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Step Into the Spotlight: Broadway Camp at BASIS Independent Brooklyn

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Calling all young performers! This summer, let your child’s star quality shine at our exciting Broadway Camp program led by our beloved performing arts faculty member, Ms. Markel. 

Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore their passions, develop new skills, and make unforgettable memories. If you have a budding performer at home, we’re thrilled to announce an extraordinary opportunity that’s sure to make their summer spectacular: 

“Step Into the Spotlight” Broadway Camp at BASIS Independent Brooklyn! 

Program Details 

When: August 18-22, 2025 (Monday through Friday)  
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 
Where: BASIS Independent Brooklyn 
Grades: 5th to 8th  

A True Broadway Experience 

Get ready for an unforgettable summer where young stars shine! For one magical week, campers will be immersed in the exciting world of musical theater, guided by our seasoned performing arts instructor, Ms. Markel. Each day brings new adventures in: 

  • Singing: Learn proper vocal techniques and belt out show-stopping numbers 
  • Dancing: Master fun choreography designed for all skill levels 
  • Acting: Develop character work and stage presence 
  • Performance Skills: Build confidence through solo and group musical numbers 

Why Choose Broadway Camp? 

This program is perfect for everyone—from dedicated theater enthusiasts to curious newcomers just dipping their toes into the performing arts. Our supportive environment ensures that every child: 

  • Builds confidence and self-expression 
  • Makes new friends who share similar interests 
  • Develops teamwork and collaboration skills 
  • Experiences the joy and magic of musical theater 
  • Creates lasting memories in a fun, engaging setting 

The Grand Finale 

The week culminates in a special camper performance where students will showcase everything they’ve learned! This is a wonderful opportunity for parents, family, and friends to see the amazing progress made in just one week. Watch as your child steps into the spotlight with newfound confidence and skills! 

Meet Your Instructor 

Ms. Markel brings her passion and expertise to the program, creating a nurturing environment where every camper can thrive. With experience in directing, choreography, and vocal coaching, she guides students through all aspects of musical theater performance. 

Ms. Markel joined BASIS Independent Brooklyn nearly eight years ago after establishing the drama program at BASIS Scottsdale, where she has taught middle and high school theatre classes for seven years. Ms. Markel has studied with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s education programs. Ms. Markel previously trained and worked as a singer and actor in Colorado, Montana, and Arizona. 

Register Today! 

Spaces fill quickly for this popular summer program! Don’t let your child miss this chance to experience the thrill of Broadway right here in Brooklyn. 

Step Into the Spotlight Broadway Camp: Where young performers discover their star quality! 

Find out more about our summer programs, and register today: https://basisindependent.com/schools/ny/brooklyn/student-life/summer-programs/ 

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

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External recognition reinforces the accomplishments BASIS Independent School educators see each day inside their classrooms. Today, we are incredibly proud to share the news that nine seniors across our network of schools have been recognized as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. The Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. 

Each year, approximately 4,000 candidates across the country are selected based on their outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT assessments. This distinction not only showcases students’ exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that helped foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery. 

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P. 

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

All candidates will now be reviewed based on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership, and service activities. Candidate essays are also reviewed and factor into the selection. Approximately 650 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission for further review. In April, up to 161 U.S Presidential Scholars are selected and honored for their accomplishments.

In the more than 60 years since the United States Presidential Scholars Program was established, approximately 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars have been named based on demonstrated leadership, scholarship, and contribution to school and community.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

At BASIS Independent Schools, we empower students to push boundaries and achieve their highest potential. Our challenging curriculum, expert educators, and dynamic learning culture ensure that students cultivate their interests and are set up for success in college and beyond.

Congratulations to all of our 2025 Presidential Scholar Candidates! You are an inspiration to us. We look forward to celebrating your continued success as you move ahead to the next stage of your academic journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

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External recognition reinforces the accomplishments BASIS Independent School educators see each day inside their classrooms. Today, we are incredibly proud to share the news that nine seniors across our network of schools have been recognized as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. The Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. 

Each year, approximately 4,000 candidates across the country are selected based on outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT assessments. This distinction not only showcases students’ exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that helped foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery. 

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P. 

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

All candidates will now be reviewed based on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership, and service activities. Candidate essays are also reviewed and factor into the selection. Approximately 650 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission for further review. In April, up to 161 U.S Presidential Scholars are selected and honored for their accomplishments.

In the more than 60 years since the United States Presidential Scholars Program was established, approximately 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars have been named based on demonstrated leadership, scholarship, and contribution to school and community.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

At BASIS Independent Schools, we empower students to push boundaries and achieve their highest potential. Our challenging curriculum, expert educators, and dynamic learning culture ensure that students cultivate their interests and are set up for success in college and beyond.

Congratulations to all of our 2025 Presidential Scholar Candidates! You are an inspiration to us. We look forward to celebrating your continued success as you move ahead to the next stage of your academic journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

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.

Nine BASIS Independent Schools Seniors Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

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External recognition reinforces the accomplishments BASIS Independent School educators see each day inside their classrooms. Today, we are incredibly proud to share the news that nine seniors across our network of schools have been recognized as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. The Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. 

Each year approximately 4,000 candidates across the country are selected based on outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT assessments. This distinction not only showcases students’ exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that helped foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery. 

Presidential Scholar Candidates Named Across BASIS Independent Schools:

BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Gustavo P. 

BASIS Independent Fremont – Atharv D., Aditi K., Luoxi W.

BASIS Independent McLean – Caden Z.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Nicole L., Andrew L., Antony W., Olivia Z.

All candidates will now be reviewed based on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership, and service activities. Candidate essays are also reviewed and factored into the selection. Approximately 650 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission for further review. In April, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are selected and honored for their accomplishments.

In the more than 60 years since the United States Presidential Scholars Program was established, approximately 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars have been named based on demonstrated leadership, scholarship, and contribution to school and community.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

At BASIS Independent Schools, we empower students to push boundaries and achieve their highest potential. Our challenging curriculum, expert educators, and dynamic learning culture ensure that students cultivate their interests and are set up for success in college and beyond.

Congratulations to all of our 2025 Presidential Scholar Candidates! You are an inspiration to us. We look forward to celebrating your continued success as you move ahead to the next stage of your academic journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments!

See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Exceptional Achievement: Nearly 1 in 4 Seniors Named National Merit Finalists!

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At BASIS Independent Schools, we take immense pride in our students’ dedication to academic excellence. This year, we are thrilled to announce that an impressive 44 seniors have been recognized as 2025 National Merit Scholarship Finalists, a prestigious honor that reflects their hard work, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to success.

Our students’ outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT has earned them a place among the nation’s top academic achievers. This distinction not only showcases their exceptional abilities but also highlights the advanced, globally benchmarked BASIS Curriculum that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep content mastery.

A Remarkable Achievement Across Our Schools

  • BASIS Independent Silicon Valley: 25 National Merit Finalists
  • BASIS Independent Fremont: 13 National Merit Finalists
  • BASIS Independent McLean: 4 National Merit Finalists
  • BASIS Independent Brooklyn: 2 National Merit Finalists

What This Recognition Means

The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious academic competitions in the United States. Finalists are selected based on their exceptional PSAT/NMSQT scores, academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular achievements. These students now advance to compete for prestigious National Merit Scholarships, a testament to their dedication and perseverance.

The BASIS Independent Schools Legacy

At BASIS Independent Schools, we cultivate a learning environment that empowers students to push boundaries and achieve their highest potential. Our challenging curriculum, expert educators, and dynamic learning culture ensure that students are well-prepared for success in college and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of our 2025 National Merit Scholarship Finalists! Your hard work and passion for learning inspire us all. We look forward to seeing your continued success as you take the next steps in your academic journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate these exceptional scholars and their accomplishments! See what sets our students apart—explore our High School Program today!

Sports and Clubs at BASIS Independent Bothell

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While leadership opportunities for students are evident in every aspect of the BASIS Independent student experience, students are able to gain valuable skills through participation in club and sports opportunities. As we open our doors to a brand-new student body in the 2025-2026 school year, we look forward to developing clubs and sports that match the desires of the students in our community or introduce them to something new.

Sports

With our WIAA regulation-size field, outdoor sport courts, and gymnasium, we have the ability to host schools from all around to foster our student-athletes in a variety of sports. 

Examples* of athletic offerings for both club and interscholastic competition include:

  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Dance
  • Flag Football
  • Pickleball
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Track and Field/Cross Country
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Volleyball
  • Yoga

*We will be finalizing first year and future offerings soon. 

Students performing on a theater stage.
Students posing for the camera in basketball jerseys.

*Images from BASIS Independent McLean and BASIS Independent Brooklyn

Clubs

The BASIS Independent Bothell club program will allow students to try something new, dive deeper into an interest, compete on regional, national and international levels, and gain valuable leadership and collaboration skills. The BASIS Independent network encourages students to take the initiative to establish new clubs that cater to their interests, which has resulted in the creation of some of our most popular clubs across the network, making our network school students leaders in many popular programs.

Examples* of club offerings include:

  • Art
  • Band/Choir/Ensemble
  • Board Games Club
  • Book Club
  • Chess Club
  • Coding
  • Debate
  • DECA
  • Dungeons & Dragons
  • Garden Club
  • Key Club
  • Lego Club
  • Math Wizards
  • Minecraft
  • Model UN
  • Robotics
  • Theater Arts/Drama
  • Yearbook
  • World Travel Club

Students setting the ball while playing volleyball.
Teacher and students looking at chess boards while playing chess.

*Images from BASIS Independent Brooklyn and BASIS Independent Silicon Valley.

Join Us

To learn more about our clubs and sport offerings, join us for a virtual information session! Sign up here.

Fostering Literacy in the Early Years as a Tool for Life-Long Learning

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To kick off Read Across America Month this March, Head of the Lower School Ms. Rose Miller-Sims reflects on how teachers at BASIS Independent Brooklyn nurture a love of reading in our youngest learners.

At BASIS Independent Brooklyn, our team of educators are united in their drive to foster a love of learning from PreK all the way through high school. In the Early Learning Program, we find incredible joy in seeing those meaningful “lightbulb” moments and balancing a child’s natural tendencies and intentional academic learning. One of the most critical foundational skills students must master in their educational journey is literacy. In the youngest years, this means learning the foundational skills to be an excellent reader. This is why our BASIS Curriculum for the early years includes a robust mastery of phonics with built in spiral review rooted in the science of reading.

As students progress through the grades and curriculum, they begin with the building blocks of literacy and quickly expand to encompass processing information, expressing thoughts and ideas clearly, and engaging in dialogue with peers and the larger community on a variety of topics using both oral and written language. What makes excellent literacy skills extraordinary is that you can explore the world through texts, evaluate information with a critical eye, and synthesize information and experiences to form a unique opinion. We strive to nurture in our students global citizens who can contribute to the betterment of their communities and exceptional literacy skills are at the heart of this goal.

Our exceptional Subject Expert Teachers use the science of reading to teach the fundamentals of literacy in our Early Learning and Primary Programs. Instead of focusing on rote memorization of spelling words, our teachers focus on supporting students to learn the spelling rules and specific sounds that make up the English language. Although these rules may be complex, when broken down into a systematic framework of the language, students are more than capable of grasping, remembering, and applying these rules— what’s more they have so much fun doing it! Not only is reading itself fun in the hands of our amazing teachers, but the games, activities, and hands-on learning in use to master these foundational literacy skills bring so much joy into the classroom.

We have big dreams for our young learners and our utmost goal as educators is to provide our students with the tools to lead the life they choose when they exit our doors and enter the world as adults. Without a doubt, fostering true literacy skills in our students is of paramount importance to their future success.

“The ability to read, write, and analyze; the confidence to stand up and demand justice and equality; the qualifications and connections to get your foot in that door and take your seat at that table – all of that starts with education.” ~Michelle Obama

Learn more about BASIS Independent Schools by inquiring with our Admissions Team today!

Leadership Spotlight: High School Dean of Students Olivia Robbins

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Whether meeting with BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s Leadership Council as their faculty advisor or helping organize our 4th Annual Day of Service across the entire High School, Dean of Students Ms. Olivia Robbins is placing her great drive and focus squarely on shaping a wonderful high school experience for our oldest students. Just last semester, she coached students on how to organize their first homecoming dance, and she has only just begun! Given Dean Robbins is the newest member of our school’s administrative team, we thought families might be interested in learning more about her through our “Leadership Spotlight” series.

Ms. Robbins began her career at Milton Academy, a boarding school outside of Boston, where she started first as a teaching fellow and then as a full-time Upper School English faculty member. Afterward, Ms. Robbins transitioned to the Hewitt School, a girls’ school in Manhattan, where she simultaneously held roles as Grade Level Dean, Learning and Innovation Program Associate, and Upper School English Faculty member. Ms. Robbins also worked for two years at an educational technology start-up, where she designed humanities content and contributed to product development for a digital adaptive learning application used by thousands of children.

Dean Robbins

Dean Robbins graduated cum laude from Princeton University, where she won the Spirit of Princeton Award for her involvement in student organizations, community service, and the arts. Ms. Robbins went on to earn her master’s degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education through the Independent School Teaching Residency program.

As the Dean of High School Students at BASIS Independent Brooklyn (BIB), Ms. Robbins helps foster community in the Upper School and supports students through their academic journeys. She loves working with high school students and is inspired by the myriad ways in which they want to shape the world.

Below is our interview with Dean Robbins edited slightly for clarity and flow.

What are the types of students you see thrive here at BASIS Independent Brooklyn’s High School Program?

I see a wide range of students thrive: students who are super passionate about a single subject (e.g. math, English) and those who love all subjects; athletes, entrepreneurs, and artists; introverts and extroverts… The list goes on! Overall, a few common traits that I think make students optimally successful and happy here include organization, focus, self-advocacy, intrinsic motivation, kindness, and a sense of humor.

What drew you to our school?

Honestly, the role! I was excited to work with students in the role of Dean. Helping students navigate challenges and chart out their high school careers are my passions. I also respected BIB’s curricular design and its range of course offerings. And I liked its size! I felt I’d be able to develop closer partnerships with more students, families, and faculty in a smaller environment.

Can you share your perspective given you have been in your role for a few months now?

I am impressed by our students. They are smart and motivated. I love the moments when I am able to see them shine academically since I often observe portions of classes. I also love seeing them enjoy one another’s company in the High School Lounge. They enjoy playing cards, ping-pong, and board games, and they laugh a lot.

Tell us a bit about your background.

I long imagined myself as an educator, whether as an academic or a teacher. After studying literature as an undergrad, I became an English teacher at Milton Academy, a boarding school outside of Boston, through a teaching fellowship and master’s program through UPenn. I loved starting my career at a boarding school because there were so many ways to get to know the students and get involved in the school community. In addition to teaching high school English, I choreographed for and helped organize our spring dance show, as well as ran the house council program in one of the girls’ dorms. Eventually, I took a joint teaching and administrative position at the Hewitt School (girls’ K-12 school) in Manhattan. I taught English, helped manage strategic school innovation projects (curricular improvements, professional development for teachers, new faculty and staff onboarding, etc.) and then eventually became the Dean of the senior class. Working with the students to help make their senior year as special as possible was a highlight for me. After Hewitt, I briefly worked at an educational technology start-up company because I’d become curious about ed tech and start-up culture after thinking about school innovation for several years. My former company is focused on providing accessible tutoring and enrichment to all students—a cause I am really passionate about. However, I missed working directly with students, so joining BASIS Independent Brooklyn as the High School Dean of Students was a wonderful reunion with the type of work I love most!

What are some of your priorities for making high school an engaging, memorable time for students?

I want to help students feel a deeper sense of community and connection. I enjoy planning events to make this possible! Our first-ever homecoming dance was held at the end of last year. I am grateful that members of our Student Leadership Council proposed this fabulous idea as a means of gathering and celebrating the high school community. I want all students to feel pride and ownership about what BIB is, such that students feel as though they can shape their BIB experience to be what they want it to be. Having conversations with students to get to know them and learn about their BIB experience, gathering data about student life, and thinking of new opportunities for students to get involved at the school or explore their passions outside of school are all ways I’m trying to do cultivate that spirit during my first year! 

What are the three questions you think every prospective high school family should be asking themselves?

  1. What motivates you? Our curriculum is wonderfully challenging. High school in general is a time that is so full. Knowing what one’s personal “north star” is can help students keep pushing during particularly challenging or busy moments.
  2. What is a student club you’d want to start or get involved in? We have so many neat clubs for students to join (for example—we have a rock band and a rock climbing club…both rock!). And we have an easy process to start a new club if the existing roster doesn’t suit one’s interests.
  3. Are you a morning person? This is an important question to think about since our unique schedule allows students to take either an AM or PM elective. AM electives are great choices for students who have after-school commitments or want their school day to end a bit earlier…but they have to be ready to go in the morning!

Ms. Robbins is excited to support BASIS Independent’s mission to educate students to the highest international levels, and she is energized by her colleagues’ commitment to supporting each individual student holistically.

Our Class of 2025 posed together with Director Forde, College Counselor Brauch, and Dean Robbins (on left) earlier in the school year.

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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. 

Celebrating Gratitude – Our November Character Theme of the Month

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The PNW rainy season is upon us at BASIS Independent Bellevue, which means fall is officially in the air! The weather may be gloomy, but we are taking time this month to celebrate our Character Theme of the Month – Gratitude! The American Psychological Associate defines this phenomenon as a sense of happiness and thankfulness in response to a fortunate happenstance or a tangible gift. Some additional research describes gratitude as the willingness to expand our attention so that we perceive more of the goodness we are always receiving (Pratt, 2022)

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”; it is about appreciating the big and small moments that make life special. Studies show that practicing gratitude can improve our physical health, calm our nerves, strengthen our relationships and generate greater happiness in life (Pratt, 2022). This month, we are excited to create opportunities for students, staff, and families to embrace gratitude in meaningful ways.

On – Campus Gratitude

  1. Mountaineer Mondays

Each Monday, during our Academic Enrichment periods, our students participate in Mountaineer Mondays. Mountaineer Monday is a time for students to start their week by reflecting on important topics and learning what it means to be a Mountaineer. This month, the focus of Mountaineer Mondays is Gratitude! Students will be engaging in grade–level activities such as writing a letter expressing gratitude for themselves and creating a tree filled with drawings of what they are grateful for.

  1. Renewal Food Bank Food Drive

To express our gratitude to our local community, the staff and students at BASIS Independent Bellevue are holding a Food Drive for Renewal Food Bank.  We are collecting nonperishable food and hygiene items to give back and help others. With the support of our School Counselor and Student Affairs team, our teachers will be having meaningful discussions with students about food insecurity and empathy during this month. Additionally, members of our National Junior Honor Society will have the opportunity to visit the Food Bank and volunteer while bringing in our school donations. We are so proud of our students for their dedication to showing compassion and care for others!

  1. Cookies with the Counselor Notes

Every month, our School Counselor, Ms. Olivia, hosts a Cookies with the Counselor event during recess periods. This is an opportunity for students to come by and have a sweet treat with our Counselor while engaging in an activity aimed at developing Social-Emotional Wellness. This month, students will be writing cards of well wishes to accompany our donation to the Food Bank.

  1. Staff notes

Our reflection on gratitude does not only come from our students. In the staff lounge this month, teachers have been writing down what they are grateful for on leaves and posting on the wall as a reminder to stop and reflect. Additionally, we will be hosting a Staff Potluck and providing an opportunity for the staff to gather during lunch while sharing a delicious meal.

  1. Coffee and Cocoa

As a final show of gratitude to our campus, our Operations Team organized a “Coffee and Cocoa” event for both students and staff. A barista was sourced to come in and provide delicious, caffeinated beverages for our teachers, and yummy hot cocoa for students. It was the perfect event for the chilly fall weather!

What is our community grateful for?

We surveyed our staff to discover what our community members are grateful for this year, and to get to know them better. Check out their responses!

Ms. Grear, Director of Admissions – “I am so grateful to live in the beautiful PNW for most of the year, while having the opportunity to return home to Buffalo, NY and spend time with my loved ones for the holiday season.”

Ms. Chaffee, French Subject Expert Teacher – “I am so grateful for our students because they are energetic, motivated, and always on task. They give me new perspective when it comes to approaching culture and languages. I feel like I learn from them as much as they learn from me!”

Mr. Tyler, History Subject Expert Teacher – “Our Mandarin Expert Teacher, Ms. Pan is the best cook! She is always bringing food for the staff and I am grateful for that.”

Ms. Rakotz, Director of Academic Programs – “I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the Mountaineer community. Throughout the hardships of the most recent big storm, our community came together to support one another by reaching out to each other, opening up our homes and making sure we were all safe and supported. The Mountaineer community feels like a true family that always supports each other. It is a privilege to be able to watch our students do the same.”

Mr. Pitak, Auxiliary Programs Coordinator – “I am thankful for my fiancé. We recently got engaged and we are looking forward to a bright future together.”

Ms. Campos, Front Desk Coordinator – “I am so thankful for my family. They are always there for me and support me in any way that they can. I saw them recently and we had a movie night, did puzzles and colored together. I feel grateful to have such a strong support system.”

Mr. Diambri, Associate Director of Admissions – “I am grateful for loving friends, good health, and a great place to work!”

Ms. Rieger, History Subject Expert Teacher – “I’m thankful for my coworker, Mr. Hui-Peterson. We share a room and he has been so supportive of me in my first year here. He always answers all my questions and helps in anyway that he can. It is great to have that support”

Mr. Hui-Peterson – “I am thankful for power and the internet! You don’t realize how much you take it for granted until you don’t have it anymore. The recent storm was hard on everyone and I’m so grateful we all got through it.”

Ms. PV, Math Subject Expert Teacher – “I am grateful that my extended family is coming to visit for the holiday season. We are going to have the usual holiday celebrations, but this year is extra special because I am hosting a baby shower for my sister-in-law. I can’t wait to be an auntie!”

Gratitude teaches us to focus on the good in our lives, even during challenging times. By practicing gratitude, students learn resilience and empathy—essential skills for personal growth and success. At BASIS Independent Bellevue, we’re proud to nurture these qualities by modeling it in our own lives to help our students become thoughtful, compassionate individuals.

4 BASIS Independent McLean Students Honored as National Merit Semifinalists 

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On September 11, 2024, officials from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of more than 16,000 Semifinalists, and we are thrilled to celebrate four of our BASIS seniors who have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists:  

  • Natasha A. ’24
  • Ian P. ’24
  • Vincenzo T. ’24
  • Gavin W. ’24

High school juniors entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as the initial screening of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants from about 21,000 high schools across the country. 

While they have outperformed the majority of over 1.3 million high school juniors who entered the Program by taking the 2023 PSAT test, these academically talented seniors’ quest is not over. To become a Finalist, they must also submit a detailed scholarship application showcasing their outstanding academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. They will be competing for over 6,000 scholarships worth more than $26 million, which will be awarded next spring. 

“We are so incredibly proud of our hard-working students. This is an amazing accomplishment, and we wish them luck as the process continues to unfold. Congratulations again to our Semifinalists!” —Jason Shorbe, Head of School at BASIS Independent McLean.  

First row (from left to right):
Vincenzo T. ’24
Natasha A. ’24
Gavin W. ’24
Ian P. ’24

Second row (from left to right):
Jason Shorbe (Head of School)
Matt Ramsby (College Counselor)

Please join us in congratulating our four BIM Semifinalists!