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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!

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

Students in PreK marvel at butterfly larve

BASIS Independent Schools Students Earn More Than 1,800 College Acceptances Across the Globe

May 13, 2026 by aloracooper Leave a Comment

For the Class of 2026, students across the BASIS Independent Schools network have earned more than 1,800 college acceptances from leading colleges and universities in the United States and around the world, a reflection of the network’s advanced academic program, comprehensive college counseling process, and commitment to developing curious, capable, and fearless thinkers.

BASIS Independent McLean Class of 2026
BASIS Independent Fremont Class of 2026
BASIS Independent Manhattan Class of 2026
BASIS Independent Brooklyn Class of 2026
BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Class of 2026

This year’s graduating class received 1,833 total acceptances spanning 205 universities, including 19 international institutions, with graduates earning admission to some of the most selective colleges and universities in the world. With this breadth of options, students have meaningful choice and the opportunity to select the college that best aligns with their goals, interests, and future plans.

Students were admitted to highly selective institutions, including Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pennsylvania, Harvey Mudd College, Amherst College, Northwestern University, and many others.

A Global Range of Opportunities

The Class of 2026 also demonstrated the increasingly global reach of BASIS Independent students, earning acceptances to top universities, including the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, McGill University, University of Toronto, University of Hong Kong, and Bocconi University.

This breadth of outcomes reflects the diverse interests and ambitions of BASIS Independent students — from engineering and computer science to humanities, business, medicine, public policy, and the arts.

Beyond Rankings: Preparing Students for What’s Next

While selective college admissions are one measure of achievement, the BASIS Independent approach is rooted in something deeper: helping students develop intellectual confidence, independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

“Our students continue to demonstrate what’s possible when academic rigor is paired with individualized support and a culture that encourages curiosity and ambition,” said Toby Walker, Vice President of BASIS Independent Schools. “These outcomes reflect not only exceptional preparation, but also students who are genuinely ready to thrive in college and beyond.”

Education Redefined

At BASIS Independent Schools, students are challenged to think critically, explore deeply, and pursue their passions with purpose. The Class of 2026’s college outcomes reflect a network of schools committed to redefining what students can achieve through an advanced, globally informed education.

The following is a comprehensive list of acceptances both within the United States and internationally.

CLASS OF 2026 UNITED STATES ACCEPTANCES

Adelphi University

American University

Amherst College

Arizona State University

Babson College

Ball State University

Barnard College

Bates College

Baylor University

Bennington College

Binghamton University

Boston College

Boston University

Brown University

Cal Poly

Cal Poly, Humboldt

Cal Poly Maritime Academy

Cal Poly, Pomona

California Institute of Technology

California Lutheran University

California State University, Chico

California State University, East Bay

California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Monterey Bay

California State University, Sacramento

Carleton College

Carnegie Mellon University

Case Western Reserve University

Chapman University

Colby College

Colgate University

Colorado School of Mines

Columbia University

Cornell University

CUNY

Dartmouth College

Davidson College

Denison University

Drexel University

Duke University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Emory University

Fairfield University

Fordham University

George Mason University

George Washington University

Georgetown University

Georgia State University

Georgia Tech

Grinnell College

Harvard University

Harvey Mudd College

Haverford College

Hofstra University

Howard University

Indiana University

Ithaca College

James Madison University

Johns Hopkins University

Lehigh University

Long Island University

Loyola Marymount University

Marquette University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Michigan State University

Middlebury College

Mount Holyoke College

New Jersey Institute of Technology

New York Institute of Technology

New York University

Northeastern University

Northwestern University

Nova Southeastern University

Oakwood University

Oberlin College

Occidental College

Old Dominion University

Oregon State University

Pace University

Penn State University

Pepperdine University

Pitzer College

Pomona College

Pratt Institute

Princeton University

Purdue University

Reed College

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rice University

Ringling College of Art and Design

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Rutgers University

San Diego State University

San Francisco State University

San Jose State University

Santa Clara University

Sarah Lawrence College

Scripps College

Skidmore College

Smith College

St. John’s College

St. Olaf College

Stanford University

Stevens Institute of Technology

Stony Brook University

SUNY

Sweet Briar College

Syracuse University

Temple University

Texas A&M University

The New School

The Ohio State University

Tufts University

Tulane University

Union College

University of Alabama

University of Arizona

University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Davis

University of California, Irvine

University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Merced

University of California, Riverside

University of California, San Diego

University of California, Santa Barbara,

University of California, Santa Cruz,

University of Chicago

University of Colorado

University of Connecticut

University of Delaware

University of Florida

University of Georgia

University of Illinois

University of Iowa

University of Maryland

University of Massachusetts

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of Minnesota

University of Nevada

University of North Carolina

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pittsburgh

University of Puget Sound

University of Richmond

University of Rochester

University of San Diego

University of San Francisco

University of South Florida

University of Southern California

University of Texas

University of the Pacific

University of Vermont

University of Virginia

University of Washington

University of Wisconsin

Vanderbilt University

Vassar College

Villanova University

Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Tech

Wake Forest University

Washington University in St. Louis

Wellesley College

William & Mary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Yale University

CLASS OF 2026 INTERNATIONAL ACCEPTANCES

Bocconi University

Duke Kunshan University

Imperial College London

King’s College London

McGill University

The University of Edinburgh

The University of Warwick

University College London

University of Bath

University of British Columbia

University of Cambridge

University of Glasgow

University of Hong Kong

University of Oxford

University of Southampton

University of St Andrews

University of Toronto

University of Waterloo

York University

The Class of 2026 represents 233 graduates across five high schools — BASIS Independent Brooklyn, Fremont, Manhattan, McLean, and Silicon Valley.

Join Our Interest List to Learn More

BASIS Independent Manhattan: Class of 2026 College Results

May 8, 2026 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

In the world of New York City private schools, success is often measured by numbers—test scores, GPAs, and matriculation lists. We are proud of our nine seniors whose collective impact resulted in monumental success.

Our Class of 2026 finalized their plans for the fall, and the results tell a story of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the power of a personalized education. From the historic campuses of the Ivy League to the nation’s premier research hubs, our seniors are headed to institutions that reflect their unique passions and the high-rigor college-prep they received at BASIS Independent Manhattan.

Redefining Elite Results in NYC

two male senior students hold up college flags to show where they are enrolled -- one says Carnegie Mellon University and the other one says Yale.

When looking at the landscape of a private school in Manhattan, it is rare to see such a high density of elite placements within a single graduating cohort. While larger institutions may celebrate dozens of acceptances, the statistical acceptance rate for our nine seniors is extraordinary. Among this year’s Class of 2026:

100% gained acceptance and enrolled in schools ranked in the Top 50.
33% secured spots at Top 15 universities (as ranked by U.S. News & World Report).
56% received offers from institutions within the Top 25 nationally, including prestigious names like Yale University, Columbia University, and the University of Michigan.

This is a testament to the BASIS Curriculum, our scaffolded college prep that starts in grade 9, and the dedicated teachers who know each student so they can excel no matter the competitive landscape.

The Privilege of Options and the Right Fit

While our seniors ultimately chose eight world-class institutions for their next chapter, their collective List of Acceptances (found at the end of this post) afforded them the comfort of selecting the “perfect fit” for their next ambitious pursuits.

The Ivy League: Students will be heading to Yale University and Columbia University, continuing our legacy of placement in the world’s most storied academic environments.
The Public Ivies: The University of Michigan and the University of Virginia—two of the most selective public institutions in the world—will welcome our graduates this fall.
Specialized Excellence: With enrollments at Carnegie Mellon University, Northeastern University (two students), George Washington University, and American University, our students are pursuing careers in everything from cutting-edge tech and engineering to global policy and international relations.

*See the full list of College Acceptances for the Class of 2026 at the bottom of this blog.

four students walk through Yale University on a college tour.

Senior went face-to-face with our faculty on Pi Day.

The BASIS Curriculum: Prepared for Any Path

What makes a BASIS Independent Manhattan student stand out in a sea of thousands of applications? It begins long before the college essay. From the Middle School Program through our specialized High School offerings, students are asked to take ownership of their learning. By the time they reach their senior year, they have already mastered collegiate-level discourse and advanced STEM concepts.

This preparation allows our seniors to approach the admissions process with a level of confidence and agency. Whether they are discussing social-emotional learning (SEL) initiatives or presenting their Senior Projects, they attract admissions officers because of their high achievement and because they are ready to contribute meaningfully to a campus community.

juniors and seniors smile in a group standing on the gym floor at Chelsea Piers while their parents are in front of them taking pictures

Looking Ahead

As the Class of 2026 prepares to walk across the stage and head to New Haven, Ann Arbor, Charlottesville, and beyond, they leave behind a legacy of excellence. They have proven that a PreK-12 education in New York City doesn’t have to be a “one-size-fits-all” journey. At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we remain committed to ensuring that every student who walks through our doors is given the tools to find their own version of a Top 50 success story. We look forward to seeing how these nine individuals change the world. After all, if they could achieve this much in a class of nine, there is no limit to what they will do on the global stage.

Curious about how our High School program prepares students for the Ivy League and beyond? Visit our school to experience BASIS Independent Manhattan firsthand or explore our academics page to learn more about the BASIS Curriculum.

BASIS Independent Manhattan Class of 2026 College Acceptances