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Calculated Success: AMC and NOETIC MATH Accolades

March 13, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Today, we are incredibly proud to announce that BASIS Independent Brooklyn students distinguished themselves yet again on the prestigious American Mathematics Competition (AMC) exams, with three high school students placing in the top 5% nationally and advancing to the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) competition—Theo Q. ’28, Victor Y. ’27, and Isabella Y. ’27. Theo also qualified for the United States Mathematical Olympiad!

Founded in 1950, the AMC is the preeminent math competition, and more than 300,000 students in 50 states and more than 30 countries sit for the exam to bolster their confidence and passion for math.

We are incredibly proud of our students’ success! Thank you to our Math Competition faculty advisor, Ms. Nuritova, and Math Honor Society Mu Alpha Theta chapter advisor, Ms. Olender, for nurturing a true love of math in our students.

Please join us in congratulating:

AMC 10A

  • Theo Q. ’28 – Team Winner, AIME qualifier who scored in the top 5% nationally. He also received a Certificate of Distinction, which places him at the top of the qualifiers.
  • Sophia N. ’28 – 2nd place
  • Sophie V. ’29 – 2nd place

AMC 10B

  • Theo Q. ’28 – Team Winner, AIME qualifier who scored in the top 5% nationally. He also received a Certificate of Distinction, which places him at the top of the qualifiers!
  • Billie M. ’28 – 2nd place
  • Sophie V. ’29 – 2nd place

AMC 12A

  • Victor Y. ’27 – Team Winner, AIME qualifier who scored in the top 5% nationally. He also received a Certificate of Distinction, which places him at the top of the qualifiers.
  • Indi S. ’27 – 2nd place
  • Isabella Y. ’27 – 2nd place

AMC 12B

  • Victor Y. ’27 – Team Winner, AIME qualifier who scored in the top 5% nationally. He also received a Certificate of Distinction, which places him at the top of the qualifiers!
  • Isabella Y. ‘ 27 – 2nd place, AIME qualifier, who scored in the top 5% nationally.
Fellow students cheer on Gr. 5’s Wanru for her perfect score.

Growing a love of math starts young at BASIS Independent Brooklyn. Ms. Nuritova led our Bears in sitting for the NOETIC math awards. This year, we had 68 students honored in our NOETIC Math Wall of Fame, and we wanted to give a special shout-out to our National Honor Roll students:

Gr. 3 – Axel M. – National Honor Roll and Team Winner

Gr. 4 – Livia P. – National Honor Roll and Team Winner

Gr. 5 – Wanru Y. – National Honor Roll and Team Winner (with a perfect score)

  • More Gr. 5 National Honor Roll recipients – Alex R., David A., and Sai P.-B.

Gr. 6 – Luca L. – National Honor Roll and Team Winner

Gr. 7 – Flora S. – Team Winner

Gr. 8 – Sophie V. and Dylan C. – Tied Team Winners and National Honor Roll

Please join us in congratulating our mathematical Bears!!

NOETIC Math honorees in Gr. 3-5 at our House Assembly before Winter Break.

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.

Filed Under: Academics, Awards & Recognition, Featured, Math, Student Achievement

Going Deeper: Inside the Senior Capstone Experience

February 25, 2026 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

Every year, our seniors reach a remarkable milestone. By the time they arrive at their final year at BASIS Independent Fremont, most have already completed their Advanced Placement® (AP®) requirements and are ready for something different—something more. That’s where Capstone courses come in.

On February 5, 2026, families, faculty, and fellow students gathered for the 2026 Senior Capstone Symposium, a showcase of the original research, engineering projects, financial analyses, and literary explorations that our Class of 2026 has been working on all year. It was, in a word, exceptional.

But to fully appreciate what made that day so special, it helps to understand what Capstone courses are—and why they represent one of the most distinctive elements of a BASIS Independent Fremont education.


What Are Capstone Courses?

The senior year at BASIS Independent Fremont is designed to be a bridge from traditional high school learning to the kind of independent, applied thinking students will encounter in college and beyond. At the heart of that experience are Capstone courses.

Capstone courses are teacher-created, college-level classes that go beyond the breadth of a typical AP course. Where AP courses are built to cover essential content across a wide field, Capstone courses are designed to go deep. They are original courses tied to our teachers’ own academic passions and expertise, and they shift the style of learning itself—from traditional classroom instruction toward the seminar-based and lab-based formats students will encounter in college.

This year, BASIS Independent Fremont offered an impressive range of 14 Capstone courses:

Art PortfolioAuthor’s Study
Corporate FinanceData Structures and Algorithms
Drug Discovery & DevelopmentEngineered Systems
Linear AlgebraLinguistics
Literary AnimalsMicrobiology
Multivariable & Vector CalculusNeuroscience
Optics and BiophysicsStorytelling Through Sound

Inside the Courses: Teacher Spotlights

What makes Capstone courses so distinctive? We spoke with three of the faculty members behind this year’s courses to find out.

Corporate Finance

In many ways, Corporate Finance is a natural Capstone to the business pathway at BASIS Independent Fremont. Mr. Ong already teaches AP Economics and courses in entrepreneurship, but he saw a gap: students needed exposure to the decision-making tools and frameworks actually used by financial professionals.

“There is significant interest in business and entrepreneurship at BIF, and I proposed this Capstone as a necessary foundational course for students who are interested in pursuing careers in business management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. I also feel strongly that all students should be financially literate and have a basic understanding of the workings of corporations, the economy, and the financial system in order to effectively function in our modern world.”
— Mr. Ong, Corporate Finance

The course is deliberately practical. Students don’t just learn theory—they apply strategic financial frameworks to real-world scenarios. This year, the class even took a field trip to the San Francisco Financial District, giving students a ground-level look at the institutions and organizations they’d been studying.

Data Structures & Algorithms

For students who have completed AP Computer Science, Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) is the natural next frontier. Ms. Shahin describes it as equivalent to a college-level introductory DSA course—the kind of material students at top universities encounter in their first or second year.

“DSA is a cornerstone for computer science education. By learning how data can be organized in different ways, students learn to tackle various problem-solving scenarios—from linked lists to arrays, from search engines to AI. It’s an important stepping stone for all computer science fields.”
— Ms. Shahin, Data Structures & Algorithms

What makes this course particularly exciting, Ms. Shahin notes, is the rapid pace of change in the field—and her students’ readiness to meet it. “With rapidly changing technology these days, helping them understand the actual process better, and sometimes also learning from their discoveries, is fun.” Alumni from the course have gone on to study computer science at MIT, CMU, Caltech, Cambridge, UC San Diego, and UC Berkeley.

Multivariable & Vector Calculus

Dr. Chaudhri’s Multivariable & Vector Calculus course pushes students well past the limits of AP Calculus into content typically covered in a university freshman or sophomore year. It’s one of several advanced math and science courses he has developed over the years, each reflecting a different dimension of higher-level mathematics and science.

“The Capstone classes cater to knowledge beyond what is covered in an AP class. They offer more depth and more breadth in a specific field of study at an undergraduate freshman/sophomore level—these serve as introductory bridges to a more advanced curriculum at college.”
— Dr. Chaudhri, Multivariable & Vector Calculus

The courses aren’t just academically advanced—they’re experiential. Past classes have included field trips to venues like the Exploratorium in San Francisco, where students engaged hands-on with scientific experiments that brought the course’s big questions down to earth.

Dr. Chaudhri’s courses also reflect a collaborative spirit—some have even come directly from student requests, a reminder that at BASIS Independent Fremont, the curriculum is a living thing, shaped by the curiosity of the students who inhabit it.


The 2026 Senior Capstone Symposium

On the morning of February 5, the BASIS Independent Fremont campus transformed into a showcase of some of the most ambitious student work we’ve seen. Eight of this year’s Capstone courses were represented—Neuroscience, Data Structures & Algorithms, Corporate Finance, Engineered Systems, Linguistics, Art Portfolio, Microbiology, and Author’s Study—and the range of work on display was a testament to the ambition and intellectual range of our seniors.

Project Highlights

The breadth of projects on display made it clear that there is no single mold for a Capstone experience. Here is just a sampling of what was showcased:

Neuroscience – One group of students investigated how chronic hypoxic exposure (low-oxygen conditions) impacts cerebellar basket cell structure and function—and what that means for broader neurological outcomes. The depth of this research mirrors the kind of questions asked in university neuroscience labs.

Data Structures & Algorithms – Students built fully functional applications using the data structures they studied. Highlights included MealCraft, a smart grocery organizer that intelligently categorizes and tracks pantry items; HAPify, a data-driven application with real-world use cases; and QuickPark, a parking management system designed to solve a genuine everyday problem.

Corporate Finance – The Corporate Finance Gallery Showcase turned into a miniature pitch event, with students presenting capital budgeting analyses and product launch proposals spanning everything from eco-performance running shoes to EV chargers to next-generation Apple hardware.

Engineered Systems – The engineering students showcased a remarkable range of physical and software-based systems. Projects included Security Jewelry—wearable tech designed to help users signal distress discreetly; Atmosys, an environmental monitoring system; an Automatic Planter that uses sensors to automate plant care; and a Wheelchair Rehabilitation Program designed to improve accessibility and patient outcomes.

Microbiology – The Microbiology presentations were perhaps the most research-intensive of the day, with students tackling graduate-level questions on topics ranging from bacterial flagellar motor evolution to the therapeutic potential of fecal microbiota transplantation for neuropsychiatric disorders.

Author’s Study – In a fitting contrast to the lab-and-data presentations elsewhere, the Author’s Study class closed out the day with a student-facilitated roundtable discussion—modeling the kind of Socratic seminar that defines great humanities education at the college level.


In Their Own Words

Josh P. approached his Capstone courses as an opportunity to test his interests before college—and came away with more than he expected.

“Capstone courses are a great chance for exploration—in-depth exploration into often niche topics. From the Neuroscience course, I got the basis to learn about more detailed parts of topics I was interested in, which I was then able to practically implement with the Capstone project. The whole process of developing your knowledge in the course and then finding a concrete, applicable way to use your exploration—Capstones are really amazing for that.”

That spirit of exploration carried into his other courses too, including Storytelling Through Sound: “I realized that I’m interested in applying literature outside of the standard means, and I’ve kind of taken that concept with my other Capstone courses as well.”

And looking ahead to college, Josh sees the Capstone experience as groundwork for what’s next: “I think the Capstones are kind of your gateway to enter that mindset—going deeper into topics you’re interested in, and also just niche topics in general.”

— Josh P. (Class of 2026), Drug Discovery & Development, Linear Algebra, Neuroscience, Storytelling Through Sound

Richa C. also took four Capstone courses and found that the flexibility of the Capstone curriculum was exactly what set them apart.

“For APs, I wouldn’t put too much effort in because I would always depend on that final AP exam bringing everything up for me. In Capstones, I actually have to work for it. There’s no set curriculum—the teachers make the curriculum, so they’ll just take you on a rollercoaster ride some days. I really like how flexible the curriculum is.”

That flexibility showed up in unexpected ways. In Neuroscience, it meant hands-on lab work that went well beyond a typical classroom experience: “It’s like holding an actual brain in your hands and cutting into it and seeing all the little things in there.”

And at the Symposium itself, seeing the full scope of what her classmates had been working on all year left an impression: “I just really liked seeing everyone else’s hard work and all their projects. They were really cool.”

— Richa C. (Class of 2026), Linguistics, Literary Animals, Multivariable & Vector Calculus, Neuroscience

Kriti L. chose her Capstone courses — Neuroscience, Author’s Study, Microbiology, and Linear Algebra — based on subjects she already loved. But it was the energy in the classroom that made them memorable.

In Author’s Study, she found herself caught up in her teacher, Mr. Betcher’s, enthusiasm: “I think it definitely excited me too. I was excited to see what was the topic that made my teacher so interested in this.”

That excitement extended to how the courses felt day to day: “It felt almost like a college course. There was no really structured curriculum — if we wanted to touch on a side subject, we could do that. We didn’t have to only study topics for the AP test. And it’s a lot more formal — you have to write whole papers that are 20 pages. But it’s also preparing me for college.”

— Kriti L. (Class of 2026), Author’s Study, Linear Algebra, Microbiology, Neuroscience


A Different Kind of Senior Year

What makes the Capstone experience so valuable isn’t just the content—it’s the mode of learning. By the time BASIS Independent Fremont seniors step into these courses, they’ve earned the academic credentials to take on something more. Capstone courses give them a glimpse of what college-level intellectual life actually looks like: seminar discussions, independent research, open-ended problem solving, and the deep satisfaction that comes from pursuing questions you genuinely care about.

The 2026 Senior Capstone Symposium was a celebration of exactly that. Watching our seniors present—confidently explaining their methodologies, fielding questions, and connecting their work to the broader world—it was clear that BASIS Independent Fremont’s promise had been fulfilled: these students are not just ready for college. They are ready for what comes after.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026.

Curious what senior year could look like for your student? Contact our Admissions team to schedule a tour and explore our Upper School curriculum.

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.

Filed Under: Academics, College Preparation & The Senior Year, Electives, Featured, Student Learning, Uncategorized

Who Is a BASIS Independent Bothell Student? Understanding Our Community Through Our CORAL Values 

February 11, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Every admissions season brings wonderful conversations with families as they discover our program and school. This year, one question stands out above the rest which is, “Who is a BASIS Independent Bothell Student?” 

As a founding school in our first year, this question comes up often and it’s an important one. While our admissions process is comprehensive and considers every part of a student’s application, what truly helps families understand our environment is getting to know the qualities and values that define our students. When we speak with our Learning and Subject Expert Teachers, and administrators across our campus, the same themes surface. Our community is grounded in the CORAL values that shape the BASIS Independent Bothell experience: Curiosity, Ownership, Respect, Advocacy, and Loyalty. 

These values are not admissions requirements. Instead, they reflect the environment students thrive in and the traits that naturally develop as they grow within our classrooms. Understanding CORAL gives families a meaningful picture of the kind of learning community we are building. One centered on exploration, responsibility, character, and connection. 

Curiosity at BASIS Independent Bothell: The Spark That Drives Learning 

Curiosity is foundational to a BASIS Independent Bothell student. It fuels engagement, inspires creativity, and drives students to ask thoughtful questions. 

Our Dean of Students, Ms. Cales, describes our students as “ambitious, hardworking, and curious.” That curiosity shows up in science investigations, literature discussions, math problem-solving, and each moment where students lean into learning with enthusiasm. 

Mr. Sturm, a Primary Math and Science Subject Expert Teacher, echoed this, calling his students “curious, tenacious, and joyful.” These qualities reflect our learners’ determination to explore new ideas and the joy they find in discovery. 

In our Kindergarten Early Learning Teacher, Ms. Gray shared similar observations, describing her young scholars as “kind, curious, and collaborative,” adding that “these are skills that will benefit our students throughout their lives.” Curiosity starts early and only grows as students advance through our program. 

Ownership: Building Responsibility and Confidence 

Ownership emerges when students take responsibility for their learning, reflect on progress, and take pride in their growth. 

Primary and Middle School Math Subject Expert Teacher Ms. Perleberg describes her students as “ambitious, mature, and compassionate.” That maturity often shows up in the way students manage their time, set goals, ask for help when needed, and take initiative. Ownership is a skill that supports long-term academic success and personal development. 

Respect: Creating a Positive and Inclusive School Culture 

Respect is one of the first values families notice when visiting our campus. It is reflected in the way students speak to their Learning and Subject Expert Teachers, collaborate with peers, and care for their learning environment. 

A culture of respect helps students feel safe sharing ideas, making mistakes, and taking academic risks. This foundation supports meaningful collaboration and helps students build strong social emotional skills. 

Advocacy: Empowering Students to Use Their Voice 

Advocacy helps students learn how to communicate confidently and respectfully. It emerges when a student asks a question, seeks clarity, requests help, or stands up for a peer. 

As students grow, advocacy becomes a key part of their learning journey. It builds independence, leadership, and emotional resilience which are all essential for long-term success. 

Loyalty: Strengthening Our School Community 

Loyalty develops naturally within a supportive school community. In our founding year, this value has been especially strong. Students, families, and faculty are building traditions, shaping culture, and creating a sense of belonging together. 

Loyalty inspires our students to support one another, take pride in their work, and invest in the community they are helping to build. 

The Bigger Picture: What Defines a BASIS Independent Bothell Student? 

When we asked teachers across multiple grade levels to describe the kind of student who thrives here, a consistent picture emerged: 

These qualities shared by Ms. Perleberg, Ms. Cales, Mr. Sturm, and Ms. Gray reflect who our students become when they are immersed in a learning environment shaped by these CORAL values. 

They are not criteria for enrollment. They are the characteristics that naturally develop within a community that values curiosity, ownership, respect, advocacy, and loyalty. 

Ready to Learn More About BASIS Independent Bothell? 

If these values resonate with your family and you’d like to explore whether our school is the right fit for your child, we would love to connect. 

Schedule a campus tour
Attend an admissions event
Contact our team

We look forward to partnering with families who share our belief in a community built on curiosity, integrity, and lifelong learning.

Filed Under: Admissions, Community Values, Culture of Support, Featured, School Community

Day Camps: Where Adventure Meets Imagination! 

February 10, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Get ready to redefine summer! Our Day Camp Team at BASIS Independent Brooklyn is gearing up for nine weeks of pure excitement, exploration, and fun that will have your kids counting down the days until camp begins. 

Every Week is a New Adventure 

Our Day Camps will dive headfirst into themed weeks packed with hands-on science experiments, nature explorations, creative arts, sports, and games. With a unique selection of indoor and outdoor activities, every day brings something new to discover!  

Our Junior Day Camp is specifically designed to engage and support rising PreK to Kindergarten campers. Our School Age Day Camp paves the way for Rising Gr. 1-5 campers to jump into real-life adventures every day. All of our campers will enjoy programming organized around exciting weekly themes.

Summer 2026 Weekly Themes & Field Trips 

Week 1 (June 22-26): Wild West 
Saddle up, partners! We’re heading to the American Museum of Natural History to explore the frontier. 

Week 2 (June 29-July 2): Bear Investigation Bureau 
Junior detectives will crack cases at the Spy Museum in this mystery-filled week. 

Week 3 (July 6-10): Year 3000: Brooklyn Expo 
Discover futuristic fun at the NY Hall of Science and end the week with a Spirit Day, asking our campers to think ahead about their future selves! 

Week 4 (July 13-17): Safari 
It’s a wild adventure at Prospect Park Zoo as campers explore the animal kingdom. 

Week 5 (July 20-24): Step into a Story 
Stories come alive with a special trip to the NYC Children’s Theater, and campers will dress up as their favorite storybook character. 

Week 6 (July 27-31): Color Games 
A rainbow of creativity awaits at the Sloomoo Institute! Our spirit day will encourage campers to dress up in their favorite color head-to-toe. 

Week 7 (August 3-7): Case of the Bear Bandit 
Another thrilling mystery to solve with an exciting visit to Ferox. We will end the week with a Masquerade! 

Week 8 (August 10-14): Fun in the Sun 
Cool off and splash around at LeFrak Splash Pad, and end the week with a Mismatch Spirit Day. 

Week 9 (August 17-21): Carnival 
End the summer with a bang at LEGOLAND and the excitement of carnival games! 

Camp Details 

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. ET 
 
Extended Care Available: 

  • Early Bird: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. ($55/week) 
  • Late Bird: 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. ($130/week) 
  • Both Early + Late Bird: $170/week 

Pricing: 

  • Junior Campers (Rising PreK-K): $730/week 
  • School Age Campers (Rising Grades 1-5): $665/week 
  • Half-Day Add-On for Specialty Camps: $330 

Registration: Choose from any of our 9 one-week sessions running June 22 through August 21! 

Don’t let your kids miss out on the summer adventure of a lifetime. Sign up today and give them memories they’ll treasure forever! Register by February 20th to receive a 10% discount on all camp programs. Visit Summer Programs | BASIS Independent Brooklyn Camps for more information and to register today! 

Every day at our summer camp brings a new adventure, filled with opportunities for your child to create lasting memories and develop new skills. 
 

Filed Under: Featured, Field Trips, Outdoor, Student Life, Summer Camp

Alumni Panel Insights 

February 5, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Recently, four of our BASIS Independent Brooklyn alumni generously offered to share their reflections on our school and what they have been up to since their transition to university. We welcomed Sid R. BIB ’22, Johns Hopkins ’26, Courtney H. BIB ’22, Cornell ’26, Yuna S. BIB ’24, Barnard ’26, and Maxim S. BIB ’25, Stanford ’29, to share their thoughts on their years at our school and any advice they could offer to younger students and their families. 

Several themes emerged during the panel, and we wanted to share them in an overview and more detail. 

  • Curriculum Prepares for College: Rigorous coursework and Advanced Placement (AP) classes allow students to skip introductory college courses, focusing on advanced material. 
  • Experiential Learning Through Capstone Courses and Senior Projects: Senior students engage in internships and projects that connect academic learning to real-world applications. 
  • Community Supports Transition: A small, close-knit environment fosters collaboration and lifelong friendships, making college adjustments smoother for alumni. 
  • Balanced Extracurriculars Enhance Skills: Alumni successfully managed academics along with sports and arts while at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, developing essential time management skills for college success. 
  • Parental Encouragement is Key: Parents and guardians are encouraged to support exploration of diverse interests without pressure, aiding student growth and independence. 
  • Technology Use in Learning: Students learn to effectively utilize AI tools, enhancing their understanding and efficiency in academics without superficial reliance on technology. 

College Preparation and Academic Rigor 

Our panelists hit home that the BASIS Independent Brooklyn curriculum effectively prepares students for college through rigorous coursework and strong foundational skills. Alumni emphasized the role of AP courses and Capstone Classes in building a solid academic base, with Maxim crediting AP Physics C and AP Calculus BC for allowing him to skip introductory college courses at Stanford, enabling focus on advanced material he finds challenging and inspiring. 

Sid highlighted that BASIS Independent Brooklyn teaches students how to learn and develop intuition, which helped him adapt quickly to college-level challenges. Yuna and Courtney pointed out that the small class sizes fostered close relationships with teachers, making it easier to seek help and build confidence, which translated well into larger college environments. Maxim also described the curriculum’s upward spiral structure as crucial for managing STEM workload and balancing multiple rigorous classes efficiently. 

Mr. Winter leading an advanced physics lab with Maddox M. ’25.

Capstone Courses and Senior Project 

The panelists all pointed to Senior Capstone courses and Senior Projects as providing practical, in-depth experiences that link to college and career paths, with students pursuing personalized research and internships during the senior year. 

Yuna conducted her Senior Project off-site placement at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, focusing on Martian soil simulant and plant cultivation. Courtney’s Senior Project involved documenting the revitalization of NYC Chinatown’s local economy post-COVID througha partnership with a nonprofit. Maxim interned with Ukrainian Railways while studying high-speed rail development in the United States for his Senior Project. Sid worked with a Columbia professor on engineering CAR-T cells for his Senior Project, connecting research exposure directly to his biomedical engineering studies. 

The BASIS Curriculum’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning extends beyond STEM, offering significant humanities and arts courses, including AP Seminar, AP Research, English literature, history, and art electives, which build critical thinking and communication skills valued in college. 

Maxim noted that humanities courses helped him contribute meaningfully in Stanford’s citizenship class by evaluating multiple perspectives. Courtney and Yuna shared how art and writing opportunities nurtured creativity and independent thinking critical for their academic and personal growth. 

Yuna S. ’24 at work on her Senior Project at Cold Harbor Springs Laboratory.

Community and Social Environment 

The small, close-knit community at BASIS Independent Brooklyn fosters collaboration, diverse interests, and lasting relationships that ease the transition to college. Alumni panelists agreed that the school’s small size encourages peer collaboration over competition, allowing students to pursue unique passions without pressure and build supportive friendships across interests. 

Courtney emphasized that her BASIS Independent Brooklyn classmates became lifelong friends and a strong support network through college and beyond. 

Sid recalled socializing in the senior lounge and group activities, which helped build close bonds and a sense of belonging. Yuna and Maxim reflected on informal group outings such as volleyball games, beach trips, and lunch gatherings that strengthened community ties. 

Going to college with peers from BASIS Independent Brooklyn provides comfort and support during the transition to larger university settings, as multiple panelists reported attending college with classmates and maintaining close connections. Yuna’s freshman year roommate was a classmate from BASIS Independent Brooklyn, which helped her adjust quickly to Barnard. 

The community culture encourages inclusivity across disciplines, supporting students in both STEM and non-STEM interests, and fostering interdisciplinary respect and engagement. Alumni noted that their high school peers excelled in diverse areas such as photography, art, writing, and music, enriching the school’s academic environment. 

Our Class of 2025 together on campus before their graduation.

Extracurricular Engagement and Time Management 

Extracurricular activities, including arts and athletics, play a vital role in high school student life, contributing to well-rounded development and effective time management. Students successfully balanced rigorous academics with sports, arts, and clubs, supported by structured routines and peer participation. 

Yuna joined volleyball in junior year and continued intramural volleyball in college, finding it a joyful and social outlet. Maxim participated in varsity soccer, basketball, and tennis in high school, and later he led a championship intramural soccer team at Stanford. 

Sid managed music commitments (violin) on weekends alongside martial arts during the week, demonstrating diverse extracurricular involvement. 

The arts program offers multiple in-school and after-school options, including studio art, photography, drama, band, orchestra, choir, and an annual spring musical, enriching student experiences. 

Yuna’s AP Studio Art work earned a Scholastic Art and Writing Award, highlighting the program’s quality and college-preparedness value. Performances and trips, like the band’s planned Disney World visit, create additional engagement and exposure. 

Time management skills developed through balancing academics with extracurriculars are seen as essential for college success, with alumni crediting routine, planning, and support systems for their ability to handle multiple commitments. 

Our Varsity Soccer Team welcomed back alum Nico D. ’25 at a game held over his Fall Break.

Parental Support and Student Mindset 

Encouragement from parents to explore interests and a proactive student mindset are key factors in maximizing the BASIS Independent Brooklyn experience. Alumni recommended that parents encourage exploration without pressure and support diverse interests, allowing students to try electives, clubs, and internships freely. 

Courtney’s parents took a hands-off approach, allowing her to pursue interests organically, which she found beneficial for her growth. 

Panelists stressed the importance of being proactive and asking for help, including seeking academic support, extracurricular opportunities, and college recommendations. Sid advised resilience through challenges, sharing how failing exams early on in middle school did not prevent his success. Courtney and Maxime emphasized leveraging the small community to network with seniors and alumni for guidance on college and beyond. 

Alumni highlighted that BASIS Independent Brooklyn fosters a resilient and curious mindset, teaching students to embrace challenges and seek support resources like office hours and peer study groups. 

Alum Sid. R. ’22 presented his Senior Project on CAR-T Cell Therapy.

Technology and AI Integration 

Panelists spoke about how BASIS Independent Brooklyn prepares students to effectively use technology and AI tools as part of their learning and research processes.  

Sid shared how the curriculum’s focus on understanding concepts over memorization enables smart AI usage to boost efficiency without losing comprehension. He emphasized that AI tools help with coding and learning but require students to transform the information into personal understanding, a skill BASIS Independent Brooklyn cultivates. 

Parent Ian Saville leads a Future-Ready Mentor Program Workshop with our seniors.

Transition and Integration Support 

BASIS Independent Brooklyn supports students joining at various grade levels and helps them adjust through structured support and community integration. 

Students joining in middle school or later grades experience an adjustment period but receive ample support, making integration achievable regardless of entry point. The school’s practice of enrolling new students in every grade creates peer groups that facilitate social and academic integration. 

Familiarity with peers and teachers from BASIS Independent Brooklyn helps students transition smoothly into college and beyond, supported by active alumni networks and ongoing connections. 

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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. 

Filed Under: Academics, Alumni, College Preparation & The Senior Year, Community Values, Culture of Support, Extracurriculars, Featured, Senior Projects, Student Achievement, Student Perspectives

Dr. Araci Honored with Regional Teaching Excellence Award from the American Chemical Society

January 29, 2026 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

Excellence in education deserves to be celebrated—and we couldn’t be prouder to share that Dr. Araci, the Chemistry Subject Expert Teacher at Fremont Independent Upper School, has been recognized by the American Chemical Society with the 2025 Regional Award for Excellence in High School Teaching in the Western Region.

Dr. Araci received this prestigious honor at the ACS Western Regional Meeting Awards Ceremony in San Jose in October, standing out among exceptional educators across a 15-section region spanning California, Arizona, Hawaii, and Nevada.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Araci’s recognition,” said Ms. Abodouma, Head of School. “This award is so well-deserved. Dr. Araci elevates the learning experience on our campus every single day, inspiring our students to see chemistry not just as a subject to study, but an exciting exploration and another lens through which they can understand and transform the world around them.”

The Excellence in High School Teaching Award celebrates educators who demonstrate exceptional quality of instruction, inspire and challenge students, and contribute to the broader chemistry education community. Dr. Araci embodies these qualities in remarkable ways.

In her Honors Chemistry, AP Chemistry, and Drug Discovery and Development Capstone courses, Dr. Araci creates a transformative college-level learning environment where students evolve into independent thinkers and researchers. Through hands-on laboratory work and collaborative discussions, she empowers students to seek answers, ask deeper questions, and discover the joy of scientific inquiry.

Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Dr. Araci leads workshops on academic integrity and classroom engagement and advises student-led initiatives and competitions, including the Chemistry Club, the You Be the Solution Challenge, the ACS Berkeley Chemistry Tournament, and the US National Chemistry Olympiads. She also created one of our school’s most beloved traditions: the annual Honors Chemistry Debate held each Valentine’s Day. This unique event brings together students and the entire school community to explore thought-provoking questions like “What makes the world go around: Money or Love?”

“It was wonderful to be recognized, and I am honored to be awarded by ACS,” Dr. Araci shared after the ceremony, where she connected with educators, college professors, and industry professionals from across the Western United States—relationships that promise to open new doors for collaboration and opportunity for our students.

This recognition is a testament to Dr. Araci’s unwavering dedication to making chemistry engaging, accessible, and transformative. She doesn’t just teach chemistry; she ignites curiosity, builds confidence, and shapes the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers.

Congratulations, Dr. Araci. This honor reflects what we’ve known all along—you’re making an extraordinary difference.

Explore our innovative programs and see how BASIS Independent Fremont is redefining STEM education.

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.

Filed Under: Administration & Staff, Awards & Recognition, Faculty & Staff, Featured, Science, Uncategorized

Leadership Spotlight: Director Cameron, Middle School Program

January 26, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

The Middle School Program at BASIS Independent Brooklyn is carefully designed both to challenge and support students during a very impressionable time. We believe middle school is a time for building strong foundational knowledge in a wide variety of subjects while growing a student’s autonomy and self-discipline needed for critical inquiry.

Pairing challenge with the right support is core to our Middle School Program. Leading the charge is Director Shantell Cameron. For the past three years, she has worked tirelessly to complement the internationally benchmarked academics with joy in learning and excitement in community. With roots in the classroom, Ms. Cameron first joined our school as a Gr. 2 Learning Expert Teacher nearly eight years ago before moving into school leadership, first as a Dean of Students, then as a Director at our Upper School campus.

Ms. Cameron has been educating young minds for nearly two decades. She obtained her master’s degree in education in 2014, and previously taught and worked in administration at another private school before joining our community. We sat down with her to ask some questions that might help convey all that Ms. Cameron manages at our school and her vision for the Middle School Program.

What is a typical day for you as Director of the Middle School?

As the Middle School Director, I work closely with teachers to ensure they have the support they need to thrive in the classroom. I collaborate with my team daily to continue building a positive Middle School culture—one that is not only academically strong but also fun and engaging for students. My days include observing classes, providing meaningful feedback to teachers, and managing escalated situations with students or staff as they arise. I also partner with families to make sure we are supporting their children both in school and at home, reinforcing our commitment to developing well-rounded students.

Our Middle School Program is known for challenging students to the highest international levels. How do you support the whole student in these critical years?

Middle School is one of the most challenging stages in a student’s life. It’s a pivotal time for both cognitive and emotional growth. At our school, the curriculum is intentionally rigorous, which can sometimes feel overwhelming for students and families. Because of this, I believe it’s essential to balance high academic expectations with meaningful social and emotional support.

To support students academically, we provide multiple layers of help. In addition to weekly student hours, students can work with peer tutors from our High School Program when they need extra reinforcement in specific subjects. We also offer a student support program where students collaborate with their advisor, the Dean, and their teachers to create an individualized plan that helps them navigate our demanding curriculum. We know that academic rigor and accountability can be challenging for middle schoolers as they learn to manage their grades and keep up with the pace of coursework.

Equally important is supporting our students’ social-emotional development. I am a strong believer in building and maintaining a positive school culture where students feel a genuine sense of belonging and have things to look forward to beyond academics. When a student has a passion, whether it’s a club, sport, or committee, I strongly encourage them to participate. Those are the opportunities that help them grow socially and build confidence.

What do you think stands apart about our Middle School program?

Our Middle School Program is truly unique; saying it stands out among other middle schools across the city and state is an understatement. We are a community that strives to support every student and partner closely with every family. When I think about what sets us apart, a few key pillars come to mind:

• Belonging: Our students and families consistently feel a strong sense of belonging because we operate not only as a school community but as a family. As Director, I value maintaining an open-door policy where students can stop by to share feedback, ask questions, or simply say hello. I avoid a strict “by appointment only” approach because it’s important that students and teachers feel heard and know their voice matters

• Support System: Our support system is exceptional and truly caters to teachers, students, and families. We approach every situation with flexibility, an open mind, and a commitment to keeping students at the center. This not only strengthens the sense of belonging but also creates a warm, family-oriented environment. The level of support provided by our administrative team is unlike that of many middle schools. Here, no teacher or student is “just a number.” We work tirelessly to make sure everyone feels valued, heard, and fully supported.

• Curriculum: Our curriculum is “first class” and speaks for itself. Our Middle School students are preparing for high school in ways many schools don’t even consider. By the time they complete our program, students are ready for college-level coursework, perform extremely well on standardized tests in high school (PSAT, SAT, and Advanced Placement exams), and show strong results on our midterms and final exams (Pre-Comps and Comps). Our elective offerings give students opportunities to explore passions and potential career interests early on. In short, our curriculum prepares students not just for our high school but for future success beyond the classroom.

• Teachers: Most importantly, our teachers are a defining strength of our program. We don’t just have educators; we have experts who truly love what they do. I witness daily how our teachers bring rigor to life through games, hands-on labs, debates that spark critical thinking, and culminating projects that connect learning to the real world. They give students the opportunity to take ownership of their learning, and that is not something found everywhere. Our teachers plan with every student in mind, rather than simply following a standard state-provided curriculum, allowing them to reach multiple learning styles in meaningful ways. I am honored to lead a program that demonstrates consistent growth, care, and respect.

You have been a big proponent of building a strong school culture during your years at the school. What programs have you started to build a great culture supporting students and teachers in Middle School?

Due to my firm belief in creating well-rounded students, I am constantly seeking ways to strengthen our school’s culture. Middle school students thrive when they have opportunities to collaborate and engage outside the classroom. Over my five years on the Administration team, both in Primary and Middle School, I have started and supported numerous programs to foster community, connection, and tradition:

  • Grade 8 Overnight/Lock-In: In my first year as Middle School Director, I established the Grade 8 Overnight, where students spend the night at school, enjoying games and fun activities. This December will mark our third Overnight.
Our Gr. 8 Lock In chaperones bonded in their matching PJs and bear slippers, which Director Cameron ordered.
  • Grade 8 Washington, D.C./Charlottesville Trip: Alongside Mr. Piel (U.S. History SET), I led the creation of this trip, which provides students with hands-on historical and civic learning experiences. It has become an annual tradition in March.
  • Grade 8 Celebration: I created a celebration to honor our eighth graders for completing the Middle School program. While not a formal graduation, this event recognizes students’ achievements and brings families together to celebrate their successes. This year will be the third celebration.
  • Grade 6 Ice-Skating Trip: To reward students after completing Pre-Comps, I started a fun Ice-Skating trip for Grade 6 students. This social tradition helps students celebrate academic milestones and connect with peers.
  • Parent University-Style Forums: I collaborated with administration and external partners to create forums supporting families, including the “Inside Scoop to Pre-Comps and Comps” for Grade 6 families and an Executive Functioning Workshop for parents in Grades 5–8. These forums help families support their students academically and socially at home.
  • Recess for Middle School Students: Working with the Dean, we introduced AE Recess, giving students the option for downtime and socialization three times a week. This initiative was based on student and parent feedback and strengthens our supportive community.
  • Increased Teacher Collaboration: I encouraged a schedule (weekly team meetings) that allows teachers to collaborate more effectively, share best practices, and strengthen professional partnerships across departments.
Head of School Josh Harmon and Director Cameron marveling at how many pizzas were consumed at our Pre-Comp Student Session and Pizza Party.

All of these initiatives are designed to build and improve culture in the Middle School, providing students, teachers, and families with a fuller, more meaningful school experience. I am committed to continuing to create traditions and opportunities that positively impact both academics and student life.

Our school integrated a “no cell phone” policy last school year. From your perspective as the Director, how has that changed the school day or experience for students in the Middle School Program?

Our no cell phone policy has drastically changed the dynamics of Middle School. I have observed students becoming more focused in the classroom, more socially engaged with their peers, and building stronger self-advocacy skills. Over the past few years, cell phones and other personal devices played a significant role in students’ daily lives. While these technologies have positive attributes, they often disrupted the traditional school experience, a structure that, in my view, is essential for holding students accountable for their learning.

Since implementing this policy, I have seen students conversing more with peers in classrooms, cafeterias, and hallways, participating more actively in lessons, and choosing to be fully involved in the school community. Additionally, we have seen a significant decrease in suspensions related to cyberbullying or inappropriate phone use during school hours. Overall, this policy has strengthened both the academic and social-emotional environment of our Middle School.

You have been at our school for many years, first as a Learning Expert Teacher (LET), then as a Dean, and now as Director. What drew you to BASIS Independent Brooklyn (and keeps you coming back)?

This is my eighth school year here at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, and each year truly gets better. I was initially drawn to this school because of its commitment to genuine skill mastery rather than simply teaching to a test. I also value the strong support system in place for teachers, students, and families, as it consistently leads to positive experiences and outcomes.

Before joining our school, I taught at a small private school on Long Island that held similar beliefs and standards, which made the transition here feel natural. One of the things I appreciate most is that teaching is not the end of the road; there are always meaningful opportunities for professional growth, supported by people who genuinely want to see you thrive. I’m proud to be an example of that, having grown from a classroom teacher (Learning Expert Teacher) to Primary School Dean of Students, Primary School Director, and now Middle School Director.

Each role has reinforced what makes BASIS Independent Brooklyn truly special: a community that strives for excellence, a culture of care, and a curriculum that stands apart from other schools. Our teachers and students are deeply passionate about their work, and together they create the warm, supportive environment that defines who we are.

To me, BASIS Independent Brooklyn feels like family more than just a school, and that is what brings me back year after year. It keeps getting better, and we continue to grow stronger together.

What is something families might not know about you that you want to share?

I travel quite a distance each day to get to work, coming from Freeport, Long Island. I do it wholeheartedly because I truly love my job and the people I get to collaborate with. My colleagues make each day meaningful and fun.

I also have a musical background. I play the clarinet, saxophone, and flute, and I originally attended SUNY Potsdam for music education and performance before shifting my focus to teaching. Once my youngest son is a bit older, I hope to join a band or orchestra again as a personal passion project.

Education runs in my family. My relatives owned early learning schools on Long Island, where I worked as a teenager. I also tutored many of their students. That early exposure is where my love for education really began.

Before coming to BASIS Independent Brooklyn, I had the opportunity to serve as the interim Head of School at my previous school while the Head of School was on long-term medical leave. That experience gave me my first hands-on introduction to school leadership.

And last but certainly not least, I am a single mom to three wonderful children, a daughter who is 19, and two sons who are 14 and 5. Because of them, I get to experience all levels of childhood and adolescence at home, which adds a meaningful perspective to my work in school.

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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.

Filed Under: Administration & Staff, Community Events, Community Values, Current Events, Featured, Leadership, Meet School Leadership, Middle School, School Community

Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026: Everything Families Need to Know

January 22, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026 Opens January 24, 2026

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

Rolling Admissions Timeline

Application Opens — January 24, 2026

  • Applications for all grade levels open on this date.

Application Deadline

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

Decision Notification

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

Commitment Deadline & Enrollment Details

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

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

How to Apply for Rolling Admissions

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Rolling Admissions?

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

Are all grade levels open during Rolling Admissions?

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

What counts as a “completed application”?

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

How soon will we receive an admissions decision?

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

Is applying during Rolling Admissions binding?

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

What if a grade is already full when we apply?

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

Can current families apply for siblings?

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

How long do families have to accept an offer?

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

APPLY NOW

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

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Process, Early Learning Program, Featured, High School, Lower School, Middle School, Primary Program, School Community

Real Questions, Real Investigations: How BASIS Independent Fremont Students Develop Scientific Thinking Skills

January 22, 2026 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

Real scientists don’t start with textbooks. They start with questions about the world around them. At BASIS Independent Fremont (BIF), our Lower School students learn the same way: by investigating real phenomena, testing their ideas, and using evidence to support their conclusions. From engineering solutions to ancient problems to exploring why oil and vinegar refuse to mix, BIF students practice thinking like the scientists and engineers they may one day become.

Learning Through Real-World Investigation

At BIF, science education is phenomena-based, meaning students begin with observable events and real-world questions rather than memorization. Our approach develops three essential skills: active investigation (students doing, not just watching), scientific communication (reading, writing, and discussing like scientists do), and evidence-based reasoning (supporting conclusions with data).

This matters because these skills extend far beyond the science classroom. Whatever our students choose to become in life, they need to ask thoughtful questions, analyze information, and solve complex problems. Science at BIF is preparation for thinking critically about the world.

What Scientific Thinking Looks Like at BASIS Independent Fremont

Students Observe and Question

In Dr. Luo’s grade 4 science class, students recently tackled a deceptively simple question: why do oil and vinegar sometimes mix instead of separating into layers? “We started at the observable scale by having students mix oil and vinegar and notice that they don’t mix and instead form layers,” Dr. Luo explains. From that initial observation, students generated their own questions about what was happening at a molecular level—questions that would drive their entire investigation.

Similarly, in Mr. Kasper’s engineering class, the students face a historical challenge: How did ancient Rome transport fresh water to support its growing population? “Students are guided to ask essential questions such as: Why is this a problem? Who is being affected? What are the possible causes of the water shortage?” Mr. Kasper notes. “Students are encouraged to ask additional questions of their own, deepening their understanding of the challenge.”

Students Investigate and Test

Scientific thinking requires more than curiosity—it demands action. Dr. Luo’s students moved from observation to experimentation, testing various substances to see what would help oil and vinegar combine. “Students experimented with adding lecithin, flour, and cornstarch to oil and vinegar. They discovered that lecithin helps oil and vinegar mix by acting as an emulsifier.”

In engineering, Mr. Kasper’s students design and build prototypes of aqueducts, working within budgets and material constraints just as real engineers do. “During construction, they test their structures for strength and for their ability to successfully transport water,” he explains. “Testing is an ongoing process, and students carefully record not only how their prototypes perform, but also the results of each test and the improvements they believe will fix any issues.”

Students Read, Write, and Communicate Like Scientists

Scientific literacy is just as important as hands-on experimentation. Dr. Luo’s students didn’t just conduct experiments—they read scientific texts to deepen their understanding. “Students built their own online models and read texts like Handbook of Food Science and Solving Dissolving to learn about molecular structure and how molecules attract themselves and other molecules,” she shares.

Throughout their investigations, students document their findings in science journals, write lab reports, and present their conclusions to classmates. This mirrors how real scientists communicate their discoveries to the broader scientific community.

Students Use Evidence to Support Their Ideas

Perhaps most importantly, BIF students learn that good ideas must be backed by evidence. When Dr. Luo’s students concluded that lecithin acts as an emulsifier, they could point to specific experimental results and molecular models that supported their claim. They learned about emulsifiers’ special structure—one that can attach to both oil and vinegar molecules—through both reading and hands-on observation.

Mr. Kasper’s engineering students practice the same evidence-based thinking. “Each idea is discussed and evaluated based on the identified constraints and goals, such as efficiency, cost, available materials, and the ability to successfully transport water,” he explains. “Through this process, students learn that engineering is not about choosing the first idea, but about carefully comparing options to determine the best possible solution.”

Building Skills That Last

The sophistication of scientific thinking grows as students do. By grades 4 and 5, students are working with complex concepts like molecular structure and engineering design processes, but the foundation begins much earlier—with kindergarteners observing how materials change and grade 1 students exploring the natural world.

These investigations teach students to approach problems with confidence. They learn that failure is part of the process, that questions are more valuable than quick answers, and that evidence matters more than opinions. As Mr. Kasper notes, “This reflection reinforces the idea that engineering is iterative and that failure is an important part of learning and improvement.”

By the time BIF students reach Upper School, they’ve spent years practicing how to think, not just what to think. They carry forward skills they’ll use for life: asking thoughtful questions, designing investigations, using evidence to support ideas, and communicating findings clearly.

Science as a Way of Thinking

At BASIS Independent Fremont, science isn’t a subject students study. It’s a way of thinking to practice every day. From our youngest Bumblebees to our grade 5 students preparing for middle school, students learn to approach problems like scientists and engineers: with curiosity, creativity, and evidence.

Want to see scientific thinking in action? Schedule a campus tour to visit our Lower School classrooms and discover how BIF students are learning to investigate, question, and solve the problems that matter.

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.

Filed Under: Academics, Featured, Lower School, Science, STEM, Uncategorized

Staffing Progress & Opening Readiness

January 15, 2026 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

As of Thursday, January 15, BASIS Independent Dublin is on track to open fully staffed, with more than half of all faculty and staff already secured months ahead of opening. 

Staffing Progress at a Glance

  • 54% of total faculty and staff positions secured
  • 59% of leadership and operational roles confirmed
  • 50% of teaching positions in place
  • Experienced BASIS Independent educators joining through internal transfers
  • All remaining roles are planned, budgeted, and actively recruiting

BASIS Independent Dublin is well on track for a strong opening year. More than half of all faculty and staff positions have already been filled or are in final transfer stages, including nearly 60% of leadership and support roles. Our academic team is also taking shape, with half of our Subject Expert Teaching positions already secured, including priority grade-level roles. Several positions are being filled by experienced BASIS Independent educators transferring from within the BASIS Independent network, ensuring continuity, quality, and a smooth start for students. With a clear hiring plan and active recruitment underway, we are confident Dublin will open fully staffed and fully prepared to deliver the exceptional education families expect.

Newly Announced Leadership

Administrators
Supporting teachers and students on their paths toward excellence.

Academic Programs

  • Director of Academic Programs, Ms. Suguna Haranahalli

College Counseling

  • College Counselor, Ms. Niyati Shah

Operations

  • Front Office Coordinator, Ms. Carolinna Dievendorf
  • Operations Manager, Mr. Daniel Furukawa
  • Facilities Manager, Mr. Jarred Thorp

Student Affairs

  • Director of Student Affairs, Teacher Jasica Gill
Click Here to View Leadership

Newly Announced Faculty

Subject Expert Teachers
Passionate, expert teachers who believe that with the right support and encouragement, any student can excel.

  • Subject Expert Art Teacher, Teacher Danae Digiacomo
  • Subject Expert Biology Teacher, Ms. Taylor Goldschmiedt
  • Subject Expert Chemistry Teacher, Ms. Ilona Covert
  • Subject Expert Computer Science Teacher, Ms. Nasira Shahin
  • Subject Expert English Teacher, Mr. Scott Dievendorf
  • Subject Expert French Teacher, Ms. Kira Laquidara

Click Here to View Faculty

BASIS Independent Dublin is a Grades 6 – 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the BASIS Independent Dublin community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Filed Under: Administration & Staff, Faculty & Staff, Featured, Leadership, Meet School Leadership

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