He joined the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business in 2008. 

Parent Education Series: Design Your Student’s Middle and High School Experience for College Success

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Parents of middle and high school students, set your child up for college success!

Join BASIS Independent Schools for a free virtual event, “Design Your Student’s Middle and High School Experience for College Success” on Saturday, February 1, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM PST. Gain valuable insights and strategies to help your family navigate the path to college readiness.

“There is an abundance of information available about college counseling and readiness, but how do you make sense of it all,” expressed Vice President of BASIS Independent Schools, Mr. Toby Walker. “This Parent Education Event is a unique opportunity to hear from experts, get your questions answered, and gain valuable insights to guide your journey.”

Expert Panelists:

Tim Pratt, Director of College Advisory, Spring Education Group

Mr. Pratt, with 35 years of experience in education, joined Spring Education Group as the inaugural Director of College Advisory. He leads efforts to enhance college counseling across the network, including promoting Spring schools to colleges, recruiting and training counselors, supporting schools in evolving their programs, and establishing college counseling offices at new high schools. Previously, Mr. Pratt served as Dean of College Advising at St. Paul’s School in New Hampshire, where he also led strategic initiatives. He has conducted college counseling audits for independent schools, served on advisory boards for prestigious universities, and was a trustee for School Year Abroad.

Che Angkham, College Counselor, BASIS Independent Schools

Ms. Angkham earned a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from San José State University, where she supported underrepresented communities through peer health education and AmeriCorps’ Cal-SOAP program. After nearly a decade as a classroom instructor, she joined BASIS Independent Schools, excelling in roles such as English Teacher, Dean of Students, College Counselor, and Associate Head of School. Now based in the Pacific Northwest, she is excited to focus on college counseling and contribute to the growth of BASIS Independent Schools’ high school programs.

Moderator:

Toby Walker, Vice President, BASIS Independent Schools

Mr. Walker brings extensive international experience and a passion for education to his leadership role, guiding a network renowned for academic excellence. Originally from rural England, he holds a degree in Politics from the University of Sussex and began his career in education and public policy research. Mr. Walker’s journey with BASIS Independent Schools started as an AP humanities teacher at BASIS Scottsdale before advancing to Director of Student Affairs and Head of School at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, where he led the school to new heights during his five-year tenure. He later served as the founding Head of School for BASIS Independent Online, overseeing its successful launch and development. A board member for BASIS International School Bangkok, he continues to champion global education initiatives, ensuring the network remains a leader in delivering world-class academic programs.

Parent participants will learn the following:

  • Discover the latest college trends and gain expert advice on navigating the ever-changing admissions landscape. 
  • Learn how to maximize the impact of extracurricular activities by focusing on depth versus breadth.
  • Find out how thoughtful class scheduling can pave the way for long-term academic success.
  • Explore strategies to build essential skills like time management and executive functioning.
  • Gain practical tips for SAT/ACT preparation and learn the true value of Advanced Placement© (AP©) and International Baccalaureate© (IB©) exams in the college admissions process.
  • Plus, get insider advice on selecting the right middle or high school to align with your family’s college goals.

Grab your favorite coffee or tea and your top questions! Join us as our college counseling experts guide families through the middle and high school years, helping you prepare for college admissions.

Design Your Student’s Middle and High School Experience for College Success

Saturday, February 1, 2025

9:00 AM to 10:00 AM PST

EVENT REGISTRATION (ZOOM)

Join our Interest List to receive exclusive Admissions updates! Sign up here. 

Join Us for Fall Open House!

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The Admissions Team at BASIS Independent Bellevue is delighted to share that our annual Open House is coming soon!  

This event will be an opportunity to learn about our internationally benchmarked advanced curriculum, hear directly from our Subject Expert Teachers about their impressive classroom techniques, and meet current parents and students. All of our staff and faculty will be on campus to demonstrate what makes BASIS Independent Bellevue an exceptional school community. 

We invite you to join us on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Click here to register! 

Open House Schedule 

Doors will open at 9:30 AM and we encourage families to arrive as close to this time as possible. The event will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. We will be providing refreshments during this time, and our Student Ambassadors and Class Parents will be circulating to answer questions and discuss their experience with our program.  

This will be a structured event with specific demonstrations and offerings tailored to the grade levels of interested families. Programs will begin at 10:00 AM and will continue until 12:00 PM. Families should expect to stay for the duration of the event, though it is not required. Please keep in mind there will be no re-entry. 

Structured Programs 

Open House at BASIS Independent Bellevue is tailored to highlight the unique offerings of our program at all grade levels. Families may choose to attend the one grade level group they are most interested in applying for, though it is important to note that each group will be showing off a variety of our offerings across all departments.  

Please see below for what to expect regarding our Open House Programs. 

Grade 3 – 4  

  1. Mini Information Session with our Admissions Team and Head of School, Dr. Elizabeth Thies 
  1. Demonstration lesson of our Subject Expert/Learning Expert Teacher Model 
  1. Demonstrations lessons in core academic subjects such as Math/Science and History 
  1. Presentations from our Specials teachers, including Engineering and Mandarin 
  1. And more! 

Grade 5 – 7 

  1. Mini Information Session with our Admissions Team and Head of School, Dr. Elizabeth Thies 
  1. Teacher Panel with core Subject Expert Teachers who will discuss our Middle School Curriculum 
  1. Demonstration lessons in core academic subjects such as Science and English 
  1. Presentations from our Elective and World Language teachers  
  1. And more! 

Grade 8 – 9 

  1. Mini Information Session with our Admissions Team and Head of School, Dr. Elizabeth Thies 
  1. Teacher Panel with core Subject Expert Teachers who will discuss our High School Curriculum 
  1. Presentation from our College Counselor who will discuss how we set students up for success beyond high school 
  1. Demonstration lessons in core academic subjects such as Math and English 
  1. Presentations from our Elective and World Language teachers  
  1. And more! 

See You There! 

Don’t miss this exciting chance to see BASIS Independent Bellevue in action. We hope you will consider joining us and getting to know our Mountaineer community. 

Click here to register for Open House! 

Warm Regards,

Jessica Grear

Director of Admissions | BASIS Independent Bellevue

blv.admissions@basisindependent.com

Hello Autumn – Join Us For An Open House!

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Autumn days are here again! Hints of fall are starting to peek out from around the corner here in Brooklyn. I grew up in New Hampshire, and fall has always been my favorite time of year – cool breezes, apple picking, Halloween decorations, and auburn leaves all appearing once again.  
 
The other special part of the fall is that school admissions events are in full swing. This means one thing for BASIS Independent Brooklyn – our Fall Open Houses! Fall Open Houses are considered the greatest way for your family to get to know our BASIS Independent Brooklyn community, making them some of the best events of our year. 

Please join us in-person at one of our Open Houses on Saturday, October 19 (PreK-Grade 2) or Saturday, October 26 (Grades 3-12). Click here to register!
 

General Open House Structure: 
For both Open Houses, doors will open at 9:40 AM, and the event will last approximately until 12:00 PM. We welcome you to register and attend even if you are not able to participate in the entire event. Students are encouraged to join us, as well. 

Open Houses begin with an Introduction and an Open House Overview. They include a Parent Panel where you will be able to hear from current BASIS Independent Brooklyn families. Families will also be able to tour the campus while visiting classrooms. 

Please review the details below for additional information regarding the structure of each Open House: 

PREK–Grade 2: Saturday, October 19 at 10:00 AM 

PreK & Kindergarten  
Saturday, October 19  
Learn about our Early Learning Program, where our youngest students grow. Hear from teachers, administrators, and parents about how BASIS Independent Brooklyn Lower School fosters curiosity, exploration, and creativity. Our passionate Subject Expert Teachers will show you what a day in the life looks like as they lead mini-lessons in their vibrant rooms. 
 
Grades 1-2: 
Saturday, October 19 
Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers to learn about our unique two-teacher model. From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, music and more, find out how we support students in developing study skills and spark a lifelong love of learning. Our Subject Expert Teachers will lead mini-lessons to help you get a feel for the engaging activities that take place in the classrooms. These sessions will also help you understand the transition to our Upper School campus in Grade 3.  

Parent and Student Panel 

Our Lower School Open House will conclude with a Q&A panel that consists of BASIS Independent Brooklyn parents and school leadership.   

Activities and Refreshments 

A Fun Zone will be hosted in one of our classrooms. You are welcome to bring your student(s) and have them play with our team and their peers while you explore our school. We will have light refreshments for the whole family at the Open House. After the Open House, we invite you to enjoy our Back to School Bash alongside our whole school community. There will be food trucks, face painting, a magician, games, and other treats!  

GRADES 3-12: Saturday, October 26 at 10:00 AM 

The Primary Program: Grades 3-5 
Saturday, October 26 
Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers to learn about our unique two-teacher model (for grades 3 & 4). From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, music and more, find out how we support students in developing study skills and spark a lifelong love of learning. You will also have the chance to learn about how these bridge years encourage autonomy, creativity, and confidence to help prepare your student for Middle School.  

The Middle School Program: Grades 6-8  
Saturday, October 26 
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 inside and outside of the classroom. Plus, learn about our many athletic and academic competition teams, clubs, international trips, and more. 
 
The High School Program: Grades 9-12
Saturday, October 26 
Educating tomorrow’s great innovators, pioneers, and leaders requires a well-rounded curriculum – one with breadth and depth across academic disciplines. Meet students, faculty, and administrators as you and your child learn about high school at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, including our unique Senior Year program. 

Parent and Student Panel 

Our Upper School Open House will conclude with a Q&A panel that consists of BASIS Independent Brooklyn parents, students, and school leadership.   

Refreshments 

We will have light refreshments for the whole family at the Open House. After the Open House, we invite you to stop by our Primary School Fall Harvest Festival alongside our Grades 3-5 students and families.

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Don’t miss this interactive experience! Click here to register for our Fall Open Houses. As you get ready for the fall season, we hope you choose to spend some of your time with us, getting to know our wonderful community.  

I look forward to meeting you soon!

Warmly,
Ms. Thea LaCrosse
Director of Admissions | BASIS Independent Brooklyn
thea.lacrosse@basisindependent.com

Wildcat World Fest: Celebrating Our School’s Culture and Community

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Our recent World Fest was an unparalleled success, and we can hardly wait to take you through the highlights of this unforgettable event. Wildcat families led this galvanizing celebration, showcasing the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and heritages of our community through food, performances, and activities.

A Feast for the Senses
World Fest’s crowning component and main attraction was a bountiful buffet of foods from around the globe. 

In addition to the feast of flavors, our fabulous lunch partner Butter Beans hosted a sushi-making station.

Exploring the World Through Culture

But the fun didn’t stop with food! Attendees were treated to interactive experiences like Masala Bhangra dance lessons, a bindis and bangles table, and even workshops on Chinese calligraphy and paper cutting. Performances of Bharatanatyam (classical Indian dance) and piano playing highlighted the talent of our student body as well. All of these activities plus the display tables were a fantastic opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions in a hands-on way.

A Celebration of Our Diverse Community

One of the most heartwarming aspects of World Fest was seeing the incredible diversity of our Wildcat community represented. We were thrilled to have families share their heritage from countries and regions including China, the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, France, Israel, Jamaica, Korea, Latvia, Lebanon, Mexico, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Russia, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vietnam, and more.

Building Bridges and Looking Forward

World Fest was more than just a fun event; it was a celebration of the rich tapestry that makes our school community so unique. Staff, students, and families came together to share their cultures, build bridges of understanding, and create lasting memories. The buzz is already building for next year’s World Fest! Our families are brimming with fantastic ideas to make this event even bigger and better. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this cherished tradition.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Wildcat Family Committee, every single family, student, and staff member who participated, and all the parents who worked tirelessly to bring back this amazing event for the first time since 2020. Your dedication, effort, and commitment to this event was impressive and highly appreciated!

Considering joining our Wildcat family? World Fest is just a glimpse of the vibrant and inclusive community we’ve fostered here. We invite you to explore our website, visit our school, or contact our Admissions team to learn more about what makes our school so special.

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. 

Celebrating Our Global Heritage: A Look at International Day

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International Day at our BASIS Independent Fremont Lower School is an inspiring and vibrant celebration attended by over 800 enthusiastic students, staff, and family members. This special event brought together our diverse community to honor and showcase the rich cultural tapestry of our world, featuring representations from 12 countries across every continent. From singing in a multitude of languages to sharing fascinating tales of global heroes, the day was a beautiful reflection of our commitment to valuing the arts, people, and diversity.

Valuing the Arts
The highlight of BASIS Independent Fremont Lower School’s International Day was the incredible artistic expression of our students. They took to the stage with captivating dramas, delving into the heart of different cultures and bringing their stories to life. Each performance was a journey into a new world, filled with unique customs and traditions. The melodies of over a dozen languages filled the air as students sang songs from their represented countries, creating a harmonious blend of global music. Our school’s corridors turned into an art gallery, displaying vibrant art pieces that represented each country’s essence. These creations were not just displays of talent but also of deep respect and understanding of the diverse cultures that make up our world.

Valuing Each Other
At the core of International Day is the celebration of people who have shaped the cultures of the world. Students embarked on a journey of discovery, learning about significant figures from their chosen countries. They created engaging projects, from biographies of historical heroes to tales of mythical beings, each telling a story of human achievement and imagination. These projects were shared with other students and parents, fostering a sense of connection and admiration for the people who have contributed to our global society.

Valuing Diversity
The essence of International Day is the celebration of diversity. It is a day when the vastness and variety of the human experience are on full display. From cultural contributions and scientific accomplishments to the unique landscapes and languages of different regions, the event was a vivid reminder of the richness of our world. Music from different continents echoed throughout, and discussions about the diverse ways people live, think, and create fostered a deeper appreciation and understanding among our community.

International Day was more than just a day of celebration; it was a meaningful exploration of the world’s cultures, a testament to our school’s commitment to multicultural understanding and respect. As we move forward, the memories and lessons from this day will continue to inspire us to embrace and celebrate the diversity that makes our world so wonderfully complex.

We look forward to each year’s International Day, where we will once again come together to celebrate our global heritage and the unifying beauty of our diverse world.

Learn more about student life at BASIS Independent Fremont here.

BASIS Independent Fremont is a grades TK-12 private school based in Fremont, California, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum.

Spellbinding Fun at BASIS Independent Fremont’s TK/K Fall Social!

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This month, BASIS Independent Fremont’s youngest learners eagerly anticipated one of their first social events of the school year — the annual TK/K Fall Social. Student socials, sprinkled throughout the academic calendar, provide invaluable opportunities for young minds to extend their connections beyond the classroom, forge new friendships, practice essential emotional-social skills, and engage in a variety of fun activities. This year’s TK/K Fall Social, held on Friday the 13th of October, took on a thrilling Halloween theme. The scary and silly festivities promised an extra dose of fun, creating lasting memories for these budding scholars. Let’s delve into the delightful details of this year’s affair!

Adorable Costumes Galore!

Our little Bumblebees truly stole the show, demonstrating their ghostly or glamorous spirit through an array of costumes! From friendly ghosts to daring superheroes and whimsical witches, each child’s creativity shone brightly. We couldn’t help but “ooh” and “ahh” when our tiny Bumblebees transformed into characters from their wildest imaginations! 

Pumpkin Painting Extravaganza!

The enchantment continued with a Pumpkin Painting Extravaganza! Our little artists dived into an evening of creativity, transforming ordinary pumpkins into magical works of art. Witness the joy on their faces as they brought their pumpkin masterpieces to life! 

Trick-or-Treat Design Delight!

Glittery rhinestones, feathers, bold colors, or a spooky nightscape—what’s your trick-or-treat style? Our Bumblebees explored their artistic side by decorating bags to carry sweet treats on Halloween night. The room buzzed with excitement as imaginations ran wild, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations. Feast your eyes on this dazzling display of trick-or-treat bag artistry!

Monster Mash Dance Party!

The night took a lively turn as our little Bumblebees danced the night away at the Monster Mash! Laughter filled the air as they grooved to silly tunes and played delightful games with their friends. The joy of pure, carefree fun radiated from every corner of the room. 

Unwinding with Art

After all the dancing excitement, it was time to settle down for some coloring and arts and crafts. Tiny hands worked diligently to create mini-masterpieces, marking the perfect end to a magical evening. Here’s a heartwarming glimpse into the serene world of creativity our little Bumblebees explored! 

The TK/K Fall Social marked an enchanting Friday the 13th, for our littlest Bumblebees, serving as one of their earliest and most cherished memories of playful bonding with friends beyond the classroom walls. This delightful first is just the inaugural chapter in a series of moments that will shape their journey at BASIS Independent Fremont. From here on, memories filled with joy, creativity, and a strong sense of community spirit await our Bumblebees as they navigate the exciting path of their educational adventure. This Fall Social was not just an event; it was a precursor to the wonderful experiences that will unfold during their time at our school.

Learn more about BASIS Independent Fremont’s Early Learning Program here. 

BASIS Independent Fremont is a grades TK-12 private school based in Fremont, California, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum.

Unleashing the Spirit of Sport

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This year marked the inaugural year of the Bumblebee Games, BASIS Independent Fremont’s new annual sports day. This eagerly anticipated event saw students come together to showcase their athletic abilities, team spirit, and, most importantly, to have fun! A sports-focused day holds a special place, igniting the competitive fire in young hearts. It’s a day filled with joy, teamwork, and valuable life lessons that will leave a lasting impact on these budding athletes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the excitement and benefits of The Bumblebee Games!

Healthy competition thrives where sportsmanship takes center stage. Teaching students about fair play, respect, and the importance of embracing both victory and defeat is vital. Through a range of sports activities like relay races, soccer matches, tug-of-war, and obstacle courses, children learn to collaborate, communicate, and support each other. This inclusive atmosphere fosters a sense of camaraderie among students, regardless of their skill levels, emphasizing that participation and effort are where victory is born.

Engaging in sports activities during sports day not only promotes physical fitness but also encourages students to lead active lifestyles. It presents an opportunity for children to discover their athletic interests, try new sports, and develop their coordination and motor skills. Through friendly competition, they can better understand the value of regular exercise, teamwork, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. The Bumblebee Games act as a catalyst, inspiring young minds to pursue sports beyond the event and embrace physical activity as an integral part of their lives.

Participating in a sports-focused sports day helps children build confidence and self-esteem. As they navigate various challenges and triumphs, they experience personal growth. From overcoming individual obstacles in an obstacle course to supporting teammates in relay races, every success fuels their belief in themselves. The cheers and applause from peers and teachers uplift their spirits, instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment. This newfound confidence transcends the sports day, empowering students in their academic pursuits and personal lives.

Above all, a sports-focused sports day creates lasting memories that students will cherish for years to come. The excitement, laughter, and sense of accomplishment become shared experiences that bind classmates together. Whether it’s the joy of crossing the finish line, the pride of scoring a goal, or the support and encouragement exchanged among teammates, these moments become a part of their elementary school journey. These memories not only foster a sense of belonging but also ignite a lifelong love for sports and camaraderie.