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 implications of non-refundable deposits for Catholic and independent private schools, and the importance of understanding the admissions process. Carolyn emphasizes the need for parents and students to stay informed, ask questions, and make intentional decisions during this critical time.

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 been tied to graduation requirements. Carolyn provides insights into the changing landscape of Regents requirements, particularly for students graduating in the coming years. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the Regents exams for course placement and the potential impact on students' academic trajectories.

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 navigating the high school transition with their children. Carolyn highlights the significance of asking for help, the social dynamics that may prevent students from seeking assistance, and the various types of academic supports such as peer tutoring and office hours. She also addresses the challenges faced by students with IEPs and 504s, and the importance of building self-advocacy skills. The episode concludes with a discussion on the value of early intervention and preparing students for adulthood through the use of available resources.