School Smarts NYC

In this episode, Carolyn explores the unique features of the Boerum Hill School for International Studies. Carolyn highlights the school's IB curriculum, strong community, and varied opportunities for students in this small to medium sized school located in Brooklyn. 

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn discusses the complexities of high school curriculums, focusing on various educational models such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), consortium schools, career and technical education (CTE), and early college programs. She breaks down the meanings and implications of these programs, helping families navigate thei...

In this episode, Carolyn DeFir shares insights from her recent school tour at Essex Street Academy, a small Consortium School on the Lower East Side. Carolyn reports on the school's unique approach to academics, admissions, and student support within the NYC public school landscape. 

In this episode, Carolyn guides families through the complex process of NYC high school admissions, focusing on screened plus assessment schools, essay preparation, and strategic ranking for the specialized high schools. She shares practical tips to navigate deadlines, assessments, and application strategies to find the best fit for your child.

In this episode, host Carolyn DeFir offers strategic advice for navigating NYC high school admissions, especially when faced with less favorable lottery numbers and/or tier. She discusses alternative pathways, the importance of a balanced application list, and tips for maximizing chances through assessments, auditions, and other factors.

This episode provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the NYC high school application process, starting from the application opening on October 6th. It covers key steps, tips, and strategies for parents and students to approach this complex process with confidence.

In this episode, Carolyn shares expert tips on how to effectively tour high schools, what questions to ask, and how to assess the vibe and fit for your student. Perfect for parents navigating the NYC high school application season.

In this episode, Carolyn DeFir hosts acting coach Dana Berger to discuss the ins and outs of auditioning for drama programs in the performing arts high schools of New York City. This talk explores the intricacies of audition preparation, the impact of coaching, and navigating the callback process for aspiring actors. Dana shares expert insights on how families can best support their children throu...

In this episode, Carolyn discusses the upcoming New York City high school admissions process, focusing on the importance of understanding various data points such as academic scores, survey scores, and impact scores. She emphasizes the need for families to dig deeper into these numbers to find the right school fit for their children, rather than relying solely on rankings. The conversation covers...

This episode provides a comprehensive guide for families navigating the NYC high school admissions process, emphasizing early preparation, organization, and strategic planning and research to reduce stress and increase success while building a starter list of schools.

In this bonus episode, Carolyn DeFir shares practical advice for families navigating late-stage waitlist offers and the stress of deciding between two schools. 

In this episode, Carolyn shares invaluable advice for ninth grade students and their parents navigating the start of high school, emphasizing self-advocacy, involvement, kindness, and practical tips for a successful freshman year.

In this episode, Carolyn DeFir sits down with Molly Levine, co-founder of Lemon Tree Learning to discuss high school admissions testing, executive function skills, and strategies to support students through the stressful process of applying to high schools in New York City. They explore test types, prep timing, managing stress, and practical tips for families. Molly shares expert insights on navig...

In this episode, Carolyn DeFir breaks down the complexities of New York City high school admissions, focusing on screened admission groups or "tiers", lottery numbers, and how to strategize your application process. Perfect for parents navigating this overwhelming system, she offers clear insights to help you build a balanced and informed application list.

This episode provides an overview of the NYC high school admissions process, decoding key terminology and pathways to help families navigate the complex system with confidence.

In this Bonus Episode Carolyn answers a recent question about transfer options available when a student already feels they don't like their new high school. Carolyn addresses the common concerns from families about high school placement, transfer options, and navigating waitlists, providing practical advice for parents facing these challenges.  School Smarts Hotline is a Bonus Episode Series...

School Smarts NYC is back!  High School Application Season is soon! Join host, Carolyn DeFir as she guides NYC families through the upcoming high school admissions process and beyond, sharing expert tips on research, testing, and thriving in high school.

In this episode, Carolyn shares essential tips and timelines for NYC families navigating the summer months and high school applications, regents exams, and summer waitlist movement. Perfect for parents and students aiming to stay ahead in the complex NYC school system.

This episode explores executive functioning challenges in middle and high school students, especially those with ADHD. It covers what executive function is, common struggles, and practical strategies for parents and educators to support students' organizational skills.

This episode explores the challenges and strategies for supporting students through the final months of the school year, emphasizing balance, mental health, and practical advocacy tips for parents. It offers a comprehensive guide to navigating academic pressures, burnout, and the importance of fostering resilience and self-advocacy in teens.

This episode addresses the complexities of NYC high school waitlist processes, explaining why waitlist movement is slower than expected and offering strategies for families navigating this uncertain period.

In this episode, Carolyn shares practical advice for NYC high school applicants and parents navigating multiple offers, waitlists, and decision-making. Learn how to revisit your 'why', research effectively, and trust your instincts to choose the best fit for your student.

This episode guides NYC families through the high school offer process, including how to interpret offer letters, waitlist strategies, and important deadlines. Hosted by Carolyn DeFir, it offers practical tips and emotional support for navigating this stressful time.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the complexities of navigating the New York City high school application process. She emphasizes the importance of understanding grades, screen groups, and the significance of early preparation for both seventh and eighth grades. Carolyn provides insights into specialized high schools, the SHSAT, and the role of essays...

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn discusses the high school admissions process in New York City, focusing on the stress and challenges faced by families. She provides insights into navigating the application process, understanding different offer scenarios, and managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with school placements and waitlists. Carolyn emphasizes the...