December 3, 2025
Starting at a new school is an exciting transition—one filled with possibility, discovery, and new routines
A Strong Start
At BASIS Independent Manhattan, a PreK-grade 12 private school in NYC, we know that a strong start begins with more than academics. Students thrive when they feel confident, connected, and supported, both socially and emotionally. From the moment families join our community, we surround each child with a thoughtful system of support grounded in clear expectations, consistent routines, and nurturing relationships.
What is Our Approach at the Lower School?
A Thoughtfully Designed Transition for Every Student
Whether a student is joining us from PreK to grade 5, advancing to a new grade, or transferring mid-year, our faculty and Student Affairs teams work together to ensure each child feels ready—emotionally, socially, and academically.
We begin with:
Individualized onboarding including our Student Affairs Team and educators connecting with new families prior to the start of the school year
Early relationship-building, such as pairing new families with a current family to help them feel welcomed and informed
Predictable, structured routines that set expectations, introduce students to the available resources, and nurture confidence during a child’s transition into a new school community
School Perspective: Supporting Student Connections
Hear from our Director of Student Affairs, Ms. Bandarenko as she explains how she supports new students socially and academically as they transition into a new community.
The Role of Social–Emotional Learning at BASIS Independent Manhattan
Our approach to Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is embedded in daily interactions, classroom practices, and community routines. Students learn how to:
1. Build resilience and perseverance
2. Develop independence and self-advocacy
3. Strengthen communication and conflict-resolution skills
4. Form positive peer relationships
5. Navigate new environments with confidence
Creating a School Culture Where Every Student Can Thrive
We prioritize:
1. Dependable routines and joyful structure
2. Daily opportunities for connection
3. Intentional, developmentally aligned expectations
4. A strong partnership with families
Top Left: Director of Student Affairs, Ms. Bandarenko, and a new student get acquainted. Top Right and Below: Lower School Dean of Students, Ms. Rodriguez, meeting with a student.
We believe when students feel known, they feel empowered—and when they feel empowered, they thrive.
Curious how our Subject Expert Teachers, Deans, and Student Affairs teams support students academically and emotionally? We would love to meet your family at our Lower School on the UWS in NYC!
