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PODCAST

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.

kids & family parenting

All Episodes

55:40

Do Regents Still Matter? A No-Panic Explanation

School Smarts NYC ·

2026/01/16

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 pla...

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55:06

Academic Supports in High School: Where to Find Help,...

School Smarts NYC ·

2026/01/08

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...

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35:55

Afterschool Activities, Clubs & Sports: Why They Matter

School Smarts NYC ·

2026/01/01

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-being, addressing the pressures students face in today's competitive environment. Carolyn provides insights into how clubs and activities can foster connections, support mental health, and play a crucial role in college admissions. She encourages parents...

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38:52

(Bonus Episode) Intention Setting vs. Resolutions: A...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/12/31

In this episode of School Smarts NYC, Carolyn reflects on the past year and discusses the importance of setting intentions rather than resolutions as the new year approaches. She emphasizes the value of reviewing one's calendar to identify patterns and set meaningful goals for the upcoming year, particularly for parents of teens navigating the high school admissions process. Carolyn encourages listeners to involve their teens in this reflective process, fostering a supportive environment for ...

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53:10

IEPs & 504s in High School: Planning the Transition...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/12/18

In this episode of School Smarts NYC, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the transition from middle school to high school, focusing on the importance of understanding IEPs and 504 plans. She shares insights on navigating high school admissions, preparing for support systems, and the role of parental advocacy in ensuring students receive the necessary accommodations. Carolyn emphasizes the need for proactive planning and communication as families approach this significant transition in their childre...

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23:05

So You Got a Callback… (or You Didn’t): What It...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/12/11

n this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir focuses on the significance of callbacks. She emphasizes the importance of understanding what callbacks mean, how to navigate the anxiety surrounding them, and the need for students to be themselves during auditions. Carolyn also touches on the collaborative nature of arts schools and reassures parents that not receiving a callback does not determine a student's worth or future opportunities. The episode concludes with a prev...

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8:03

Congratulations, You Hit Submit…Now What?

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/12/04

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir congratulates parents and students on completing the high school admissions process. She emphasizes the importance of taking a moment to breathe and celebrate the hard work that went into the journey. Carolyn discusses the waiting period after submitting applications, offering advice on how to cope with the anxiety of waiting for results. She encourages listeners to find balance in their lives beyond admissions, suggesting a...

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25:19

Before You Hit Submit: Your Final NYC High School...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/27

In this episode of School Smarts NYC, host Carolyn DeFir shares personal experiences, answers frequently asked questions, and provides practical advice for parents and students navigating the final days before the application is due. From understanding school rankings to managing applying to zoned schools, Carolyn emphasizes the importance of making informed choices and trusting one's instincts. The episode concludes with encouragement for families as they approach application deadlines, remi...

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38:46

Two Weeks to Go: Your Last-Minute, No-Panic Game Plan

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/20

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir guides listeners through the final countdown to the NYC high school admissions deadline. She shares practical advice for parents and students navigating the application process, emphasizing the importance of organization, emotional support, and trusting one's instincts. Carolyn discusses the significance of finalizing applications, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced school list, while also encouraging families to co...

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25:22

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #12: Eleanor Roosevelt...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/19

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn provides an in-depth tour report of Eleanor Roosevelt High School, highlighting its academic rigor, supportive community, and vibrant arts programs. She discusses the school's culture, student engagement, and the importance of college preparation, while also addressing the competitive admissions process. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for families navigating the high school landscape in New York City.

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28:24

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #10 Midwood High School...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/14

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth tour report of Midwood High School, highlighting its academic programs, school culture, extracurricular activities, and support systems. She discusses the school's size, the various specialized programs available, and the vibrant school spirit. Carolyn also covers the admissions process and the college readiness resources offered to students, making a compelling case for why Midwood is a top choice for f...

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20:16

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #11: New Explorations in...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/14

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir explores NEST+m, a high school within a K-12 school located on the Lower East Side of New York City. She discusses the school's unique environment, student dynamics, academic offerings, extracurricular activities, and the admissions process. Carolyn emphasizes the supportive atmosphere of NEST+m, which caters to a diverse range of learners and prepares students for college. The episode concludes with insights on the school's...

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53:12

Hidden Gems: NYC High Schools You Might Not Know—But...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/13

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir emphasizes the importance of understanding school choices, rankings, and the value of hidden gems—schools that may not be widely recognized but offer excellent educational opportunities. Carolyn shares insights on various boroughs, highlighting specific schools and their unique offerings, while encouraging families to explore all options available to them. The episode concludes with a reminder that the best fit for a student...

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19:04

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #9: Edward R. Murrow

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/10

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth exploration of Edward R. Murrow High School, one of Brooklyn's largest and most iconic high schools. She discusses the school's unique offerings, including its renowned arts programs, the Communication Arts program, and the growing emphasis on STEM and sports. Carolyn emphasizes the vibrant school spirit and the diverse opportunities available for students, encouraging parents to consider Murrow as a via...

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16:58

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #8: University...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/10

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir explores the rising popularity of University Neighborhood High School (UNHS) in New York City. She discusses the school's unique culture, strong leadership from the principal, and the various academic programs and support systems in place to help students succeed. The episode also delves into the admissions process, highlighting the importance of lottery numbers and the different pathways available for enrollment. Carolyn em...

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12:55

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #7: NYC iSchool

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/10

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn DeFir explores the unique educational landscape of iSchool in Soho, NYC. With a focus on student choice and real-world learning, iSchool offers a distinctive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and creativity over traditional testing. The school provides a supportive environment with dedicated college counseling, making it an appealing option for independent and creative students. The admissions process is straightforward, req...

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23:16

Assessment Anxiety: Helping Our Kids (and Ourselves)...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/11/07

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, Carolyn discusses the anxiety surrounding the high school application and testing process for both students and parents. She shares practical techniques for managing anxiety, including visualization, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation and self-regulation for both kids and parents during this stressful time.

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25:44

Don’t Wait ’Til After Trick-or-Treat: The SHSAT...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/10/30

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir discusses the complexities of navigating the New York City high school admissions process, particularly focusing on specialized high schools. She emphasizes the importance of understanding application deadlines, ranking schools wisely, and managing stress during this challenging time for families. Carolyn provides insights into the admissions algorithm, the significance of school rankings, and the necessity of registering fo...

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24:41

(Bonus Episode) Tour Report #6: Baruch High School

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/10/29

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir provides an in-depth overview of Baruch High School, a small screened school in Manhattan. She discusses the school's educational philosophy, community values, curriculum offerings, special education programs, extracurricular activities, and the admissions process. Carolyn shares insights from her personal experience and research, aiming to help families navigate the high school admissions journey in New York City.

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45:07

How to Know If It’s a Good Fit — The Art (and...

School Smarts NYC ·

2025/10/23

In this episode of the School Smarts NYC podcast, host Carolyn DeFir emphasizes the importance of finding a school that is a good fit for each child. Carolyn discusses the significance of school tours, evaluating academic and extracurricular opportunities, and the logistics of commuting. She encourages parents to engage with their children throughout the process and to trust their instincts when selecting schools. The episode is filled with practical tips and insights to help families make in...

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42 results

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