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