Leadership

Leadership Spotlight: Lower School Director of Student Affairs

August 5, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Today, our Leadership Spotlight series focuses on Ms. Allison Sandhu, who joined BASIS Independent Brooklyn this past school year as the Director of Student Affairs for our Lower School campus in Downtown Brooklyn. Ms. Sandhu brings years of experience as both an educator and a school administrator. She joined school leadership at our Lower School campus last year, and we wanted to share her insights, given her role as Director of Student Affairs, while shedding light on her interests and accomplishments.

Director Sandhu started her career in the classroom with Teach for America after graduating from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and she went on to be a founding teacher at a charter school in New Jersey, where she led her students to exceptional results. While teaching, Ms. Sandhu gained experience creating curriculum and utilizing data to drive differentiation for students. After four years of teaching, Ms. Sandhu was promoted to administration as a Department Head, where she led a team of educators in developing academic plans as well as unit and lesson plans. She regularly coached on instructional practices and classroom management.

Director Sandhu’s knowledge of our school runs deep, since she is also a proud parent of a Gr. 3 Bear at our Upper School campus. That perspective has informed her work at the Lower School campus. In the past school year, Director Sandhu spent time connecting with teachers and observing classes to help offer suggestions and ways to enhance learning. She also introduced new community events, particularly the BASIS Independent Brooklyn “Becoming a Bear Ball” for students in grade 2 stepping up to the Upper School campus next year. Director Sanhu has already made an impact on our school, and we had a chance to catch up with her to ask some questions we hope will help families get to know her better.

What drew you to BASIS Independent Brooklyn?

I originally found BASIS Independent Brooklyn as a parent in PreK. My husband and I were looking for a school for our son where strong academics lived alongside joy—where kids could be intellectually curious, challenged, and love coming to school each day. We wanted a diverse and inclusive community, with compassionate educators who truly knew and supported their students. The two-teacher model and commitment to differentiation stood out right away—it signaled that the school prioritized both high expectations and individual attention, which felt like exactly what we wanted for our son.

Tell us about what excites you in the year ahead?

I’m really excited to help enhance the student experience—looking closely at the systems and routines that help kids thrive and ensuring that rigor and joy show up in every classroom. I’m especially looking forward to building some new schoolwide traditions that celebrate academics in fun, community-building ways. Most of all, I’m eager to partner with teachers and families so that every student feels known, supported, and challenged every single day.

You spent some time focused on areas other than education. Tell us about some of your other interests.

I’ve spent time outside of the classroom working in a few different creative fields. I founded a travel startup that connected travelers with locals to create more authentic, meaningful experiences. I also worked as a documentary photographer, creating and publishing multimedia pieces for a variety of outlets. Across all of that work, there was a common thread: I was always trying to notice and elevate the beauty in everyday life. That same mindset is what brought me back to education—there’s nothing more powerful than seeing what makes a child unique and then doing the work to cultivate that.

Field Day 2025 – Director Sandhu helped lead our oldest Cubs over to Red Hook Fields to join our Bears!

Families might not know this, but you started as a parent at our school. What difference does that second perspective bring to your current role?

My family was part of the BASIS Independent Brooklyn community for years before I joined the staff, and that experience continues to ground my work as Director of Student Affairs. I know firsthand how important clear communication, consistent expectations, and trust are to families. As parents, we want to feel confident that our children are both cared for and challenged—and that belief shapes everything I do. It’s also why I truly value hearing from families. I know it’s easy to hesitate before reaching out, but I want everyone to know I’m always here as a partner. Please don’t ever hesitate to connect!

You are very well acquainted with the world of youth sports as a parent, since we always hear about a certain game or championships with your son. Can you tell us a bit about that and how that can help in your current role?

My son is incredibly passionate about soccer—or football, as he prefers to call it. He currently plays for the Red Bulls academy team, so when we’re not at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, there’s a good chance we’re on a field somewhere. One of the biggest takeaways from being around youth sports at that level is how much great coaching overlaps with great teaching. The best coaches—like the best educators—create safe, structured environments where kids can take risks, stretch themselves, and be creative. Clear expectations, timely feedback, and a deep belief in a child’s potential go a long way—on the field and in the classroom.

Do you mind sharing a fun fact that families might not know about you?

I love to cook and have bookshelves full of cookbooks. Even when I don’t have time to make something elaborate—or anything at all—I find it incredibly relaxing to flip through them and get inspired. One of my favorite weekly rituals is making my own yogurt from scratch—it’s shockingly easy and always so satisfying.

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Thank you, Director Sandhu, for dedicating your time and focus on making our school community impactful and meaningful. We look forward to another great year ahead!

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.

A Dynamic Dean of Students – Introducing Kate M. Cales

August 4, 2025 by mallorykilbreath Leave a Comment

Student support can make or break an individualized educational experience. At BASIS Independent Bothell, ongoing student support is a critical part of our academic program. Deans regularly monitor student performance and proactively identify those who need support or are making exceptional strides. Deans play a very specific role in developing and orchestrating a plan for students who need additional support above what is offered in the classroom. They meet with the student and assess, then they employ strategies such as extra teacher hours, peer tutoring, executive functioning, and organizational support.

Our dean of students, Kate M. Cales, has a Bachelor of Arts in both Spanish and Political Science from Texas State University and holds a Master of Education in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Texas. Ms. Cales joins BASIS Independent as the Dean of Students after over 16 years in classroom teaching and school mentorship positions. She cannot wait to help shape a culture that balances high standards with a sense of fun.

We had an opportunity to talk with Ms. Cales about herself and about the importance of having impactful student services at an independent school.

Ms. Cales, why did you choose to join the BASIS Independent Bothell leadership team?

As a lover of language and people, I chose BASIS Independent because its strong academic framework balances high rigor with plenty of space for creativity, creating the best environment for learning.

As the “Dean of Students”, what do you really do?

This is a loaded question! I’ll simplify it the best I can.

Behavior support — All students are expected to show respect, but getting along with everyone every day is tough. I support teachers by working with students who have made poor choices or who are having a bad day.

Social emotional learning curriculum expert — Research shows that “SEL develops skills that help us be successful in all parts of our lives—like communicating effectively, setting goals, staying motivated, and making decisions that benefit ourselves and others. With these skills, we can build healthy relationships, succeed in schools and workplaces, and contribute to our communities (CASEL-5).” I will help teachers and students incorporate social emotional learning into our everyday selves.

Academic support — A huge part of the student affairs team’s job overall is working with students on their learning goals, study techniques, organization, motivation, and overall identity as a scholar. I will meet with students who are not meeting their learning goals in different classes, to lend support and add to their scholar toolbox.

Ms. Cales on carpet with a group of students

What is your educational background?

My work in education has taken me all over the world. At the start of my career, I was a lead teacher in a Spanish language classroom for 3–5-year-olds with special needs. This position spurred my pursuit of a M.Ed., in Early Childhood Special Education, which I completed in 2012 shortly before beginning a Kindergarten teaching position at a first-class independent school in Shanghai, China.

In addition to a generalist certification and a SPED certification, I have a bilingual teaching endorsement. I also have experience leading IEP meetings, setting and implementing goals, in Spanish. I love all language acquisition and am passionate about a linguistically diverse and culturally sensitive community for learning, believing that it makes for a rich international learning experience.

What things have you learned in your career that you are planning on bringing over to BASIS Independent Bothell?

Working in public schools, private schools and international schools, I am familiar with many learning frameworks including the Reggio-Emilia approach, and PYP, which have inspired much of my classroom work over my career. I have many interests in early literacy development, and I have served as a mentor teacher for the School Literacy and Culture courses I took through Rice University in Houston. Supporting kids with access to rich language experiences (in any language) fosters their play skills which aids in their self-regulation, language acquisition, problem solving and sense of self.

What have your roles as a mentor included?

In my time in the classroom, I have coached and mentored student teachers, paraprofessional staff and other colleagues. I’ve presented research-based information on play and early childhood literacy at the NWAIS conference 2023. In each school placement, I have regularly served on committees for employee welfare, accreditation and facilities. In 15 years in education I have recruited volunteers, planned events and assemblies, assisted in onboarding and have led my peers. I love contributing to a thriving school and look forward to serving in a leadership capacity at BASIS.

What are you most excited about in the next year?

Schools are vibrant, living things, and I’m excited to help nurture that spirit at BASIS Independent Bothell.

What inspires you or excites you about working in education?

Watching students grow will always be exciting. In the early literacy years, I love seeing children go from piecing together bits of language to reading fluently — and then again when they shift from learning to read to reading to learn.

Learn more about our school by visiting our website or signing up for an upcoming information session,

Leading by Example: Associate Head of Upper School Honored as a Rising Star in Education

July 11, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we believe that inspired leadership fuels inspired learning. We are proud to celebrate our Associate Head of Upper School (grades 6–12, Ms. Jennifer Dickens, who has been recognized as one of The Rising Star Women Leaders in Education for 2025 by Women We Admire. This national recognition celebrates women shaping the future of education through innovation, collaboration, and vision—qualities Ms. Dickens embodies every day at our NYC private school.

Ms. Dickens joined our school community as a history teacher, where she quickly distinguished herself not only for her dynamic classroom instruction but for her unwavering commitment to students’ growth and well-being. As she moved into administrative leadership, she carried with her a deep understanding of what it means to be both an educator and a mentor.

“I am so proud that Ms. Dickens’ leadership is not only being recognized internally, but externally,” said Ms. LaNette Hodge, Head of School. “She has a rare gift for inspiring those around her to be their very best, whether they are students in her classroom or colleagues across our campus.”

Her impact is evident in every corner of our school. Whether she is leading professional development sessions on effective classroom management inspired by Teach Like a Champion, organizing icebreakers to build camaraderie among faculty, or simply recognizing a teacher’s effort with a thoughtful shout-out or a surprise treat in the staff lounge, Ms. Dickens has created a culture where every member of our community feels valued and supported.

Ms. Friederike Williams, Dean of Students for our Upper School and a longtime colleague of Ms. Dickens, shared:

“I had the privilege of teaching alongside Ms. Dickens, and I believe she made me a better teacher. I benefited from her expertise and insight while she was my teacher mentor, especially by acquiring new methods for lesson planning structure. She also showed me how reflection on this process would help me find the best way to present content for my students.”

Ms. Dickens is not only a leader in her field but also an innovator. In November, she will attend a national education conference and present her insights in a session, “From Chalkboards to Chatbots: Rethinking AI in Middle Level Education.” Her work explores how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to empower students, personalize learning, and prepare young people for a world that is rapidly evolving.

This award from Women We Admire reinforces what our community already knows: that Ms. Dickens is a dedicated and visionary leader. She reminds us that true leadership is not about titles or accolades—it is about showing up for others, listening with empathy, and never losing sight of why we do this work in the first place.

Please join us in congratulating Ms. Dickens on this well-deserved honor. We are excited to watch her continue to lead, inspire, and redefine what is possible in education.

Announcing the Founding Head of Operations for BASIS Independent Dublin!

May 31, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

BASIS Independent Schools, a globally recognized network of private schools celebrated for exceptional outcomes, is proud to announce that Ms. Apra Singh will lead BASIS Independent Dublin as its founding Head of Operations. Ms. Singh strives to prepare well-rounded, curious, and thoughtful students – students who advocate for themselves and others, contribute meaningfully to the community at large, and are well-equipped to succeed in college and beyond.

Head of Operations, Ms. Singh, sitting at desks with students.

We sat with Ms. Singh to discuss her vision and goals for the future BASIS Independent Dublin community.

What is your vision for BASIS Independent Dublin, and how do you plan to implement it?
My vision for BASIS Independent Dublin is to create and foster a school culture rooted in collaboration, respect, academic rigor, and excellence.

Bringing this vision to life will require a team effort. Our goal is to hire exceptional Subject Expert Teachers and staff, enroll enthusiastic students, and foster strong partnerships with families. I believe that through hard work, collaboration, and adaptability—and by staying committed to our true north of student-centered decision making—we will achieve this vision together.

My hope is that BASIS Independent Dublin becomes a landmark in the community and is a space for all stakeholders – students, staff, and families to feel like they belong.

You’ve held this role before. What does a typical day look like for a member of Operations?
The truth is, there is no such thing as a “typical day” in Operations. The work is dynamic, fast-paced, and ever-changing—no two days are exactly alike. As Head of Operations, you serve as the figurative “person behind the curtain,” ensuring that every aspect of the school runs seamlessly. While every day is different, what remains the same is my connection and commitment to being a supportive presence in the lives of our students.

The Operations Team oversees a wide range of critical functions, including human resources, staff recruiting, health and safety, facilities management, campus maintenance, tuition and finance, re-enrollment, and the day-to-day logistics that keep the school functioning smoothly. It’s a role that requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and a constant focus on supporting the broader mission of the school as well as every individual in our community.

How do you define operational excellence in a school setting?
Operational excellence in a school setting means creating and maintaining systems that allow every member of the community to thrive. It is defined by the ability to deliver consistent, efficient, and proactive support across all areas of school life, including facilities, staffing, safety, communication, finance, and daily logistics.

At its core, operational excellence means a commitment to continuous improvement, responsiveness, reliability, and collaboration. When operational excellence is achieved, it’s often invisible because everything simply works. But its impact is deeply felt in the learning environment it helps create.

What role do extracurriculars play in the social and emotional wellness of our students?
Extracurricular activities are an essential part of student life and play a significant role in supporting students’ social and emotional well-being. They provide an opportunity for connection, self-expression, and personal growth outside the classroom.

At our schools, we offer a diverse range of opportunities, including academic, athletic, artistic, leadership-focused, and everything in between. Whether a student likes to build robots, debate the pros and cons of Daylight Saving time, or paint a mural for the drama club’s latest production, there truly is something for everyone!

Through these programs, students build friendships, develop confidence, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, and often feel a sense of belonging and purpose.

Additionally, many of our clubs are student-initiated and student-led, providing valuable leadership and organizational experience. By empowering students to design and manage their activities and events, our extracurricular program becomes a true reflection of the passions, interests, and personalities of our student body.

How do you plan to ensure that staff and families feel supported by your Operations Team?
To ensure that staff and families feel supported by the Operations Team, my approach will be rooted in proactive communication, responsiveness, and a commitment to continuous improvement. I believe that the primary purpose of Operations is to support the broader school community, and that begins with building trust through transparency, consistency, and follow-through.

Strong relationships with students, staff, and families are the foundation for creating and implementing effective systems—whether for ordering supplies, aftercare, clubs, or daily arrival and dismissal. My goal is for the Operations Team to foster a collaborative, solution-oriented culture and to be a reliable, approachable resource that families and staff feel confident turning to for support.

I also recognize that with any new school or initiative, there is always room to grow. I am committed to partnering with families and staff to reflect, adapt, and improve as we shape a thriving school community together.

This past year, you were part of Spring Education Group’s Leadership Academy. How do you feel this experience prepared you for this new role?
The Leadership Academy was a transformative experience that challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. The academy allowed me to explore the intricacies of running a school within our organization and provided me with the knowledge and tools to do so successfully.

Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into important areas of operational excellence, including human resources, finance, communication, leadership, talent acquisition, data analytics, enrollment, legal compliance, and more.

The Academy provided me with a strong foundation, a practical roadmap for success, and I’m very excited to apply what I’ve learned as we launch BASIS Independent Dublin.

Tell us of your proudest moment during your time with BASIS Independent Schools.
The past five and a half years have been the most rewarding of my career, filled with countless proud moments shared alongside my fellow educators. One moment that stands out above all others was the graduation of our first-ever cohort of seniors at BASIS Independent Fremont, a milestone that represented more than four years of preparation, perseverance, and collective effort.

I remember sitting on stage, looking out at our graduates, many of whom I had known since middle school, and feeling overwhelmed with pride and love. It was an incredibly emotional day for all of us, and the joy we felt in celebrating their achievement was truly unparalleled. Every time these students come to visit us from their prestigious college programs, we are reminded of how far they have come and all the work they put in to get there!

To stay connected with us as we share news about our campus and upcoming events, we invite families to submit an inquiry form to join our interest list.

Announcing the Founding Head of School for BASIS Independent Dublin!

May 19, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

BASIS Independent Schools, a globally recognized network of private schools celebrated for exceptional outcomes, is proud to announce that Dr. Helen Min will lead BASIS Independent Dublin as its founding Head of School. With a deep commitment to academic excellence, Dr. Min brings a wealth of experience in teaching, leadership, and curriculum development to lead this new community.

We sat with Dr. Min to discuss her vision and goals for the future BASIS Independent Dublin community.

What is your vision for BASIS Independent Dublin, and how do you plan to implement it?
I hope to build on the rigor and excellent programs built at existing Bay Area campuses such as Fremont and Silicon Valley, while being responsive to the specific needs of the Dublin community. It’s essential for students to have a balance of academic rigor, extracurriculars, and social-emotional support. The most important foundation for a new school is the leadership and faculty, and that’s where we will begin – by building a strong and talented team of administrators and Subject Expert Teachers to establish BASIS Independent Dublin.

How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you adapt it to meet the needs of different groups (students, faculty, parents, etc.)?
I would describe my leadership as collaborative. I strive for transparency and to share decision-making when possible and credit where it is due. That said, I also strive to take responsibility for what happens and reflect and learn when mistakes happen. I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other, and while listening and collaboration take time, the outcome is worth the investment. With the different stakeholders and groups in a school community, it’s important to be responsive, but I will also rely on and work together with my team and staff to serve our community. It is important to remember that no one person stands alone when they represent a community.

What are the key values that should drive a school’s culture, and how do you foster these values in your community?
To me, key values that underpin the culture of a successful school are mutual respect and care for one another, curiosity and critical thinking, a love of learning, and a growth mindset for our students and for ourselves. While our students are certainly academically ambitious and high achievers, we also want to recognize and reward their efforts to build community, to look forward to being part of something bigger than themselves, and to take ownership in their learning. An important way to foster these values is to build and reinforce the culture together – leadership, faculty, families, and students – and to hold each other accountable in a supportive way.

How do you plan to balance academic excellence with the emotional and social well-being of students?
Academic excellence and the emotional and social well-being of students go hand in hand. For three years, I was the Director of Student Affairs at the BASIS Independent Fremont Lower campus, and when a student was struggling academically, we would approach this challenge from all fronts – helping them develop better executive functioning skills, independence, and accountability in their learning process, while also providing support and reinforcement for their academic learning. You really can’t have one without the other. We look for every opportunity to build on the practices of making good choices and reflecting on one’s growth and behavior, both in and out of the classroom. For older students, it’s also critical to involve them as the drivers of their learning. At the BASIS Independent Fremont Upper campus, students lead a lot of the after-school clubs, and this is a great way to foster their own interests and to give them agency in their own school experience. I’d like to continue this practice.

How do you plan to involve parents in the life of the school and ensure open lines of communication with them?
It is a typical pattern that parent involvement in school drops off as students get older. We also see that with older students, they may not tell their parents too much about what’s happening to them at school. It’s important to bridge this gap by creating opportunities for parents to be on campus to celebrate their students during school events, ceremonies, and competitions. It’s also essential to have a strong connection between parents and faculty, so that our Subject Expert Teachers proactively reach out to parents to keep them informed about their child’s learning, and parents and families, in turn, feel that they can reach out to them with questions. We also want to build the skills of self-advocacy and independence with students, so they are also taking the initiative to communicate with their teachers and families as well.

Are there any particular school traditions you are excited to implement at Dublin?
I look forward to cultural celebrations from our community, such as Diwali and Lunar New Year. Our parents contribute greatly to these celebrations, and there are many joyful and fun moments. I’m also excited for Spirit Week, Art Festival, performing arts events, Project Week, Senior Projects, and more! It’s truly special to see our community members come together in this way.

Tell us of your proudest moment during your time with BASIS Independent Schools.
One of my proudest moments at BASIS Independent Fremont was the grade 5 graduation at the end of my first full school year. I had headed the planning of the event and party for families and staff after, and it was such a wonderful way to conclude my first year as part of this community. It is truly wonderful to share a moment of such pride, celebration, and excitement with students and parents as they transition to their middle school years.

To stay connected with us as we share news about our campus and upcoming events, we invite families to submit an inquiry form to join our interest list.

Spring Education Leadership Academy: A Long-Term Investment in Our Schools

April 7, 2025 by msnyder Leave a Comment

Spring Education Group is a multi-brand education network of superior private school institutions spanning infant care through high school. The network, currently composed of approximately 204 schools, including BASIS Independent Schools, brings together some of the best private school programs in the country, with proven track records educating children through unique and carefully crafted curricula.

The Leadership Academy for Future Heads of School is meticulously crafted to empower individuals who aspire to become the torchbearers of education within the Spring Education Group. This program is dedicated to honing leadership skills, fostering strategic thinking, and developing operational excellence. Participants benefit from the mentorship of seasoned professionals from across Spring Education Group, engage in interactive workshops, and form connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.

In a twelve-month timeframe, a cohort of individuals embark on a valuable journey. This journey involves a structured program comprising a six-month instructional course followed by a six-month hands-on practical experience. This comprehensive approach is designed to empower participants with the skills, knowledge, insights, and valuable connections within the educational field, enabling them to excel as future leaders within Spring Education Group.

In order to be selected for this program, an individual must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to education and leadership and is selected for their exemplary leadership qualities, dedication, and vision for driving positive change within our academic community.

In the first cohort of the Leadership Academy, two members of BASIS Independent Schools were selected.

When did you join BASIS Independent Schools (BINS) and in what role?
BB: I have been with BINS since 2017. I started as a Subject Expert Music Teacher at BASIS Independent Fremont, teaching music and drama for K – Grade 6. I transitioned to teaching band/musical theater at BASIS Independent Fremont Upper when it opened in 2019. I then became the Dean of Students for the Middle School Program in the 2021 school year. Lastly, I joined BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Lower once the campus opened in 2022, where I served as the Dean of Students for our TK – Grade 5 students.

AS: I have been with BINS since the start of 2020, a fantastic time to start a new job! Just weeks after we began, we went into a shutdown due to the global pandemic. I initially joined as the Associate Director of Admissions, taking over as the Director of Admissions in July 2020.

Did you work in education before joining BINS?
BB: I have a Bachelor’s in Music Education. Following my undergrad., I taught middle and high school band in Kentucky. In 2011, I returned to school for a graduate degree in woodwind performance at Ball State University. While there, I taught education and general music classes to undergraduates. Afterward, I pursued a Doctor of Arts and did some adjunct work teaching general music. I moved to California in 2016, where I taught elementary general music for one year before starting at BASIS Independent Fremont.

AS: I had a brief stint in education, working as a high school teacher while living in London, but most of my background is in social services and human resources.

Why did you choose to apply to the Leadership Academy?
BB: I chose to apply for the Leadership Academy because I am completing an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. I started the degree in 2021 when I accepted my first Dean of Students position. I wanted to be well-equipped for a leadership role and took it upon myself to ensure I served the students and faculty to the best of my ability.

AS: I applied because it seemed like a wonderful opportunity for growth, professional development, and to learn something new. I was also excited by the prospect of visiting different campuses, and learning from the leaders there.

What were you expecting to gain from this experience? Did it meet your expectations?
BB: At first, I was not sure what to expect. I remember meeting everyone at the Spring headquarters on day one. We spent the next two days reviewing what the program had in store and meeting the team leading the program. After those two days of meetings, I knew it would be an excellent opportunity to network and see how the Spring Education Group operates. Learning what the CEO and other Spring leaders are passionate about within the company was an incredible experience.

AS: I was hoping to gain three things: expertise and knowledge of areas I knew less about; the opportunity to learn from other leaders in our diverse organization; and a networking opportunity, to meet people from different parts of our vast organization. Spring Education Group does a wonderful job of hiring a very diverse workforce, and having the ability to interact, work with, and learn from them was wonderful.

How would you describe The Leadership Academy to someone that didn’t know anything about it?
BB: The Leadership Academy is a way to see all the aspects necessary to run a school within our organization. It provides hands-on experience while learning the intricacies of HR, Finance, Education, Leadership, Talent Acquisition, Data/Analytics, Ancillary/Summer Programs, Facilities, Operations, Enrollment, Re-Enrollment, Marketing, Legal, and Communication.

AS: I would describe it as a comprehensive, collaborative, and challenging opportunity that was designed to push us out of our comfort zones, offering knowledge about areas of school leadership that were new to us. This is for people who are ready to face what they don’t know and then make the efforts to fill those gaps.

What is something that surprised you about this experience?
BB: I was surprised by the amount of support and guidance provided during the program. Human Resources has been incredibly helpful in guiding us through the content while regularly checking in and offering support.

AS: I think the most surprising part for me was being able to explore our different brands, and seeing how different approaches work in different markets. We’re here to grow schools and make them successful, but the way everyone gets there looks very different. Another surprising thing was the extent of our shared services here at Spring Education Group. I truly had no idea how vast and influential these departments were and how they’ve been contributing to my day-to-day success behind the scenes.

How would you encourage others to participate in this experience?
BB: I would encourage anyone considering applying to go for it! The Leadership Academy has helped me boost my career in so many ways. Getting to see where the program can take me has been incredible.

AS: I would tell others that this experience has allowed me to reexamine my career priorities, and build a path going forward. It has allowed me to understand in more depth what it takes to run a school. Think of the Leadership Academy as a group of cheerleaders giving you a cheat-sheet to success as a new leader.

What role are you in now for the 2024 – 2025 school year, and do you feel The Leadership Academy helped prepare you for that role?
BB: I am the Director of Upper School at Stratford Fremont Osgood. I feel well prepared knowing the resources that the Spring Education Group has to offer. The training I have received has been extremely beneficial.

AS: I am now the Head of Operations for BASIS Independent Fremont. Yes, I feel that this program has helped prepare me for the role and reinforced that the answers to everything I need to know can be found in our network!

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BASIS Independent Schools, a subsidiary of Spring Education Group, is a national network of PreK-12 private, secular schools that educate students to the highest international levels. Our ten campuses, located in some of the most bustling, dynamic metropolitan areas in the country, are part of the BASIS Curriculum Schools global network. We believe in setting a higher standard for students and promoting self-reliance and accountability in a culture where hard work is celebrated, and intellectual pursuits result in extraordinary outcomes.

We are currently accepting applications for future positions in various roles at BASIS Independent Schools. Joining our team means immersing yourself in a dynamic, stimulating, and unpredictable academic community. Here, collaboration is key, and you’ll be part of a social and supportive environment that values growth.

As a member of our team-whether in teaching, administration, or school staff-you will contribute to the fulfillment of BASIS Independent Schools’ mission. This presents a remarkable opportunity to work in a fast-paced organization that embraces growth and offers room for professional development.

Click here to view current job opportunites and apply!

Director of Academic Programs Announcement

January 27, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

We are excited to announce that Mr. Gavin Pielow has been named the founding Director of Academic Programs for BASIS Independent Bothell.

Letter from Mr. Pielow, Director of Academic Programs

The most transformative lesson I ever learned wasn’t about finding answers – it was about asking better questions. I trace this insight back to my AP Government teacher, Mr. Shaw, who did something remarkable in our classroom: he taught us that the quality of our understanding depends not on the answers we receive, but on the depth and curiosity of the questions we dare to ask.

This approach mirrors what excites me most about BASIS Independent Schools and why our educational model resonates so deeply with me. Our goal extends beyond delivering information. We aim to cultivate intellectual architects: students who learn to navigate complexity, challenge conventional thinking, and approach scholarship as an active, dynamic process of discovery. Our passionate subject expert teachers go beyond subject instruction. They guide students in developing the intellectual tools to think like mathematicians, scientists, historians, and writers. This approach creates learners who are both knowledgeable and intellectually nimble.

I’m especially thrilled to bring this exceptional approach to education home. Growing up in Bothell just minutes away from where our new school stands, I’ve watched our community transform into a vibrant ecosystem of technological innovation and intellectual dynamism – a metamorphosis that mirrors the educational journey we aim to create for our students. Just as local companies have pioneered groundbreaking solutions, I am raring to help cultivate an academic environment that sees challenges as opportunities for creative problem-solving.

My journey in education has taught me that powerful learning happens when we embrace ambitious curiosity. Each role I’ve taken, from a classroom teacher working with students in challenging environments to a policy analyst examining educational systems, has reinforced one fundamental truth: education is not about filling minds, but about igniting them. This means challenging students to see beyond what is, and imagine what could be. In my view, each student is a unique constellation of talents and potential, and our job is to help them shine their brightest.

As we prepare for our inaugural year, I’m filled with excitement about the academic journey ahead. One of my key priorities as Director of Academic Programs is to foster a learning environment that balances academic rigor with joy and discovery. I’ll be working to implement innovative programs that challenge our students while nurturing their natural curiosity. Together with our families, we’ll build an academic program that not only prepares students for success in college and beyond but also instills in them a lifelong passion for learning and discovery.

In the spirit of the curious learners we aim to nurture, I close not with an answer, but with a question: Are you ready to join me in creating something extraordinary at BASIS Independent Bothell? I can’t wait to discover the answer together!

Warmest regards,

Mr. Gavin Pielow
Director of Academic Programs

Our Grade Span: Student Learning and Leadership Opportunities

January 6, 2025 by michaeldiambri Leave a Comment

BASIS Independent Bellevue first opened its doors in 2022, offering classes for grades 2 through 7. Since then, we have continued to expand our program offerings and as of the 2024–2025 academic year, our campus now has students in grades 2 through 9.

Looking ahead, our learning community plans to branch off into two distinct campuses. The current campus will ultimately be an Upper School, serving grades 5 through 12, housing both our Middle and High School programs. Plans are in motion to build a Lower School across the street. This brand-new facility will be dedicated to our Primary Program where students learn within our celebrated SET/LET co-teaching model.

While our current span of grade 2 to grade 9 might seem unconventional, it gives our current students the chance to cultivate learning and leadership opportunities. Older and younger students on our campus get to work together in meaningful ways, enriching the educational experience for all involved.

Head of School Dr. Thies emphasizes the value of this collaboration: “I love the fact that our grade span allows our younger students to work closely with our older students. It creates unique leadership opportunities and allows our high school students to learn more about what we offer as part of our Primary Program.”

Community Through Collaboration

BASIS Independent Bellevue strives to connect students of various grades through creative, fun, and meaningful avenues. When students have positive interactions with one another it creates a culture of trust, mentorship, and positivity. Examples of this collaboration can be seen across our campus at varying grade levels.

Working on Basketball Fundamentals in Physical Education

Adham is a Grade 9 student who gets involved in our community by taking time from his Academic Enrichment sessions to help with physical education classes.

Adham recently helped grade 3 students improve their basketball skills by focusing on basketball fundamentals. Physical Education instructor Ms. Ziolkowski enjoys having the younger students work with a positive role-model who can not only teach them about how to play sports but also emphasize values such as respect and sportsmanship. Ms. Ziolkowski states, “Adham is a huge help! He did not need any guidance in managing a gym full of energetic third graders. His positive attitude and encouragement create an uplifting atmosphere, and he is always ready to assist students who need help with instructions or activities. His friendly demeanor and leadership skills make him a fantastic role model for younger students. He has been a wonderful addition to my classes.”

Peer Support in Mandarin Class

In Ms. Pan’s Mandarin class, collaboration extends to language learning. Cindy in grade 9 is another student at BASIS Independent Bellevue who takes time during the week to help younger students work on their Mandarin skills. On Tuesdays, you can find Cindy volunteering during Academic Enrichment sessions, helping younger students refine their language skills. Her efforts not only reinforce her own understanding of the language but also provide invaluable support to younger students who are taking on the often-challenging task of learning how to learn a new language in an academic setting.

Ms. Pan says, “Cindy is an exceptionally responsible student who demonstrates remarkable dedication. She attends Chinese class every Tuesday to assist the grade 2 students in learning Mandarin. Cindy’s kindness and commitment to her work are truly commendable. She skillfully teaches the students how to write Chinese characters accurately, making a significant impact on their learning experience. The students greatly enjoy having Cindy in the classroom, and every Tuesday, they eagerly anticipate her arrival. Through her consistent efforts and dedication, Cindy has earned the respect and admiration of everyone.”

Making a Learning Community Across Grades

One of the greatest benefits of our unique grade span is building comradery at our school while preparing students for real world scenarios. When students get older, and eventually enter college and the workforce, they will interact with people from various age groups and backgrounds. Traditional academic experiences often silo students into working exclusively with peers of their age and a handful of select individuals who are older or younger. At BASIS Independent Bellevue, students gain early exposure to collaboration with people who are at different ages and stages in their educational journeys, a skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Building community requires working with people who are at various stages in life—our students are not only learning to meet people where they are at but also are gaining valuable insight to support others in their individual journeys. We are proud of the opportunities our students have and the work they do to support one another. By fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration, we are not only enriching their academic experience but also preparing them to thrive as leaders and lifelong learners.

Leadership Spotlight: High School Dean of Students Olivia Robbins

December 9, 2024 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Whether meeting with BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s Leadership Council as their faculty advisor or helping organize our 4th Annual Day of Service across the entire High School, Dean of Students Ms. Olivia Robbins is placing her great drive and focus squarely on shaping a wonderful high school experience for our oldest students. Just last semester, she coached students on how to organize their first homecoming dance, and she has only just begun! Given Dean Robbins is the newest member of our school’s administrative team, we thought families might be interested in learning more about her through our “Leadership Spotlight” series.

Ms. Robbins began her career at Milton Academy, a boarding school outside of Boston, where she started first as a teaching fellow and then as a full-time Upper School English faculty member. Afterward, Ms. Robbins transitioned to the Hewitt School, a girls’ school in Manhattan, where she simultaneously held roles as Grade Level Dean, Learning and Innovation Program Associate, and Upper School English Faculty member. Ms. Robbins also worked for two years at an educational technology start-up, where she designed humanities content and contributed to product development for a digital adaptive learning application used by thousands of children.

Dean Robbins graduated cum laude from Princeton University, where she won the Spirit of Princeton Award for her involvement in student organizations, community service, and the arts. Ms. Robbins went on to earn her master’s degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education through the Independent School Teaching Residency program.

As the Dean of High School Students at BASIS Independent Brooklyn (BIB), Ms. Robbins helps foster community in the Upper School and supports students through their academic journeys. She loves working with high school students and is inspired by the myriad ways in which they want to shape the world.

Below is our interview with Dean Robbins edited slightly for clarity and flow.

What are the types of students you see thrive here at BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s High School Program?

I see a wide range of students thrive: students who are super passionate about a single subject (e.g. math, English) and those who love all subjects; athletes, entrepreneurs, and artists; introverts and extroverts… The list goes on! Overall, a few common traits that I think make students optimally successful and happy here include organization, focus, self-advocacy, intrinsic motivation, kindness, and a sense of humor.

What drew you to our school?

Honestly, the role! I was excited to work with students in the role of Dean. Helping students navigate challenges and chart out their high school careers are my passions. I also respected BIB’s curricular design and its range of course offerings. And I liked its size! I felt I’d be able to develop closer partnerships with more students, families, and faculty in a smaller environment.

Can you share your perspective given you have been in your role for a few months now?

I am impressed by our students. They are smart and motivated. I love the moments when I am able to see them shine academically since I often observe portions of classes. I also love seeing them enjoy one another’s company in the High School Lounge. They enjoy playing cards, ping-pong, and board games, and they laugh a lot.

Tell us a bit about your background.

I long imagined myself as an educator, whether as an academic or a teacher. After studying literature as an undergrad, I became an English teacher at Milton Academy, a boarding school outside of Boston, through a teaching fellowship and master’s program through UPenn. I loved starting my career at a boarding school because there were so many ways to get to know the students and get involved in the school community. In addition to teaching high school English, I choreographed for and helped organize our spring dance show, as well as ran the house council program in one of the girls’ dorms. Eventually, I took a joint teaching and administrative position at the Hewitt School (girls’ K-12 school) in Manhattan. I taught English, helped manage strategic school innovation projects (curricular improvements, professional development for teachers, new faculty and staff onboarding, etc.) and then eventually became the Dean of the senior class. Working with the students to help make their senior year as special as possible was a highlight for me. After Hewitt, I briefly worked at an educational technology start-up company because I’d become curious about ed tech and start-up culture after thinking about school innovation for several years. My former company is focused on providing accessible tutoring and enrichment to all students—a cause I am really passionate about. However, I missed working directly with students, so joining BASIS Independent Brooklyn as the High School Dean of Students was a wonderful reunion with the type of work I love most!

What are some of your priorities for making high school an engaging, memorable time for students?

I want to help students feel a deeper sense of community and connection. I enjoy planning events to make this possible! Our first-ever homecoming dance was held at the end of last year. I am grateful that members of our Student Leadership Council proposed this fabulous idea as a means of gathering and celebrating the high school community. I want all students to feel pride and ownership about what BIB is, such that students feel as though they can shape their BIB experience to be what they want it to be. Having conversations with students to get to know them and learn about their BIB experience, gathering data about student life, and thinking of new opportunities for students to get involved at the school or explore their passions outside of school are all ways I’m trying to do cultivate that spirit during my first year!

What are the three questions you think every prospective high school family should be asking themselves?

What motivates you? Our curriculum is wonderfully challenging. High school in general is a time that is so full. Knowing what one’s personal “north star” is can help students keep pushing during particularly challenging or busy moments.
What is a student club you’d want to start or get involved in? We have so many neat clubs for students to join (for example—we have a rock band and a rock climbing club…both rock!). And we have an easy process to start a new club if the existing roster doesn’t suit one’s interests.
Are you a morning person? This is an important question to think about since our unique schedule allows students to take either an AM or PM elective. AM electives are great choices for students who have after-school commitments or want their school day to end a bit earlier…but they have to be ready to go in the morning!

Ms. Robbins is excited to support BASIS Independent’s mission to educate students to the highest international levels, and she is energized by her colleagues’ commitment to supporting each individual student holistically.

Our Class of 2025 posed together with Director Forde, College Counselor Brauch, and Dean Robbins (on left) earlier in the school year.

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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.

Leadership Spotlight: Middle School Dean of Students Patrick Russell

November 22, 2024 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

The Middle School Program at BASIS Independent Brooklyn aims to build strong foundational knowledge across subjects while also nurturing student autonomy and self-discipline needed for advanced critical inquiry important for high school and college. Two Deans of Students help guide that growth and advancement in the critical middle school years at the school. Today we wanted to feature Dean Patrick Russell, who focuses on academic student support in the Middle School years, since prospective families often have questions about the transition to our Middle School Program. Who better than Mr. Russell to speak to the support and best practices brought to help students transition to and thrive at our school.

After graduating from Cornell University in 2016, Mr. Russell joined our team first as a Teaching Fellow. During this time, he shadowed Subject Expert Teachers to learn about the BASIS Curriculum and grow teaching skills and understanding of classroom management. His passion for teaching, skill in connecting with students, and ability to bring subject matter to life was quickly evident. He moved into a Subject Expert Teacher role for both English and French instruction in our Middle and High School Programs. Mr. Russell is a beloved teacher and now a rising star in administration. He is the Coach for our Cross Country and Track Teams, and he has led conditioning and weight training programs for our students.

Would you share what drew you to a career in education?

I was inspired to go into education by my high school English teacher. I was one of the kids not always succeeding in middle school and high school, since the school I attended was very rigid and had a very specific way of doing things. I needed something a little bit different.

My high school English teacher constantly sat me down and we would debrief after difficult lessons or disappointing grades. He would ask what happened, and he listened and made the content more accessible to me. He was also one of those teachers who would assign somewhat non-canonical material that he knew we would read. At the end of the day, this teacher being able to give students challenging material and provide it in such a way that they care, showing up every day with the enthusiasm that he brought, completely turned around my high school experience. He created a course that made every student care.

What appealed to you about joining BASIS Independent Brooklyn first as a teaching fellow then teacher and now Dean?

I wanted to focus on the parts of my job that were the most fulfilling, which were helping students overcome challenges, facilitating their growth as students, and making real connections with people. While I do love the disciplines that I taught, the Dean role allowed for more of those rewarding moments and the opportunity to make a bigger impact on the entire Middle School Program rather than in just my disciplines.

Through the years, I have seen many different teaching styles that have different impacts on students, and I have seen the benefits that all of them can bring. I have also seen where different learning styles work differently for different students. It is so important to give kids the opportunity to figure out what works best for them, which also involves giving them space to experiment through trial and error and fail safely, build back up, and have moments of self-reflection. The pedagogical autonomy afforded to BASIS Independent Brooklyn teachers allows them to provide multiple differentiated routes to the same learning outcomes, which in turn increases content accessibility for students.

You taught middle school English and French before moving into the Dean of Students Role. How did that experience inform your new position?

Coming from a teaching role to administration, I have seen the positive culture and genuine joy around learning at the school. I have seen first-hand also how what works for one student might not work for every student, which reinforced to me the importance of being able to meet students where they are to create a differentiated, supportive approach to instruction.

Tell us about the support in place for students transitioning into the Middle School Program.

We understand that every student is unique—each adjusts to change differently, has their own approach to learning, and defines success in their own way, which is why personalized Student Support is essential to the process of learning and to academic success. Essentially, we provide a range of support to our new students, and we know some students will need more supervision and guidance through a formal program. The first few months of school entail students getting used to their daily and weekly schedule of classes and homework, which may feel overwhelming at first. Our team is present to help students adapt to changes and reestablish positive habits.

Another important skill we prioritize developing is self-advocacy. When students advocate for themselves, they feel empowered to ask for help, take academic risks, and make mistakes in a supportive environment. It involves learning from mistakes and failing safely, knowing that failure is not permanent but an opportunity to grow.

Overall, finding the best way to study and approach academic challenges is a trial-and-error exercise. Our team works with students alongside their Subject Expert Teachers to build work and study habits as well as develop effective time management and organization skills. These skills are incredibly important in Middle School as we prepare students over time for our High School Program and beyond.

You just worked to establish both track and cross country teams at our school. Have you always enjoyed running and being a coach?

Yes, when I grew up cross country and track were my off-season sports. I’ve had a running club at our school as long as I’ve been here. Over time with our revamped ethos on sports where it is a greater part of the holistic student experience, we were able to evolve that club into a competitive team. Also, I recently received my USA Track and Field Level One coaching certification, and I’m excited about it.

Do you mind sharing some fun facts that families might not know about you?

When I was younger, I played hockey in the World Junior Championships for Great Britain. I had to stop playing after graduating college and moving to Brooklyn, but I would love to have time to start again!

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.