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Leadership Spotlight: Director Cameron, Middle School Program

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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.

Meet Our New Subject Expert Teacher: Ms. Taylor Goldschmiedt

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Ms. Taylor first joined BASIS Independent Schools as a Subject Expert Biology Teacher at Fremont Upper School. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science and a Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of New Haven, providing her with a strong foundation in both scientific theory and applied research. Her academic background allows her to bring real-world relevance and depth to the study of biology, helping students connect classroom learning to practical applications.

As an educator, Ms. Taylor is dedicated to fostering a genuine love of learning while guiding students toward a strong and lasting understanding of biological concepts. She recognizes that every student is unique and approaches learning in different ways. With this in mind, she is committed to creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment where students feel confident asking questions, taking intellectual risks, and exploring new ideas. Through hands-on activities, thoughtful discussions, and individualized guidance, she encourages students to become active participants in their own learning.

Ms. Taylor strongly believes in the value of active learning and personalized instruction. She works closely with each student to identify strengths, address challenges, and develop effective learning strategies that support academic growth. Her goal is not only to help students succeed in biology but also to equip them with critical thinking skills, curiosity, and confidence that will serve them well across all areas of study. Ms. Taylor is proud to be a founding member of BASIS Independent Dublin.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Taylor enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors through hiking, and traveling. These interests allow her to recharge and bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm back to her work with students.

Are there any highlights you’d like to share about your teaching philosophy or approach? 

I really love seeing that moment when something finally clicks for a student. In my classroom, we use a variety of tools and approaches so students can learn in the way that works best for them—whether that’s through discussion, visuals, hands-on activities, or creative work. Every student learns differently and at their own pace, and I try to give them multiple ways to engage with the material so they feel confident and supported as they build understanding. 

What are some of the most rewarding parts of being a Subject Expert Teacher and working with BASIS Independent Schools students?  

The most rewarding part of my job is the relationships I build with my students. I work with middle schoolers across grades 6 – 8 currently, and having students for multiple years allows those relationships to really grow. They come into class sharing stories from their weekends, telling jokes, talking about daily drama, or even asking for advice. That connection makes the classroom feel welcoming and fun, and it motivates me every day to support them, challenge them, and help them succeed. 

Are there any thoughts that you’d like to share with families who are joining – or who are thinking of joining – the BASIS Independent Dublin community? 

I truly encourage families to join the BASIS Independent Dublin community. It’s an environment where teachers genuinely care about helping students succeed, and students are motivated to push themselves academically. What stands out most is how supportive the community is. Students encourage one another, learn from setbacks, and celebrate each other’s successes. It’s a place where students are challenged, supported, and surrounded by peers who want to grow together. 

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.

Meet Our New College Counselor: Ms. Niyati Shah

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Ms. Shah is an experienced college and career counselor with over 15 years of expertise guiding students through the college admissions process. She has led private counseling firms and co-founded a college counseling company in India, supporting thousands of students in gaining admission to top universities across the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Europe.

She holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and a postgraduate diploma in Mass Communication and Journalism from Gujarat, India. This multidisciplinary background enables her to blend analytical planning with strong storytelling skills—helping students articulate their academic strengths, personal values, and long-term goals through thoughtful and compelling applications. Ms. Shah completed the UCLA College Counseling Certificate Program and remains actively engaged in the profession through international conferences and ongoing professional development. Her work is informed by current trends and best practices in higher education, allowing her to provide strategic, up-to-date guidance to students and families.

At BASIS Independent Fremont, Ms. Shah worked closely with students and families throughout the admissions journey. Her approach is highly personalized and hands-on, focused on walking students through each stage of the process while keeping their interests, aspirations, and well-being at the center. She is passionate about helping students identify institutions that align with both their academic profiles and future ambitions. Ms. Shah is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel confident, informed, and empowered as they plan their next steps. Ms. Shah is proud to be a founding member of BASIS Independent Dublin.

Outside of school, she enjoys exploring new Bay Area restaurants, shopping, and cooking for friends and family.

Are there any highlights you’d like to share about your college counseling philosophy or approach? 

My college counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student’s journey is unique. I take a personalized, hands-on approach—guiding students through each step of the process while keeping their individual interests, strengths, and long-term goals at the center. My goal is to guide high school students through both academic planning and college applications, helping them make thoughtful, well-informed choices about colleges that reflect who they are and where they want to grow. 

How do you support students with different interests, goals, and pathways after graduation? 

 I support students by taking the time to understand their individual interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Whether a student is pursuing a traditional four-year university, international options, or alternative pathways, I help them build a plan that aligns with both their academic profile and future aspirations. 

Are there any thoughts that you’d like to share with families who are joining – or who are thinking of joining – the BASIS Independent Dublin community? 

Joining a new school community and thinking about the college journey can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in this process. My approach is to support students and families every step of the way, from course selection and summer planning to navigating college applications, so the journey feels clear and manageable. By working closely together, we focus on thoughtful planning rather than pressure. My goal is for students and families to feel welcomed, supported, and confident as they move forward. 

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.

Staffing Progress & Opening Readiness

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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.

Walking in Their Shoes: Leadership Steps Into the Classroom

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What does a typical day look like for a BASIS Independent Fremont Bumblebee? This year, our Lower School leadership team isn’t just observing from the sidelines—they’re finding out firsthand.

In a new initiative launched this fall, members of our leadership team are spending full days immersed in student life across different grade levels. No phones. No laptops. No stepping out for meetings. Just the complete student experience of sitting at desks, participating in activities, and moving through the daily schedule alongside our Bumblebees.

Learning by Living It

Recently, Mr. K Wagoner, our Director of Academic Programs, joined our grade 4 Calcium cohort for an entire school day. From morning arrival through dismissal, Mr. K Wagoner experienced the rhythm and rigor of a BASIS Independent Fremont education from a student’s perspective—tackling problem sets, collaborating with classmates, and navigating the transitions that make up a student’s day.

The goal? To gain deeper insights into the classroom experience and curriculum our students navigate daily, ensuring we’re providing the optimal learning environment and support.

Beyond Observation

This initiative represents a departure from traditional classroom observations or walkthroughs. By truly stepping into student roles, even for just a day, our leadership team gains perspectives that can’t be captured from the back of the room or through data alone.

“We can look at data and observe classrooms, but there’s something irreplaceable about actually experiencing what our students experience,” explains Mr. J Wagoner, Head of Lower School. “This initiative is about ensuring our leadership decisions are grounded in the reality of student life, not just what we think happens in classrooms, but what actually happens. When you sit in a student’s seat, you understand their day in a whole new way.”

Over the coming weeks, different members of our leadership team will rotate through various grade levels, building a comprehensive picture of student life across our Lower School campus.

Fresh Perspectives

For Mr. K Wagoner, the experience proved eye-opening. “Spending the full day in a grade 4 classroom gave me a completely different perspective on the student experience,” he shares. “You notice things about pacing, transitions, and cognitive load that you simply can’t see from the back of the classroom. I came away with a deeper appreciation for both the rigor our students manage daily and the skill our teachers bring to creating engaging, purposeful learning environments.”

This commitment to truly understanding our students’ daily experiences reflects the heart of what makes BASIS Independent Fremont special—a willingness to learn, adapt, and always put students first.

Want to learn more about the BASIS Independent Fremont experience? Contact us to schedule a tour and see our vibrant learning community in action.

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.

Day of Service + Celebrating A Culture of Service

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Service is a core value at BASIS Independent Brooklyn. We regularly ask our community to contribute positively, not just to our school but also to the broader community with acts of service. Faculty and administration encourage students to ask how they can help and to seek opportunities to provide needed support in age-appropriate ways. They also challenge our older students to lead with action and purpose, to advocate for and strengthen our community.

Right before Thanksgiving Break, our entire High School participated in the 5th Annual Day of Service, working with five local non-profits the morning of Tuesday, November 25th. Students were given options of service projects to participate in, and this Giving Tuesday, we wanted to feature the organizations that partnered with us on that day, as well as in recent programs and drives. Each organization’s website is linked below to make it easy to find out more about their great work and donate directly to them.

DAY OF SERVICE PARTNERS

JASA

  • High School students traveled to our Lower School campus, held discussions with our youngest Cubs about the importance of service, and assembled 70 toiletry kits for recently unhoused seniors now in one of JASA’s assisted living centers.

PortSide New York

  • Our students painted three signs, refilled the bases of educational signs, and set up holiday decorations aboard the Mary A. Whelan ship, a model for NYC’s waterfront future via advocacy and direct service.

Partnerships for Parks

  • Our students collected 100 bags of leaves and litter at Coffey Park in Red Hook.

Sean Casey Animal Rescue

  • Our students walked dogs housed at the Sean Casey Animal Rescue. They spent the morning learning about the Sean Casey Animal Rescue, which is an animal-welfare group that finds homes for dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits based nearby in Brooklyn.

Letters Against Isolation

  • Students assisted teachers and administrators with tasks to organize and beautify our school, and students wrote more than 75 cards for Letters Against Isolation to send to seniors for encouragement and support.

ONGOING SERVICE PROGRAM + DRIVES

Red Hook Art Project (RHAP)

  • Currently, two High School students volunteer to teach weekly guitar and chess with the inspiring students at Red Hook Art Project. We have had an amazing partnership through the years that has involved specific drives as well as homework help.
  • Our National Honor Society recently collected hundreds of donations for RHAP’s Thanksgiving Food Drive and direct donations to their catered meal fund.

LifeStory Club

  • High School Students in our National Honor Society recently held a session to write birthday cards in several languages for homebound seniors brought together through this fantastic organization, focused on building community among seniors across New York City.

Heights and Hills

  • Before Thanksgiving Break, students in Gr. 3-5 made more than 300 cards for Heights and Hills to include in the Thanksgiving meals they delivered to homebound seniors across Brooklyn.

Camp Friendship Food Pantry

  • Our High School students regularly volunteer at the weekend Food Pantry, which serves 350 people weekly from Gowanus/Park Slope/Sunset Park. The number of families has grown substantially this year.
  • BASIS Independent Brooklyn families raised $450 for the Camp Friendship School Supply Drive this summer.

The Alex House Project

  • Our Toy Drive is now underway for The Alex House Project, which empowers young parents in Brooklyn with resources, support, and housing solutions. Deadline for donations is December 10th. Please consider supporting this effort. Toys can be dropped off at the Front Office of either campus.

Heart of Dinner

  • One of our Gr. 11 students worked with Mandarin teachers across Gr. 1-11 to decorate more than 400 bags for Heart of Dinner’s meal delivery to Asian seniors in NYC during the Thanksgiving season.

On top of these programs, our National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society members volunteer hundreds of hours at various organizations each semester. We are proud of the students we educate at our school, and they give us hope for the future. Cultivating a core value of service is an important part of education, and we are proud to play our part in giving back to underserved communities right around our school as well as in the broader New York City area.

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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.

Ribbon Cutting Celebration at BASIS Independent Bothell

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Making waves since 2025—home of the Orcas! 

We recently celebrated the grand opening of the BASIS Independent Bothell with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony!

Joining this celebration were members of the Spring Education Group leadership team, BASIS Independent Schools leadership, BASIS Independent Bothell administrative team, leaders from our Spring Education Group sister school, representatives from the Bothell-Kenmore Chamber of Commerce, and members of our BASIS Independent Bothell parent community.

BASIS Independent Bothell, a kindergarten-grade 12 private school, opened its doors to over 200 students, and more than 50 faculty and staff in September of 2025. The ribbon-cutting ceremony began outside and in front of the school entrance with celebratory speeches from Mr. Toby Walker, Vice President of BASIS Independent Schools, and Mr. Robert Runyon, Head of School of BASIS Independent Bothell. Their speeches outlined the incredible journey of opening BASIS Independent Bothell and gave praise to everyone who helped make the school opening successful.

“I truly enjoyed speaking with everyone about what the ribbon cutting meant for us as a culmination of so many different people’s work and belief,” Mr. Runyon expressed. “It was not just the end of something; it signaled the beginning of something new and special.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a proud milestone for BASIS Independent Bothell—a celebration of collaboration, dedication, and shared vision. As the newest addition to and eleventh school of the BASIS Independent Schools network, the campus now stands as a place where curiosity, innovation, and excellence both inside and outside of the classroom will flourish. With the doors officially open, the school community looks forward to building a strong, inspiring foundation for lifelong learning, and bringing to life a program designed for 21st-century learning.

Enjoy a few photos from this special event. 

BASIS Independent Bothell Head of School Robert Runyon, joined by members of BASIS Independent Schools’ leadership team and other distinguished guests, prepares to cut the ceremonial red ribbon.

Toby Walker, Vice President of BASIS Independent Schools, commemorates the opening of BASIS Independent Bothell, the 11th school in the BASIS Independent Schools network.

Robert Runyon, BASIS Independent Bothell Head of School, shares his vision for our K-grade 12 private school during the ceremony.

BASIS Independent Bothell, a K-grade 12 private school, opened in fall of 2025.

Discover BASIS Independent Bothell by attending a Campus Tour or upcoming admissions event. Learn more.

Leadership Spotlight: Director of Primary Program (Gr. 3-5) Alexa Bono 

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Director Alexa Bono serves as the Director of Student Affairs for the Primary Program at BASIS Independent Brooklyn Upper School. She started in the classroom at BASIS Independent Brooklyn nearly nine years ago, where she quickly distinguished herself as an exceptional, inspiring teacher. Ms. Bono is now the driving force behind many of the wonderful traditions and rites of passage for our Bears in Gr. 3-5, from the Red Gate Farm trip in Gr. 5 to the Fall Harvest Festival for all of Primary School, among many others. 

Before transitioning to administration first as the Dean then Director of Primary School nearly five years ago, Ms. Bono taught for nine years across grades, ranging from Kindergarten to grade 5. For four years, Ms. Bono taught Gr. 1 Humanities at our school, and she also served as the Subject Advisor for Gr. 1 and 2 Humanities for all of our network of BASIS Independent Schools across the country.  

Ms. Bono attended the University of South Florida, where she received her bachelor’s degree, and she continued her studies at the University of South Florida, where she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education. She earned her master’s degree in Exceptional Student Education. Now she resides in Red Hook with her husband. 

You have been at BASIS Independent Brooklyn for many years and in several different roles. What drew you to our school initially, and can you share what has kept you here?

After earning my master’s degree, I moved from my beautiful beach town in Florida to the big city. I spent several years working at a wonderful International Baccalaureate school, where the focus was on nurturing lifelong learners, teaching foundational skills, and helping students strive for excellence while also becoming kind, responsible people. When it was time to move on, I knew this type of educational philosophy was what I wanted to continue pursuing. After researching and interviewing at many schools in the city, I found BASIS Independent Brooklyn, and it immediately felt like home. The culture, community, and level of rigor were exactly what I had been seeking in my career. What has truly kept me here for the past nine years, however, is the incredible community of teachers, educators, and outstanding students. Nothing compares. 

How do you balance academic excellence with nurturing the whole child in the Primary Program? 

Academic excellence is always a priority, but achieving it requires nurturing the whole child. Primary students are constantly growing and changing as they learn to navigate the world, and it is our role as educators to guide and support them along the way. My goal is to create a balance between academic achievement, social-emotional learning, and overall development while also making learning fun, engaging, and fostering independence. 

We build this balance by integrating these elements into students’ daily experiences. Our social-emotional curriculum takes place weekly during Connections and Academic Enrichment classes, and these themes are also woven throughout all subject areas to support students’ growth. During our House Assemblies, we reinforce these topics by celebrating one another’s successes and practicing the traits we value as a community. Through games, shout-outs, and shared reflection, we strengthen both individual and collective development, allowing us to meet our goals while nurturing the whole child. 

Speaking of academic excellence, what part of the school’s Primary Program stands apart to you? 

There are two true standouts in our program. The first is our teachers. Each day I come to work with a smile, knowing I am surrounded by one of the most dedicated and talented teams of educators. The second is our Primary Program and its curriculum, which offers a level of accelerated learning that nurtures independence and develops strong, critical thinkers. Together, these two strengths create a learning experience that is truly unmatched. 

Director Bono with some of her Primary Program students at a student showcase.

How do you maintain a positive school culture that supports students and teachers? 

I believe school culture is rooted in community. In the Primary Program, we have an established culture that we nurture and strengthen every day, through school events, House Assemblies, and daily interactions. Simple actions, like saying good morning in the halls or taking time to chat with students, create a sense of connection and positivity that is truly powerful. 

What is the biggest challenge facing school leaders in primary school education today, and how are you addressing it here at BASIS Independent Brooklyn? 

School leaders in education today face a wide range of challenges, and it is our commitment to students that drives us to meet them each day. One of the most significant challenges we have observed in recent years is the learning gap that has emerged in the wake of the pandemic. Our team has worked intentionally to meet students where they are by leveraging our support systems, such as Student Hours, differentiated instruction, small-group instruction, and our fifth-grade student support program. These efforts have ensured that students receive the resources they need to strengthen their foundational skills. 

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

Many of our families may not realize how long I have been an educator in our community, serving as both a teacher and an administrator. I spent multiple years teaching first-grade Humanities, served as the Subject Advisor for grades 1–2, and later transitioned into the Primary Dean role for grades 2–5. It’s exciting to see that many of my former students are now in our high school! There is something very special about teaching students in Primary School and then watching them grow up over the years. 

Thank you, Director Bono! We are excited to see the Primary Program at the Upper School flourish under your leadership! 

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.

Director Bono is a regular presence on our school’s social media, cheering our students on!

BASIS Independent Bothell is Open

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It’s finally here. The opening of the brand-new BASIS Independent School in Bothell was announced over a year ago, in January of 2024. Since then, countless individuals have worked countless hours to launch the school. 

On September 10, 2025, all of the hard work, dedication, and intensive thought culminated on the first day of school, welcoming over 230 students into the building for the first time. Our founding class of Kindergarten – 7th Graders has the opportunity to carve out a culture, create traditions, and build a legacy that will remain for every class to follow.  

“The journey of getting this school started has been one of the most interesting, complicated, and enjoyable projects I have ever undertaken. Over the past 18 months, I have been privileged to welcome hundreds of parents and students to our community and hire dozens of teachers and administrators to help make this a welcoming place for all our students. Throughout it all, we have all been united under our shared commitment to our students and ensuring that we can provide a space where they can thrive and meet their potential. Now that our doors are open, I feel so privileged to walk into classrooms where that is happening every single day”. Robert Runyon, Head of School

Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of our community next year.  

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Leadership Spotlight: Lower School Director of Student Affairs

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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

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.