Ep.16/Tour report #1: Bard High school early college Manhattan

In this BONUS episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir takes listeners on a detailed tour of Bard Early College High School in Manhattan. She shares her personal experiences and insights as a parent navigating the high school admissions process with her daughter. The episode covers the unique curriculum, academic structure, campus environment, student life, and the admissions process at Bard, providing valuable information for families considering this school for their children.

Takeaways:

• Bard Early College allows students to earn college credits while in high school.

• The school emphasizes a liberal arts education with small, discussion-based classes.

• Ninth and tenth graders take the same core classes, while juniors and seniors (known as Year 1 & Year 2) choose electives.

• The campus has a classic, old-school vibe with a warm and intellectual atmosphere.

• Students must take a unique assessment for admissions, which includes math and reading comprehension.

• Interviews during the admissions process are casual and focus on the student's personality.

• The curriculum is rigorous and may not suit every student's learning style.

• Bard offers a variety of electives in the upper grades, appealing to diverse interests.

• The commute to Bard can be challenging, especially in inclement weather.

• Parents should consider their child's readiness for a rigorous academic environment.

• Listen: