Two county elementary schools have reached the top of the International Baccalaureate ladder by earning designation as IB World Schools. Frank Hebron-Harman and South Shore elementary schools have each received the official authorization, marking the end of a lengthy process of self-study and extensive preparation by the schools and their communities.
The schools are now “part of a global community of schools committed to developing knowledgeable, caring young people who will be ready to negotiate their futures successfully and make contributions resulting in a more harmonious and peaceful world, “ said IB Chief Operating Officer Dr. Siva Kumari in a congratulatory letter to the school system.
To earn the IB World School designation, each school underwent a three-part process in which it was required to examine the IB philosophy and curriculum, and prepare staff to implement it, and provide the program to students for at least
one full year. Both schools began adopting the IB culture in 2012. As a result of this process, IB World Schools exhibit the following characteristics:
- commitment to the IB philosophy with a focus on international-mindedness
- a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum encouraging student curiosity and inquiry
- teachers, leaders, and staff trained in the IB Programme and philosophy
- school leadership and administrative structures that serve its mission and support the IB Programme
- a comprehensive plan for implementation and sustainability of the IB Programme.
“We are thrilled to add to the cadre of IB Primary Years Programme schools,” said Mary Austin, AACPS IB District Coordinator. “AACPS engages about 14,000 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade along the IB continuum. No other school system, locally or nationally, embraces or implements the IB curriculum on such a high level. This is a testament to the incredible work of our educators, unwavering support of our school communities, and the true vision of our leadership to inspire difference makers in our classrooms.”
IB programmes are currently offered at 15 county schools, 11 of which are World Schools.