Middle School

Galapagos Adventure: BASIS Independent Manhattan Students Explore Ecuador

September 8, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

As our BASIS Independent Manhattan students settle into the new school year, we’re taking a look back at one of the most incredible experiences of their summer: the Project Week trip to the Galapagos Islands.

During the final week of the school year, BASIS Independent Manhattan and BASIS Independent Brooklyn students had time set aside for Project Days, a period when they can collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and engaging activities or trips without the stress of exams or assessments. This year, we hosted two international trips for Middle School and two for High School during Project Week. Relive the unique travels through their seven-day itinerary, as shared by their BASIS Independent Schools teacher chaperones!

Day 1: Arrival in Quito, Exploring the Equator

BASIS Independent Manhattan students posing at the Intiñan Equator Museum in Quito, Ecuador

After a long and eventful day of travel, the group arrived safely in Ecuador. They met their tour director, who took them to explore the city of Quito and the Intiñan Equator Museum. Photo opportunities on the equator were a great way to start the trip, and students even sent a special Father’s Day message home. Mr. Chen reported that they were not just learning about the culture and environment, but also about how to adapt to new ways of doing things, like not drinking tap water and disposing of toilet paper in bins. These adjustments were all part of the adventure.

Standing in the middle of the world, BASIS Independent Manhattan middle school students arrived at the equator.

Day 2: Encountering Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels on Santa Cruz Island

The group traveled to Santa Cruz Island, the second-largest in the Galapagos. Their adventure began with an exploration of the misty highlands, where they saw a diverse range of ecological communities. They paused at a ranch to witness giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Later, they explored lava tunnels, learning about volcanic landforms and tectonic plate dynamics. The day ended with a visit to the Darwin Research Center, where they deepened their understanding of the islands’ climate, geography, and ecology.

The giant tortoise on Santa Cruz Island made the BASIS Independent Manhattan students stare and marvel at their greatness.

Day 3: Snorkeling with Sea Lions and Penguins on Isabela Island

Students explored Isabela Island, focusing on its wetlands and mangroves. Their first stop was Playa de Amor, where they observed flamingos and learned about Darwin’s finches. Next, they visited the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, dedicated to safeguarding the species. There, they conducted species differentiation studies and engaged in ecological relationship activities. The day concluded with a snorkeling experience at Concha Perla, where they swam among fish, sea lions, and even the Galapagos penguin.

Sea lions posing for photos on the dock.

Day 4: Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano

The students went on an immersive excursion to explore the Sierra Negra Volcano area. They hiked along the six-mile crater rim, viewing lava fields and fumaroles up close. Their guide educated them on the unique ecological terrain and how to identify various types of volcanic rock. Following the exploration, the group headed to Las Tintoreras to enjoy some time in the water and snorkel.

Day 5: Face-to-Face with Unique Wildlife

The students got up close with Galapagos penguins on Isabela Island.

Students spent the day on Isabela Island, where they came face-to-face with some of the Galapagos’ most intriguing residents, including marine iguanas, penguins, lightfoot crabs, green sea turtles, and resting whitetip reef sharks. After exploring the island and its wildlife, they returned to Balta on Santa Cruz Island by boat.

Day 6: Unforgettable Memories

Mr. Chen shared a lovely recap with families at this point in the trip. He noted that the students were exhausted “in the best way possible” from the speedboat rides and scenic treks. He described the “sheer amazement” of seeing enormous sea turtles, colorful parrotfish, playful sea lions, and the famous blue-footed boobies. He also expressed pride in the young travelers, who pushed their limits by walking over 26,000 steps in one day and connected deeply with nature and each other.

Hiking through volcanic rock and giving thumbs ups and smiles.

Day 7: A Taste of Otavalo and the Journey Home

On their last full day, the group had a busy day in Otavalo, Ecuador. They explored a lively open market in the morning before visiting Cuicocha Volcanic Lake and Peguche Waterfall. For lunch, they experienced a unique Pachamanca ceremony, helping to cook food underground. Afterward, they headed to the airport for their flight back to JFK.

Want to learn more about Project Week at BASIS Independent Manhattan? Join our Interest List to hear about all of our upcoming events and opportunities!

2024-2025 Year-in-Review: BASIS Independent Brooklyn

August 31, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

Dear Families and Staff,

The summer months bring reflection that offers a vital pause—a time to transform our hindsight into foresight. Today, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our students in our annual reflection, and we honor or Class of 2025 graduates from BASIS Independent Brooklyn as they embark on their university journeys.

Academic excellence unites every corner of our school. We harness data from across our BASIS Independent Schools network not just to measure progress, but also to illuminate paths forward. This is how we master both the art and science of education—turning insight into inspiration and potential into achievement.

This past school year, nearly 70% of our students earned the AP Scholar designation (scoring a 3 or higher on at least three AP Exams). This impressive result is consistent with year-over-year scores, showcasing our program’s strength. Also, in high school, we celebrated our National Merit Scholarship Finalists, Maxwell H. and Gustavo P., and we proudly celebrated three Commended Scholars: James R., Maxim S., and Ryan T. ’25.

We cheered on Gustavo P. ’25 for being named a Presidential Scholarship candidate, joining a total of nine seniors named to the distinction across our network. At the end of the year, we were thrilled to learn that Maxim S. ’25 won the Fellows Scholarship for the best Senior Project across our network. The award is an honor in and of itself and comes with a $10,000 scholarship to college.

Let’s also take a moment to reflect on our seventh graduating senior class! More than 60% of students were offered seats at universities in the top 30-ranked national and international institutions. Today, we can share that our students will matriculate at the following universities and colleges (listed by U.S. News rankings for national universities, liberal arts colleges, and then international universities):

Stanford University (2), Duke University, Northwestern University, Cornell University (3), Washington University in St. Louis, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, University of Southern California, New York University, University of California-Irvine, Boston University, Rutgers University, University of Maryland, Purdue University (2), Northeastern University, American University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Hamilton College, Haverford College, and McGill University (2).

*Our Class of 2025 posed with Mr. Harmon, Mr. Brauch, and Mr. Yoon during the start of school last year.*

Celebrating Accomplishments

Throughout the 2024-2025 school year, one thing remained the same—student accomplishments across all grades reaffirmed the vision to hold ourselves to the highest standards. Our educators took pride in providing structure and stability to support content mastery.

Our students excelled in their studies, and their accomplishments outside the classroom made us incredibly proud. An overview of 2024–2025 student accolades and significant developments follows.

Fine Arts

Scholastic Arts and Writing Competition: Eight of Mr. Opirhory’s Digital Photography students were honored in the 2025 awards. Students were recognized with the following regional awards: 3 Gold Keys, 3 Silver Keys, and 2 Honorable Mentions in photography.
Our Upper School Choir was invited to perform at Radio City Music Hall before the Christmas Spectacular once again!
Band student Nicole J. ’28 received an “Outstanding” ranking by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) for her solo flute audition, performing Sicilienne, Op. 78 by Gabriel Faure at Level 6, the highest degree of difficulty.
Choir student Katha A. ’30 received an “Outstanding” ranking by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) for her rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
Our Spring Musical, Shrek, was a rave hit. Upper School drama performances in elective classes were a wonderful celebration of creativity all year long.
Our entire Fine Arts team at the Lower and Upper School hosted wonderful festivals before Winter Break and at the end of the school year.

*Scholastic Arts Gold Key Winning Photo “Old and New” by Henry B. ‘28*

Chess/Social Sciences/Languages

Our Bears won the 3rd-place team in the very competitive U1400 division at the Chess Super Nationals! Our K—Gr. 6 U100 team came in 9^th place, and Gr. 3 Milo S. went undefeated with 6 points to medal for second place in K—Gr. 3 Championships. There were many, many other chess accolades throughout the year.
Our Bears earned 6^th place in the 2025 All-Girls National Chess Championships in Chicago.
Our inaugural DECA Club headed to the NY State Competition in Rochester, making our school proud.
On the National Latin Exam, our students were decorated with honors: 6 students received Gold Summa Cum Laude, 9 students received Silver Maxima Cum Laude, 12 students received Magna Cum Laude, 13 students received Cum Laude recognition, and one Blue Certificate of Merit for the School.
Nearly all the students in Mr. Bedes’ High School French classes sat for and passed the French DELF (certification) A1, A2, or B1 exams through L’Alliance NY.
Mr. Bedes was proud to induct 16 members into our newly established French Honor Society.
In the Chinese Bridge Competition, Gr. 4 Scottie F. won 3^rd place in the Eastern Region. Two of our Gr. 3 students, Isabelle L. and Bathazar R., also received recognition!

*French Honor Society Induction Ceremony*

Math/Science

Our school won the New York State Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics, and Science (TEAMS) competition for High School. Thank you to Physics teacher and coach Josh Winter for continuing to grow the team.
Our High School Robotics team Ori-Gen went to the Super Qualifier round of the FIRST Robotics Challenge after winning the Inspire Award 3^rd place regionally. It was their first year of competition, and we look forward to another great year ahead.
Once again, a large group of students sat for the MATH KANGAROO assessment for younger grades across both our campuses and comprised one of the largest groups yet to receive accolades from the organization.
NOETIC Math accolades poured in with national winners across several grades across both of our campuses!

*Our High School Science Team won 1^st place in the New York State TEAMS competition!*

Sports

Our Varsity Boys and Middle School Girls Tennis teams won the inaugural CPSAL Tennis Championships!
Our Middle School Flag Football team won the CPSAL League Championships after an incredible season. Go Bears!!!
Our Gr. 4-5 Co-ed Soccer Team won the CONSAT Championships. We are proud of our young student-athletes!
Our Middle School Boys won the CPSAL Indoor Track Championship, and our Middle School Girls came in 3^rd! High School Student Talia L. took first place in the Varsity Girls 1 mile and 800m.
CPSAL Boys and Girls Cross Country Team: Our Bears had a great season, and the High School Boys team took home 2nd Place, High School Girls placed 3^rd overall, and Middle School Boys placed 3^rd overall.
Our High School Flag Football and High School Boys Soccer teams made it to the league semi-finals
CSAA Varsity and JV School Volleyball Team, as well as High School Flag Boys Flag Football, made it to the league playoffs.
Our Varsity Girls Soccer Team had its first season, winning 2^nd place in the CPSAL Spring Classic Tournament.

Community Involvement

This year, our high school team arranged a Fourth Annual Day of Service in the fall to bring our community together and make a difference locally with nonprofits around Red Hook.
Our National Honor and National Junior Honor Society students dedicated more than 2,000 hours to service projects this year!
Our Lower and Upper school community donated hundreds of coats, scarves, hats, and more to our local Coat Drive in the fall.
Our community created more than 200 Thanksgiving cards for Heights and Hills to deliver with their Thanksgiving meals to seniors.
Students in our High School Program conducted a Red Hook Clean Up before Earth Day. They picked up 169 pounds of trash around the neighborhood.

These awards and examples of community involvement are an amazing testament to the school and the power of the curriculum and teachers. Most importantly, they are an incredible representation of our creative, diverse, driven scholars. It is important to us that as a school we prioritize opportunity, finding opportunities for students to showcase their skills, define their interests, and pursue their passions.

Looking Ahead

Without community, academic success is temporary and limited. We have made significant growth as a community this year, and it is our priority to support and grow in the year ahead under the guiding principles of BEARS–Belonging, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Service. Cultivating mutual respect and trust is key for our school after eleven years in Brooklyn.

Teachers continue to express to us that they love this school because they are allowed to teach the subjects they know best, the way they know best. They are allowed to share their passion for their subjects with their students, and this builds engagement. We are excited to bring new faculty into the fold and continue supporting veteran teachers returning to our campus.

As we close our thoughts on the year, we want to salute our Class of 2025 for shaping our sense of community and traditions at our school. What we want to ask from our alumni and parents is to help provide professional advice and even connect our students after they graduate to internships and opportunities as part of our expanded mentorship program.

Overall, we want our students to look back, feel a great sense of pride in their school, and share in the school’s success that they helped create. We have much to celebrate, and we are in an exciting position after eleven years of educating students in Brooklyn. We truly look forward to the 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, please click here.

The Skills Behind the Skill: Executive Functioning at BASIS Independent Fremont

August 29, 2025 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Fremont, academic rigor is central to our program, but it is only one part of what makes our students exceptional. Just as essential are the skills that help students manage their learning effectively: time management, organization, sustained attention, planning, and flexibility. These “executive functioning” skills are the mental processes that allow students to set goals, monitor progress, and adapt when challenges arise. For many children, especially in an advanced curriculum, these abilities don’t come automatically. They must be taught, practiced, and reinforced over time.

This year, we are placing a special focus on directly instructing students in executive functioning skills. In the classroom, this looks like a teacher guiding students through the steps of breaking a complex project into manageable tasks, or modeling how to use their Communication Journal planner effectively. It means setting aside time for students to reflect on their work habits, identify what helped them succeed, and make a plan for improvement. By embedding these skills into our daily routines, we help students internalize strategies they can use not only in school, but throughout their lives.

Executive functioning also plays a vital role in helping students navigate the pace and depth of our curriculum. Strong time management allows them to balance multiple assignments without becoming overwhelmed. Organization skills keep materials, notes, and resources accessible and ready for use. Sustained attention supports deep engagement with challenging material, while flexibility helps students adapt when the unexpected happens. Together, these skills form the foundation for resilience.

Our goal is for every student to leave BASIS Independent Fremont with exceptional academic knowledge and the tools to manage their learning independently and confidently. Parents play an important role in this process, too, by encouraging consistent routines at home, modeling problem-solving strategies, and celebrating the small victories that build lasting habits. Year after year, we have witnessed how when school and home work together, executive functioning becomes more than a set of skills. It becomes a mindset that empowers students to succeed in any challenge they choose to pursue.

Learn more about how BASIS Independent Fremont prepares students to excel academically, thrive as independent learners, and build the foundation for lifelong success.

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.

BISV Grade 8 Students Make a Lasting Impact in New Orleans

August 27, 2025 by ezekielbracamonte Leave a Comment

For their Term Project trip, a group of BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Grade 8 students traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana, for a week of service, cultural exploration, and community building. Led by Subject Expert English Teacher Mr. Woodruff and Subject Expert Physics Teacher Mr. Schindler, students dedicated their time to supporting organizations that continue to aid communities affected by natural disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, with a focus on disaster relief and prevention.

The trip combined hard work, team spirit, and plenty of sweat thanks to Louisiana’s famous summer humidity. Most of all, it highlighted the extraordinary way our students step up when given the opportunity to serve.

Service in Action

The first project of the trip focused on water reclamation. Students prepped large 50-gallon drums that would later be used as rain barrels in community gardens. What began as a simple task quickly became a leadership opportunity, with students teaching one another the process and working together like seasoned pros.

At Hotel Hope, a shelter for women and children, students rolled up their sleeves to clean, weed, and organize. They worked not only for completion but also with a sense of ownership, ensuring that the space looked and felt welcoming for families in need.

Perhaps the most striking demonstration of teamwork came at Second Harvest, one of the largest food banks in the region. While adult volunteers boxed food, our students were given the task of building the boxes themselves. In just a few hours, they assembled an astounding 1,800 boxes, so many that even forklifts struggled to keep up with their pace.

The trip came full circle at a community garden run by Common Relief, where students learned about the importance of wetlands to New Orleans. Under the hot sun, they watered plants, cared for the land, and were thrilled to see the very rain barrels they had prepared on day one now in use, quietly helping conserve water.

More Than Service

Beyond the scheduled projects, students also found time to explore New Orleans through its music, food, and unique culture. Yet it was the service work that left the deepest impression. As Mr. Woodruff reflected, “Our students were thoughtful, hardworking, generous, and absurdly productive. You would have been proud.”

The experience is all the more meaningful because our BISV students, still awaiting the start of high school, embraced service with such dedication.

A Trip to Remember

This service trip was more than just volunteering. It was a chance for students to connect with one another, learn about resilience, and see firsthand how small acts of service can create lasting change. From rain barrels to box building, their contributions supported organizations that continue to strengthen New Orleans communities through disaster relief and prevention efforts.

We are proud of the way our students embraced the challenge with sweat, smiles, and an unforgettable sense of teamwork.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley 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 Bobcat community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Alexander D. ’31 Brings Back Gold from the International History Olympiad

August 13, 2025 by aixuanwang Leave a Comment

In July of this summer, Grade 7 student Alexander D. ’31 took part in the International History Olympiad in Paris, France, where he won a gold medal in the Hextathlon team event, finished 7th in the History Bee, and came in 19th overall individually! He was also selected to carry the Virginia flag during the opening ceremony.

The Olympiad took place at the École Jeannine Manuel, a high school not far from the Eiffel Tower. It featured 432 contestants from all over the world, competing in a mix of individual tests and buzzer events similar to Quiz Bowl. It was a friendly competition, with contestants exchanging pins and chatting before matches. “We liked to talk about politics,” Alexander says, “but the adults kept telling us not to.”

This is Alexander’s second Olympiad, after competing in last year’s International Geography Olympiad in Vienna, Austria. He reached Paris by coming in second at regionals and making the quarterfinals of the national competition in Orlando. Alexander says he first became interested in history during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he spent a lot of time watching documentaries. He thought Grade 4 history was fun, and in Grade 5, he joined the Quiz Bowl team at BASIS Independent McLean and specialized in history. One of the parent coaches suggested he try out for the international competition.

His time in Europe was not all about competing. Alexander took advantage of the chance to visit historical sites: the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Black Forest in Germany, and the castles of “Mad” King Ludwig II in Bavaria. A special highlight was seeing Albert Einstein’s PhD thesis paper in Zurich. He also loved the food, saying, “I enjoyed eating at French restaurants, especially the duck confit and steak frites. I also tried my mom’s escargot, which didn’t taste as bad as I thought it would.”

Congratulations to Alexander from everyone here at BIM!

Unlocking Potential: A Glimpse into Extracurricular Life at BASIS Independent Manhattan

August 12, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we believe that the best education is enhanced by extracurricular activities. Beyond the classroom, our extensive array of clubs, activities, and athletics plays a crucial role in fostering well-rounded individuals. Through exploring their passions, our students develop new skills and cultivate leadership in a supportive environment. As a PreK-Grade 12 private school in NYC, with our Lower School serving PreK-Grade 5 on the Upper West Side and our Upper School serving grades 6-12 in Chelsea, we offer diverse opportunities tailored to every age and interest.

two prek students participate in gardening club outside by pouring water on a tray of dirt

Read on to learn more about our exciting after-school activities, clubs, and sports, designed to enhance the academic journey and build a stronger sense of self. For an in-depth look at our full program offerings, please visit our dedicated pages for Clubs & Activities and Sports & Athletics.

Lower School Extracurriculars:

Cultivating Early Passions (PreK-Grade 5)

four lower school boy students stand in basketball poses wearing their wildcat jerseys

On the Upper West Side, our Lower School students choose from a selection of after-school programming to pursue their interests in sports, art, music, science, technology, and more! We continuously expand our offerings, aiming to inspire broad participation among our young Wildcats.

Some of our super-popular clubs that return year-after-year include:

Basketball
Cheer-Gymnastics
Chess
Drama (Putting on a fully staged musical production)
Piano
Soccer
Speech & Debate
Tech & Lighting (for the Drama Club’s musical)
Tennis

engineering and robotics club building lego robots

girl students make cheer gymnastics pyramid with pompoms

We also have the best teachers, who are not only expert educators and passionate about the subjects they teach, but they also run after-school programs. These teacher-led clubs are some of our most popular! While building strong teacher-student relationships, participants have unique opportunities for exploration in:

Drama
Clay World
Comic Book Writing
Fashion & Photography
Figure Drawing
Gardening
Pokémon
Set & Costume Design (for the Drama Club’s musical)

The primary goal behind our Lower School’s extracurricular design is to foster curiosity, skill-building, creativity, and exposure to new areas beyond the classroom. We also actively curate our programs to meet the majority of requests from our families, based on our annual surveys.

students as the sharks hold a pose perform drama club musical finding nemo

the three student leads of finding nemo sing the finale

Success & Highlights:

Last year, we saw 82% of our PreK–K students and 76% of our grade 1–5 students engage in these enriching programs, a testament to their appeal and impact. A notable success we are particularly proud of is the Lower School Drama Club, which consistently sells out its shows and fosters cross-club collaboration. We are also proud of our popular Tennis and Piano clubs, which always have a full roster of students.

bar chart showing participation percentages for lower school students

woman with violin in front of a table of musical materials at the extracurricular fair

Upper School Extracurriculars & Sports

Deepening Engagement (Grades 6–12 )

At our Chelsea campus, the Upper School Extracurriculars provide unparalleled opportunities for students to develop a stronger sense of self through a multitude of after-school activities. Approximately 47% of all Upper School students are actively involved in an extracurricular activity, reflecting a strong culture of student engagement beyond the classroom.

two middle school boys playing basketball and running with an opposing player encroaching and a referee in the background

Popular and returning clubs include:

Drama (Putting on a fully staged musical production)
Dungeons & Dragons
Engineering & Robotics
Journalism (Wildcat Weekly News)
Math Support & Competition Prep
Money Smart
Ping Pong
Speech & Debate

This year marks a dynamic period of growth for our Upper School extracurricular landscape, with the launch of a new journalism club, led by one of our beloved English teachers. We are also excited about the continued momentum of our new high school speech and debate program.

a female student gives two thumbs up after testing the bearing weight her bridge could hold in engineering club. she built it with popsicle sticks and stacked six metal weights on top

Success & Highlights:

One of our most exciting success stories comes from our debate team, which began as a middle school club and won the championship two years in a row. Building on that momentum, the team has now transitioned into an Upper School club, expanding its scope and ambition. This year, they are preparing to travel to prestigious institutions such as Columbia.

three middle school students hold up their championship trophies at the ESU USA speech and debate tournament in new york city

Competitive Athletics:

Building Teamwork and Discipline

Our middle and high school student-athletes participate in a robust lineup of competitive sports. This year’s offerings include High School Boys Soccer, High School Girls Volleyball, Middle School Girls Volleyball, and Middle School Basketball.

Philosophy:

Our growing competitive athletics program centers on developing the whole student through sport. We aim to foster:

- sportsmanship,
- teamwork, and
a competitive spirit that pushes students to strive for excellence while embracing both victory and defeat as opportunities for growth.

the middle school girls vollebyall team poses with their championship trophy, holding up the number one with their fingers, and biting their medals like olympians

Program Expansion:

Our athletics/sports offerings are experiencing exciting growth, particularly in volleyball and soccer.

After the middle school volleyball team secured a championship win last fall, enthusiasm for the sport has continued to build, leading to the launch of a brand-new high school volleyball team this fall.
- Additionally, our high school soccer program is kicking off its inaugural season this year by joining a new competitive league.

Cultivating Well-Rounded Wildcats

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, our extracurricular and athletic programs are integral to our mission of educating students to the highest international standards. They are designed to complement our rigorous academic curriculum, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and a sense of community. We encourage both prospective and current families to explore these incredible opportunities.

Fall 2026: What to Expect at Your Virtual Family Meeting

August 11, 2025 by michaelmertes

At BASIS Independent Fremont, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

What is the Family Meeting?
The Family Meeting is an essential part of the admissions process at BASIS Independent Fremont (BIF) and is part of our final admissions decision. This 30-minute meeting is the school’s opportunity to learn more about your child and your family’s interest in BIF.

While we are happy to answer questions about our program, the Family Meeting is not the best time to learn about our offerings. Prior to the Family Meeting, we strongly encourage families to visit our website and blog, attend an Admissions Event, or speak with a member of the Admissions Team.

When are the meetings held?
Family Meetings are held virtually Monday – Friday at various times throughout the day and can be booked through your application portal after you submit an application.

Who is required to attend the Family Meeting?
At least one parent or guardian is required to attend. Students applying for TK – Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grade 2 – 9 are required to attend.

If your child is required to attend the Family Meeting and does not, you will be asked to reschedule.

What if we are applying for more than one student?
Only register for one Family Meeting, and bring both students, if required to attend, to the same meeting.

When does the meeting have to take place?
Those applying in Early Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, November 21, 2025. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 13, 2026.

How do we register for a Family Meeting?
Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Family Meeting.

If you’re not ready to choose a date and time, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient. Please note: As we get closer to the Completion Deadline, there are fewer meeting times available. We would suggest scheduling one as soon as you are able. If you wait and are unable to schedule a Family Meeting for one of our offered times, your application will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for admission.

How long is the Family Meeting?
Family Meetings are generally 30 minutes long. Oftentimes, those hosting the Family Meeting will have back-to-back appointments and will be unable to go over the 30-minute mark.

Who will we be meeting with?
Our Family Meetings are hosted by members of the Admissions Team, members of our Administration, and even some of our Subject Expert Teachers! You never know who will be hosting, but you’ll always get to speak with a member of the BIF Family!

What questions will we be asked?
The meeting is our chance to get to know you and your child more in a one-on-one setting. We may ask you questions about why you’re interested in BIF, your child’s academic and non-academic interests, and even what they like to do with their free time.

We discourage any formal interview prep, as it tends to make students more nervous when we are just trying to get to know them. We want all students to feel comfortable and be themselves.

How will the Family Meeting be held?
You will receive a reminder email 24 hours before your meeting time with a Zoom link to your virtual meeting. When your meeting time arrives, please log in to your meeting via Zoom.

Can we ask questions at the end?
If there is time, yes! But always note who you are speaking to. Whoever hosts your meeting will always introduce themselves and let you know their role at the school. If their role is not in relation to your question, they will let you know, and encourage you to reach out to the Admissions Team for an answer.

We look forward to meeting you and your student(s) soon at your Virtual Family Meeting!

The Admissions Team is looking forward to connecting with you! If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions team by e-mail, or speak with an admissions representative at 510.775.5822.

Project Week Trips 2025: China

August 8, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

During the final week of the school year, BASIS Independent Brooklyn students have time set aside for Project Days, a period when they have a unique platform for collaborative, multidisciplinary projects and engaging activities or trips without the stress of exams or assessments. Students select their project of interest and then are grouped with dedicated teachers who guide and facilitate their learning throughout the week. This year, we hosted three international trips for Middle School and two for High School during Project Week, and today, we wanted to showcase the Middle School China trip led by Ms. Collins and Ms. Ye.

Ms. Collins is our International Student Program Coordinator, who opens our school up to the world as much as we go out into it. Ms. Ye is a Subject Expert Teacher in our Mandarin Department.

Below, please enjoy the trip recap from our wonderful chaperones. The trip to China represented the culmination of grade 6 and 7 World History classes for our student explorers. It brought to life many of the lessons they had learned in Middle School.

Beijing: The Capital of History and Culture

Beijing was our first stop, and it truly lived up to its reputation as a city rich in history and culture. We began with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The grandeur and historical significance of these sites were truly awe-inspiring. We also visited the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors prayed for good harvests, and participated in a tai chi exercise session, which was a unique and enriching experience.

One of the highlights of our time in Beijing was a visit to the Great Wall of China. Standing on the Great Wall was an unforgettable experience, and the view was breathtaking. We also visited the Ming Tombs, where we explored the mausoleums of the Ming emperors. Our visit to the Beijing Zoo to see the pandas was another highlight, and the pandas were absolutely adorable. The Hutong tour, where we visited a local family, offered a glimpse into the traditional Beijing lifestyle.

Xi’an: The Cradle of Chinese Civilization

Our next destination was Xi’an, a city steeped in history and culture. We visited the Ancient City Wall, where we had the opportunity to walk along the wall and take in the views of the city. The Greater Wild Goose Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was another highlight.

Stopping by the Terracotta Warriors Museum

The Terracotta Warriors Museum was the highlight of our time in Xi’an. The sheer scale and historical significance of the Terracotta Army were truly astounding. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these ancient artifacts up close. The Tang Dynasty singing and dancing show was a delightful cultural experience that showcased the rich traditions of the region.

Shanghai: The Modern Metropolis

Our final stop was Shanghai, a modern metropolis with a rich history. We began with a visit to the Yu Yuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions and ponds. The Jade Buddha Temple, a famous Buddhist temple, was another highlight. We also visited a silk factory, where we learned about the production process and had the opportunity to purchase silk products.

The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront area, offered stunning views of the city’s skyline. We also explored Tian Zi Fang, a trendy cultural district filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. The Huangpu River cruise in the evening was the perfect way to end our trip, providing a breathtaking view of the city’s illuminated skyline.

Throughout our journey, we were particularly impressed by the students’ maturity and their enthusiasm for learning about Chinese culture. Their curiosity and respect for the places we visited made the trip even more meaningful.

Ms. Ye and Ms. Collins enjoyed exploring China’s rich culture and history with their students!

Your Journey Starts Here: Fall 2026 Admissions

July 31, 2025 by alexlevin Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we welcome applicants who are curious, motivated, and eager to contribute to our dynamic school community. As one of New York City’s top private schools, we seek students who are not only academically driven but also well-rounded—students who are excited to engage in a culture where intellectual curiosity is celebrated, collaboration is encouraged, and a love of learning is central to everything we do. Our students thrive in an environment where hard work is valued, learning is exciting, and school is both challenging and fun.

For families new to the admissions process, we want to provide a clear overview of what to expect. BASIS Independent Manhattan is a PreK–Grade 12 private school with two distinct campuses, each purposefully designed for the age group it serves.

PreK–Grade 5: 795 Columbus Avenue, New York, NY 10025
Grades 6–12: 556 West 22nd Street, New York, NY 10011

When applying, families will meet our Admissions Team, who are here to guide them through every step of the admissions process. As a leading New York City Independent School, we take pride in our team’s commitment to providing a supportive, transparent, and welcoming experience. Whether you are new to private school admissions or navigating it again, our team is eager to answer your questions and share what sets BASIS Independent Manhattan apart.

Read below to learn more about the admissions process.

Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event

We strongly recommend prospective families attend one of our Admissions Events to learn about our program and meet some of our staff, students, and family community members before applying. We host events for the Regular Admissions season from August to December.

To view and register for upcoming Admissions Events, click here.

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

Families can submit an application by filling out an Application Form, which covers basic information, and paying a non-refundable deposit. Families applying for PreK–Grade 1 will also need to complete a Parent Questionnaire. Once you submit the application, application fee, and, if applicable, Parent Questionnaire, you officially start the application process!

In your application, you will be able to request teacher recommendations, report cards/transcripts, schedule your Family Meeting, and your student’s Play Date or Entrance Exam. Families can also keep track of their application process on their Ravenna dashboard.

Please note: Steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 can be done in any order but must be completed after the application is submitted and before the deadline to complete an application.

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 will have their current teacher fill out the Early Learning Program Teacher Recommendation. For Grades 2–10, your child’s current teacher(s) will fill out the English Teacher Recommendation and the Math Teacher Recommendation.

You will be able to delegate the recommendations directly to your child’s current teacher. We do not accept recommendations from past teachers. As listed in the instructions for the recommendations, we do not accept documents from parents or guardians. All recommendations must be sent directly from the teacher to the Admissions Office.

Step 4: Transcripts (Grades 1–10 Required*)

You will be able to delegate a Transcript Request Form in your application. This form requests that your child’s current school send us a current-year report, along with the last two years. If you’ve attended more than one school within the past three years, you may need to provide a Transcript Request Form to any prior school(s). As stated in the request form instructions, we do not accept documents from parents or guardians. All transcripts must be sent directly from the school to the Admissions Office.

We understand that some applicants to grades 1 and 2 may not have formal transcripts from their early childhood programs, such as PreK or daycare. In these circumstances, the requirement of three years of transcripts can be waived.

Step 5: Student Evaluation (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 will register for a Play Date. Students applying for Grades 2–10 will register for the ISEE (Independent Schools Entrance Exam). Both of these evaluations allow us to meet and interact with your child and determine their readiness to join our program academically, socially, and emotionally in the grade they are applying for.

Step 6: Family Meeting (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend the Family Meeting. Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 10 are required to attend. For families applying for multiple students, only one family meeting is required. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, ask your student(s) questions about their specific interests in school, and get to know them a bit more in a one-on-one setting.

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete! If you complete your application by the completion deadline, you will receive an admissions decision on the notification day. See below for more details.

Early Admissions (only for siblings of current students)

Deadline to submit an application: Friday, November 14, 2025
Deadline to complete an application: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Notification date: Friday, December 5, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST
Commitment Deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025, by 12:00 PM EST

Regular Admissions (PreK–Grade 10)

Deadline to submit and complete an application: Thursday, January 8, 2026

Notification date by grade: by 5:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Grades 1–8: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Grades 9–10: Friday, February 20, 2026

Commitment deadline by grade: by 12:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Grades 1–8: Friday, February 27, 2026
Grades 9–10: Thursday, March 12, 2026

Our BASIS Independent Manhattan Admissions Team prioritizes a spirit of collaboration and accessibility to new families, demystifying the application process as much as possible. They work hard to ensure anyone interested in our program can tour the campuses and meet our staff. To that end, parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to come to campus and see our school in action. We hope to see you at an upcoming event soon!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact our Admissions Team at Manhattan-Admissions@basisindependent.com.

Project Week Trips 2025: Singapore and Taiwan

July 24, 2025 by aixuanwang Leave a Comment

One of the most beloved traditions at BASIS Independent McLean is the international Project Week trips—a time when students immerse themselves in multidisciplinary projects, collaborative activities, and, of course, journeys beyond the city, state, or even country. These experiences take place after students complete their final exams and assessments, all under the guidance of dedicated teachers.

This year, four groups of Middle and High School students ventured abroad—to Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Today, we are excited to showcase the third group’s trip to Asia, led by our Mandarin teacher, Ms. Li, and our Spanish teacher, Mr. Diaz!

Singapore and Taiwan, two jewels of Southeast and East Asia, offer distinct cultures, histories, and landscapes. While cool winds still graced the East Coast, BIM students and parents set off for these two islands, both in full bloom under the humid summer heat.

Follow the photo gallery for a glimpse into this exciting and unforgettable journey!

Day 1—2: USA >> Singapore

After a long flight, the BIM group arrived in Singapore, ready to begin their journey!

Students and teachers in front of a vertical garden in Changi Airport, Singapore

Day 3: Singapore

Esplanade Park, Merlion Park, Singapore River, Raffles Hotel, China Square Central, Buddha Tooth Relic, Henderson Waves, Little India Singapore, Botanic Garden, Garden Rhapsody Show at Gardens by the Bay

Jet lag and the 12-hour time difference could not stop our students’ eagerness to explore. Today entailed plenty of walking. Students, parents, and teachers visited many iconic sites that told the story of Singapore’s diverse population and culture, as well as the results of its rapid development.

Check out the futuristic Gardens by the Bay!

Day 4: Singapore >> Taipei

Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours on the airplane.

Day 5: Taipei

The Grand Hotel, Yangmingshan National Park, Presidential Square, National Palace Museum, National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine, Shilin Night Market

The group picked up their pace again the next day, delving into the city of Taipei. From architectural landmarks to natural scenery, and from admiring historical treasures to soaking in the vibrant nightlife with the locals, our BIM travelers enjoyed a fulfilling day and recognized the distinct differences between Singapore and Taiwan.

Taking a group picture in front of the Taipei National Palace Museum

Day 6: Taipei

Yehliu Geopark, Taipei North Gate (Cheng’en Gate), Tea‐tasting experience, Pingxi District

Basking in the cozy ocean breeze, the group walked among the wind-sculpted rocks of Yehliu Geopark. In the Pingxi district, they stopped to enjoy the refreshing splash of the Shifen Waterfall, and learned the tea-tasting rituals in the quaint roadside shops.

Known for its graceful shape, this mushroom-shaped rock is called “Queen’s Head” and is the star of Yehliu Geopark.

Take a look at how well our students are pouring the tea!

Day 7: Taipei >> Nantou

Sun Moon Lake Excursion: Scenic Cruise, Lake Ropeway, and Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

As one of Taiwan’s most beloved destinations, Sun Moon Lake boasts a graceful natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and enriched by an aboriginal cultural experience that slowed our travelers’ pace and invited quiet admiration.

Mist on the lake blurs the silhouette of the mountains and people, resembling a traditional Chinese shanshui painting.

Day 8: Sun Moon Lake >> Taipei

Sun Moon Lake: Bike around the Lake, Taipei Xinyi: Wei Xiu District, Chiang Kai‐shek Memorial Hall, 101 Observatory

And there’s always more to explore in beautiful Sun Moon Lake. After biking along the famous lakeside trail, the group returned to Taipei to visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. They ended the day by taking one last comprehensive view of Taiwan from the top of the Taipei 101 Observatory.

Day 9: Taiwan >> USA

With plenty of memories to share and reflect on, the group returned home.

——— The End of Blog ———

Project Week is a BASIS Independent Schools tradition in which students work with dedicated faculty on multidisciplinary projects or international trips during the final week of the academic year. Through these diverse experiences, students broaden their interests, embrace new challenges, and gain invaluable skills through cooperation, exploration, and hands-on learning.

Stay tuned for more reports on the international trips!