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Choosing a School That Develops Fearless, Independent Thinkers

August 19, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

When families begin their school search, one question often rises above all others:

How do I know if a school is the right fit for my child?

With so many options available, it can be tempting to compare schools based on rankings, facilities, or convenience alone. While those factors may play a role in your decision, the most important considerations often go deeper.

The right school should challenge students academically, nurture their confidence, and prepare them to navigate an increasingly complex world with curiosity, integrity, and independence.

As you begin evaluating independent schools, here are five qualities worth looking for.

1. A Curriculum Designed for Long-Term Success

A strong education is more than a collection of individual courses. The best schools intentionally build knowledge and skills year after year, helping students develop both depth of understanding and confidence in their abilities.

When researching schools, consider asking:

How does the curriculum evolve as students grow?
Are students encouraged to think critically and solve complex problems?
Does learning build progressively from one grade level to the next?

Students benefit most from an educational experience that develops strong foundations while continually challenging them to reach new levels of achievement.

2. Teachers Who Inspire Curiosity

Exceptional teachers do more than deliver lessons. They spark questions, encourage exploration, and help students discover a genuine love of learning.

As you tour schools and attend admissions events, pay attention to the people who will guide your child’s educational journey.

Ask yourself:

Do teachers demonstrate expertise in their subjects?
Are students actively engaged in classroom discussions?
Do educators encourage independent thinking?

The most memorable teachers often inspire students to see learning not as a requirement, but as an opportunity.

3. Opportunities for Students to Build Independence

One of the most valuable outcomes of a great education is confidence.

Students should gradually develop the ability to take ownership of their learning, manage responsibilities, advocate for themselves, and approach challenges with resilience.

Look for schools that encourage students to:

Ask thoughtful questions
Pursue their interests
Take initiative in projects and activities
Develop strong organizational and problem-solving skills

These habits help students become self-directed learners who are prepared for future academic and personal success.

4. A Community Where Families Feel They Belong

Academic excellence and a supportive culture should go hand in hand.

The best school communities create an environment where students feel known, valued, and encouraged to be themselves. Families should also feel welcomed as important partners in their children’s educational experience.

As you visit schools, consider:

How are prospective families welcomed?
Do students appear engaged and happy?
Is the culture warm, respectful, and inclusive?

A strong community creates the foundation that allows students to take risks, develop confidence, and thrive.

5. A Commitment to Character and Global Citizenship

Success is about more than academic achievement.

Today’s students need opportunities to develop integrity, empathy, and an understanding of the broader world around them. Schools play an important role in helping students become thoughtful individuals who contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Look for programs and experiences that encourage students to:

Demonstrate leadership
Build strong character
Respect diverse perspectives
Engage with global issues
Serve others with purpose and compassion

These experiences help prepare students not only for college, but for life.

What Sets BASIS Independent Bothell Apart?

At BASIS Independent Bothell, these qualities are woven into every aspect of the student experience.

Our mission is to develop fearless, independent thinkers with the confidence to explore, question, and shape the world. Through a challenging, thoughtfully designed curriculum, expert teachers passionate about their fields, opportunities for growing independence, and a warm, welcoming community, students are empowered to reach their full potential.

We believe an exceptional education should inspire students to meet challenges with curiosity, confidence, integrity, and joy while preparing them for success in college and beyond.

Experience BASIS Independent Bothell for Yourself

The best way to determine whether a school is the right fit is to experience it firsthand.

As you continue your school search, we invite you to attend an upcoming Information Session, schedule a campus tour, or connect with our Admissions Team to learn more about our programs and community. Fall 2027 admissions are now open, with information sessions and admissions events taking place throughout the school year.

Ready to learn more?

Register for an Information Session
Schedule a Campus Tour
Explore Fall 2027 Admissions
Connect with an Admissions Team Member

Visit Our School

Fall 2027 applications are now open at BASIS Independent McLean!

August 12, 2026 by aixuanwang Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent McLean, we believe students are capable of more than they can imagine. Our advanced, thoughtfully designed PreK–12 education inspires students to think independently, embrace challenge, and find joy in learning. With expert teachers, a globally recognized, spiraled curriculum, and a warm, welcoming community, students develop the knowledge, confidence, and independence to become fearless thinkers prepared to explore, question, and shape the world.

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision. Understanding the admissions process should be the easy part.

Whether your family is just beginning to explore BASIS Independent McLean or already taking the next step and applying, our Admissions Team is here to guide you along the way. We are now accepting applications for the 2027-28 school year for families considering Age 2 through Grade 10. Below is your roadmap to fall 2027 admissions.

Step 1: Explore — Visit with Us

The best way to begin your admissions journey is to experience BASIS Independent McLean for yourself.

Our Admissions Team has created a variety of virtual and in-person opportunities for families to learn more about our school. From Information Sessions and campus tours to Open Houses and Shadow Days, each experience offers a different way to explore our thoughtfully designed curriculum, meet members of our community, and discover what makes BASIS Independent McLean unique.

To explore all visit options and find the experience that is right for your family, visit the Admissions Events section of our website.

View and Register for Upcoming Admissions Events

Upcoming Events

Virtual Information Session — Thursday, September 3 at 12:00 PM | Age 2–Grade 4
Virtual Information Session — Friday, September 4 at 12:00 PM | Grades 5–12
In-Person Fall Open House — Saturday, October 24 at 10:00 AM | Age 2–Grade 12

Save the date! Registration for our Fall Open House will be available soon.

Step 2: Apply — Submit Your Online Application

Once you are ready to take the next step, begin your fall 2027 application through our online application portal, Ravenna.

The initial application collects basic information about your student and family. Depending on the grade to which your child is applying, additional questionnaires or materials may also be required.

Once the application is submitted, your admissions journey officially begins! Your Ravenna dashboard will help you keep track of the remaining requirements and important next steps.

Start Your Fall 2027 Application Today

Please note: The remaining application steps may be completed in any order but must be finished by the applicable completion deadline.

Step 3: Complete — Submit Supporting Materials

Depending on the grade level, your child’s application may require teacher recommendations and school records.

Teacher Recommendations

For applicable grades, families will delegate recommendation forms through the application portal to their child’s current teacher(s). Recommendations must be submitted directly by the teacher to the Admissions Office and cannot be submitted by parents or guardians.

Transcripts and School Records

Families applying to applicable grades will also request school records through the application portal. Current and, when required, previous schools should submit these records directly to our Admissions Office.

We understand that younger applicants, especially for families applying to our Early Learning Program, may not have the same formal academic records as older students. Our Admissions Team is always happy to help families understand the specific requirements for their child’s grade level.

Step 4: Get to Know Your Student — Student Evaluation

The student evaluation is an opportunity for us to get to know your child beyond the information included in the application.

The evaluation format varies by grade level. Younger applicants may participate in an age-appropriate, in-person Play Date experience, while older applicants complete the required admissions assessment, including the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) or the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test).

These experiences help us learn more about each applicant and their readiness for the academic and classroom experience at BASIS Independent McLean.

Specific evaluation requirements and scheduling information will be available through your application portal.

Step 5: Connect — Family Meeting

The Family Meeting is one of the most personal parts of our admissions process.

At least one parent or guardian attends along with the applicant. During the conversation, we want to learn more about your child’s interests, experiences, and approach to learning, as well as what your family is looking for in a school community.

It is also an opportunity for you to get to know us. We welcome your questions and want families to leave the conversation with an even clearer understanding of our program and community.

For families applying for more than one child, only one Family Meeting is required. Meetings may be conducted virtually or in person on campus.

Fall 2027 Admissions Timeline

We have two admission cycles: Early Admissions and Regular Admissions. The applications for both cycles are now open, and the requirements for both cycles are the same. The main differences are the application deadlines and notification and response timelines. If you know that BASIS Independent McLean is your top choice, we encourage you to apply during Early Admissions to secure your child’s place as quickly as possible.

Early Admissions

Deadline to Submit an Application: Sunday, November 15, 2026
Application Completion Deadline: Tuesday, December 1, 2026
Decision Notification Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2026
Commitment Deadline: Friday, January 8, 2027

Regular Admissions

Deadline to Submit an Application: Friday, January 29, 2027
Application Completion Deadline: Thursday, February 11, 2027
Decision Notification Date: Friday, February 26, 2027
Commitment Deadline: Monday, March 15, 2027

We encourage families to begin the process early so there is plenty of time to explore our school, attend an event, ask questions, and complete each part of the application.

Your Journey Starts with a Visit

At BASIS Independent McLean, admissions is more than completing a checklist. It is an opportunity for your family and our school to get to know one another.

Our Admissions Team is committed to making that experience clear, welcoming, and personal. Whether you are wondering which event is right for your family, have a question about an application requirement, or simply want to learn more about life at BASIS Independent McLean, we are here to help.

We believe students are capable of more than they can imagine. We invite you to visit our campus, meet our community, and discover what your child’s educational journey could look like at BASIS Independent McLean.

Start Your Fall 2027 Application

Explore Upcoming Admissions Events

Questions? Contact the BASIS Independent McLean Admissions Team at BIM.Admissions@basisindependent.com or 703.854.1253.

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.

Fall 2027 Applications Are Now Open at BASIS Independent Bothell

August 1, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Applications for Fall 2027 are now open at BASIS Independent Bothell

At BASIS Independent Bothell, we believe students are capable of more than they can imagine and that the most powerful education inspires them to think for themselves. Through our distinctive curriculum, expert teachers, and warm, welcoming community, students grow into fearless, independent thinkers prepared to explore, question, and contribute with purpose.

We are excited to welcome applicants for Fall 2027 across our Early Learning, Primary, Middle School, and High School programs. We encourage interested families to begin the application process early and attend one of our upcoming admissions events to learn more about the opportunities available to students at BASIS Independent Bothell.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is watching students discover confidence in themselves and excitement for learning. As both the Director of Admissions and a BASIS Independent Bothell parent whose child will be entering Kindergarten this fall, I am especially excited to welcome new families and help them explore whether our school is the right fit for their child’s educational journey.
– Abisoye Taylor, Director of Admissions

An Education Designed for More

Families choose BASIS Independent Bothell because they want an education that challenges students academically while helping them build resilience, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Our globally informed curriculum encourages students to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and engage deeply with their studies. Supported by expert teachers who serve as both instructors and mentors, students develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in school and beyond.

Developing Independent Thinkers

From their earliest years through high school, students are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning.

It may begin with a Kindergarten student proudly sharing a new discovery, a middle school student tackling a complex challenge, or a high school student presenting original research. Along the way, students develop confidence in their abilities, take ownership of their learning, and discover what they are capable of achieving.

Within our supportive community, students are challenged to grow academically while developing character, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

Experience BASIS Independent Bothell for Yourself

The best way to understand our community is to experience it firsthand.

We invite prospective families to attend an upcoming admissions event, visit our campus, meet our faculty and leadership team, and learn more about how BASIS Independent Bothell helps students become confident learners and engaged members of their community.

Fall 2027 Applications Are Now Open!

We encourage families to begin their admissions journey today. Whether you choose to apply, attend an admissions event, or connect with our Admissions Team, we invite you to explore what makes BASIS Independent Bothell unique.

If you are seeking a private school in Bothell that combines academic excellence, expert teaching, and a supportive community, we encourage you to take the next step. We look forward to partnering with your family and helping your child develop the knowledge, character, and confidence to thrive.

Apply Now

Contact the Admissions Team

Your Guide to the Fall 2027 BASIS Independent Manhattan Admissions Process

July 31, 2026 by anjalijoshi Leave a Comment

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make.

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we welcome students who are curious, motivated, and excited to challenge themselves in a supportive academic community.

As one of New York City’s leading private schools, we look for students who are eager to learn, embrace new ideas, and contribute positively to our incredible school culture. Our classrooms foster intellectual curiosity, meaningful collaboration, and a genuine love of learning. Students thrive in an environment where academic excellence is balanced with creativity, character development, and opportunities to explore their passions.

Whether you are applying to private school for the first time or are already familiar with the independent school admissions process, our Admissions Team is here to guide your family every step of the way.

Grade 1 Engineering

Grade 6 Bridge Mandarin

Two Campuses Designed for Student Success

BASIS Independent Manhattan serves students from PreK through Grade 12 across two purpose-built campuses in NYC.

Lower School (PreK–Grade 5)
795 Columbus Avenue
New York, NY 10025

Upper School (Grades 6–12)
556 West 22nd Street
New York, NY 10011

Each campus is intentionally designed to meet the developmental needs of its students while providing access to exceptional academic programs, dedicated faculty, and engaging extracurricular opportunities.

795 Columbus Ave – Lower School

556 W 22nd St – Upper School

Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event

One of the best ways to discover whether BASIS Independent Manhattan is the right fit for your family is by attending an admissions event.

Throughout the admissions season, we offer opportunities to:

Tour our campuses
Meet members of our Admissions Team
Learn about our academic program and curriculum
Hear from school leaders, teachers, students, and current families
Ask questions about the admissions process

Attending an event provides valuable insight into daily life at BASIS Independent Manhattan before you begin your application.

Step 2: Submit Your Online Application

Applications open on August 1 and are submitted online through Ravenna. Review our Regular Admissions application process here to prepare you and your family for the application steps and requirements.

The application includes:

Basic family and student information
A non-refundable application fee
A Parent Questionnaire for families applying to PreK–Grade 1

Once your application has been submitted, you will gain access to your admissions checklist, where you can:

Request teacher recommendations
Request report cards or transcripts
Schedule your Family Meeting
Register your student for their required evaluation (Entrance Exam or Play Date)
Track the status of your application

After your application is submitted, you may complete the remaining admissions requirements in any order before the application completion deadline.

Apply Now

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations (PreK–Grade 10)

Teacher recommendations help us better understand each applicant as a learner and classroom community member.

PreK–Grade 1 applicants: One Early Learning Teacher Recommendation
Grades 2–10 applicants: One English Teacher Recommendation and one Math Teacher Recommendation

Recommendations must come directly from a student’s current teachers through the admissions portal.

Recommendations from former teachers or submitted by parents or guardians cannot be accepted.

Step 4: Submit School Records (Grades 1–10)

Applicants for Grades 1–10 are asked to submit current and recent academic records.

Families will request transcripts through the admissions portal, allowing the student’s current school to send:

Current-year progress reports or report cards
Academic records from the previous two school years

If a student has attended multiple schools during that time, records may be requested from each institution.

We understand that applicants entering grades 1 or 2 may not have formal transcripts from preschool or early childhood programs. In those cases, transcript requirements may be adjusted accordingly.

Step 5: Student Evaluation

Student evaluations help us better understand each applicant’s academic readiness and developmental stage.

Evaluation requirements vary by grade:

PreK–Grade 1: Play Date
Grades 2–10: Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) or Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT)

These evaluations allow our team to get to know students while assessing their readiness for our academic program.

Step 6: Family Meeting

The Family Meeting is an important part of our holistic admissions process.

At least one parent or guardian participates in every Family Meeting.

Students applying to PreK–Grade 1 are not required to attend.
Students applying to Grades 2–10 attend alongside their parent or guardian.
Families applying with multiple children only need one Family Meeting.

This conversation gives us the opportunity to learn more about your family’s educational goals, your student’s interests, and what you’re seeking in an independent school community.

Grade 9 Students

After You Complete Your Application

Once all required materials have been received—including recommendations, transcripts (where applicable), student evaluation results, and the Family Meeting—your application will be considered complete.

Applicants who complete all requirements by the published admissions deadlines will receive an admissions decision according to the schedule for their entry grade.

Because admissions dates may vary slightly from year to year, families should refer to the current admissions calendar for the most up-to-date deadlines, notification dates, and enrollment commitment dates.

We Are Here to Help

Applying to private school can feel overwhelming, but are here to help you navigate the process.

Our Admissions Team is committed to making the experience welcoming, transparent, and informative for every family. We encourage prospective parents and students to visit campus, attend an admissions event, and experience firsthand what makes BASIS Independent Manhattan unique.

If you have questions at any point during the admissions process, our team is happy to help.

We look forward to meeting your family and welcoming you to the BASIS Independent Manhattan community –

home of the Wildcats.

2027-28 Admissions: What to Expect

July 30, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Brooklyn, we believe that our students’ potential is more than they can imagine, and we are here to help them discover it! Through our advanced and thoughtfully designed curriculum, our students build the knowledge, confidence, and agency to grow into fearless thinkers prepared to shape the world.

On August 1, our 2027-28 school year application opens. For families new to the admissions process, we wanted to provide an overview of what to expect.

Teachers work closely with students across our program, particularly in high school

When applying, families will meet our Admissions team, who will guide them every step of the way. Our team members are a wonderful resource, eager to answer questions and share the many benefits of a BASIS Independent Brooklyn education.

BASIS Independent Brooklyn, a PreK–Grade 12 private school, has both a Lower and an Upper School campus, each thoughtfully designed with its students’ specific age group in mind.

Our Lower School campus in Downtown Brooklyn is home to all PreK-Grade 2 classes.

Our Upper School campus in Red Hook was custom-built as a school and serves all our students in Grades 3-12.

PreK–Grade 2: 405 Gold Street, Brooklyn, NY  11201
Grades 3–12: 556 Columbia Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Read below to learn more about the steps in our admissions process. 

Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event 

We strongly recommend prospective families attend one of our Admissions events to learn about our program and meet some of our staff, students, and family community members. Admissions events include our Campus Tours, Information Sessions, and Open Houses.

Families have found it helpful to attend an Admissions event before their Family Meeting so that they can utilize that appointment to ask questions specific to their child and family.

We host Admissions events for the Regular Admissions season from August to the first week of January.

To view and register for upcoming Admissions events, click here. 

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

Our application can be found on Ravenna. Families will submit an application by completing the Application Form, which covers basic information, and paying a non-refundable application fee. Families applying to PreK–Grade 1 will also need to complete a Parent Questionnaire. Once you submit the Application Form, application fee, and, if applicable, Parent Questionnaire, you will officially start the application process!

Families can keep track of their application progress using their Ravenna dashboard.

Please note: Steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 can be done in any order but must be completed after the application is submitted and before the deadline to complete an application.

Step 3: Teacher Recommendation(s) (PreK–Grade 10 Required)

Families applying for PreK–Grade 1 will have their child’s current teacher fill out the Early Learning Program Teacher Recommendation form. For Grades 2–10, your child’s current teacher(s) will fill out the English Teacher Recommendation and/or the Math Teacher Recommendation form.

You will be able to delegate our form(s) directly to your child’s current teacher(s). We do not accept recommendations from past teachers, nor do we accept recommendation forms or letters outside of our required form(s). All recommendations must be sent from the current teacher directly to the Admissions Office.

Step 4: Transcripts (Grades 1–10 Required)

For students applying to Grade 1, we require a progress report or report card from their current year and an end-of-year progress report or report card from their Kindergarten year. For students applying to Grades 2–10, we require a progress report/mid-term report or report card from their current year along with an end-of-year report card from their prior two years of school.

You will be able to delegate a Transcript Request form to the applicable school personnel in Ravenna. If your child has attended more than one school within the past three years, you may need to provide a Transcript Request form to any prior school(s).

All transcripts must be sent from the school directly to the Admissions Office 

Step 5: Student Evaluation (PreK–Grade 10 Required)

Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 will register for a Play Date in Ravenna. We offer Play Dates throughout the Admissions season. Students applying for Grades 2–10 will register for a Standardized Exam. We accept the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) and Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT).

We will host an ISEE session at our Upper School campus on Saturday, December 12, 2026. Once a family has submitted an application on Ravenna, they will have access to our ISEE event code and can register for our ISEE session on the E3ⁿ website. Families can submit ISEE scores from our session, any in-person session, or any online session through the E3ⁿ website.

BASIS Independent Brooklyn is not hosting any SSAT sessions. Families can submit these scores to us through the E3ⁿ website.

Step 6: Family Meeting (PreK–Grade 10 Required)

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend the Family Meeting. Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2–10 are required to attend. For families applying for multiple students, only one family meeting is required.

This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family and learn about your child’s strengths as a student and individual. It is also a time to get to know the parent(s)/guardian(s), learn about their interest in BASIS Independent Brooklyn, and hear about their family’s values.

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete! If you complete your application by the application completion deadline, you will receive an admissions decision on the notification day. See below for more details. 

Early Admissions (only for siblings of currently enrolled students)

A glimpse into an Engineering class in our Primary Program.

Early Admissions (siblings of currently enrolled students are eligible)

Deadline to submit an application: Friday, November 6, 2026
Deadline to complete an application: Monday, November 30, 2026
Notification date: Wednesday, December 9, 2026, by 5:00 PM EST
Commitment Deadline: Wednesday, December 16, 2026, by 12:00 PM EST

Regular Admissions (PreK–Grade 10)

Deadline to submit and complete an application: Friday, January 8, 2027

Notification date by grade: by 5:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, February 25, 2027
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 4, 2027
Grades 1–8: Wednesday, February 10, 2027
Grades 9–10: Friday, February 19, 2027

Commitment deadline by grade: by 12:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, March 4, 2027
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 11, 2027
Grades 1–8: Friday, February 26, 2027
Grades 9–10: Thursday, March 11, 2027

Our BASIS Independent Brooklyn Admissions team prioritizes a spirit of collaboration and accessibility to prospective families, demystifying the application process as much as possible. They work hard to ensure anyone interested in our program feels welcome, can tour the campuses, and meet our administration and faculty. To that end, parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to come to campus and see our school in action. We hope to see you at an upcoming event soon!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact our Admissions team at brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com.

Even as early as our Primary Program, science class is full of engaging labs.

Senior Spotlight: Aarya V. ’26’s Road to Stanford

July 30, 2026 by aixuanwang Leave a Comment

“I remember my first day, orientation day,” Aarya said at the start of our interview. “We did this building competition where we had to build a tower out of popsicle sticks and tape. And that was fun…

“cause I’m pretty competitive.”

Pretty competitive is something of an understatement.

When he started at BASIS Independent McLean in grade 9, Aarya says he “wanted to be the best academically, the best outside of school. I also wanted to have the most friends” (which, he pointed out with a wry chuckle, is not a great way to look at friendship). So he did everything.

“I signed up for like five APs and every club I could think of: Quiz Bowl, debate, Model UN. I started a news channel. I ran for house government. I also did karate after school for like four hours every day.” Two weeks in, Mr. Lentz sat him down, looked at his schedule, and asked him what he was thinking.

Aarya learned to cut back, but he still juggles so many activities that one wonders where he finds the time. And he’s still competitive. He wanted to get into every college he applied to – Harvard, Stanford, UNC, and UC Berkeley, on a Morehead-Cain scholarship – and he did. But he’s come a long way from the kid whose driving motivation was to be the best at everything.

The biggest change, he says, has been in terms of authenticity. Early on in high school, he felt like “there was a lot of splitting myself up into different personalities based on what fits best for that role. I think that trying to preserve the true Aarya has been a very big change.”

Aarya leading the House Event with fellow house leaders.

So who is the true Aarya?

He’s enthusiastic. In the last four years, he’s started an online tutoring business, done research at labs at Harvard and Stanford, worked for a nonprofit delivering prosthetics to developing nations, competed in the BASIS business competition, debated, TAed classes, taught karate, and done an internship at MITRE. And he’s done all of it with a smile on his face.

He’s curious. Mr. Ramsby noted that he often saw Aarya talking with teachers after class, digging deeper into whatever the topic of the day was. Dr. Hight remembers mentioning the Ship of Theseus to Aarya early in the fall of his senior year, which led to Aarya spending two weeks reading everything he could on the philosophy of identity and developing a mathematical formula to try to prove psychological unity.

His curiosity is perhaps best demonstrated, though, by his AP Research project. Aarya could have dug deeper into his research on the computer modeling of blood flow or delved more deeply into math or computer science. Instead, he explored a different passion: pizza. He did it in the most Aarya way possible: with a complex experimental procedure and sophisticated statistical analysis to determine the ideal technique for making official-quality Neapolitan pizza – which normally requires an 800-degree brick oven – in a conventional home oven.

Aarya says it taught him the importance of being passionate about your work. But he also learned that the biggest rewards don’t always come from the work itself or the article that it produces. “A byproduct of doing these pizza experiments,” he says, “was that I made so much pizza that I had a lot of moments when I invited friends over to my house to try it. It ended up being a lot of fun. And I bonded with my dad, too, because he also loves making pizza.”

Aarya presenting his Senior Project to his classmates in the school parking lot.

Those bonding moments reflect something else important about Aarya: he’s caring.

There’s a moment, he says, that he comes back to at least once every couple of weeks. He was in Trinidad, helping to distribute and fit prosthetics for kids who had never had them. His very first fitting was for a thirteen-year-old boy named Mario, who had never walked. While Aarya struggled to fit the prosthetic, he talked to Mario about how hard it was living in a wheelchair. It wasn’t just that Mario had missed out on sports and a host of other experiences. He said that being in a wheelchair – being lower than everyone else – meant he was routinely left out in everyday conversations.

Aarya remembers that when he finally got the prosthetic on, and Mario was able to stand, “his mom came to me, and she was crying, and she gave me a really big hug. I always come back to this moment to remind myself that everything I’m doing is for moments like this: to give people these experiences that will benefit their life for much longer than I’m in the world.”

Aarya (left) and Rishik P. ’27 (right) meeting with Indian Ambassador Harsh Vardhan (center) and presenting Jaipur Foot, their non-profit project in Trinidad.

That’s Aarya. He’s energetic, outgoing, curious, compassionate, and wise beyond his years. He says that from the start of high school he dreamed of getting into Stanford, but after he got in, “I was happy for maybe twenty-four hours before it faded.” Looking back, he says, he realizes that the things that really mattered are “the happy moments I had. It’s like the moment I had with Mario, the fun I had with my friends, the times chatting and laughing with teachers after class. That’s what I’m going to take away.”

After all the AP classes and lab work and internships, that’s the most important thing Aarya learned at BASIS Independent McLean. It’s not about winning. It’s about the journey.

We wish him all the best and many more happy moments as he continues that journey next fall at Stanford!

Class of 2026: Graduation Reflections

June 26, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

On June 16th, family, faculty, and students of BASIS Independent Brooklyn gathered together at the Palm House in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to celebrate the accomplishments of our Class of 2026. Our twenty-five graduates are now poised to continue their academic careers in top colleges and universities in both the U.S. and abroad.

During the ceremony, Co-valedictorians Gregory G. and Nate C. captured their time together as a class and inspired their fellow graduates to look ahead to all that is in store for them. We wanted to share their speeches with our community since their words reflected the joy, humor, and honor at the heart of the celebration.

Gregory S. ’26 Co-valedictorian
*Photo by Danny Dolan (www.dannydolan.com)*

Address by Class of 2026 Co-valedictorian Gregory S.

Hi everyone. I can’t believe our time in high school is coming to an end, so with that, I have some words to say.

There’s one question I get more than anything when people find out where I go to school. They say how is BASIS Independent Brooklyn? And my answer has always been the same: it’s small.

For a long time, I said that like it was a complaint. But now I realize it was a blessing and the best thing that ever happened to us.

It’s all about perspective.

When I got to BASIS, I noticed pretty quickly that a lot of things just didn’t exist yet. No club for this, no group for that. And at first, I thought that was a problem. But then I realized — that’s actually the opportunity.

Think about it. Amazon didn’t start because Jeff Bezos had everything handed to him. It started because there was no good way to buy books online, and he went and built it. Some of the greatest companies in the world exist because somebody looked at something that wasn’t there and decided to go build it themselves.

We did the same thing. If the East Asian Club didn’t exist, someone in this room would have built it. The Jewish Affinity Group, the Motorsport Engineering Club, and DECA — all started by people in this room. BASIS Independent Brooklyn, being small, meant the opportunity was wide open. We just had to be willing to step up and take it.

BASIS being small also meant there weren’t a lot of people in the class. You look around, you’ve got 25 kids in your grade, and you think: this is it? So, there were definitely some moments where we all felt like we were missing out. Brooklyn Tech has a thousand people in its class.

Meanwhile, we’ve got 25.

But those 25 people were in every single class with you. They were there stressing over the same deadlines, praying for the AP curve to save everyone’s grade, having fun in Spanish together, and chilling at lunch. You didn’t get a thousand acquaintances. You got a handful of people who actually know you.

I’ll take five people who know me completely over a hundred people who don’t know me at all. Every single time.

Before I close, I need to thank some people.

Mom, Dad — thank you. For everything. To my older brother —thank you for screaming at me when I needed it. To my younger brother — sorry for screaming at you. You probably needed it too.

To my teachers, thank you for all the care and effort you put into this school.

And to my class — you shaped me more than you know. I went through all of it with you, and I genuinely hope our paths keep crossing.

So, here’s what I actually want you to walk away with today. Not that BASIS is small. Not that we missed out on the massive homecoming. But that didn’t stop us from going out and being great. From building things, to showing up for each other, to becoming genuinely amazing people.

That’s perspective. Taking what you have, not using it as an excuse, and making something out of it anyway.

Don’t let the small stuff stop you. Don’t let what’s missing define you. Look at what’s in front of you and ask what you can build with it.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Go be great.

Nate C. ’26 Co-valedictorian
*Photo by Danny Dolan (www.dannydolan.com)*

Address by Class of 2026 Co-valedictorian Nate C.

Good morning, everyone. I want to thank everyone for attending this highly anticipated yet mandatory event. Whether you are excited to be here or one of the siblings who was dragged here against your will, I hope my words will resonate with you today.

Thank you to parents, teachers, administrators, family members, esteemed guests, average guests, and of course, the Class of 2026.

I am honored to serve as your co-valedictorian. So let me briefly introduce myself. People know me as Nate the Great, Nate Dogg, the old man, the guy who sleeps too much, the guy who doesn’t sleep enough, and, for a certain few teachers, the traitor who didn’t take their capstone course this year.

Regardless of how you know me, I want you to know that I entered BASIS [Independent Brooklyn] in 9th grade as someone who had never been in such a close-knit and supportive environment. I had never seen such dedicated teachers, flexible schedules, and clean restrooms in my life. To be honest, I was quite terrified and overwhelmed, but BASIS took me in without a second thought.

Of course, I wouldn’t have gotten here without the support of the people around me. As much as I hate to admit it, I wouldn’t be standing here without my family’s support. I specifically want to thank my parents for encouraging me to leave my room and be “more social”, my grandparents for bringing an absurd amount of food to increase my “brain power,” and my brother for keeping me up during late-night study sessions with his superb singing and guitar skills. I also want to thank my friends and classmates for putting up with my sarcasm and constant exhaustion.

We have all grown over the last four years at BASIS. We have all grown as readers, writers, mathematicians, scientists, and emerging scholars. While we have improved in many ways, we must acknowledge room for improvement, whether it’s only showing up late twice a week rather than four times or only falling asleep in class once rather than twice a day.

Throughout these past four years, we have truly gone through it all. We memorized countless literary devices, trig functions, the entire unit circle, the periodic table, and every major war between 1600 and 2000. And we couldn’t have done it without our supportive yet at times overly zealous teachers. Whether it was trying not to blow up the classroom during our chemistry labs, rewriting history in AP world, or channeling our inner acting talent during AP literature plays, our teachers supported and encouraged us.

Moving past academics, we have started so many clubs and greatly improved our local Red Hook community. I have honestly lost count of the number of awards we have earned over the years. We have become leaders and have shaped our school in just as many ways as it has shaped us.

Throughout our time together, we have created many fond yet, at times, embarrassing memories. From getting sunburnt and taking the wrong ferry to our high school retreat, to taking our local trash pickup too seriously by collecting an absurd amount of questionable items, we have done it all. I still remember stuffing my face with unknown delicacies during World Fest and being forced to take a photo with my four favorite teachers during Prom (you know who you are).

As we prepare for the next chapter ahead of us, we need to remember what we will be leaving behind. We will miss having a welcoming student lounge all to ourselves, accessible student hours, and of course, free food. These everyday moments, the ones we barely noticed at the time, are the ones we’ll miss the most. However, we will not be missing the numerous post-AP projects, college essays, or times the vending machine scammed us.

I also want to take the time to congratulate you all on your college acceptances. Whether you are attending your dream school or simply trying to get as far away from your parents as possible, I’m confident it will work out. We will carry the values BASIS instilled in us to college and beyond, including hard work, perseverance, and the courage to negotiate every and any assignment we find unfair.

I look into the crowd, and I see future doctors, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and many other successful professionals. I hope we all stay in touch in the future, whether as friends or as simply colleagues, we call for investment advice.

I’m sure you’re waiting for a cliche ending or overused quote, but we’re innovators here, so you’re going to have to keep on waiting forever. I also know many of you have been impatiently waiting at the finish line for the past three months now. Well, guess what, we’re all caught up now, so are you ready to graduate?

Thank you, Class of 2026, and good luck.

# # #

Thank you to Gregory, Nate, and our entire Class of 2026 for leaving their mark on our school community! We will be cheering you on these next few months during the transition to college, and remember, you will always have a home here.

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

State of the School 2026: A Thriving Community at BASIS Independent Bothell

June 15, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

A Transformational Year at BASIS Independent Bothell

The 2025–2026 school year marked a defining moment for BASIS Independent Bothell, as our campus continued its rapid evolution into one of the most dynamic private school communities in the region.

Just two years ago, this building represented possibility. Today, it is filled with energy, purpose, and connection; a place where students are known, challenged, and inspired every day.

That transformation has been guided by three core commitments: a culture of belonging, academic excellence, and meaningful partnership with families. These pillars define not only who we are, but why families choose BASIS Independent Bothell.

A School Where Students Truly Belong

At BASIS Independent Bothell, belonging is not just a value. It is an experience students feel every day.

In classrooms, students who began the year as strangers are now collaborating, performing, and supporting one another with growing confidence. Across campus, shared experiences from seasonal performances to schoolwide celebrations bring our community together in meaningful ways.

Just as important are the quieter moments of growth. With the support of dedicated teachers and student support staff, students are building resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. Whether through individualized support or peer connection, every student is learning that they have a place here.

Programs like cross-grade buddy initiatives and student recognition through the Outstanding Orca Program reinforce a culture where character, kindness, and perseverance matter.

The result is a school where students are not only learning but thriving socially, emotionally, and academically.

Academic Excellence That Inspires Growth

A hallmark of a BASIS Independent School’s education is the balance of rigor and joy. This year, that balance was on full display. Students engaged in hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that brought subjects to life:

Creative science projects that encourage curiosity and experimentation
Language learning that extends beyond the classroom into real-world application
Collaborative humanities projects that develop critical thinking
Data-driven exploration in math and computer science

This approach fosters not just strong academic outcomes, but a genuine love of learning.

Progress is also measured through nationally benchmarked assessments, including the Comprehensive Testing Program (CTP), which compares student performance against independent schools across the country.
This ensures that BASIS Independent Bothell students are meeting and often exceeding high academic standards.

Beyond the classroom, students continue to shine in competitions, earning recognition in areas like math and chess, demonstrating both skill and perseverance.

Equally important is the strength of our faculty. Through ongoing collaboration, mentorship, and professional development, our teachers continuously refine their craft creating classrooms where students feel both supported and challenged.

A True Partnership with Families

One of the most powerful drivers of our success is the partnership we share with families.

At BASIS Independent Bothell, education is a shared endeavor. Families actively engage in school life supporting programs, contributing to community events, and collaborating with faculty to enhance the student experience.

Signature events like WorldFest, which brought together more than 35 cultures and hundreds of attendees, highlight the strength, diversity, and connection within our community.

This partnership extends beyond events. Families consistently approach the school with a solutions-oriented mindset, helping us grow and improve together. In fact, the majority of new families discover our school through word-of-mouth referrals: a testament to the trust and satisfaction within our community.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for BASIS Independent Bothell

As we look toward the 2026–2027 school year, our focus remains clear: continuing to build a school where every student feels a sense of belonging, achieves at a high level, and is supported by a strong community.

We will continue strengthening student support systems and investing in social-emotional learning, ensuring every child feels confident, connected, and supported.

Students will benefit from continued growth in academic programming, extracurricular offerings, and opportunities to explore their interests both inside and outside the classroom.

We are committed to expanding opportunities for family engagement, reinforcing the collaborative partnerships that make our school so special.

Join the BASIS Independent Bothell Community

BASIS Independent Bothell is more than a private school. It is a place where students develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning within a supportive and ambitious community.

Ready to explore what’s possible for your child?

Schedule a campus tour
Connect with our admissions team
Learn more about our academic program

Start Your Admissions Journey Today!

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Accepted: BASIS Independent Fremont’s Class of 2026 College Results

June 11, 2026 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

We are delighted to share the college acceptances of BASIS Independent Fremont’s Class of 2026! Our seniors have earned offers from a remarkable and diverse array of institutions, spanning top universities across the United States and reaching prestigious schools in the United Kingdom and Europe. These outcomes reflect not only their academic excellence but also the curiosity, empathy, and character they brought to everything they did at BIF. We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate this milestone with them.

“The BASIS Independent Fremont Class of 2026 has grown from joyful, mischievous children into intellectually curious, empathetic, and inspiring leaders who face challenges head-on with humility and strength. Throughout their journey, they pushed boundaries, advocated for improved learning experiences, and built a genuine partnership with the school community. Known equally for their phenomenal academic accomplishments and creative teamwork, this unique group is leaving the school better than they found it. As they step into their next chapter, I want to remind them to choose justice and kindness, travel far, and invest wisely in the three things that can never be taken away: family, education, and reputation.”

—Mariam Abodouma, Head of School

The college admissions landscape continues to grow more selective each year, and the Class of 2026 navigated it with maturity, purpose, and a clear sense of who they are. Their acceptance results speak to both the rigor of their preparation and the depth of their individual stories.

Acceptance Highlights

35% of students were accepted to their first-choice school
22% of students were accepted to Top 15 Schools
54% of students were accepted to Top 20 Global Schools
95% of students were accepted to Top 50 Schools
100% of students were accepted to Top 100 Schools

*Based on U.S. News & World Report rankings of National and Global Universities

This year’s class reflects an exciting breadth of academic interests and ambitions, from a growing number of students pursuing pre-med to others drawn to traditional disciplines like pure mathematics. Two students earned particularly notable recognition: Xun Z. received a full scholarship to architecture school, and Yagnik C. earned a full scholarship to The Ohio State University, where he is ranked among the top 25 students in their prestigious Honors Program. The class also made a strong showing internationally, with acceptances from UK universities including Oxford and Imperial College London, as well as students pursuing opportunities at universities in Germany and beyond.

“I feel truly blessed to have worked with such a motivated, dedicated, and lively group of students this year. They brought a wide range of interests, talents, backgrounds, and perspectives to our community. Throughout the stressful college application journey, they consistently showed resilience and self-reflection. We shared moments of excitement, anxiety, uncertainty, and joy together, and it has been incredibly meaningful to watch them learn, grow, and support one another along the way. I am so proud of everything they have accomplished, and I can’t wait to see them continue to thrive in their next adventures.”

—Julia Ye, College Counseling

As our third graduating class, these seniors have left a mark on this community that will be felt long after they walk out the door. They came in as students and left as leaders, curious, empathetic, and ready to take on the world. Congratulations, Class of 2026. Choose kindness, travel far, and know that we’ll be cheering for you every step of the way.

CLASS OF 2026 ACCEPTANCES

Arizona State University (Downtown Phoenix)	San Francisco State University
Arizona State University (Tempe)	San Jose State University
Babson College	Santa Clara University
Baylor University	Stanford University
Boston University	Stony Brook University
Brown University	Texas A&M University
Cal Poly Humboldt	The Ohio State University
Cal Poly Maritime Academy	The University of Texas at Austin
California Institute of Technology	University College London
California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo)	University of Arizona
California State Polytechnic University (Pomona)	University of California (Berkeley)
California State University (Chico)	University of California (Davis)
California State University (East Bay)	University of California (Irvine)
California State University (Monterey Bay)	University of California (Los Angeles)
California State University (Sacramento)	University of California (Merced)
Carnegie Mellon University	University of California (Riverside)
Case Western Reserve University	University of California (San Diego)
Chapman University	University of California (Santa Barbara)
Cornell University	University of California (Santa Cruz)
Drexel University	University of Colorado (Colorado Springs)
Duke University	University of Colorado Boulder
Emory University	University of Connecticut
Georgetown University	University of Florida
Georgia Institute of Technology	University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Harvey Mudd College	University of Maryland (College Park)
Hofstra University	University of Massachusetts (Amherst)
Imperial College London	University of Michigan
Indiana University (Bloomington)	University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)
Johns Hopkins University	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Lehigh University	University of Pennsylvania
Loyola Marymount University	University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	University of Rochester
New York University	University of San Diego
Northeastern University	University of San Francisco
Northwestern University	University of Southern California
Oregon State University	University of the Pacific
Penn State University (University Park)	University of Washington (Bothell Campus)
Pepperdine University	University of Washington (Seattle Campus)
Purdue University (Main Campus)	University of Washington (Tacoma Campus)
Reed College	University of Wisconsin (Madison)
Rice University	Washington University in St. Louis
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology	Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Rutgers University (New Brunswick)	York University
San Diego State University

Click here to learn more about our High School Program and discover how BASIS Independent Fremont prepares students to thrive in college and beyond.

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

Making Science Come to Life: Every Spring, Our Cubs Watch Life Change Before Their Eyes

June 5, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

There’s a moment that happens every spring in our Lower School classrooms when a hush falls over a group of young Cubs as they peer into a glass container and watch, with wide eyes, as something that was once a tiny egg or a wriggling larva becomes something entirely different. It’s the kind of moment no worksheet or video can replicate.

That’s exactly why, for several weeks each spring, our Lower School dedicates itself to one of science’s most wondrous stories: the life cycle.

“In an urban environment where kids don’t get as much exposure on a day-to-day basis to nature, anything we can do to bring the natural world to life for students is really important,” commented Head of the Lower School Ms. Miller-Sims. “When you can put a living creature in front of them and observe the life cycle from the beginning, you just see it light up in their eyes in a completely different way than learning about it on a screen, or learning about it in a textbook, or talking about it through a discussion in class. Those moments are just so pivotal, because it is what the children will remember and constantly go back to, even as they age, remembering these foundational experiences.”

Engaging, Experiential Learning

From PreK through Grade 2, our students don’t just read about how living things grow and change; they witness it. Each year, our campus becomes a living science lab as we welcome a carefully chosen cast of creatures: caterpillars that spin themselves into chrysalises, tadpoles paddling in tanks, ladybug larvae inching along leaves, and eggs nestled in a warm incubator, waiting to hatch.

The goal isn’t just to teach biology. It’s to give children a visceral, unforgettable understanding of transformation, and allow them to see that living things change, grow, and become something new, right in front of their eyes.

“When students see something happening in real time, they really learn the best that way,” stated Grade 2 Math and Science Subject Expert Teacher Ms. Witherspoon. “When we have our eggs in our incubator, they can see how they are growing inside. Yes, we have a chart where they can see inside the egg. It’s different when you see it day by day. Once the chicks hatch, they can see how fast they may grow, or that not all chicks are yellow, learning about different colors and different breeds. The joy on their faces when they learn something and see it in person is just really unforgettable.”

Students observing the growth of tadpoles in Kindergarten

Why Hands-On Learning Matters

Young children learn best when they can touch, observe, and wonder. Watching a tadpole sprout tiny legs over the course of a week is a lesson in patience, curiosity, and scientific observation all at once. Checking on a tray of eggs each morning teaches children to look closely for details, to notice small changes, and to ask questions. When a chrysalis finally opens, the room fills with a kind of collective awe that’s impossible to manufacture and impossible to forget.

“The whole school gets involved by the time our chicks are hatching,” said Ms. Witherspoon. “I get parents, all the time, sharing that they are learning just as much as their children are learning. It’s great just to see from our littlest ones in the PreK classrooms to our oldest ones in Grade 2 how they are all just curious at the end of the day.”

These experiences also build a foundation for scientific thinking that will serve our Cubs for years to come. They begin to understand that nature operates on its own timeline, that change is a process, and that the world is full of living things undergoing their own remarkable journeys.

The Lineup This Spring

Each creature we bring to campus represents a different kind of life cycle story:

Caterpillars to chrysalises to butterflies: Students observe the transformation from larva to winged insect, learning about metamorphosis up close.

Tadpoles: The classic frog life cycle unfolds in a classroom tank, day by day.

Ladybug larvae: These spotted favorites go through a dramatic transformation that surprises even the adults in the room.

Chick eggs: Perhaps the most anticipated of all, children gather around the incubator and wait (and wait and wait) for the first signs of hatching. “Chick watch” is the term we use, and this year, Ms. Witherspoon helped welcome the great-grand chicks of the first chicks hatched in her classroom three years ago!

A Tradition Worth Protecting

In an age of screens and simulations, there’s something quietly radical about putting a living creature in a child’s classroom and saying: watch what happens. Our Lower School’s life cycle unit is one of those rare school experiences that students carry with them long after the school year ends- the spring they saw a chick hatch, the morning they noticed the tadpole had legs.

We’re proud to offer our Cubs this window into the natural world, and we are committed to nurturing their curiosity in such engaging ways for years to come.