Middle School

Meet Our New Subject Expert Teacher: Mr. Clifford Rawls

April 28, 2026 by nathanielyinger Leave a Comment

A San Francisco native and life-long musician, Mr. Cliff received Bachelors of Arts degrees in Music and English in 2009 from Santa Clara University where he studied performance and screenwriting. He then began his career as an educator, teaching guitar, drums, and music theory throughout the Bay Area. He soon returned to school, earning a Master’s of Music in Music Education in 2014 from Boston University. During this time, Mr. Cliff continued his career as a music educator, teaching modern band, music theory, instrumental performance, and music history throughout the East Bay. While continuing his teaching career, Mr. Cliff found himself bitten by the education bug once again; he returned to Boston University in 2017 to pursue a Doctor of Musical Arts, where he is currently finishing his degree as a doctoral candidate.

Mr. Cliff is a passionate music educator who believes that music is for everyone – he also thinks it’s important to provide students with music education experiences that will transcend the classroom. Students can look forward to learning to play new instruments, getting better at instruments they can already play, performing live, learning to record, and listening to lots and lots of music together!

When Mr. Cliff is not busy teaching, you can find him spending time with his family in the city, on the hunt for the best burgers and hot wings with his friends in the East Bay, at the driving range, at the skatepark, on his laptop finishing his dissertation, and, of course, in his music room practicing!

What drew you to join our school community?

BASIS Independent Dublin seems like a place where the teachers and students are enthusiastic, and the prospect of building a music program from scratch with new students sounded like a can’t miss opportunity!

What are you most excited about in your first year here?

I’m excited to meet all the students, pick our first few songs, and to play the first notes in our brand new building together!

What advice do you give students who want to succeed in your class?

Some advice I would give to my students is to remember that “we are all musicians.” Whether you’ve been playing music for 30 years like me, or you’re just starting, it’s OK! You’re a musician, and as long as you keep practicing, you’ll be able to play and learn new things.

What do you hope students will remember most about your class years from now?

I hope when you look back on our time together as a class, you’ll remember the fun you had learning and growing, choosing and playing repertoire you loved, and the joy we shared as a community of musicians.

BASIS Independent Dublin is a Grades 5 – 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the BASIS Independent Dublin community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Meet Our New Subject Expert Teacher: Coach Jacqueline Bateman

April 27, 2026 by nathanielyinger Leave a Comment

Coach Jacki is a dedicated Physical Education teacher with a background in exercise science and a passion for helping students develop confidence and discipline, as well as a lifelong commitment to health and fitness. She holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention, and brings experience from both school-based teaching and athletic training environments. Her approach focuses on creating a structured, positive, and engaging learning environment where students can build skills, improve their physical abilities, and learn the value of teamwork and sportsmanship. Drawing from her own experience playing multiple sports including basketball, soccer, water polo, softball, and baseball, Coach Jacki strives to expose students to a wide range of activities and to help them discover ways to stay active for life.

What drew you to join our school community?

I was drawn to BASIS Independent Schools because of its strong emphasis on high standards, student accountability, and overall excellence. I appreciate that the school values both academic success and the development of the whole student. I believe physical education plays an important role in building discipline, confidence, and teamwork, and I was excited about the opportunity to contribute to a community that prioritizes those qualities.

What are you most excited about in your first year here?

In my first year, I’m most excited about building strong connections with students and creating an environment where they feel supported and motivated. I look forward to helping students grow in their skills and confidence, while also establishing routines and expectations that keep them engaged and active.

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

My teaching approach focuses on helping students feel both supported and appropriately challenged as they develop their skills. I design lessons that allow for steady progress so students can recognize their growth, while also promoting collaboration and accountability. I adapt activities to meet different ability levels, ensuring all students remain engaged and have opportunities to succeed.

What goals do you have for your students to take away from your PE classes?

My goal is for students to leave my class with confidence in their physical abilities and a positive attitude toward staying active. I want them to develop strong movement skills, understand the importance of fitness and injury prevention, and build lifelong habits around health, teamwork, and perseverance.

Leading with Purpose: Shogun R. Receives NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award

April 23, 2026 by ezekielbracamonte Leave a Comment

We are proud to celebrate Grade 7 student Shogun R., who has been recognized with the prestigious National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) Outstanding Achievement Award—a national honor that highlights exceptional scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.

For Shogun, the award represents more than recognition—it reflects the values he strives to live by every day.

“Winning the NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award is incredibly meaningful to me because it validates that hard work, kindness, and a dedication to learning are impactful,” he shared. “It reminds me that being a good person and having a strong work ethic can turn all my dreams into reality.”

Shogun’s journey to this achievement has been shaped by both his leadership and his commitment to service. After earning the NJHS Pillar of Character recognition in the 2024–2025 school year, he stepped into the role of NJHS Vice President, where he helped lead initiatives and create new opportunities for student involvement.

“Volunteering at a variety of local community agencies helped me better understand the needs of our community,” he explained. “I wanted to make community service more accessible for middle school students and create opportunities for others to get involved.”

As Vice President, Shogun strengthened his leadership through collaboration and communication—working closely with fellow NJHS members and advisors to organize meetings, plan agendas, and bring ideas to life.

“I’ve honed my skills through respectful interactions and positive engagement with my peers and teachers,” he said.

Behind his success is a strong network of mentors and supporters. Shogun credits NJHS advisors Ms. Mujic and Mr. Salazar, along with Director of Student Affairs Ms. Moorthy, for helping him grow as a leader and encouraging him to use his voice to make a positive impact.

He also draws inspiration from his teachers and family. “My teachers consistently bring positivity and passion into the classroom, even with a rigorous workload,” he noted. “At home, my parents have supported me through academics, community service, and even the demands of competitive fencing, always reminding me to maintain balance and wellbeing.”

His NJHS advisor, Ms. Mujic, shared her pride in his accomplishments: “I am pleased to hear Shogun was named a recipient of the NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award! Shogun has been a stellar example of the five pillars of NJHS for our campus community. He has done an excellent job as Vice President of our chapter this year, consistently demonstrating strong leadership, responsibility, and initiative.”

Looking ahead, Shogun remains focused on growth and impact. He hopes to continue developing creative solutions to support his community while maintaining excellence in his academic pursuits.

To students considering NJHS or leadership opportunities, his advice is simple but powerful:
“Don’t be afraid to try something new. Leadership can start with being thoughtful, respectful, and kind. It’s not just about academic success—it’s about how you help improve the lives of others.”

Shogun’s achievement is a reflection of both his dedication and his character, and we are excited to see the continued impact he will make in our community and beyond.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is a TK–Grade 12 private school, offering 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.

Meet Our New Subject Expert Teacher: Mr. Rohit Ravikumar

April 23, 2026 by nathanielyinger Leave a Comment

Mr. Ravikumar holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Davis, where he double-majored in Economics and History. He then went on to complete a master’s degree in Economics from Boston University, focusing on applied economic theory and social policy. Outside the classroom, he worked for several years in the industry as a data scientist, utilizing economic principles to analyze business policies.

Mr. Ravikumar first joined BASIS Independent Schools as a Subject Expert Teacher in Economics and Computer Science at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, where he taught courses ranging from AP Economics to an Econometrics Capstone Course. His teaching philosophy is centered around a dynamic learning environment that connects theoretical concepts to real-world examples and critically engages with political and social implications of the course material. As an educator, he takes pride in developing a classroom milieu that is both rigorous and approachable: scaffolding challenging concepts with the support necessary for students to succeed at their fullest potential.

In his free time, Mr. Ravikumar enjoys video games, reading a good book, and spending quality time with his wife and cat.

What originally drew you to teach at BASIS Independent Schools, and what brought you back now?

I was originally inspired to teach at BASIS Independent Schools by the environment of genuinely inquisitive and curious students and families I saw. It was a joy to see teachers, parents, and students collaborate to foster an open, inclusive, and understanding learning environment. I am excited to return to a new community that holds learning in such esteem across a variety of subjects and the development of critical thinking along with reasoning skills.

What is one of your favorite memories from your previous time at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley?

I found it deeply rewarding to see my Econometrics capstone students take everything they had learned about statistical techniques and apply it to their own term projects. My students chose a wide variety of topics, from optimal basketball plays to stock market performance to competitive video game results, using their own skills and newfound knowledge to devise hypotheses, collect data, and present their completed projects. Seeing them do it all on their own was one of the greatest joys I had as a teacher.

What are you most looking forward to as you join a new school community?

I’m excited to meet my new students! Building this new community will be the collective work of the teachers, staff, students, and parents, and I can’t wait to meet the students who will play such a major role in shaping it. I also look forward to helping students develop new relationships with the world around them through a deeper understanding of history.

Meet Our New Subject Expert Teacher: Ms. Leah Atkins

April 22, 2026 by nathanielyinger Leave a Comment

Ms. Atkins holds a master’s degree in Classics, specializing in the languages, cultures, and history of the ancient Mediterranean world. She is particularly fond of the Roman Empire, which has been her lifelong passion, and she can’t wait to introduce BASIS Independent Dublin students to her favorite Latin authors.

In addition to Latin, Ms. Atkins has a broad academic background. She studied ancient Greek as part of her master’s program, translating epic poems, religious texts, and slapstick comedy. Her bachelor’s degree is in history, and she is fascinated by the common humanity that people share across time and culture.

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

My teaching approach emphasizes creativity and critical thinking. In Classics, my goal is for students to imagine history in fresh, complex ways, noticing the similarities between us and ancient people while also recognizing our significant differences. Students should expect to read and write quite a bit of historical fiction. They should also expect a variety of hands-on projects, such as grinding wheat and mummifying apples.

My approach to Latin is similarly focused on narrative, critical thinking, and historical reasoning. As the language of the ancient Roman Empire, Latin is the closest thing we have to a time machine because it allows students to understand ancient people on their own terms. Reading stories is the primary method of instruction, though I also include hands-on projects to visualize different aspects of Roman culture.

Latin education has traditionally focused on grammar — and I love grammar! However, I don’t simply give my students a textbook and expect them to regurgitate the rules. Instead, I prefer that students study a sentence as though it were a point of scientific data, then work backwards and investigate why, exactly, words are chosen, structured, and arranged in a particular way. This approach helps the students understand that grammar is meaningful, not an arbitrary collection of rules, and that every choice of word reveals something about the author.

After the first two years of Latin, students will have an advantage in many different academic and professional areas. As the origin of the modern Romance Languages, Latin is useful for studying Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese. Knowledge of Latin will also come in handy when learning medical terminology, legal jargon, and advanced English vocabulary. Finally, students will gain a broad understanding of European art and literature, which will enrich their lives no matter what career they pursue. Those who continue with Latin beyond the first two years will find these advantages multiplied even further as they explore advanced grammar, epic poetry, and ancient history.

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

When I first began teaching at BASIS Independent Schools, I was consistently amazed at the students’ passion for learning. These are the type of kids who teach themselves pigpen cipher for fun and draw diagrams of Hannibal’s forces at Cannae. My students ask such thoughtful questions that I am always challenged to dig deeper into Latin and history.

Latin is a subject that I’d imagine can be daunting to students. What advice do you give to students to help them succeed in your class?

Latin is a language – the fact that it’s ancient doesn’t make it more difficult than Spanish, Hindi, French, Mandarin, or any other language still spoken today. In fact, since Latin focuses on reading more than speaking, it may come more naturally to students who enjoy solving puzzles and express themselves best in writing.

To succeed in Latin, students should pay attention, take notes, do their homework, and take advantage of my office hours – the same good study habits that help in any class. However, learning a language does present some unique challenges. I recommend that students review vocabulary often. They should also make sure that they know how to conjugate verbs and decline nouns, which I explain in depth during class.

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

If you’re joining the BASIS Independent Dublin community, then welcome! Meeting new students is one of my greatest joys every Fall and I can’t wait to see how we will all grow over the course of the year.

If you’re thinking about joining BASIS Independent Dublin, then I would love to connect with you during one of our open house events! There, you can get a tour of the school, ask questions about our curriculum, and get a feeling for our school culture.

How BASIS Independent Manhattan Grade 7 Students Impressed NYC Art Educators

April 7, 2026 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

Recounted by Ms. Hill (Subject Expert Teacher, World History)

Our grade 7 students stepped out of the BASIS Independent Manhattan Upper School to take an eye-opening field trip to the nearby Poster House, America’s first—and only—museum dedicated entirely to posters. This interdisciplinary field trip to see “The Future Was Then: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy” helped students make connections between World History and visual art by seeing how Mussolini’s government designed posters that shaped Italian culture.

Identifying the Exhibition’s Key Focus

The exhibition featured 75 pieces from the Fondazione Massimo e Sonia Cirulli in Bologna that exposed the intersection of propaganda and art during Mussolini’s rule. The posters were visually stunning, with dramatic designs and vibrant colors that promoted a dangerous political ideology. Many students identified the strangeness of seeing something so artistic on the surface, yet how it was used with malicious intent.

Understanding Propaganda vs. Art

These middle school students were most taken by how much there was to learn from a single poster. Each one had a story to tell. Through deep analysis and thought, students identified the propaganda that the poster was intended to communicate.

By taking on the poster designers’ perspectives, the students weighed what choices they would need to make using just images, colors, and a few words to communicate a specific and complete message. Which colors should be used? How should the text be arranged? What emotions do the images evoke? A student favorite was the “creepy pasta baby,” which demonstrated the lie that Italy was flourishing economically and could support and feed such a vast population in its Empire.

Difficult Questions and Important Lessons

Our students took away from this field trip a key lesson that governments, activists, and companies have used posters to influence public opinion over time. After understanding that some posters encouraged people to buy chocolate with added ingredients to save money, or showed how chocolate and colonialism were connected, group discussions ensued about how even history can be used to change people’s minds.

With this newfound understanding, students are writing essays using propaganda posters from the exhibition. Their goal is to show how Fascism manipulated art and twisted history for its harmful ends.

Final Thoughts

Our grade 7 students found that a small museum can make a big impact, and our students made a lasting impact at the museum, too. The exhibition curator was so impressed by their knowledge, curiosity, and insights that he thought they were high school students in an AP class!

Experience Joyful Rigor Firsthand

BASIS Independent Manhattan, a private school offering PreK through Grade 12, is based in Manhattan, New York. Students thrive alongside Subject Expert Teachers as they engage in a liberal arts program with STEM offerings.

Student Spotlight: Ishani D. Advances to the Scripps National Spelling Bee

April 2, 2026 by ezekielbracamonte Leave a Comment

Ishani D. (Grade 6) recently competed in the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee on Sunday, March 29, where she placed among the top four students, qualifying for the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. this May. The Bay Area regional is known for its high level of competition, bringing together top spellers from across the region.

Ishani has been building toward this achievement over several years, having participated in spelling competitions since Grade 4. Her preparation for the regional bee centered on the Words of the Champions list, a core resource for competitive spellers. Over time, she has developed a strong understanding of spelling patterns and word origins, which helps her approach unfamiliar words with greater confidence—an important skill in later rounds of competition.

“I am really excited that I was able to qualify for the Nationals. It is such a prestigious tournament! I will prepare hard and give it my best shot!”

Following the regional bee, Ishani described an initial sense of surprise at qualifying, which quickly shifted to excitement as she connected with other participants and families and began preparing for the next stage of competition.

In preparation for Nationals, Ishani is using the Merriam-Webster app as a primary study tool. Her plan includes daily practice of about an hour, along with longer study sessions on weekends. This consistent approach reflects the level of commitment typically required to compete at the national level.

“Our school could not be more proud of Ishani’s success at the Regional Spelling Bee. This impressive achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Bobcats. We look forward to cheering her on at Nationals.” — Mr. Henriquez, Associate Head of School

Ishani will represent the BISV community at the Scripps National Spelling Bee this May, joining top student spellers from across the country.

Founding Subject Expert Teacher Spotlight – Mr. Tyler

March 27, 2026 by jaydahsherman Leave a Comment

In Fall of 2022 our school opened it’s doors for the very first time at the direction of our wonderful Head of School, Dr. Thies. What was just a vision grew quickly into a vibrant learning community. In the first year we welcomed students in grades 2–7, as well as a group of dedicated founding Subject Expert Teachers. They turned empty classrooms into spaces filled with curiosity and growth. What began that year was not only just a school, but a community that these educators would build from the ground up. Let’s take a walk down memory lane with one of our founding Subject Expert Teachers, Mr. Tyler!

Introducing Mr. Tyler

Mr. Tyler is one of our incredible Subject Expert History Teachers here at BASIS Independent Bellevue. He currently teaches all AP Courses in our History Department. When he moved to the greater Seattle area, he had just finished up his fifth year of teaching and was halfway through a Master’s program in gifted education. He became familiar with BASIS Curriculum Schools during his time as a teacher in Arizona. At this time in his career, he was at a place where he knew where he wanted to be in education. When he learned that BASIS Independent Schools was opening its first school in Washington, he knew instantly that he wanted to apply and felt the timing was perfect. He had always felt that the philosophy behind BASIS Independent Schools aligned with his beliefs and goals as an educator. When the opportunity presented itself, he took the position without hesitation. He was bound to be a Mountaineer!

The Founding Year

Mr. Tyler described the first day as dynamic. There was an opening assembly where the students met their teachers and were given an introduction to their new school. He candidly stated that when he looked into the crowd of students and parents, he was imagining all the names he’d have to remember. It was an overwhelming feeling, but he knew this year was going to be greatly rewarding. While the students were eager to meet their teachers, their teachers were just as eager to meet them. The giddiness remained for some time over the next couple weeks, as everyone got their footing.

Mr. Tyler described his first cohort of students as surprising. Their ability to think deeper and persevere through challenges shocked him. A distinct memory he recalls from his first year was during a unit on the Americans’ involvement in the Philippines after the Spanish War. He assigned his grade 7 class a college-level article with some quite advanced questions. He shared how they were able to not only keep up with the content, but also added new perspectives and deep inquiry. Throughout the year he often spent a lot of time trying to make his content more challenging. The students had a great ability to complete and conquer work that was beyond what most would expect. He began to realize that these students were different, their affinity for learning was evident. The complex perspectives and nuance of history was welcomed by the students.

Along with new students coming in that year, came a passionate group of educators. Although they’d met weeks before school began, adding all the moving parts really brought them together. At BASIS Independent Bellevue, the Subject Expert Teachers were set up for success from the beginning. Mr. Tyler described the founding group of Subject Expert Teachers as a “Truly great team committed to excellence and creating a environment where everyone would succeed”. That first year fortified the strong connections that make this school great. Mr. Tyler expressed how he not only gained new coworkers that year but also lifelong friends.

Life In The History Department

The History Department at BASIS Independent Bellevue is one we take pride and joy in. The history curriculum is spiraled, from Kindergarten through grade 12, every skill taught before is relevant and crucial to the year following. Our History Department is always asking how does each skill build into the next? There is a clear continuum of skills that are developed as students progress through the BASIS Curriculum. This methodology is intentional to ensure our students success in challenging AP courses and beyond. They are able to think critically because of practice and support from previous lessons years in advance.

Now, of course, none of this would be possible without a strong team behind it, which Mr. Tyler has expressed is his favorite part of the History Department – his colleagues. He works alongside our other wonderful Subject Expert History Teachers, Ms. Rieger and Mr. De Monnin. He feels that they are a great team with similar beliefs and goals. They align in intention and the outcomes of their courses. They meet formally once a trimester, but also have many informal meetings and general day to day discourse. Those meetings include looking at current student successes, lesson planning and talking about their experiences with each different cohort. A short-term aspiration the History Department wants to meet is creating a clearly aligned framework of a students first to last history class and a roadmap to what success looks like along the way. Beyond working together, they are also great friends.

Since the first cohort of grade 9 students joined us, Mr. Tyler has worked diligently to curate an AP program that our students greatly enjoy. He shared that the AP History Program is the thing he is most proud of building. He claims to be a “nerd” for anything and everything AP. Our students share his passion in the AP Program. One of our students, who Mr. Tyler has had since the founding year, describes him as:

“Mr. Tyler is a dedicated and passionate teacher. As a student I find him very knowledgeable. I have really enjoyed being in his class. He immerses his students into the history and creates a great experience.” – Lucas F. Grade 10

Mr. Tyler’s favorite class to teach is AP Government and Politics, particularly the topic of political socialization. He shared how students fall into different parts of the political spectrum, but often don’t think about where those beliefs derive from. When teaching this topic it opens up a lot of conversation and introspection for students. He feels it is very formative for them in discovering who they are and how they have developed their own beliefs. This unit is often the first time students question, “What am I absorbing? What life experiences have shaped my world?” Students get to pause, reflect, and look back. He loves this subject because he gets to watch students have eye-opening moments. He feels it is important to have a solid “Why” behind your belief system.

Thank You, Mr. Tyler

Joining a school in it’s founding year presents it’s own unique challenges. We appreciate our founding Subject Expert Teachers and their confidence in creating the school we know today. Mr. Tyler has been a vital part of that. We look forward to seeing all the amazing things that will surely follow as our school continues to grow!

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

Leadership Spotlight: Director Cameron, Middle School Program

January 26, 2026 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade 8 Overnight/Lock-In: In my first year as Middle School Director, I established the Grade 8 Overnight, where students spend the night at school, enjoying games and fun activities. This December will mark our third Overnight.

Our Gr. 8 Lock In chaperones bonded in their matching PJs and bear slippers, which Director Cameron ordered.

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

Head of School Josh Harmon and Director Cameron marveling at how many pizzas were consumed at our Pre-Comp Student Session and Pizza Party.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026: Everything Families Need to Know

January 22, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Rolling Admissions for Fall 2026 Opens January 24, 2026

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

Rolling Admissions Timeline

Application Opens — January 24, 2026

Applications for all grade levels open on this date.

Application Deadline

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

Decision Notification

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

Commitment Deadline & Enrollment Details

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

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

How to Apply for Rolling Admissions

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Rolling Admissions?

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

Are all grade levels open during Rolling Admissions?

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

What counts as a “completed application”?

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

How soon will we receive an admissions decision?

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

Is applying during Rolling Admissions binding?

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

What if a grade is already full when we apply?

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

Can current families apply for siblings?

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

How long do families have to accept an offer?

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

APPLY NOW

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