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What’s New at BASIS Independent Bellevue? Construction Updates From Our Head of Operations, Ms. Cardenas and Monty the Mountaineer!

August 6, 2026 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

If you have visited BASIS Independent Bellevue this summer then you may have heard the drumming of nails, the smell of fresh paint, or felt the excitement when the first row of new grass was rolled out onto our field. In the 2026–2027 school year, BASIS Independent Bellevue will grow from offering Grade 3–Grade 10, to offering Kindergarten–Grade 11! With the growth of our campus, it was time to update certain parts of our campus to ensure that our spaces are ready to support students as they grow into fearless and confident thinkers.

Ms. Cardenas, our Head of Operations, has been working hard to oversee the numerous updates that are happening across our campus. Ms. Cardenas and Monty the Mountaineer took a recent walk around our campus to check in on the progress of each project.


Field Renovations

Our field is at the heart of our school. It is where we have recess, host our annual teacher-versus-student kickball game, and is where our soccer team dominates the competition. Over the summer, our construction crew has been hard at work installing new grass and a new sprinkler system.

Some of the benefits of our grass field include improving the air quality, maintains a cooler temperature than artificial turf, prevents erosion and filters rainwater, and provides a natural cushioning when our athletes play on the field.


Gym Renovations

Our state-of-the-art gymnasium has received brand-new hardwood flooring! Hardwood, which is a gold standard of flooring options, is the best for providing critical cushioning, ball bouncing, and protects athlete’s joints.

Best of all, we have replaced our old logo and now proudly display our Mountaineer logo in the middle.

We can’t wait to see our badminton team, volleyball team, and basketball team thrive in the new gym!


Classroom Renovations

Our world-class education begins in the classroom. Our newly acquired classroom buildings are undergoing the largest change this summer. Some of our changes to these new buildings are installing a new roof, creating a new ramp to our kindergarten classrooms, and redoing the flooring and ceilings. We have also painted both the exterior and interior of these rooms. 

Last but not least—we have also installed an entirely new HVAC system which will increase oxygen circulation in the classrooms and provide both heating and air conditioning.

We are excited to see these new classrooms filled with students who are eager to embrace challenges with open minds and determination.

As our construction projects wrap up, one can sense the feeling of our campus being ready to welcome our learners back at the end of August! We can’t wait to see our Mountaineers building community in their fresh classroom spaces, playing soccer on the new field, or learning about teamwork during PE in their new gym space!

Filed Under: Community Values, Current Events, Facilities, Operations, School Community, Uncategorized

Fall 2027 Applications Are Now Open at BASIS Independent Bothell

August 1, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Applications for Fall 2027 are now open at BASIS Independent Bothell

At BASIS Independent Bothell, we believe students are capable of more than they can imagine and that the most powerful education inspires them to think for themselves. Through our distinctive curriculum, expert teachers, and warm, welcoming community, students grow into fearless, independent thinkers prepared to explore, question, and contribute with purpose.

We are excited to welcome applicants for Fall 2027 across our Early Learning, Primary, Middle School, and High School programs. We encourage interested families to begin the application process early and attend one of our upcoming admissions events to learn more about the opportunities available to students at BASIS Independent Bothell.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is watching students discover confidence in themselves and excitement for learning. As both the Director of Admissions and a BASIS Independent Bothell parent whose child will be entering Kindergarten this fall, I am especially excited to welcome new families and help them explore whether our school is the right fit for their child’s educational journey.

– Abisoye Taylor, Director of Admissions

An Education Designed for More

Families choose BASIS Independent Bothell because they want an education that challenges students academically while helping them build resilience, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Our globally informed curriculum encourages students to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and engage deeply with their studies. Supported by expert teachers who serve as both instructors and mentors, students develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in school and beyond.

Developing Independent Thinkers

From their earliest years through high school, students are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning.

It may begin with a Kindergarten student proudly sharing a new discovery, a middle school student tackling a complex challenge, or a high school student presenting original research. Along the way, students develop confidence in their abilities, take ownership of their learning, and discover what they are capable of achieving.

Within our supportive community, students are challenged to grow academically while developing character, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

Experience BASIS Independent Bothell for Yourself

The best way to understand our community is to experience it firsthand.

We invite prospective families to attend an upcoming admissions event, visit our campus, meet our faculty and leadership team, and learn more about how BASIS Independent Bothell helps students become confident learners and engaged members of their community.

Fall 2027 Applications Are Now Open!

We encourage families to begin their admissions journey today. Whether you choose to apply, attend an admissions event, or connect with our Admissions Team, we invite you to explore what makes BASIS Independent Bothell unique.

If you are seeking a private school in Bothell that combines academic excellence, expert teaching, and a supportive community, we encourage you to take the next step. We look forward to partnering with your family and helping your child develop the knowledge, character, and confidence to thrive.

Apply Now
Register for An Admissions Event
Contact the Admissions Team

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process, Early Admissions, Featured, School Community

Term Project Week: Hands on Learning and Discovering Passions Through Multidisciplinary Projects

June 25, 2026 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

Term Project Week is a special tradition across all BASIS Independent Schools. At BASIS Independent Bellevue, Project Week is a much anticipated time on campus by teachers and students alike. After a year of learning, studying, and exams, the teachers are eager to create projects around their passions and share them with students. Term Project Week provides a space for students to discover new passions through multidisciplinary projects.

When walking around campus during Project Week you might see students learning how to line dance, while other students are building volcanoes as they learn about Pompeii, and some students may even be designing and building their own race cars. The excitement of Project Week isn’t limited to projects on campus, but expands into the community as well. This year we had students who got to learn about the intertidal zone and explore three different beaches in the Puget Sound. Beyond that we have groups of students who will be traveling to Alaska, France, and Norway for their Project Week.

Take a look at some of the projects we had this year and see what happens when students have the opportunity to explore passions and delve into creative projects.


Wearable Art Studio: Become a Fashion Designer

This project was led by Ms. Tseng and Ms. Haugen for students in grades 3–5. Students got to create custom totes bags, hats, and bandanas using printmaking, fabric paint, and tie-dye techniques. Their project culminated with a runway showcase where the designers got to debut their one-of-a-kind creations!


Chinese Cooking Camp

Ms. Pan and Ms. Chen, two of our Subject Expert Teachers in Mandarin, took students in grades 3–4 on a fun and flavorful journey into the world of Chinese cooking. During this project students used their team work skills to prepare vegetables, meat, and other ingredients. All of the students had a blast growing their confidence in the kitchen. But the best part of this project — trying and sharing the delicious food they created with friends!


Splish Splash

Ms. E-E and Ms. Rieger left campus behind for Project Week and took a group of grade 6–8 students to explore different forms of outdoor exercise, including hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This group of students loved immersing themselves in nature for the week and admiring the beauty of the lakes and forests that are in their own backyard. A highlight of this project was getting to see a turtle in its natural habitat!


Rome 3-D Model Lab

In this project students in grade 7–10 became Roman architects and city planners for the week, as they reconstructed the monuments of the ancient world. Students learned how the Romans designed their cities and the engineering and architectural techniques that made Rome famous. Students then worked in teams to create detailed models of famous Roman monuments, using physical materials and digital tools.


Fiber Arts

Many students in grades 5–10 chose to explore the colorful world of weaving, led by Ms. Dreskin. Students got to explore texture and pattern as they built their own unique woven pieces with yarn and other creative fibers. Artists got to learn weaving techniques, as wells as knotting, fringe, and mixed-material details.


Erupting History: Build a Volcano and Discover Pompeii

Another group of grade 3–5 students explored the history and science behind the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Students analyzed archaeological evidence and created their very own working volcano models of Mount Vesuvius. Getting to make the volcanoes erupt was a highlight for all!


Term Project Week is a cherished tradition at BASIS Independent Bellevue that highlights the joyful learning culture we nurture on our campus. We are grateful for our teachers who work hard to create engaging projects and our students who consistently bring their passion, innovation, and creativity into each project.


Filed Under: Community Values, Field Trips, Fine Arts, High School, History, Lower School, Middle School, Outdoor, Primary Program, Project Week, School Community, Science, STEM, Student Learning, Uncategorized, Visual Arts

State of the School 2026: A Thriving Community at BASIS Independent Bothell

June 15, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

A Transformational Year at BASIS Independent Bothell

The 2025–2026 school year marked a defining moment for BASIS Independent Bothell, as our campus continued its rapid evolution into one of the most dynamic private school communities in the region.

Just two years ago, this building represented possibility. Today, it is filled with energy, purpose, and connection; a place where students are known, challenged, and inspired every day.

That transformation has been guided by three core commitments: a culture of belonging, academic excellence, and meaningful partnership with families. These pillars define not only who we are, but why families choose BASIS Independent Bothell.

A School Where Students Truly Belong

At BASIS Independent Bothell, belonging is not just a value. It is an experience students feel every day.

In classrooms, students who began the year as strangers are now collaborating, performing, and supporting one another with growing confidence. Across campus, shared experiences from seasonal performances to schoolwide celebrations bring our community together in meaningful ways.

Just as important are the quieter moments of growth. With the support of dedicated teachers and student support staff, students are building resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. Whether through individualized support or peer connection, every student is learning that they have a place here.

Programs like cross-grade buddy initiatives and student recognition through the Outstanding Orca Program reinforce a culture where character, kindness, and perseverance matter.

The result is a school where students are not only learning but thriving socially, emotionally, and academically.

Academic Excellence That Inspires Growth

A hallmark of a BASIS Independent School’s education is the balance of rigor and joy. This year, that balance was on full display. Students engaged in hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that brought subjects to life:

  • Creative science projects that encourage curiosity and experimentation
  • Language learning that extends beyond the classroom into real-world application
  • Collaborative humanities projects that develop critical thinking
  • Data-driven exploration in math and computer science

This approach fosters not just strong academic outcomes, but a genuine love of learning.

Progress is also measured through nationally benchmarked assessments, including the Comprehensive Testing Program (CTP), which compares student performance against independent schools across the country.
This ensures that BASIS Independent Bothell students are meeting and often exceeding high academic standards.

Beyond the classroom, students continue to shine in competitions, earning recognition in areas like math and chess, demonstrating both skill and perseverance.

Equally important is the strength of our faculty. Through ongoing collaboration, mentorship, and professional development, our teachers continuously refine their craft creating classrooms where students feel both supported and challenged.

A True Partnership with Families

One of the most powerful drivers of our success is the partnership we share with families.

At BASIS Independent Bothell, education is a shared endeavor. Families actively engage in school life supporting programs, contributing to community events, and collaborating with faculty to enhance the student experience.

Signature events like WorldFest, which brought together more than 35 cultures and hundreds of attendees, highlight the strength, diversity, and connection within our community.

This partnership extends beyond events. Families consistently approach the school with a solutions-oriented mindset, helping us grow and improve together. In fact, the majority of new families discover our school through word-of-mouth referrals: a testament to the trust and satisfaction within our community.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for BASIS Independent Bothell

As we look toward the 2026–2027 school year, our focus remains clear: continuing to build a school where every student feels a sense of belonging, achieves at a high level, and is supported by a strong community.

We will continue strengthening student support systems and investing in social-emotional learning, ensuring every child feels confident, connected, and supported.

Students will benefit from continued growth in academic programming, extracurricular offerings, and opportunities to explore their interests both inside and outside the classroom.

We are committed to expanding opportunities for family engagement, reinforcing the collaborative partnerships that make our school so special.

Join the BASIS Independent Bothell Community

BASIS Independent Bothell is more than a private school. It is a place where students develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning within a supportive and ambitious community.

Ready to explore what’s possible for your child?

  • Schedule a campus tour
  • Connect with our admissions team
  • Learn more about our academic program

Start Your Admissions Journey Today!

Visit Us

Filed Under: Admissions, Featured, School Community

Accepted: BASIS Independent Fremont’s Class of 2026 College Results

June 11, 2026 by sarahpeterson Leave a Comment

We are delighted to share the college acceptances of BASIS Independent Fremont’s Class of 2026! Our seniors have earned offers from a remarkable and diverse array of institutions, spanning top universities across the United States and reaching prestigious schools in the United Kingdom and Europe. These outcomes reflect not only their academic excellence but also the curiosity, empathy, and character they brought to everything they did at BIF. We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate this milestone with them.

“The BASIS Independent Fremont Class of 2026 has grown from joyful, mischievous children into intellectually curious, empathetic, and inspiring leaders who face challenges head-on with humility and strength. Throughout their journey, they pushed boundaries, advocated for improved learning experiences, and built a genuine partnership with the school community. Known equally for their phenomenal academic accomplishments and creative teamwork, this unique group is leaving the school better than they found it. As they step into their next chapter, I want to remind them to choose justice and kindness, travel far, and invest wisely in the three things that can never be taken away: family, education, and reputation.”

—Mariam Abodouma, Head of School

The college admissions landscape continues to grow more selective each year, and the Class of 2026 navigated it with maturity, purpose, and a clear sense of who they are. Their acceptance results speak to both the rigor of their preparation and the depth of their individual stories.

Acceptance Highlights

  • 35% of students were accepted to their first-choice school
  • 22% of students were accepted to Top 15 Schools
  • 54% of students were accepted to Top 20 Global Schools
  • 95% of students were accepted to Top 50 Schools
  • 100% of students were accepted to Top 100 Schools

*Based on U.S. News & World Report rankings of National and Global Universities

This year’s class reflects an exciting breadth of academic interests and ambitions, from a growing number of students pursuing pre-med to others drawn to traditional disciplines like pure mathematics. Two students earned particularly notable recognition: Xun Z. received a full scholarship to architecture school, and Yagnik C. earned a full scholarship to The Ohio State University, where he is ranked among the top 25 students in their prestigious Honors Program. The class also made a strong showing internationally, with acceptances from UK universities including Oxford and Imperial College London, as well as students pursuing opportunities at universities in Germany and beyond.

“I feel truly blessed to have worked with such a motivated, dedicated, and lively group of students this year. They brought a wide range of interests, talents, backgrounds, and perspectives to our community. Throughout the stressful college application journey, they consistently showed resilience and self-reflection. We shared moments of excitement, anxiety, uncertainty, and joy together, and it has been incredibly meaningful to watch them learn, grow, and support one another along the way. I am so proud of everything they have accomplished, and I can’t wait to see them continue to thrive in their next adventures.”

—Julia Ye, College Counseling

As our third graduating class, these seniors have left a mark on this community that will be felt long after they walk out the door. They came in as students and left as leaders, curious, empathetic, and ready to take on the world. Congratulations, Class of 2026. Choose kindness, travel far, and know that we’ll be cheering for you every step of the way.

CLASS OF 2026 ACCEPTANCES
Arizona State University (Downtown Phoenix)San Francisco State University
Arizona State University (Tempe)San Jose State University
Babson CollegeSanta Clara University
Baylor UniversityStanford University
Boston UniversityStony Brook University
Brown UniversityTexas A&M University
Cal Poly HumboldtThe Ohio State University
Cal Poly Maritime AcademyThe University of Texas at Austin
California Institute of TechnologyUniversity College London
California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo)University of Arizona
California State Polytechnic University (Pomona)University of California (Berkeley)
California State University (Chico)University of California (Davis)
California State University (East Bay)University of California (Irvine)
California State University (Monterey Bay)University of California (Los Angeles)
California State University (Sacramento)University of California (Merced)
Carnegie Mellon UniversityUniversity of California (Riverside)
Case Western Reserve UniversityUniversity of California (San Diego)
Chapman UniversityUniversity of California (Santa Barbara)
Cornell UniversityUniversity of California (Santa Cruz)
Drexel UniversityUniversity of Colorado (Colorado Springs)
Duke UniversityUniversity of Colorado Boulder
Emory UniversityUniversity of Connecticut
Georgetown UniversityUniversity of Florida
Georgia Institute of TechnologyUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Harvey Mudd CollegeUniversity of Maryland (College Park)
Hofstra UniversityUniversity of Massachusetts (Amherst)
Imperial College LondonUniversity of Michigan
Indiana University (Bloomington)University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)
Johns Hopkins UniversityUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Lehigh UniversityUniversity of Pennsylvania
Loyola Marymount UniversityUniversity of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh)
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyUniversity of Rochester
New York UniversityUniversity of San Diego
Northeastern UniversityUniversity of San Francisco
Northwestern UniversityUniversity of Southern California
Oregon State UniversityUniversity of the Pacific
Penn State University (University Park)University of Washington (Bothell Campus)
Pepperdine UniversityUniversity of Washington (Seattle Campus)
Purdue University (Main Campus)University of Washington (Tacoma Campus)
Reed CollegeUniversity of Wisconsin (Madison)
Rice UniversityWashington University in St. Louis
Rose-Hulman Institute of TechnologyWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Rutgers University (New Brunswick)York University
San Diego State University

Click here to learn more about our High School Program and discover how BASIS Independent Fremont prepares students to thrive in college and beyond.

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.

Filed Under: Alumni, College Acceptances, Featured, School Community, Student Achievement, Uncategorized

Global Finance And Fearless Curiosity Collide: Brookfield Investors Visit Our Upper School

May 29, 2026 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

What happens when some of the world’s leading institutional investors step inside an NYC private school powered by fearless, independent thinking?

[Read more…] about Global Finance And Fearless Curiosity Collide: Brookfield Investors Visit Our Upper School

Filed Under: Academics, Clubs & Activities, College Preparation & The Senior Year, Competitions, Economics, High School, School Community, Senior Projects, Student Achievement, Student Learning, Student Perspectives, Student Spotlight

A Culture of Service and Leadership – National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society at BASIS Independent Bellevue

May 5, 2026 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Bellevue, leadership and service are embedded into the student experience. Through the National Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), students take on meaningful roles that extend beyond the classroom, contributing to both their school community and the world around them. 

National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)
National Honor Society (NHS)

A Selective Path to Membership

Membership in NHS and NJHS reflects more than strong academics; students must also demonstrate consistent commitment to the five core pillars of scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. 

Applicants complete written reflections, provide evidence of their involvement, and submit character recommendations from faculty in addition to demonstrating scholarship through maintaining high grades. A committee of teachers and administrators carefully reviews each application before making final decisions. Because students reapply each year, membership represents an ongoing commitment, not a one-time achievement.  

Students formally join their chapters during an annual induction ceremony, where they reflect on the organization’s values, take their membership oath, receive their membership pin from our Head of School Dr. Thies, and are recognized for their accomplishments. Returning members are also celebrated for their continued contributions and growth.  


NJHS: Building Foundations for Service

This year, the NJHS chapter has 27 students from grades 7–9, each working diligently to stay committed to upholding NJHS’ principles and continually engaging in their own personal growth and community impact. In addition to maintaining strong academic standing, students attend the monthly planning meetings, contribute a minimum of 15 volunteer hours, organize and produce a student-led project, and volunteer for at least one school-sponsored event.  

So far in the 2025–2026 year, members have completed a variety of creative projects, ranging from assisting in their favorite classes, joining the stage crew for our school’s productions, leading a school-wide Kindness Week mural activity, and planting flowers to beautify our campus. Outside of school, students are judging debate tournaments, leading skiing lessons, and so much more.

Sophia T., Grade 9 with her Kindness Mural Project
Planting flowers for our campus

NHS: Expanding Leadership and Impact

Beginning in grade 10, students can apply to NHS, where expectations and opportunities grow. In addition to continuing their service work, members can run for leadership roles such as President, Vice President, and Secretary. 

The Executive Board leads monthly meetings using Parliamentary Procedure, manages chapter operations, and coordinates large-scale service initiatives. Recent projects include partnerships with the Bellevue Urban Garden and collaboration with Student Affairs to help plan Student Appreciation Week, which gives students real experience working with community organizations and campus leadership. 

NHS members complete at least 30 service hours annually, with a balance of on-campus and community-based work. They also support school events each trimester and lead at least one initiative, managing a team and coordinating with staff. 

Their contributions are visible across campus life: from organizing events like Homecoming, Spirit Week, and the Color Run, to leading middle school clubs. In the broader community, students volunteer in dance studios, tutor peers online, assist with local events like Bellevue’s Holidays on the Hill, and support public institutions like libraries, all while balancing a rigorous academic workload. 

This year’s inaugural NHS cohort of 11 students has already made a strong impact, setting a high standard for future members!

BLV’s Color Run
Holidays on the Hill
Bellevue Urban Garden

A Culture of Excellence and Empathy

From middle school through high school, BLV students are developing not only as scholars, but as leaders and community members. NHS and NJHS provide a structured pathway for students to grow in responsibility, initiative, and service, which are skills that will extend far beyond their time on campus. 

The result is a student culture that values both achievement and empathy, where leadership is defined not just by what students accomplish, but by how they contribute to others. We are so proud of our student leaders, and we are excited to see what future impact they will have! 


Filed Under: Awards & Recognition, Clubs & Activities, Community Values, Culture of Support, Extracurriculars, High School, Leadership, Middle School, School Community, Student Achievement, Uncategorized

Small Hands, Big Impact: BASIS Independent Manhattan Students Celebrate Earth Day Through Community Action

May 4, 2026 by anjalijoshi Leave a Comment

From Central Park to Riverside Park, our Wildcats set a new cleanup record while learning the power of community action.

This year, On Earth Day, students at BASIS Independent Manhattan traded their usual routines for a meaningful day of service, stepping outside the classroom to help care for some of New York City’s most treasured green spaces.

Now in its fourth year, our annual Earth Day Park Cleanup has become a cherished school tradition—made possible through the leadership and dedication of our Subject Expert Teacher in Math, Ms. LaPierre, who organized and coordinated this impactful event. The initiative brought together two groups of students for a shared mission. Our PreK through Kindergarten students visited Central Park, while students in grades 1–5 traveled to Riverside Park. Equipped with gloves, trash bags, and a strong sense of purpose, students worked together to collect litter and restore the beauty of these parks.

While the amount of trash they encountered was surprising, it only fueled their motivation. Students approached the cleanup with enthusiasm, teamwork, and a clear understanding of why their efforts mattered. From the youngest learners to our upper elementary students, everyone played a role in making a difference.

By the end of the day, their collective impact was undeniable. As a school community, BASIS Independent Manhattan students collected an incredible 96.3 lbs of trash—surpassing our previous record of 90 lbs, and setting a new standard for future service efforts.

After their hard work, students were rewarded with time to play and enjoy the very spaces they helped improve. It was a powerful moment of connection, reinforcing the idea that caring for our environment allows everyone to benefit from it.

This Earth Day event highlights the importance of fostering civic responsibility at a young age. Across New York City, kids are stepping up to take ownership of their communities, and our students are proudly part of that movement. At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we believe that experiences like these help shape compassionate, engaged individuals who understand the value of giving back.

With small hands and big hearts, our students showed that meaningful change can start at any age. It reminded our students that even a small action—like picking up one piece of trash—might not seem like much on its own, but when everyone does their part, it adds up to something big. And sometimes, even a single day of action can leave a lasting impact.

Join us to experience the Wildcat community

PreK – Grade 12 Virtual Information Session

Wednesday, May 6 at 12:00 PM

Spring Group Tours

PreK – Kindergarten | Thursday, May 7 at 8:30 AM 

Grades 1 – 5 | Thursday, May 7 at 8:30 AM 

Mandarin Mornings

Ages 2-5

Tuesday, May 19 at 9:00 AM and Friday, May 29 at 9:00 AM

Register Here

Filed Under: Academics, Administration & Staff, Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process, Community Events, School Community, Uncategorized

Redefining Student Agency in the Financial World

May 1, 2026 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

Josh A. (Class of 2027) remembers watching the markets long before he had a portfolio of his own. Seeing the data move on a Bloomberg terminal at home sparked a curiosity about what it takes to “see the green” on a trade. During high school at BASIS Independent Manhattan, he found peers who shared that same drive. Along with fellow juniors Aidan B. and Finn B., they launched the Upper School Investment Club—a student-led initiative that has quickly become a standout example of high-level academic application and student initiative.

Recently, these student leaders met with Michael Collins, CEO of Spring Education Group (SEG), at the Upper School campus in Chelsea to discuss the future of financial literacy and their club’s unprecedented trajectory in the New York City education landscape.

The founding investors club students stand on the staircase inside the Upper School with CEO of Spring Education Group (SEG) Michael Collins and club advisor, Kirk Murphy.
From L to R: Mr. Murphy (Club Advisor), Josh A., Aidan B., Finn B., and Mr. Collins (CEO, SEG)

A Flight Simulator for Money Management

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, our students can begin taking economics in grade 8 and complete the AP level by the end of their junior year. What makes our students unique is how they engage with finance and the economy as active participants.

Like a pilot practicing in a “flight simulator,” our Investment Club leaders have created a space to implement practical skills in real-life situations without the immediate risk of real-world capital. They run mock trials, build separate portfolios, and rigorously analyze their performance every two weeks. This methodology has already yielded results: in the Trading Day Competition hosted by the Stevens Institute of Technology, Josh A. secured 1st place and Aidan B. took 3rd place among over 800 participants.

A classroom for economics class has a game set up with a Market Tally sheet on the board, worksheets on a desk, and buyer-trader cards laid out.
During their required economics course in high school, BASIS Independent Manhattan students get a taste of the real financial world when they act as buyers and sellers trying to make the highest profits by trading in an “In The Chips” activity.

The Path to a Real-World Endowment

However, for these students, simulations are only the beginning. The meeting with Mr. Collins represented a major milestone: presenting a “proof of concept” to secure SEG leadership’s support for an unprecedented high school model.

The club’s ultimate goal is to transition from mock portfolios to managing a real-money endowment that stays with the school’s Investment Club. By demonstrating their rigorous risk-management strategies and analytical mastery, the students are seeking the buy-in and investment necessary to trade with real capital—a level of responsibility not traditionally seen at the high school level.

Mastery Through Winning and Losing

To prepare for that responsibility, the students have developed a sophisticated understanding of risk. They have learned that true mastery often means learning what not to do through winning, and learning what to do through losing.

While their 1st and 3rd place finishes at Stevens brought returns of up to 400% in a month, the students reflected on the experience with a critical eye. “The Stevens competition actually taught us the wrong things,” the leaders shared during the roundtable. “You can go ‘all in’ every time and win in a simulation, but that is just not true in the real world.”

The club saw a different kind of value when they competed in the Wharton Global Youth Program Investment Competition. Though they didn’t take home the top prize, the experience was a catalyst for growth. “Here’s what we did wrong: we didn’t meet the client’s expectations. What we need to do is change our philosophy,” they noted. This ability to identify failure and pivot is exactly why their Investment Club has a strong future.

The 11 students in the 2025-26 Young Investors Club stand in a classroom taking a photo for the yearbook.

Redefining Student Agency in NYC

The conversation with Michael Collins highlighted a core belief at our school: that student agency has no age limit.

“You guys are a concrete example that any high schooler can do this,” shared Mr. Collins. “There’s no requirement to be an adult or a college graduate. At any point in your life, you can start managing money.”

Mr. Collins was particularly impressed by how the founders translated their personal success into a structured peer-to-peer mentorship program, demystifying complex financial systems for the rest of the student body.

The Wildcat Edge

  • For colleges and universities, Aidan, Finn, and Josh represent the gold standard of grit. They go beyond the BASIS Curriculum, applying the logic learned from their Subject Expert Teachers to identify market trends and manage real-world risk.
  • For NYC families, this club represents our mission in practice. Students take the techniques acquired in the classroom and apply them to their own inquiries, developing the resilience required for the world’s most competitive environments.

Join Our Wildcat Community

Are you curious about how the BASIS Independent Manhattan experience prepares each child for success? We invite prospective families to visit our campuses and speak with our leadership and students.

  • Middle School Program Tour (Grades 5-8): May 13
  • High School Program Tour (Grades 9-12): May 21

Register to Visit Our School Today

Related Links:

  • Explore Our High School Academics
  • Learn More About Student Life

Filed Under: Academics, Clubs & Activities, Competitions, Economics, Electives, High School, School Community, Student Achievement, Student Learning, Student Life, Student Spotlight

Spring Visual Art Exhibit: Grades 1–5 Showcase Creativity and Process

April 30, 2026 by ezekielbracamonte Leave a Comment

The Spring Visual Art Exhibit was a vibrant celebration of creativity, imagination, and artistic growth across Grades 1–5. Bobcat Families were invited to explore a wide range of student artwork, with each piece reflecting not only developing artistic skills, but also personal voice, inspiration, and thoughtful exploration of ideas.

A key feature of this year’s exhibit was its interactive design, allowing families to move beyond viewing finished pieces and step into the creative process through student videos, reflections, and connections to music and artistic movements.

In Grade 1, students explored Splatter Art, focusing on movement, energy, and expressive mark-making. Their process emphasized creativity and experimentation as students created dynamic works through paint splattering techniques. Families could also watch a video of students creating their splatter art, offering a glimpse into how each piece came to life. Watch the Grade 1 Splatter Art video here.

Grade 2 students explored Optical Art, focusing on patterns, repetition, and visual effects that play with perception. Their work invited viewers to look closely and experience how simple shapes and lines can create dynamic illusions, showcasing both precision and creativity.

Grade 3 students brought energy and bold expression to their exploration of Pop Art. Their work featured bright colors, repeated imagery, and everyday objects transformed into striking compositions. In a video, students shared their ideas and explained their artwork, giving families a closer look at their thinking and inspiration. Watch Grade 3 students talk about their Pop Art here.

In Grade 4, students explored the relationship between music and visual art through Wassily Kandinsky, who was inspired by composer Arnold Schoenberg. Kandinsky was known for painting while listening to music, translating sound into color and form. Families were able to listen to a piece of Schoenberg’s music alongside the artwork, deepening their understanding of how rhythm, emotion, and abstraction influenced student work.

Grade 5 students studied the intricate process of stained glass creation. Their artwork reflected both structure and creativity, inspired by the craftsmanship behind this historic art form. Through a video, families were able to learn how stained glass is made—from design to assembly—gaining appreciation for the patience and precision involved in the process.

Across all grade levels, the exhibit showed that art is more than the final product—it is a process of exploration, expression, and discovery. We’re proud of our students for sharing their creativity and inviting the community into their artistic journey.

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. 

Filed Under: Community Events, School Community, Visual Arts

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