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 community feedback, and the future enhancements planned for NYC-SIFT.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir shares insights on preparing for the back-to-school season, strategies for managing the admissions process, and tips for staying organized and grounded during this hectic time. With a focus on family support and practical advice, Carolyn emphasizes the importance of communication, planning, and self-care throughout the journey.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn speaks with test prep expert Kenny Tan about the upcoming digital format of the SHSAT. They discuss the changes in the test format, preparation strategies, accommodations for students with IEPs, and common misconceptions about the SHSAT. Kenny shares insights on scoring, the admissions process for specialized high schools, and offers advice for parents and students navigating this challenging journey. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the new digital format, managing test anxiety, and preparing effectively for the exam.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn  focuses on the importance of understanding tiers and lottery numbers. She breaks down how these factors influence admissions decisions and offers strategies for creating a balanced school list. Carolyn emphasizes the need for research and preparation to navigate the admissions landscape effectively, ensuring that students have a fair chance at their desired schools.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir explores the complexities of the New York City high school admissions process, focusing on the significance of school size. She discusses the pros and cons of big, medium, and small schools, emphasizing that the right fit for a student depends on their individual needs and personality. Carolyn provides insights into how school size affects various aspects of the educational experience, including course offerings, social dynamics, and college counseling. She encourages parents to consider not just the size of a school, but also its culture and vibe, and to ask thoughtful questions during school tours to ensure the best match for their child.

“So… Where Do They Go to College?”

What College Acceptance Lists Actually Tell You (and What to Ask Instead)

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn addresses a listener's question about evaluating high schools based on college outcomes, emphasizing the importance of understanding what college acceptance lists really mean. Carolyn also explores the current landscape of college admissions, including the impact of the enrollment cliff and the significance of finding the right fit high school for students. She provides insights into what truly matters in the admissions process and encourages parents to trust their instincts when selecting schools for their children.

In this episode of the School Smart NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir shares her insights and experiences as a parent navigating the high school admissions process in New York City. She discusses the importance of building a draft list of schools, the research involved in understanding different schools, and how to involve your child in the process without overwhelming them. Carolyn emphasizes the need for flexibility, open-mindedness, and the importance of gathering information to make informed decisions about high school options.

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir navigates the complexities of high school admissions in New York City. She discusses the different types of screened schools, the admissions methods used, and the importance of understanding the process to empower families. Carolyn shares insights on portfolio and audition schools, the significance of research, and strategies for managing waitlists. The episode emphasizes the need for organization and proactive planning to ensure a smoother admissions experience for students and parents alike.

Key Takeaways:
The admissions process for NYC high schools can be overwhelming but is navigable with the right information.
Screened schools use a combination of academic performance and random lottery numbers for admissions.
Understanding the different tiers in screened schools is crucial for parents and students.
Screened plus schools require additional assessments, often in the form of essays.
Portfolio schools focus on artistic submissions rather than academic scores.
Audition schools require performance-based assessments, which can vary widely by program.
Researching individual school requirements is essential for a successful application.
Waitlists can be strategic; understanding how they work can improve chances of admission.
Parents should be proactive and organized during the admissions process to reduce stress.
Art schools offer unique opportunities but require commitment and passion from students.

For more info always head to the website www.schoolsmartsnyc.com

Disclaimer: In this episode, Carolyn mentions Applying to High School in NYC FB group. She is not a representative of this group however, is a member of the general parent community within & finds it very useful!

This conversation provides a comprehensive overview of the New York City high school admissions process, detailing the complexities and nuances involved. It covers the application timeline, various admission methods, the significance of the random number, and the specialized high schools. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparation, understanding the system, and supporting students through the process.

In this inaugural episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir introduces listeners to the complexities of navigating the New York City high school admissions process. She shares her personal experiences as a parent and an IEP coach, providing insights into preparing for high school applications, building a school list, and understanding the various pathways available for students. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of preparation during the summer months and encourages families to explore their options while remaining flexible in their choices. 

Helpful sites mentioned in this episode"

www.schoolsmartsnyc.com

myschools.nyc

www.nycsift.com