Lower School

Top 5 FAQs About BASIS Independent Bothell and Why You Should Join Our January Open House

December 12, 2025 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Choosing the right private school in Bothell for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At BASIS Independent Bothell, we know families want clarity on daily routines, academics, student life, and what sets our program apart from other Seattle private schools.

Below are answers to the top five most frequently asked questions from prospective parents, plus why our January Open House is the best way to experience our school firsthand.

1. What are the school drop-off and dismissal times?

Our campus opens at 7:00 AM with a free Early Bird Program before classes. Dismissal runs from 3:20–4:20 PM, and Late Bird after-school care is available until 6:00 PM.

2. What activities and clubs do you offer?

Learning at BASIS Independent Bothell doesn’t end when the school day does. Students can participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including robotics, chess, speech & debate, art & music, coding, and athletics. Whether your child is passionate about STEM, performing arts, athletics, or discovering new interests, our programs provide meaningful opportunities to grow, explore, and connect.

3. Do you have a preschool program?

At this time, BASIS Independent Bothell serves Kindergarten through Grade 12. Students entering Kindergarten must be 5 years old by September 30 of the year they enroll.

4. What is the student-teacher ratio?

Kindergarten classes have about 20 students with an Early Learning Teacher and an Early Learning Teaching Fellow. Grades 1–4 average 25 students with a Learning Expert Teacher (LET) and Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) for each subject. Grades 5–12 also average 25 students per class with a Subject Expert Teacher. This structure allows students to build relationships with teachers while benefiting from experts in every subject area.

5. How do you support new student transitions?

Transitioning to a new school, especially one with a rigorous academic program, can feel overwhelming. We provide support every step of the way through daily guidance from Learning Expert Teachers, advisory programs for older grades, academic support during Student Hours, and family communication through Parent Hours. Our Dean, Student Affairs Director, and School Counselor provide emotional and social support to ensure every student feels confident and prepared.

See It All in Action at Our January Open House!

Reading about a school is helpful, but truly understanding our program, culture, and teachers happens best in person. Join us for our January Open House, where you’ll see why BASIS Independent Bothell is becoming one of the most sought-after private schools in the Seattle area.

Why Attend?

If you’re searching for a private school in Bothell, WA, or exploring Seattle-area private schools known for academic excellence, this event is your chance to see what makes BASIS Independent Bothell unique.

Join a community built on Curiosity, Ownership, Respect, Advocacy, and Loyalty!

Walking in Their Shoes: Leadership Steps Into the Classroom

December 5, 2025 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

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.

The Importance of Unstructured Play: Daily Recess Enriches Student Life at BASIS Independent Bellevue

December 5, 2025 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

Why Recess Matters

Families often ask what recess looks like at BASIS Independent Bellevue. With our school’s reputation for academic rigor, it’s natural to wonder whether students still have time to move, play, and unwind. The answer is a definite yes. Recess is an intentional and consistent part of every school day. Across grade levels, students step away from academics to reset, recharge, and enjoy unstructured play. An article published by the American Psychological Association(2023) stated, “A wealth of research shows that unstructured play—play that isn’t organized or directed by adults or older peers and that generally doesn’t have a defined purpose or outcome—is a fundamental necessity for children to thrive physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially.” These breaks support their physical health, social development, and overall readiness to learn when they return to class.

Recess in Action

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, recess takes place in a safe and varied space. There are many different activities for students to choose from. There are four four-square courts and one gaga ball area. We have a full soccer field, a basketball area with hoops, and movable volleyball nets. There is also a large swing set with four swings. For younger students, there is a climbing set with monkey bars and another with a slide. We also see students using their creativity to create games of their own or explore in the nature around them. These spaces give every child a safe place to play and enjoy.

Grade 3 students experimenting with leaves.

During recess, three teachers walk across the whole field to keep students safe and help solve problems quickly. At the same time, other staff members, including the health coordinator, the school counselor, and the Dean of Students, are always available if extra support is needed. This system makes sure students get the right help, should they need it.

Our rules are clear but also flexible. When students have different ideas about the rules, teachers set a time to meet with them. We listen, discuss, and make changes together. For example, we recently observed students having some disagreements on the basketball court. Students sometimes could not agree on which exact rules to follow. Some wanted to play by NBA rules, while others preferred the youth league rules they knew from practice. Instead of stopping the play, we helped them organize a team meeting. Together, they chose leaders, drafted rules, and later discussed the details during their Academic Enrichment time. Soon, the new rules were printed and shared with everyone. Now the basketball games run more smoothly, and students know they built the system themselves. This gave them a sense of empowerment, because the solution came from their own voices!

The way recess is organized allows students of different ages to play together. Many families have siblings in our school, and it is also common to see older students connecting with their younger brothers or sisters. They let them take turns, show kindness, and include them in games. These small moments make our recess warm and welcoming, and helps students grow in friendship and care.

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, all grade levels have recess built into the school day, from Kindergarten through grade 12. In the Primary grades, students might be found exploring nature or playing on the playground structure. In the Middle and High School grades, students often engage in games of soccer, football, or basketball. No matter the grade level, the purpose of recess remains the same—providing unstructured time for students to connect with their peers and develop physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially.

Recess plays a meaningful role in daily school life. Over the years, it has shown itself to be more than playtime. In these valuable breaks, students practice perseverance as they keep trying in games, show active learning when they create and adjust rules, strengthen community through teamwork, and demonstrate empathy when they support classmates. The lessons learned at recess promote the well-being and success of all students, both in the classroom and beyond, by fostering resilience, building social connection, and renewing engagement in learning.

References:

The Many Wondrous Benefits of Unstructured Play. American Psychological Association (CLAY). (2023, September 26). https://www.apa.org/topics/children/kids-unstructured-play-benefits

Extending Love of the Arts at Home: Creating A Home Art & Makerspace for Your Children

November 21, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

At our Lower School Coffee with School Leadership meeting in November, Visual Arts and Engineering teacher Ms. Nicole Porter delved into ways families can set up an art and makerspace at home. Her advice can help inspire our Lower School families to think of ways of setting up creative spaces that can engage students well into winter break and beyond.

“The number one question I am consistently asked in my meetings with families is how to nurture a love of art and creativity at home without letting art supplies and artwork take over,” shared Ms. Porter, who has led Visual Arts and Engineering as a Subject Expert Teacher at our Lower School campus for more than three years. Previously, Ms. Porter was an Early Education Teacher leading one of our PreK elements.

“Parents want to know how they can encourage the creativity and imagination we see in the classroom at home,” shared Ms. Porter. “In the Lower School Art Studio, students have access to multiple art materials and recycled items to utilize as they create from their imagination. Identifying a space for artmaking at home where children have materials at arm’s reach will inspire children to freely create at home. This can be as simple as a mat to set out at the dining room table and a caddy of supplies, or even a rolling cart, that your child can help to organize and maintain.”

Living in New York City presents unique challenges for families wanting to create creative spaces for their children. Establishing a dedicated area for artistic expression and creativity is invaluable for your child’s development, and it is well worth the effort. Here’s how to create an effective art and makerspace at home for your Pre-K to Grade 2 child based on Ms. Porter’s expert guidance.

Finding Your Space

Even in compact NYC living spaces, carving out a creative corner is possible. Consider some of the following ideas:

Repurposing part of a dining table with a washable tablecloth that kids can use for drawing and painting
Setting up a small table in a corner of your child’s bedroom dedicated to art and crafts
Setting up a rolling cart full of supplies that can be moved as needed
Creating a “maker bin”
- This is a box containing some materials to upcycle: toilet paper and paper towel tubes, interesting paper, scissors, tape, glue, and some crafty notions: googly eyes, rhinestones, and stickers. Also, add in some tempera Kwik Sticks or a few markers that can be carried to whatever space is available. This is very similar to what is used at school and quite manageable in any apartment or home.

Consistency of location helps establish the routine of creative work, even if the space isn’t permanent.

Setting Up with Organization

In smaller living spaces, organization becomes crucial:

Consider using vertical storage with wall-mounted organizers or pegboards
Label containers clearly with words and pictures for young learners
Separate “self-serve” materials from “ask first” supplies that are messier
- For example, tempera paint sticks may be a good “self-serve” option for your child, while liquid tempera paints are an “ask-first” item that requires more guidance to set up and to clean up.
Consider transparent containers so children can see what’s available
Pens and pencils sorted into cool and warm color cups will help children to explore color choices
Review and model expectations for using individual art materials at home
Start with just a few materials and gradually add more to the art space
Establish a rotation system to keep the space fresh without overwhelming

“Self-serve” ideas – with set guidelines, children can use independently:

Tempera Paint sticks like Kwik Sticks
Washable markers and colored pencils *(separated by warm and cool colors)
Black markers for outlining
Pencils
Scissors
Glue stick
Copy, Mixed Media Drawing 60# plus, and construction paper
Found materials from family adventures for collage, etc.
Sticky rhinestones and other treasures
Colorful craft and washi tape rolls
Stickers: dot stickers in assorted colors are fun and versatile

More possible “self-serve” items:

Watercolor paint set with a spill-free water cup and 3-4 quality brushes of different sizes
Tissues to blot paint
Model magic or clay
Rubber stamps

“Ask-first” ideas:

Paints
Strong craft glues
Clay
The list is endless…

City-Specific Material Collection Ideas

New York City offers unique opportunities for gathering creative materials:

Collect fallen leaves and found materials from family adventures
Gather interesting papers from packaging the neighborhood and stores
Visit your local art supply shop for some amazing supply options
- Pro Tip: Stagger giving supplies to your child, so children have time to explore and learn to use different art materials. This will also keep your child interested, creating and minimizing the potential for a mess. Less is more when you are creating a materials setup that your child will be using “self-serve.” The goal is for your child to freely take, use, clean up, and return materials.

Creating Cleanup Systems That Work in Small Spaces

The goal here is to facilitate independent painting at home by establishing a routine for cleaning brushes and mixing paints that will maintain your child’s pallet of color while they paint. With a clean brush the dark colors will not cover the brighter colors that you child may desire to paint a sun or the sky. Children can create the colorful work they intend to and still enjoy the excitement of mixing new colors! In school, our motto for painting is: Swish, Wipe, Blot. This reminds artist to clean their brush between paint colors.

In homes where space is at a premium:

Use washable art smocks to protect clothing
Create visual set-up cleanup charts with photos for painting
Designate an area to mix paint colors so your child maintains their color palette in the paint box
Designate a drying area for wet artwork
- It is best to dry paint and wet work flat, if possible, so it does not run and drip. A small wooden drying rack is versatile for materials and paper storage as well.
Establish simple routines and verbal reminders to help keep materials fresh and organized
- These are a few verbal reminders we use in Art class:
  - Artists of all ages often work on multiple projects at onceIn class,
  we say: “I put things back where I found them, as I found them.”When painting,
  - remember to ‘Swish-Wipe and Blot’ the brush between colors
  - “Snap that cap” (for markers)
Consider using washable materials when possible

Displaying Art in NYC Apartments

The artwork created by students should be displayed for students to take pride in what they create and inspire creative displays at home. Here are some ways to do this without student art from taking over your house:

Create monthly or seasonal art notebooks of like sized papers with a construction paper cover. Hold it together with 3 binder clips as used at school. This is a great way to keep project together, and it also makes them easy to store
Use magnetic strips on the refrigerator or a metal board
Install a clothesline with clips along a wall
Dedicate a small wall space as a rotating gallery
Take photos of three-dimensional creations before disassembling

Ms. Porter loves to talk about any and all ideas—even brainstorming with parents. She is the proud parent of two children who grew up in Brooklyn, so she knows the benefit of creating a vibrant art and makerspace that works within your home.

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.

More Than a STEM School: Highlighting Our Humanities Curriculum

November 21, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, our reputation for excellence in math and science is well-established. Families often choose us because they know their children will master calculus, physics, and engineering years ahead of national averages.

However, a truly exceptional education requires more than STEM mastery. We are a Liberal Arts school with a distinct focus on STEM, and that distinction shapes every classroom. The same high standards that define our science labs are present in our English and history courses.

Our mission is to cultivate well-rounded students who are as confident analyzing a complex novel as they are solving a differential equation.

two elementary school students read a book together

Why a Content-Rich Curriculum Matters

Our unique approach and advanced academics are supported by research and cognitive science. Studies, such as those highlighted in “The Knowledge Gap” by Natalie Wexler, demonstrate that early exposure to a deep, content-rich curriculum is the key to long-term academic success.

Wexler’s research confirms what we see in our classrooms: when students build a broad base of knowledge in history, geography, and literature starting in the early years, they develop superior reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. This foundation empowers them to excel in high-level courses later on.

This is why we believe in and uphold our curriculum. From PreK through grade 12, every subject is an opportunity to challenge students and expand their understanding of the world.

Consistency Across the Board

To ensure our humanities program consistently meets these high standards, we have made a strategic investment in our curriculum. We have adopted the Savvas/Pearson program for our core English and history instruction. This resource provides the robust structure and depth necessary to support our advanced learning outcomes.

This alignment ensures that rigor is a constant across every grade level.

two male elementary school students read a picture book together

Building the Foundation: In the Lower School, we focus on critical reading and writing. Even our youngest students in PreK and kindergarten are engaging with texts that ask them to think, not just decode.
Advanced Placement Readiness: Our humanities courses are taught a grade level ahead. This intentional pacing challenges students to take on sophisticated ideas earlier, preparing them for the demands of AP coursework in high school.
Connecting Disciplines: By coordinating our curriculum, we create opportunities for students to see connections between subjects. A history lesson on the Industrial Revolution might overlap with a science unit on energy, deepening understanding in both areas.

high school students in English class doing an activity with notecards spread across the floor

Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Preparing for High-Level Coursework

Our grade 4 students recently explored New York State Native American history. Rather than simply memorizing facts, they built detailed dioramas and wrote analytical explanations of tribal societies.

This project required them to use their research and writing skills along with hands-on creativity to connect geography, culture, and economics—the exact kind of multidimensional thinking they will need for future AP History courses.

grade 4 student shows her history diorama and research writing project

Voices from the Classroom

The heart of our program is our faculty. Our teachers are subject matter experts who are passionate about their fields and their students.

Abigail Bandarenko (Director of Student Affairs, Lower School PreK—5)

Ms. Bandarenko brings a wealth of experience to her leadership role, holding a dual master’s degree in elementary education and literacy from Bank Street and a bachelor’s in English. Having served as a Subject Expert Teacher in humanities herself, she possesses a deep, practical understanding of how literacy develops in the classroom.

Ms. Bandarenko interacts smiling with two early learning program students

“In my role, I see firsthand how a strong foundation in literacy powers everything else. At its core, literacy is the ability to communicate clear understanding through language to express needs and ideas. By fostering these skills in the early years, we give students the tools to succeed in every subject, from science to history. It’s not just about reading and writing. It’s about equipping students to be confident communicators and curious, capable learners for life.”

Ms. Bond discussing topics with a student.

Emma Bond (English Subject Expert Teacher, Upper School grades 9—12)

Ms. Bond’s expertise is grounded in her academic background in English and theology, as well as her immersive study of Shakespeare and philosophy at the University of Oxford. With five years of teaching experience, she brings a rigorous, scholarly approach to her high school English classes.

“In our Upper School English courses, we go far beyond plot summaries. We dive into the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of great literature. Whether we are reading Shakespeare or modern dystopian fiction, students are learning to analyze arguments, understand nuance, and articulate their own unique perspectives. These are the skills that shape future leaders.”

The Full Picture of Academic Excellence

True academic success is about balance. The critical thinking skills developed in a rigorous humanities seminar make our students better scientists, just as the logic learned in math makes them sharper writers.

We invite you to see this dynamic education in action. Come explore how BASIS Independent Manhattan prepares students for future success in the real world.

student author holds his book and stands with his parents at a publishing party

Nurturing Hearts and Minds: How Social-Emotional Learning Shapes Students at BASIS Independent Bellevue

November 21, 2025 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, we believe that academic excellence and emotional intelligence go hand in hand. While our students are challenged daily to think critically, solve complex problems, and explore advanced subjects, we also recognize that success is more than a grade report. That is why social-emotional learning (SEL) is an essential part of our educational philosophy.

Through school-wide initiatives, campus events, and counseling resources, we intentionally cultivate a school culture that helps students develop skills that prepare them to become effective and compassionate future leaders.

What Is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social-emotional learning is the process through which people acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to:

Understand and manage emotions
Set and achieve positive goals
Feel and show empathy for others
Establish and maintain positive relationships
Make responsible decisions

These competencies—outlined by organizations like CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning)—form the foundation for emotional well-being and effective learning. SEL is not an “extra” in education; it’s the connective tissue that helps students thrive holistically.

Why SEL Matters

Today’s students navigate a world that is fast-paced and constantly evolving. While preparing students to rise to these challenges with their academics is vital, it can only be possible with the skills acquired during social-emotional learning. In fact, research consistently shows that SEL leads to improved academic outcomes, stronger relationships, and better long-term well-being (CASEL, 2023).

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, we see SEL as a way to help students:

Build Confidence: By learning self-management and goal-setting, students gain the courage to take on challenges and learn from setbacks.
Foster Empathy: Understanding perspectives different from their own creates more inclusive and caring classrooms.
Strengthen Resilience: When students learn how to navigate emotions, they are better equipped to handle stress, transitions, and the natural ups and downs in childhood.

School-Wide Initiatives: PurposeFull People and CharacterStrong

To make SEL meaningful and scaffolded across grade levels, BASIS Independent Bellevue implements two research-based programs: PurposeFull People and CharacterStrong.

PurposeFull People, designed for younger learners, introduces foundational social and emotional skills in age-appropriate, engaging ways. Lessons and classroom activities help students explore monthly themes like responsibility, respect, cooperation, and gratitude. Students learn to name their emotions, communicate effectively, and practice empathy—all skills that create a strong foundation for holistic success. This program is delivered daily during a dedicated social-emotional learning time by our Learning Expert Teachers.

For our middle and high school students, CharacterStrong focuses on developing character and leadership through intentional practice. Weekly lessons are delivered by our Academic Enrichment teachers during a dedicated time called Mountaineer Monday. These lessons emphasize skills vital to being a Mountaineer at BASIS Independent Bellevue, such as kindness, patience, honesty, and perseverance. While our campus is united each month on the focused theme across all grade-spans, our older students take this learning to a deeper level. Rather than treating character as a one-time topic, CharacterStrong integrates these values into the rhythm of life as a young person. Setting goals for the future, discovering passions, and building resilience are central to the learning process.

Together, these programs ensure that every student, from our youngest learners to our middle schoolers, is guided through a consistent SEL framework that grows with them.

SEL in Action at BASIS Independent Bellevue

While we value setting aside intentional time to learn these skills, we recognize that SEL is not confined to a single class period—it is integrated into the daily life of our school. Our educators intentionally model the skills that we want students to develop. You will also see SEL at work when students collaborate on group projects, lead class discussions, or persevere through challenging assignments.

Beyond that, community-building events further help students connect their learning to a larger purpose—understanding how their actions affect others and how they can contribute positively to their community. The Food Drive benefitting our local Renewal Food Bank is an example of how students can put our theme of Gratitude into action during the month of November. Throughout the school year, the Student Affairs team promotes social-emotional learning through exciting and engaging campus events, such as Unity Week and Kindness Week. They also positively reinforce our school’s core values of Perseverance, Active, Community, and Empathy (P.A.C.E.) through weekly announcements and student recognition.

School Counseling Resources

Many students gain the necessary and lifelong social-emotional skills through our campus-wide learning opportunities. However, not every student is the same, which is why we recognize the importance of meeting each student where they are at. Through school counseling services, students who would benefit from additional support can feel empowered to overcome obstacles in their educational journey.

An engaging and collaborative support resource we offer for students is small group counseling. During weekly meetings, students build important skills together while increasing feelings of belonging and community. For more individualized support, students can participate in school counseling meetings aimed at helping them have more effective education and relationships within the school community. Possible counseling topics are coping with changes, transition, self-esteem, friendship and relationship issues, study skills, stress management, fears or worries, conflict resolution, social skills, adjustment to school, and more. It is common for young people to face a number of these challenges, and we are committed to helping them through difficult times.

Family Partnership

When students learn how to manage their emotions, show empathy, and act with integrity, they become not only better learners but also better friends, teammates, and leaders. These are the attributes that will serve them well both in and out of school settings. This is why partnerships with parents and caregivers is vital to the work we do at BASIS Independent Bellevue.

We prioritize sending home newsletters and conversation topics for families based upon the focused theme of the month. By following along, parents can have well-informed discussions with their student as we work together to nurture these essential skills. Parents can also tune into quarterly webinars to learn more about relevant topics related to social, emotional, and mental health.

A Foundation for Lifelong Success

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, our mission extends beyond preparing students for academic achievement—it is about nurturing thoughtful, compassionate individuals who are ready to make a positive impact in the world.

By empowering students to understand themselves and others, we give them the tools to build meaningful lives rooted in purpose and connection.

References:

Making the case for SEL. Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). (2023, June 1). https://casel.org/fundamentals-of-sel/how-can-you-make-the-case-for-sel/

A Day in the Life of a Grade 4 LET – Ms. Strider!

October 23, 2025 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

My name is Ms. Strider and I am the Grade 4 LET (Learning Expert Teacher) at BASIS Independent Bellevue. I stay with my class of students throughout the day, supporting both their academic development and personal growth. While Grade 4 students follow a full schedule similar to upper grades, my role is to help them build responsibility and independence as they prepare for Grade 5. I work closely with our Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) to collaboratively teach each subject, ensuring lessons are engaging and connected across disciplines. Because I see my students in every class, I gain a deep understanding of their learning needs and strengths. This allows me to form meaningful relationships with families and provide thoughtful, and accurate updates on student progress throughout the year.

My day with Grade 4 begins at 7:55 AM when I pick my students up from the multi-purpose room and we head to our lockers to get ready for our day. Students get to say hello to their friends each morning, catch each other up on their fencing practice or dance rehearsal, and get the last of their wiggles out before it is time for class.

Period 1: Science with Ms. Delp!

The first five minutes of each class look fairly similar throughout the day. Students are filling out their CJs (communication journals) and following any directions on the board as a warm up. In Science, students’ daily warm up is to copy down the notes from the board into their science folders so they have all the necessary information ready to go when it is time for a discussion or to start collecting data. Ms. Delp and I work together to provide Grade 4 students with materials, guidelines, and data points for a variety of different scientific activities. In the first month of school, we have measured our wingspans and compared our lengths to that of birds, tested if double stuffed Oreos are actually doubled stuffed, and explored surface tension by adding singular water droplets to pennies. Once we have our notes, completed our experiments, and graphed our data, it is time to clean up, pack up, and line up for our next class.

Period 2: Specials—Music, Art, Drama or Engineering!

Primary students have a variety of specials throughout the week. This morning’s special is Engineering with Ms. DiBattista! Our Specials classes look different than the classic LET/SET model. During these classes, I sometimes work with small groups of students in various levels of reading groups conduct interventions or enrichment. Today, I pulled a few of my students to conduct a reading intervention activity, while the rest of my class did an engineering lesson with Ms. DiBattista. Students’ reading levels are decided by our process of reading assessments that happen once per trimester. With that data, students are placed into small groups, of 3–5 students, and work directly with me on various reading strategies such as identifying the main idea, providing text evidence, or determining character motivation. Building these skills will help students in English class, advance their literacy skills, and most importantly, allow them to be able to read and understand texts independently.

Period 3: English with Ms. Tseng!

Just like in Science class, students begin class by filling out their CJ’s, noting any homework or upcoming assessments, and working independently on their warm ups. Ms. Tseng and I usually collect this work and begin getting students ready for their Novel Study. Currently, we are reading The Phantom Tollbooth! We take turns reading pages in the book between Ms. Tseng, myself, and the students. Learning to annotate texts is a skill we are building and growing in Grade 4. The Phantom Tollbooth is great practice for these skills, as it has several settings and characters. Ms. Tseng may pause the reading to point out a vocabulary word that we need to write down. I may also pause when we meet a new character to take notes about their description and add a sticky note annotation. English class flies by when everyone is so invested in the story! Time to clean up, pack up, and line up for lunch and recess.

Period 5: Math with Ms. Tessler!

These consistent classroom routines make a huge difference in the lives of the students and the teachers. No matter what subject, students know exactly how each class is going to start and exactly what each teacher is expecting their behaviors should be. Grade 4 enters math class, fills out their CJs, and begins their math warm up. Math warm ups are usually a set of problems covering material that we learned the day before. I will go over the warm up with the class, model the work on the board, and answer any questions. Ms. Tessler will get the class set up and ready for notes in their math notebooks. As students are taking notes or working on their independent math assignment, this is a great time for me to look for students who are exhibiting qualities of P.A.C.E (perseverance, active, community, and empathy). Students who show one or more of these qualities at any time during the day receive a PACE Pass. Students turn in their earned passes to the front office to enter the grade level weekly raffle for a chance to win a small prize every Friday. Once all of our daily math tasks have been completed, it is time to clean up, pack up, and line up!

Period 6: Specials or Mandarin!

Three days of the week, Grade 4 has Mandarin class. There are two different Mandarin classes that students are sorted into from the beginning of the year based on ability-level. I do not attend Mandarin class, so I spend this time meeting with SETs, planning reading groups, or having an extra cup of coffee and a snack.

However, this afternoon is Drama with Mr. Mullens! Once all of the students have entered the drama space, filled out their CJs, and listened to Mr. Mullens’ daily expectations, I begin pulling another round of small reading groups. Groups can meet once, twice, or three times a week depending on students’ needs for reading and decoding texts. In Drama class, students are working in three different casts to write their own scripts for the upcoming spring performance. Even though some students are pulled away during the script writing, the entire cast works collaboratively and is able to quickly and effectively fill in any students upon their return to the classroom.

AE (Academic Enrichment) Time!

All students Grade 4 and above have a 20-minute AE period each afternoon. There are a variety of ways to spend a Grade 4 AE period: study hall, brain breaks, or most often, SEL (Social Emotional Learning), lessons and activities. For our SEL lessons we utilize a program called CharacterStrong at BASIS Independent Bellevue. Each month is centered around a character trait theme—October’s is Responsibility. Throughout the month, our class engages in mini-lessons, discussions, videos, and games designed to help students learn about and practice being responsible in their daily lives. Because academic expectations are high on this campus–even in the primary grades–it’s important to remind students that they are more than their grades, and that being a kid is about learning and growing in all areas of life.

Period 7: History with Ms. Rieger!

Our last core class of the day, but procedures and expectations remain the same. Students enter the classroom quietly, fill out their CJs with today’s topic, homework, and upcoming tests. Warm ups in History require students to have their binders and answer the questions on the board neatly on a piece of notebook paper. When the five–minute timer goes off, I read each question with the students and go over the answers. Often in this course there is some background information to read before students can dive deep into the new content, analyze cause and effects, and collect evidence. At the beginning of class I will read the passages with the students and have some student helpers annotate for vocabulary and important details. Then Ms. Rieger will share her slides, photographs, or stories about the time period we are focusing on and begin to ask critical thinking questions to the class. After notes, worksheets, or discussions, it is time to clean up, pack up, and line up once again.

Period 8: PE with Coach Shelp!

“Welcome to your favorite class!” is the way Coach Shelp begins PE. This class is different from Art, Music, and Drama because I always attend PE with my class. PE is a great way to get moving and learn about sportsmanship. Students begin each PE class by jogging some laps around the gym. Once we are warmed up, it is time to play—dodgeball, soccer, pickleball and more! We congratulate our teammates and exchange kind words with our opponents. Time flies in PE and then it is time to grab all of our belongings from our lockers and go home!

After all of my students have been picked up from dismissal, I meet with my co-teaching SETs to collaborate on lessons for the following week. After school you will find me at home in the coziest pajamas crocheting or snuggling with my cat. Another great day in Grade 4!

The Future is Now in Session—Attend our Fall Open Houses!

October 3, 2025 by alexlevin Leave a Comment

If you are in the process of looking for an exceptional education for your child, we would like to help you cut through the clutter and hone in on what is important to you – finding a place that balances world-class academics in a supportive and joyful learning environment. Welcome to BASIS Independent Manhattan, a top ranked PreK-grade 12 private school in NYC, that offers students a blend of liberal arts and STEM in an internationally inspired program.

The perfect way to optimize your time searching is to step inside our school, interact with our incredible teachers, and have your questions answered by current parents and students.

This can all be accomplished in under a couple of hours on one weekend morning at the BASIS Independent Manhattan Fall Open Houses:

Lower School (PreK – Grade 5) Open House
Sunday, November 16 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
795 Columbus Ave., New York (Upper West Side)

Upper School (Grades 6 – 12) Open House
Saturday, November 15 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
556 West 22nd St., New York (Chelsea)

Our November Open Houses are the perfect opportunity to discover our campuses in person, learn about our world-class, advanced BASIS Curriculum, and participate in live mini-classroom demonstrations with our talented and dedicated Learning and Subject Expert Teachers. Your students will have plenty of fun to enjoy, too! As always, students are welcome and encouraged to attend our Open Houses.

In addition, the best way to learn about a school is through the unfiltered perspectives of current parents and students. We provide a panel of student and parent ambassadors for you to hear from directly about their BASIS Independent Manhattan experience. Bring your top questions.

We invite you to join our Open Houses – Register today!

What will a BASIS Independent Manhattan Open House look like?

Doors will open at 9:30 AM, and we encourage families to arrive as close to this time as possible. There will be light refreshments and an opportunity to mingle with our Wildcat Student Ambassadors, Parent Ambassadors, and staff. The event will begin promptly at 10:00 AM (but if you have to arrive later, that is totally fine. We would rather you join us!).

Following a welcome from our leadership, all attendees will receive a schedule tailored to the grade level of interest. Then you will head off to see mini and interactive demonstrations led by our teachers. You will step inside the classrooms to see them come alive. Simultaneously, there will be rooms where you can ask questions and hear about the student experience directly from current families. This portion of the program will continue until 12:00 PM, and we hope that you can stay for the entirety of the event to take full advantage of the experience and leave with a complete understanding of our school, the curriculum, culture, and community.

We look forward to welcoming families and introducing you to a school designed for 21st Century Learning

Meet Our Teachers: Featured Educators from Our Community

September 25, 2025 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

This month, our annual Meet the Teacher Night brought BASIS Independent Fremont families together to explore our campus and gain valuable insights into the learning environment that shapes their children’s educational experience. Our teachers opened their classroom doors wide, sharing their passion for education and giving parents that coveted “inside scoop” on what makes learning at BASIS Independent Fremont so special. While Meet the Teacher Night gave a taste of what’s in store, we wanted to take this opportunity to dive deeper and introduce you to three of our exceptional teachers who are making a tremendous impact on our students’ lives.

Getting to Know Our Incredible Educators

Mr. Kasper: Engineering Wonder and Curiosity

Our beloved Engineering Subject Expert Teacher for grades TK–4, Mr. Kasper, has been a cornerstone of our school community for years. His passion for education was cultivated during 17 years of teaching in South Korea, where he discovered his true calling working with elementary students.

What makes Mr. Kasper truly special is his infectious curiosity—the same quality he loves nurturing in his students. “I love teaching because every question from a curious child and every spark of creativity in their work reminds me that learning is not just about answers—it’s about the joy of discovery,” he shares.

In his Engineering classes, students dive into the Engineering Design Process, tackling age-appropriate projects that seamlessly blend math, science, and technology. Through hands-on, real-world challenges, our young engineers learn how to solve problems with tangible benefits while developing crucial STEM literacy skills.

Ms. Bhora: Individualized Excellence in Our New Role

This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Ms. Bhora in her new position as our Specialist Expert Teacher—a role we created specifically to enhance individualized instruction across subjects. After serving as an exceptional Grade 3 Learning Expert Teacher, Ms. Bhora was the natural choice for this important position.

With over 13 years of teaching experience and five years as part of our BASIS Independent Fremont family, Ms. Bhora brings a wealth of expertise to her new role, focusing on academic enrichment in math and English, intervention programs, and support for our Learning Expert Teachers.

“The beautiful thing about working one-on-one is that every student’s path looks different. My job is to help them discover their own way to reach their goals,” Ms. Bhora explains, perfectly capturing the essence of personalized learning.

Ms. Bhora’s approach creates exactly what she believes children need most: a safe, loving, nurturing, and challenging environment where every student can thrive.

Ms. Vicky: Bringing Mandarin to Life

New to our campus this year, Ms. Vicky joins us as one of our Mandarin Subject Expert Teachers, bringing over 20 years of experience in language education and an infectious passion for making Mandarin accessible and exciting.

Born and raised in Taiwan, with educational roots in New Zealand and nearly two decades of experience in the U.S., Ms. Vicky brings a truly global perspective to her classroom. Her expertise spans from preschool through 9th grade, and she’s even the co-founder of the “Fun Learning Mandarin” YouTube channel.

“Starting somewhere new is always an adventure, but the enthusiasm I see from students here makes me confident we’re going to build something amazing together,” Ms. Vicky shares with the optimism that defines her teaching approach.

Through songs, stories, games, and hands-on activities, Ms. Vicky creates an immersive Mandarin experience that connects students not just to language skills but to the rich culture and customs of Mandarin-speaking regions.

Our Meet the Teacher Night was just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary year of learning, discovery, and growth. These three educators, along with all our incredible teachers, are ready to inspire, challenge, and support every student on their unique educational journey.

Here’s to a year filled with curious questions, creative sparks, and amazing discoveries!

Learn more about our world-class educators here.

Fall Open Houses – Join Us!

September 5, 2025 by thealacrosse Leave a Comment

Autumn is approaching in Brooklyn, bringing with it cooler breezes, colorful leaves, and the energy of a new school year. For many, fall is a season of traditions and new beginnings, and here at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, it is no different.

Autumn signals the start of one of the most exciting times on our school calendar—admissions events. At the heart of this season are our Open Houses. These events are among the most meaningful opportunities of the year for future families to experience our classrooms, meet our teachers and leaders, hear from current students and parents, and see firsthand what makes our program so unique.

Please join us in person at one of our Open Houses on Saturday, September 27 (Grades 3-12) and Saturday, October 4 (PreK-Grade 2).

General Open House Structure:
For both Open Houses, doors will open at 9:30 a.m., and the event will last approximately until 12:00 p.m. ET. We welcome you to register and attend, even if you cannot stay for the entire event. Students are encouraged to join us, as well.

Open Houses begin with an introduction from our Head of School and an Open House overview. Then, families will be split up by grade level and enter our classrooms to meet our Learning Expert and Subject Expert Teachers. Open Houses also include a Parent and Student Panel, where you will be able to hear from current BASIS Independent Brooklyn families.

Please review the details below for additional information regarding the structure of each Open House:

GRADES 3-12:
Saturday, September 27 at 10:00 a.m. ET
556 Columbia Street, Red Hook

The Primary Program: Grades 3-5
Saturday, September 27

Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers to learn about our unique two-teacher model (for grades 3—4). From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, music, and more, find out how we support students in developing study skills and spark a lifelong love for learning. You will also have the chance to learn about how these Bridge Years encourage autonomy, creativity, and confidence to help prepare your student for Middle School.

The Middle School Program: Grades 6-8
Saturday, September 27

In the Middle School Program, we focus on developing the academic, executive functioning, and self-advocacy skills needed for success in the high school years. Hear from our Subject Expert Teachers about how they inspire excellence inside and outside of the classroom. Plus, learn about the many athletic and academic competition teams, clubs, international trips, and more.

The High School Program: Grades 9-12
Saturday, September 27

Educating tomorrow’s great innovators, pioneers, and leaders requires a well-rounded curriculum – one with breadth and depth across academic disciplines. Meet students, faculty, and administrators as you and your child learn about high school at BASIS Independent Brooklyn, including our unique Senior Year program.

Parent and Student Panel

Our Upper School Open House will also include a Q&A panel that consists of BASIS Independent Brooklyn parents, students, and school leadership.

Refreshments

We will have light refreshments for the whole family.

PreK–GRADE 2:
Saturday, October 4 at 10:00 a.m. ET
405 Gold Street, Downtown Brooklyn

PreK & Kindergarten
Saturday, October 4

Learn about our Early Learning Program, where our youngest students grow. Hear from teachers, administrators, and parents about how BASIS Independent Brooklyn Lower School fosters curiosity, exploration, and creativity. Our passionate Subject Expert Teachers will show you what a day in the life looks like as they lead mini lessons in their vibrant rooms.

Grades 1-2:
Saturday, October 4

Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers to learn about our unique two-teacher model. From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, music and more, find out how we support students in developing study skills and spark a lifelong love for learning. Our Subject Expert Teachers will lead mini lessons to help you get a feel for the engaging activities that take place in the classrooms. These sessions will also help you understand the transition to our Upper School campus in Grade 3.

Parent and Student Panel

Our Lower School Open House will also include a Q&A panel that consists of BASIS Independent Brooklyn parents, students, and school leadership.

Refreshments

We will have light refreshments for the whole family.

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Don’t miss this interactive experience! Click here to register for our Fall Open House. As you get ready for the fall season, we hope you choose to spend some of your time with us, getting to know our wonderful community.