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.
Episodes
64 episodes
NYC High School Applications Open October 6th: Here's What to Expect
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...
How to Tour a NYC High School: What to Ask, Notice & Remember
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.
NYC High School Drama Auditions: What Families Need to Know with Dana Berger
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 im...
Beyond the Numbers: What NYC High School Scores Can—and Can’t—Tell You
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...
Your September Game Plan: What 8th Grade Families Should Do Before Applications Open
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 ...
Bonus Episode: School Smarts Hotline | We Got a Waitlist Offer…Now What?
In this bonus episode, Carolyn DeFir shares practical advice for families navigating late-stage waitlist offers and the stress of deciding between two schools.
Dear Freshmen: What Upperclassmen, Graduates & Parents Want You to Know
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.
Beyond the Practice Test: SHSAT, ISEE, TACHS & Executive Function with Molly Levine
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 ...
Screened Group & Random Numbers: The Who, What, When, Where and WHY of what Actually Matters in NYC High School Admissions?
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 navigati...
NYC High School Admissions Decoded
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.
Bonus Episode: School Smarts Hotline | My Child Wants to Transfer...Now What?
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, transf...
"It's August...What Should I Be Doing Now?" Advice for Rising 8th & 9th Grade Families
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 ...
Summer Survival Guide: The Absolute Need-to-Know Timeline for Rising 8th & 9th Grade Families
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 c...
Executive Function Is NOT Just Being Organized
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 student...
Two Months of School Left: Grades, Burnout, and Keeping Your Kid (and Yourself) Intact
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 ...
Waitlist Limbo: Why Nothing Is Moving (Yet) & What To Do About It
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.
You Can Do This Yourself: How to Choose Between High School Offers (and Trust Your Gut)
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 th...
What You’ll Actually See on MySchools When The Offers Are Released (and What It Really Means)
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 navigati...
Advice for Curious 7th (& 6th) Grade Families
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 signi...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
Afterschool Activities, Clubs & Sports: Why They Matter
In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn DeFir, discusses the significance of extracurricular activities for high school students. She emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between involvement and personal well-b...