It’s an intense curriculum, involving at least 2 languages, social studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics. In addition, students must participate in three core requirements that are included to broaden the educational experience and challenge students to apply their knowledge and understanding. Basically, they can’t just learn something – they must prove why they know it. This is done by requiring an extended essay involving independent research, taking a “theory of knowledge” course, and participating in social activities and community service.
At the end of the 2 year course, students take written examinations which are marked by external IB examiners. Students also complete assessment tasks in the school, which are either initially marked by teachers and then moderated by external moderators or sent directly to external examiners.

This is a challenging program that demands the best from both motivated students and teachers. Once admitted, schools are required to participate in an ongoing process of review and development, using standards and practices that apply to all IB World Schools. The New Albany Floyd County  Consolidated School Corporation has begun a 3 year application process to get our schools approved to participate and the teachers trained to offer these courses - so the first classes will be taught in the fall of 2013 and the first graduates would be next year’s freshmen class… the class of 2015.

For more information on the International Baccalaureate Programme, visit their website at www.ibo.org/diploma/