School Smarts NYC
Your trusted guide to New York City high school admissions, special education support, and finding the best-fit school for your child.
School Smarts NYC gives parents expert tips, guidance, and real talk on navigating the NYC school system—from applications and screened admissions to IEPs, 504 plans, and beyond.
Because student success starts with informed families—and maybe a little humor to get you through it.
Podcasting since 2025 • 45 episodes
School Smarts NYC
Latest Episodes
So Close… Yet, So Far Away: What to Know One Month Before Offers
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...
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Season 1
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Episode 45
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45:47
Sensory Diets 101: Not Just for Neurodivergent Kids
In this episode, Carolyn DeFir explores the concept of sensory diets, emphasizing their importance for individuals of all ages, particularly teens. She explains how sensory diets are personalized sets of sensory inputs that help regulate the ne...
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Season 1
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Episode 44
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43:03
The Deposit Dilemma: Catholic & Private School Offers Without the Panic
In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the complexities of high school admissions in New York City, focusing on the emotional rollercoaster of callbacks from performing arts schools like LaGuardia, the im...
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Season 1
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Episode 43
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40:38
Do Regents Still Matter? A No-Panic Explanation
In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir dives deep into the complexities of the New York State Regents exams. She discusses the purpose of these exams, which serve as a measure of mastery in core subjects and have b...
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Season 1
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Episode 42
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55:40
Academic Supports in High School: Where to Find Help, Why It Exists, and How to Use It
In this episode of School Smarts NYC, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the various academic supports available to high school students in New York City. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these resources, especially for parents navigati...
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Season 1
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Episode 41
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55:06