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School Smarts NYC

Carolyn DeFir

29 episodes

3 days ago

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth exploration of Edward R. Murrow High School, one of Brooklyn's largest and most iconic high schools. She discusses the school's unique offerings, including its renowned arts programs, the Communication Arts program, and the growing emphasis on STEM and sports. Carolyn emphasizes the vibrant school spirit and the diverse opportunities available for students, encouraging parents to consider Murrow as a via...

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In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth exploration of Edward R. Murrow High School, one of Brooklyn's largest and most iconic high schools. She discusses the school's unique offerings, including its renowned arts programs, the Communication Arts program, and the growing emphasis on STEM and sports. Carolyn emphasizes the vibrant school spirit and the diverse opportunities available for students, encouraging parents to consider Murrow as a via...

Show more...

Episodes (20/29)

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #9: Edward R. Murrow

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth exploration of Edward R. Murrow High School, one of Brooklyn's largest and most iconic high schools. She discusses the school's unique offerings, including its renowned arts programs, the Communication Arts program, and the growing emphasis on STEM and sports. Carolyn emphasizes the vibrant school spirit and the diverse opportunities available for students, encouraging parents to consider Murrow as a via...

3 days ago

19 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #8: University Neighborhood High School

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir explores the rising popularity of University Neighborhood High School (UNHS) in New York City. She discusses the school's unique culture, strong leadership from the principal, and the various academic programs and support systems in place to help students succeed. The episode also delves into the admissions process, highlighting the importance of lottery numbers and the different pathways available for enrollment. Carolyn em...

3 days ago

16 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #7: NYC iSchool

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn DeFir explores the unique educational landscape of iSchool in Soho, NYC. With a focus on student choice and real-world learning, iSchool offers a distinctive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and creativity over traditional testing. The school provides a supportive environment with dedicated college counseling, making it an appealing option for independent and creative students. The admissions process is straightforward, req...

3 days ago

12 minutes

School Smarts NYC

Assessment Anxiety: Helping Our Kids (and Ourselves) Keep Calm and Carry On… to the Test Room

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn discusses the anxiety surrounding the high school application and testing process for both students and parents. She shares practical techniques for managing anxiety, including visualization, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation and self-regulation for both kids and parents during this stressful time.

1 week ago

23 minutes

School Smarts NYC

Don’t Wait ’Til After Trick-or-Treat: The SHSAT Deadline Pep Talk

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the complexities of navigating the New York City high school admissions process, particularly focusing on specialized high schools. She emphasizes the importance of understanding application deadlines, ranking schools wisely, and managing stress during this challenging time for families. Carolyn provides insights into the admissions algorithm, the significance of school rankings, and the necessity of registering fo...

2 weeks ago

25 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #6: Baruch High School

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth overview of Baruch High School, a small screened school in Manhattan. She discusses the school's educational philosophy, community values, curriculum offerings, special education programs, extracurricular activities, and the admissions process. Carolyn shares insights from her personal experience and research, aiming to help families navigate the high school admissions journey in New York City.

2 weeks ago

24 minutes

School Smarts NYC

How to Know If It’s a Good Fit — The Art (and Science) of School Matchmaking

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir emphasizes the importance of finding a school that is a good fit for each child. Carolyn discusses the significance of school tours, evaluating academic and extracurricular opportunities, and the logistics of commuting. She encourages parents to engage with their children throughout the process and to trust their instincts when selecting schools. The episode is filled with practical tips and insights to help families make in...

3 weeks ago

45 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #5: The Beacon School

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the recent changes in the admissions process at The Beacon School, one of New York City's most talked-about high schools. She shares her personal experiences attending an open house, insights into the school's academic structure, and the vibrant student life. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of the new leadership at Beacon and how it aims to create a supportive environment for all students. The episode concludes w...

3 weeks ago

27 minutes

School Smarts NYC

You Asked, I Answered: The Most-Asked Questions (So Far) Since NYC High School Applications Opened Last Week

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn addresses frequently asked questions regarding the school application process in New York City. She discusses the importance of ranking schools based on true preference rather than strategy, the complexities of lottery numbers and waitlists, and the challenges of interpreting chance predictors. Carolyn also provides insights on applying to art schools, navigating open houses, and the flexibility of changing school preferences before de...

4 weeks ago

31 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #4: Millennium Brooklyn High School

This episode provides an in-depth look at Millennium Brooklyn, a small yet vibrant screen school located in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Carolyn highlights the school's unique academic philosophy, commitment to inclusivity, structured curriculum, and the vibrant student life that fosters community engagement. The principal's dedication to a full schedule of instructional classes and the emphasis on research throughout the students' high school years are particularly noteworthy. Overall, Millennium B...

1 month ago

13 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #3: Brooklyn Technical High School

In this episode, Carolyn shares her experience visiting Brooklyn Tech, the largest high school in America, during an open house. She discusses the school's impressive size, the various programs offered, and her observations during the visit. Carolyn also reflects on the overwhelming nature of the open house and provides insights for parents navigating the application process for specialized high schools in New York City.

1 month ago

13 minutes

School Smarts NYC

Now What? The Post-Application is Open Pep Talk

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir guides parents through the complex process of school applications for the 2026-2027 school year. She shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating the application landscape, understanding lottery numbers and tiers, and making informed decisions about school choices. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of using available tools and resources, dealing with disappointment, and exploring alternative options, including ...

1 month ago

40 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #2: Millenium Manhattan

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth review of Millennium Manhattan, a small screened high school in New York City. Through a virtual tour led by the principal, Carolyn highlights the school's vibrant environment, academic rigor, supportive structures, and the admissions process. She emphasizes the importance of advisory programs, college readiness, and the overall positive atmosphere of the school, making it a compelling option for prospec...

1 month ago

13 minutes

School Smarts NYC

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #1: Bard High School Early College Manhattan

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir takes listeners on a detailed tour of Bard Early College High School in Manhattan. She shares her personal experiences and insights as a parent navigating the high school admissions process with her daughter. The episode covers the unique curriculum, academic structure, campus environment, student life, and the admissions process at Bard, providing valuable information for families considering this school for their children.

1 month ago

17 minutes

School Smarts NYC

The Calm Before The Lottery Numbers

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the high school admissions process in New York City. With the application opening soon, she discusses the importance of understanding the lottery number system, the updates in admissions data, and the changes in essay and audition requirements. Carolyn emphasizes the need for parents to manage stress, stay organized, and make informed decisions while supporting their children thro...

1 month ago

26 minutes

School Smarts NYC

"Applications Open In Less Than 2 Weeks, What Should I Be Doing Now?"

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir guides parents through the complex process of navigating high school admissions in New York City. With the application period approaching, she discusses essential steps such as understanding school tours, the significance of lottery numbers, and the importance of building a balanced school list. Carolyn also addresses special considerations for students with IEPs and those preparing for auditions, while emphasizing the need ...

1 month ago

25 minutes

School Smarts NYC

IEPs, 504s & NYC High School Admissions + Top 10 NYC High Schools for Students with Learning Differences

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir guides listeners through the complex landscape of New York City high school admissions, focusing on special education designations, the differences between IEPs and 504 plans, and how to find supportive school environments. She shares insights on the application process, what to look for during school tours, and highlights several schools known for their support of diverse learners. The episode aims to empower parents and fa...

1 month ago

1 hour 1 minute

School Smarts NYC

Tour Season: The Other NYC Marathon

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides insights on how to prepare for tours, what to expect during the visits, and how to engage with schools and students effectively. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of research, communication, and reflection post-tours to ensure families make informed decisions about high school admissions. The episode also touches on the significance of IEPs and 504 plans in the school selection process.

2 months ago

57 minutes

School Smarts NYC

"If you don't know, now you know" (Dear 6th and 7th Grade Families)

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir emphasizes the importance of building foundational skills in sixth grade, the high stakes of seventh grade, and strategies for preparing for high school admissions. Carolyn shares practical tips for parents, including how to support their children academically and emotionally during these critical years, while also addressing the significance of IEPs and 504 plans. The episode concludes with advice on how to effectively use ...

2 months ago

25 minutes

School Smarts NYC

How to Research NYC High Schools Like a Pro (with NYC-SIFT Creator Adrian Liang)

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir speaks with Adrian Liang, the creator of NYC-SIFT, a free tool designed to help families navigate New York City high school admissions. They discuss Adrian's background, the challenges he faced while building NYC-SIFT, and how the tool aggregates data to assist parents and students in making informed decisions. The conversation also covers the importance of keeping an open mind during the admissions process, the value of com...

2 months ago

51 minutes